If it weren't already exceedingly apparent by the bevy of t-shirts, posters, pop songs dedicated to the first major party-nominated black candidate for president, Barack Obama is an American icon. And it's not just Americans that are recognizing the Illnois senator's candidacy as a special moment in history. The historic run for the White House has the whole world buzzing, and Obama's face is showing up everywhere - even on fashion runways in Paris.
Designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac - also known as JC/DC - showed a whimsical collection for Spring '09 last week in Paris. Among the spread was a sequined slip dress featuring a smiling black and white bust of Barack Obama. The garish design was relatively tame compared the the cartoon cloud suits, and LegoTM-print dresses that flanked it. What was striking about the insertion of the political image into the fashion line-up, was that it was in the company of images of Mickey Mouse and allusions to Superman. It follows that JC/DC is presenting a point of view that puts Senator Obama squarely in the seat of iconic status. It may seem that the designer is a supporter of the democrat, but his pairing the dress with gloves sporting 'yes' and 'no' implies that the JC/DC is reminding his audience of their choice in the matter.
JC/DC was born a French nobleman - the Marquis of Castelbajac. The designer is known for sensational designs, including a coat of teddy bears worn by pop icon Madonna. He also makes home furnishings.
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