Barbie Exhibition at Musee des Arts décoratifs (Paris) March 10 – September 18, 2016 Our Coverage Sponsored by Paul Mayer Attitudes
Paul Mayer's luxuriously, comfortable designs keep women coming back for multiple -- even dozens -- of pairs. Classic, yet contemporary and always comfortable, his shoes are an addiction that we highly recommend. A staple of the Paul Mayer collection is the simple ballet-flat, with true ballerina construction for a perfect fit that comes in a variety of colors and materials. A cult favorite is the cozy, a flat with lavender-scent infused soles adding style and fragrance to collector's closets as Paul's designs emerge in sophisticated design incarnations season after season in the most incredible hues, textures and modern innovations in luxury footwear because we know firsthand how incredibly brilliant he is. Mayer founded the brand in 2004 with partner, Jeff Levy. All shoes in the line are manufactured in Spain’s Valencia region, along the Mediterranean coast by a skilled staff of 12 artisans. They craft each pair of shoes with an old-world attention to detail that includes in-house embroidery, quilting and stitching as well as custom tanned leather. This allows the brand to cater to each retailer’s specific demands in with timely and consistent alacrity, with orders completed in an unheard-of 3 to 5 weeks. When not in New York, Paul can be found traveling to his myriad of stores across the country meeting his loyal clientele or vacationing in his favorite spot, the Royal Hawaiian on Waikiki Beach.
Paul Mayer is a Mover and Shaker:
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From the moment Barbie was introduced to the world, a fashion icon was born. Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has served as a model and muse to the most world renowned names in fashion and the arts. She provides the ultimate canvas for their imaginations, to identify and play out their dreams. Today, she continues to be at the center of pop culture, reflecting the times and inspiring conversation.
In 2016, Barbie is being honoured by museums around the world including the Musee des Arts décoratifs in Paris, paying tribute to this iconic doll whose story has made an indelible mark on the socio-cultural history of toys in the 20th and 21st Centuries. Drawing on Mattel archives which include over 700 dolls and work by contemporary artists and designers, the exhibition highlights the historical heritage of Barbie for both adults and children. More than just a toy, Barbie has mirrored a culture and its evolution.
Throughout her history she has adapted to social, political and cultural changes and evolved, embracing new trends and challenging stereotypes, always embracing the dreams and ambitions of contemporary life for the next generation of girls.
Barbie has always given girl’s choices – from her 180 careers, to inspirational roles, to her countless fashions and accessories. And earlier this year Mattel literally changed the face of the brand with a range of new dolls represent the world girls see around them with variety in body type, skin tones and style allowing girls to find a doll that speaks to them.
The newest generations of girls know there’s nothing they can’t do, and they’ve never been told otherwise. They have the confidence to try new things, take risks, and stand out among their peers. Barbie supports this empowered thinking, and reinforces it with every doll that is made — from Computer Engineer Barbie to Princess Power Barbie. Because when girls grow up in a world without limitations, they will show us that anything really is possible.