They are a powerful statement in this body-positive era, when a woman is not shying away from showing off her feminine form but embracing it. And is there anything more beautiful, more empowering than a woman coming into her own? Throughout the course of history, women have held positions of power and carried out their responsibilities with aplomb. As heads of state, as sovereigns and in all her forms and functions, women have risen above the forces that tried to curb her might and proven over and over again that she is indeed all-powerful.
Modern fashion is moving forward while drawing page after page from yesteryear’s playbooks. What’s interesting is that, at large, fashion is becoming increasingly dynamic, evolving in a positive, inclusive direction.
In ancient Greece, breastplates were invented to shield the wearer on the battlefield. Fashioned for the human physique from the strongest metals, it safeguarded the wearer from severe attacks and blows on the battlefield. It went on to become an essential component in military armour, and the modern-day bulletproof vest is its descendant.
Sartorially, the great maestro — Yves Saint Laurent — first noticed that breastplates highlight the female form magnificently and celebrated its divine power and beauty. For his trailblazing collection in 1969, when the whole world was moving in a different new direction, Saint Laurent used a gold breastplate with a fluid azure long dress to usher in the ’70s, a decade of heady freedom in all aspects of life and society. This power move marked a significant departure from the stiff shapes of the ’60s and yet retained the control of feminine form and power in all its glory.
Not for the faint of heart, a breastplate will make a fantastic statement when worn with a metallic, fluid saree. Reminiscent of the voluptuous apsaras of Ajanta and Ellora caves, this attire will surely elevate you to godly heights where women are depicted in their most natural yet strong, feminine forms.
Corsets are another rendition of breastplates that look stunning. Although a Western innovation, they pair surprisingly well with sarees. They have been all the rage for the past few seasons, and fashionistas everywhere are here for it! Very high fashion and chic, this is a look you would want to reserve for that one night in the festive season when all stars align and your entire person is elevated to another level as you dress as a deity!
Choose a statement, making one that you can base your entire outfit on. Being the building block, your whole look will hinge on it, so if you choose an embellished piece, then go easy on the accoutrements.
A simple gold breastplate will go well with an embellished saree, with the anchal draped over one arm. Statuesque and elegant, it will surely make you appear like a goddess. Jewellery should be minimal, letting the breastplate take centre stage. Hair and makeup should be in accordance with the whole look.
They say clothes maketh a woman. Not true since fashion guru Coco Chanel insisted that one’s clothes should not wear her but vice versa. So, unleash your inner goddess, choose the best breastplate or corset this festive season and celebrate your divine feminine beauty in style.
Photo: Adnan Rahman
Model: Surjo
Styling & Fashion Direction: Sonia Yeasmin Isha
Wardrobe: Breastplates from Surreal Forest by Hiba Sharafuddin
Jewellery: 6 Yards Story by Lora Khan
Makeup: Sumon Rahat
Hairstyle: Probina
Location: Studio EVF
