Credit ‘Wear’ Credit is Due (and even where not) – Michelle Yeoh

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

OK, I know you’re used to seeing this column titled, Credit ‘Wear’ Credit is Due, so what’s up with this (and even where not) thing?

It means, while this column recognizes and praises those special celebrities who almost always can be counted on to wear pantyhose in all the right situations and venues, when it comes to Michelle Yeoh, well, she can do whatever she wants and I’ll still always love her.

There is a very special place in my heart for Michelle Yeoh.  As a huge Bruce Lee fan, I had stopped watching martial arts movies in the 1990s because they just didn’t measure up in any way, especially in realism when it came to fight scenes.  It had been more than 15 years since I watched a kung fu movie, when in 2007 I stumbled across an old Jackie Chan movie, I hadn’t seen before, “Police Story III, Supercop” (1992), and couldn’t resist its co-star, Michelle Yeoh, whom I had never heard of before.  I thought she was very charming and a great fighter, too.  Turns out she actually studied Wing Chun, the first style Bruce Lee learned.  Hmmmmm.

A great movie for showcasing her beautiful legs in sheer nude pantyhose, Michelle Yeoh poses as the title character in "Silver Hawk."

Not long after that, I watched a James Bond movie I had not seen before, “Tomorrow Never Dies” (1997), starring Pierce Brosnan, whom I love, and one Michelle Yeoh.  OK, now this was getting interesting.  I searched my DVR for movies she’s in.  Of course, I found “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000), and “Memoirs of a Geisha” (2005), but it wasn’t until I saw “Silver Hawk” (2004) that I became a full-fledged Michelle Yeoh fan.  She’s done some great movies, but “Silver Hawk” remains my favorite because, silly as it is, it’s the one that best features her personality, her sense of humor, her glamorous side, and was the first one I saw that showed off her legs in sheer pantyhose a lot.  And, wow, did she look amazing.

Michelle Yeoh during premiere of "Tomorrow Never Dies."

While I started ActSensuous back in 2001, it wasn’t until 2009 that I began The ActSensuous Blog, and in only my second post, June 16, 2009, “Calling out Professional Entertainers,” after I had just learned how to post a photo in the blog, the first-ever picture I used was this one, at left, of Michelle Yeoh.

I was using it as an example of the beauty and elegance she displayed during her appearance at the premiere event for “Tomorrow Never Dies,” in contrast to all the other celebrities who were appearing at similar events, wearing spectacular dresses and high heels, but with bear legs.

How gorgeous Michelle Yeoh looked in that dress with the slit up the side and sheer nude pantyhose.

Since that time, I was able to find (and post in this blog) other pics of her in pantyhose, particularly, at the premiere of “Supercop,” wearing a short dress and sheer nude pantyhose.

At the time, I wasn’t thinking that the event likely took place in 1992, before the “bear” legs movement had its origin.

Michelle Yeoh attending the "Supercop" premiere.

I never dreamed in 2009 that those pics from the 1990s would be about the last time we’d see Michelle Yeoh wearing pantyhose in public.

I never dreamed she would be someone who would follow a fashion trend instigated by Hollywood, but that’s exactly what happened.

No, I imagined that someone of her professionalism, class, elegance and sheer beauty – to say nothing of the fact that she’s Malaysian of Chinese ethnicity – would have the conviction to do her own thing, especially when it comes to how she presents herself in the public eye.

For years now, I’ve been keeping a close eye on Michelle Yeoh, and time after time after time, she’s done the bear legs thing no matter how formal the occasion.

Director Luc Besson and a bare-legged Michelle Yeoh attend a press conference about their new movie, "The Lady," on Oct. 12, 2011 during the Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany.

Seeing this was very disheartening to me.  This was my new hero after all.

How could Michelle Yeoh be a devoted bear-legger?
Fortunately, in her movie roles that weren’t period pieces set in ancient China, she does wear pantyhose whenever she’s in a dress.

Of course, this made me love her even more, but I couldn’t justify the disconnect between her being so professional in her movies, but way too casual during awards shows or other public appearances.

I grew so frustrated that I actually considered making her the next recipient of The ActSensuous Grizzly Awards.  But I just couldn’t pull the trigger on that, as evidenced by the title of this post, and its subject.

I find Michelle Yeoh to be so professional and classy that she just can’t do any wrong by me.  I decided I could live with it if she never wore pantyhose again because she is such a wonderful person in real life.  She sponsors several global charities, speaks out against social injustices but always with a positive and uplifting slant, and apparently is nothing but kind, caring and extremely gracious.   Of course, secretly, I held out hope that one day she’d glam it up again the next time a situation or venue called for it.  And that time has come.

The Lady

Michelle Yeoh stars as Aung San Suu Kyi in "The Lady," the true story of the Burmese pro-democracy leader's life, opening in select theaters in the U.S. April 13, 2012.

While she’s made a great many popular and successful martial arts movies, dramas and documentaries, ultimately, nothing may be more compelling and more significant than her latest work, which opens in select U.S. theaters on Friday.

In the role she was born to play, Michelle Yeoh stars in “The Lady” – the true story about the life of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who, in reality, just last week hailed a “new era” for Myanmar (Burma) after her National League for Democracy (NLD) party claimed a major victory in landmark by-elections.

The movie’s limited U.S. release comes not even two weeks after the vote in Burma that will fill just 45 vacant seats in the country’s 664-seat Parliament, yet, took on historic significance because of Suu Kyi’s presence.  After 20 years as a political prisoner, Suu Kyi won a victory that marked a turn in her political career and for the country, as it emerges from a half-century of military rule.

Even bare-legged, Michelle Yeoh still can turn some heads, as she does during the 63rd annual Cannes Film Festival in 2010 in Cannes, France.

Michelle Yeoh looks perfect in this outfit with sheer nude pantyhose during the premiere of "The Lady" on Feb. 12, 2012 in Berlin, Germany.

Of course, this movie is so meaningful and historically important, I don’t really care if Michelle Yeoh wears pantyhose or not in her role as Suu Kyi, especially because it might not be an accurate portrayal from a costume design point of view.

Nevertheless, it never stops surprising me that someone who looks so amazing in pantyhose would settle for looking – OK, in Michelle Yeoh’s case,  still pretty awesome bear-legged – during awards ceremonies and publicity appearances.  Still, the difference when she is wearing pantyhose is astounding.

I’m so happy to see any situation today in which Michelle Yeoh shows up in public, dressed professionally and formally again, wearing sheer pantyhose with her outfits.  Perhaps, it’s the significance of the role she’s playing that has made her more aware of how she presents herself to the media, her peers and the public.

Michelle Yeoh and director Luc Besson speak durig a special screening of "The Lady" recently at an Asia Society event.

“The Lady” tells the stuggle of Burmese opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Suu Kyi, who had been detained by the government of Myanmar and held under house arrest for 15 of the past 21 years (ending on Nov. 13, 2010), and the tragedy of her 10-year separation from her Western husband, who remained in England, rearing their two sons and campaigning behind the scenes for her release.

The story’s heart-wrenching reality is felt as Suu Kyi’s husband is diagnosed with terminal cancer and the Burmese authorities refuse permission for him to visit her – offering instead that she could leave and return to Oxford, but would never be allowed back into Burma. Suu Kyi is confronted with a terrible choice – the consequences of which are irrevocable – her husband and children, or her country.

Said one of the film’s producers, Andy Harries:

“It’s not just a political story – it’s a tragic love story. This is a woman educated at Oxford, married to an Englishman, and who has two sons. She goes to her homeland to help for a few months and it turns into a 20-year house arrest.

“It’s a love triangle. She is torn between her love of her country, which looks to her as a symbol of hope, and her family … We are talking about someone who is the Nelson Mandela of Asia.”

At the helm of “The Lady” is French director Luc Besson who gave us “The Professional” (the assassin movie starring Jean Reno and Natalie Portman), and “The Fifth Element” (starring Milla Jovovich and Bruce Willis.)

While she is a veteran of action films, in which she has received much praise and fame for performing her own stunts, Michelle Yeoh has said the lead role in “The Lady” was very challenging, as she had to learn to speak Burmese to play Suu Kyi, and had to lose nearly 20 pounds (quite a sacrifice for someone who probably didn’t weigh a buck-twenty to begin with) to make herself look more like her character.

And during the months leading up to the filming of “The Lady,” Michelle Yeoh got a taste of Burma’s tight military/government control, as she was deported several times by the government when she tried to meet Suu Kyi in person for research.

Michelle Yeoh said she considers “The Lady” one of her most important works to date, calling Suu Kyi “an extraordinary role model for every woman in Asia.”

I’m not a film critic, and this blog post isn’t about my reviewing “The Lady” for you.  There have been and will continue to be many great articles that will do that.  All I know is that it’s based on a true story that needed to be told, and it stars Michelle Yeoh.  Of course it’s going to be great.

So far, I haven’t found a theater in my area that is showing “The Lady,”  but I will see it at my first opportunity.  I hope you see it, too, and, if you haven’t already, will fall in love with Michelle Yeoh.

Here are some reactions from film industry and other dignitaries who’ve seen the premiere of “The Lady:”

Michelle and director Ang Lee.

“I always thought Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon was the pinnacle of Michelle’s career.  In fact, it is The Lady.” – Director Ang Lee

“I watched the movie several times and I could not hold back my tears. She scarified so much for democracy in her country.” – Sanlih TV host Isabella Chen

“I can feel the pain in her heart. But she continued to do what she needed to do.” – Jui-Ling Chang, Formosa TV News anchorwoman

“She is emaciated, but she is brave. She is soft, yet very strong. I am really touched.” – Lin Cheng-sheng, movie director

Michelle Yeoh and Aung San Suu Kyi together during their meeting Dec. 7, 2010 at Yangon International Airport for Michelle's role research.

“Michelle Yeoh looks almost identical to the real (Aung San Suu Kyi) character from body to soul. The several sad scenes are extremely touching.” – Director Nelson Yeh

“This is a film which stirs the deepest desire in your heart.” – Tammy Darshana Lai, singer and TV host

“She brought us the glory of humanity.” – Lee Yong-ping, chair of Taipei Culture Foundation

“This is the best movie I have seen in recent years. It has a very deep meaning for me.” – Tsai Ing-wen, former leader of the Democratic Progressive Party

“This is a very touching movie and I strongly recommend it!” – Director Feng Kai

“This is a movie that no one should miss!” – Jason Hu, Taichung City Mayoriss!” – Jason

Historical facts

In 1988, Aung San Suu Kyi returned to her native Burma from Oxford, where she had lived for many years. Her visit was prompted by news of her mother’s deteriorating health, but the country was in an uproar. Burma’s military leader, General Ne Win, stepped down, and protestors quickly filled the streets of Naypyidaw to demand democratic reform. Those protestors were beaten and their message suppressed. The charismatic and politically engaged Suu Kyi, whose father was a martyr for Burmese independence, found herself called upon to lead Burma out from under the shadow of military dictatorship as the General Secretary of the newly formed National League for Democracy. In 1990, a general election was held and the NLD won, but Suu Kyi was held under house arrest by the military junta. She remained a prisoner in her own home for most of the next 15 years.

Suu Kyi is the first Asian woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. On Dec. 10, 1991, Suu Kyi’s two sons, Alexander Aris and Kim Aris (ages 18 and 14 at the time), accepted the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf in Oslo, Norway, while she was serving a house arrest term in Rangoon (Yangon), Burma (Myanmar).

The title of the movie, “The Lady,” is the name by which Aung San Suu Kiy is known to the people of Burma, who see her as a beacon of grace and courage against the odds, and who risk incurring the wrath of the authorities for publicly uttering her name.

Valentine’s Day the perfect occasion for pantyhose

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

The other day, the topic of this blog came up during a meeting with our vice president.  Kelly Linh said “All you ever write about is celebrities.”  To which I responded (in my ever-endearing style) with something like: “ ‘F’ you, beeeeeatch!”  (I can say that to her because she’s not just an employee, but also my dear little BFF.)

Besides, I like writing about celebrites.  Who else am I gonna write about, the girl in the department store not wearing pantyhose?  C’mon.

It’s celebrities who instigated the “bear” legs movement, and it’s celebrities who most influence fashion in everyday life.  I feel it’s my duty to recognize and heap loads of praise on those special entertainers who set a good and postive example by wearing pantyhose, and “dis” and sling tons of criticism at those who don’t.

And another thing … since it was Kelly Linh who pointed out that all I ever write about is celebrities, she’ll just have to understand that since this post isn’t about them, meaning I can’t include any pics of hot entertainers wearing pantyhose, she has forced me to look elsewhere for a source of photos for this post.

So, without her permission (but since I’m the boss), and since this post would look kind of “bear” without pics of a lovely lady in pantyhose, the photos you’ll see here are some candids I just happened to find among my private files.

Kelly Linh preparing to leave for work (well, "work" is too strong a word, actually).

OK, this post is for you, Kelly Linh.

Oh, and for Lester and Crystal, a married couple who each have written comments on this blog about their love and devotion to one another, and how Crystal’s wearing of pantyhose is a major factor in their happy and healthy relationship.  Was it them, or another reader who suggested I write a piece about what ideas men could come up with to try to get the women in their lives to wear pantyhose for them?

That was a great suggestion, and I was a bit surprised that more readers didn’t comment on that comment with their suggestions.

Kelly Linh in Act III Pink.

In any event, I have always believed that a loving relationship should be a 50-50 deal.  I mean a relationship is a partnership, a give and take, a yin and a yang.  And that means husbands and wives, or bfs and gfs, should make sacrifices for each other.  Whether the thermostat gets adjusted, a different TV show gets watched, or whatever, sacrifices always should be made.

I’m surprised that women today seem so unwilling to make the simplest sacrifice that 99 percent of the male population wants – them to wear pantyhose.  Actually, to even call such a thing a sacrifice is ridiculous.  It’s not as if men are asking their women to wear 6-inch heels every day.

There was a time (seems like a long time ago) when women wanted men to notice and appreciate little things about them, including how they dressed.  Of course, there has long been the notion that women dress for other women – not for men.  Today, I think women just dress for themselves and don’t care what anyone thinks.

Kelly Linh napping instead of working.

It’s sad that some women don’t take notice, or just don’t care, that men love them in pantyhose.  But when you’re in a relationship, I think you shouldn’t have to deny yourself the pleasure of seeing the one you love in pantyhose.

The key is communication.  You have to find the right time and have a heart-to-heart talk with your girl.  Then, you have to be sincere.  Don’t complain, don’t demand.  Just let her know that you think she is beautiful but that she would absolutely rock your world if once in a while she would wear pantyhose.  Tell her that to you it has nothing to do with what’s in style or not in style, what’s fashionable or not.  Rather, it’s something you have always loved and there’s no one you’d rather see in pantyhose than your wife (or gf).  Ask her to do this for you.

Kelly Linh puts her best foot forward in Act III Beige.

If there were ever a time for men to do this, it’s got to be this month.   What occasion could be better than Valentine’s Day for men to ask their women to wear pantyhose for them?  It’s the most romantic day of the year, and fortunately, women still want that to be a special day.  Yes, if there were ever a day when men could ask their wives or girlfriends to put on pantyhose for them, Valentine’s Day would have to be it.

Kelly Linh's tasty toes in pantyhose (Act III Suntan).

And so, we decided to help.  In honor of Valentine’s Day, and for the first time in our 11 years in business, ActSensuous offered our world-renowned beautiful and sexy pantyhose at half price.

I have to say I was thrilled with the response.  Many of our longtime customers stocked up on their favorite colors, and a record number of new customers for one month decided to give us a try.  In fact, we’ve more than tripled our usual numbers for orders in February, and half the month remains.

For those of you who bought ActSensuous to give as a gift to your special someone on Valentine’s Day, I’d love to hear from you.  Gentlemen, did you give your lady ActSensuous and ask her to wear them for you?  Did she oblige you, and was it fun for both of you?   And to the ladies who ordered ActSensuous, did you take my advice and wrap them up as a gift to give him to give to you?  Did he love it?  Did it make for the exciting night you anticipated?  If you want to share your stories, please feel free to write to Kelly at kellylinh@actsensuous.com

Kelly Linh looking awesome in Act III Suntan pantyhose.

Now back to our Kelly Linh.  Maybe you can tell from her last name she’s Vietnamese.   And she’s no Twinkie (yellow on the outside but white on the inside) either.  Well, OK, she actually is pretty Americanized,  but ethnicity-wise, she’s 100 percent Asian.  And, as such, she grew up constantly being told that she’s worthless because she’s female (sons are very important and highly valued in Asian culture; daughters, not so much).

Now, this is a girl who has not one, but two bachelor’s degrees and a small aircraft pilot’s license. (AND SHE ENDED UP WORKING HERE!!!  )

She’s an amazing person, but to this day, Kelly has no idea how incredible she looks in pantyhose.  I’ve tried to convince her, but she aint buying what I’m selling for a minute.  She says I’m biased.  Well, yeah, she’s got me there.

Nevertheless, I’m trying to convince her to become the next model on our website’s gallery.  Wish me luck.

I hope everyone had a Happy Valentine’s Day.

Credit ‘wear’ Credit is Due – Ann Curry

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

“I’m Ann Curry, in for I guess nobody this morning – me, myself and I.  It’s nice to be able to say that, isn’t it?”

That’s how the multiple-award-winning veteran journalist debuted as co-host with Matt Lauer on NBC’s “Today” show this morning, replacing Meredith Vieira who held the post the past five years.

Curry, who had been on the “Today” show since 1997 as the news anchor, and was previously passed up for the co-host spot in favor of her friend Vieira, also is anchor of “Dateline NBC,” the network’s award-winning newsmagazine. She also regularly substitute-anchors on “NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.” 

Curry’s been on my radar for some time now, but after two readers of this blog asked me to write about “news anchors and pantyhose,” and now, with Ann making her debut as co-host of “Today,” the timing is right.  

Meredith Vieira, left, co-host of the NBC "Today" television program, embraces her fellow co-host, Matt Lauer, as her successor, Ann Curry, looks on, during her final show, in New York, Wednesday, June 8, 2011. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

Other than when she’s been on-location in a jungle, a desert, or a war-torn environment, I have never seen Ann Curry not wearing a dress or skirt suit with high heels and pantyhose. 

In this sad (OK, being honest here – sickening) time when so many women want to lose the pantyhose even at the highest corporate levels, I greatly admire, respect and absolutely love Ann Curry for her dedication to being professional, glamorous and ultra feminine in the way she dresses. 

In a minute, I’ll get to the part about news anchors and pantyhose, as it appears that it’s the network and cable executives who make wearing pantyhose a policy for their female stars, but it seems to me that Ann Curry would wear of her own volition.  And, of course, we know that Meredith Vieira is famous for her devotion to wearing pantyhose in her roles as co-host of TV news/talk shows, and as host of the game show, “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?”

Ann Curry maintains her professional and elegant look during a recent guest appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

I love Ann Curry and Meredith Vieira because in addition to wearing on the job, they choose to wear dresses, heels and pantyhose when they make appearances at awards shows, publicity events and late night talk shows.  To me, that is the very height of professionalism, and it shows the true, very fine character of these women. 

This post could be three pages long if I wrote about all of Curry’s accomplishments and the awards she’s won, but there are many great stories on the Internet, which you can find yourself, and I encourage you to do so. 

Suffice it to say that Curry has distinguished herself in global humanitarian reporting, frequently traveling to remote areas of the world to cover under-reported stories.

“I try to do stories that make a difference – stories that affect the way people think, stories that people need to hear – and usually what drives me is to do stories about people who have no voice, people who have no political power, people who are overlooked by society.” – Ann Curry

Ann Curry is consistent in dressing professionally, as well as femininely, always showing her lovely legs in high heels and sheer pantyhose.

If you do a Google search for Ann Curry, you will find many images of her, almost always wearing a dress or a skirt with high heels and pantyhose.  

In fact, she is becoming pretty famous for her beautiful legs.   On Google, there are image categories devoted to just her legs or just her feet.  

I love that she is dedicated to dressing professionally as a journalist, but I think it’s equally impressive that she always looks very feminine, too.     

Of Japanese (mother) and American (father) descent, Ann is a very beautiful woman.  That’s enough to win her the millions of fans she has, but she’s also cute, funny, and sweet. 

Here is an excerpt from an interview last month with TV Guide Magazine: You were certainly the people’s choice to replace Meredith. Why do you think the Today audience likes you so much?

Curry: I would say that — almost to a fault, pretty much — what you see is what you get.  Sometimes I’ve been accused of being too exuberant in the morning. Once, I said “Good morning” three times with a goofy smile on my face. I’m as fallible as the next person. I’m as goofy and dopey and silly and caring as people think I am. Take me or leave me.

TV Guide Magazine: When your co-anchor job was announced, you said you felt like the computer nerd being asked to the prom by the high school quarterback. Does it matter to you that you’re not one of the cool kids?

Curry: I think there are more nerds in the world than there are cool people, so more people might get me than you realize. I do want people to like me, but I don’t want to be loved for something I’m not; I want to be loved for something I am.  What I am is someone who grabs people and hugs them even if other people think that’s weird. I am someone who is gong to wear her heart on her sleeve. I am someone who is going to care about stories when some people think, “Why do you bother?” My motivation is how do I reach the most people to tell the stories that matter most to them. However fallible I am as a human being, my intent is earnest and my effort is constant in the practice of providing viewers good information, which I know gives them power.

Awesome Ann Curry

There’s no denying Ann’s passion and humanity, but she also is extremely professional.  She’s a total class act who has forged a distinguished career. 

Ann Curry so deserves “Credit ‘wear’ Credit is due.”   I wish her much happiness and success as the new co-host of “Today.”

News anchors and pantyhose

MSNBC's Contessa Brewer and Courtney Hazlett.

In the entertainment world, everyone knows that “sex sells.”  While the news industry was never designed to be about entertainment or sex appeal, today’s broadcast news organizations know that in the ongoing battle for audience share, they have to attract and keep viewers coming back for more. 

Perhaps, demographics show that men make up the largest audience of TV news programs, which could explain the current trend that all the powerhouses seem to follow: Feature beautiful female anchors and reporters who wear dresses, skirts and pantyhose. 

 

CNN's Carol Castello dresses up any set in heels and pantyhose.

 

And these women aren’t your daddy’s crop of journalists.  They are well educated, talented professionals.  Oh yeah, and they’ve got legs and they know how to use them.   There’s no shortage of strong, sharp, pretty women anchoring news shows, such as CNN, Fox and MSNBC.  But wait a minute, don’t anchors pretty much just sit behind a desk?  For all we know they’re wearing a suit jacket and pajama bottoms with fuzzy slippers.  Ah, but the executives calling the shots find ways of getting these news babes out behind the desk, often sitting with studio guests, showing their pretty crossed legs with high heels and pantyhose.

And, when it comes to women who are dedicated to beauty and femininity, especially when it comes to wearing pantyhose, no culture understands this power better than Asia.

On its blog, HKTV writes:

“For many years, Bernie Lo was the host of Bloomberg’s morning show. He would inject humor into the daily headlines, which was a great tension reliever for guests or analysts reporting on the show. When Bernie returned to CNBC, Bloomberg had to make some choices. Competition from all directions came from networks including Fox Networks and CNBC.

“Now, … Bloomberg has a new strategy to attract new viewers … Susan Li’s legs.

Susan Li of Bloomberg Asia interviewing a financial analyst.

“Those opinions are clearly overlooking her skills as a broadcast journalist to keep the audience tuned in to “First Up with Susan Li on Bloomberg Television. 

Susan Li's interviews are concise and get right to the point to capture viewer attention. Of course, her legs can do that without saying a word.

“Susan Li also uses clear, simple language during the interview.  She does not let the analysts and fund managers “talk their book,” which is a practice where guests provide recommendations that benefit their investments; instead, Susan Li often politely asks the guests to clarify their statements.

Susan Li of Bloomberg Asia discusses market data with a guest analyst.

“The clarification sometimes leads to more thoughtful discourse, as her use of clear language to highlight the main ideas translates the “analyst speak” for Bloomberg TV viewers. Clarifying analyst comments or recommendations maintains the credibility of the Bloomberg brand, while subtly signaling to the guest that the interview is a discussion and not a sales pitch.”

Of course, there are many other news anchors and in-studio broadcast reporters who are talented and professional, and know how to capture viewers with their glamorous and sexy looks. 

Did I leave out your favorites?   Please let us know who your favorite news anchors in pantyhose are.

Meanwhile, here’s another picture of Susan Li and her gorgeous legs in pantyhose.

Look at the texture of Susan Li's delicious pantyhose. Is that guest trying to discreetly cop a feel?

 

A Treat when Pantyhose show up unexpectedly

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

Frequent readers of this blog know that I  think pantyhose should be worn for the right reasons, during the right occasions and at the right places.  OK, so pretty much, always.  

Obviously, I want pantyhose at the office, the courthouse, the wedding, the funeral, the party, the stage, the TV studio, the movie set ….. you get the idea.  When this happens, I am so proud and very happy.

Today, it’s hard enough to see pantyhose worn in movies where the occasion and venues would seem to warrant it.   I like it a lot when it does happen.  So imagine the thrill I get when pantyhose show up on an actress in a role and a venue where one not only wouldn’t expect them, but in which one would actually forgive the character/actress for not wearing them.

This weekend, I watched one such movie, “Blood: The Last Vampire.”  

Beauty and the beasts

Now, I like a good vampire-killer movie, but throw in a Japanese setting, karate fights and samurai swords, and I’m all in, baby! 

So, I was excited to watch “Blood: The Last Vampire,” but I certainly didn’t expect to see the young heroine, Saya, wearing a traditional Japanese schoolgirl uniform, complete with pantyhose so sheer, even I didn’t realize she was wearing until almost halfway through the film. 

One-girl wrecking crew

I just wanted to check out the martial arts action sequences more closely, and when I put the DVR in slow motion to enjoy Saya’s beautiful spinning wheel kicks, I realized she was wearing pantyhose.  Wow! 

I was digging the movie anyway, but the fact that the actress, or the costume designer, chose to put the actress in pantyhose, even for the samurai sword and karate fight sequences, well, you had me at Japanese vampire.  

Dishing out demon destruction

Like the “Resident Evil” movies being based on a video game, “Blood: The Last Vampire” movie is based on the wildly popular and multiple award-winning Japanese anime cult classic series.  

I’ve read different accounts of the timeframe in which the live action movie version takes place, but most say it’s around 1966, during a period when the U.S.military is preparing to enter the Vietnam War.  The setting is an American Air Force base in Tokyo.  But while the base is on edge about the war, there’s already an unseen battle going on; a 400 years long fight waged by vampires and their monstrous bat-like creatures who feed on human blood.  

Soaring into action

Enter Saya, the lone execution arm of a covert government agency that has been hunting  demons for centuries.  She is installed as a would-be student at a military school on the base to discover which of her classmates are demons in disguise, and to force a confrontation against the most powerful demon of them all, Onigen, who murdered Saya’s father when she was a young girl.  

Sad soul

While Saya has the appearance of a 17-year-old student, she really is a 400-year-old samurai of extraordinary ability.  Saya is a half-human, half-vampire, who preys on the demons who feast on human blood.  

Joining forces with a secret government agency known as the Council, Saya is tormented at being a half-breed creature with the soul of her human father and the powers (and need of blood to survive) of her vampire mother.  

She is obsessed about finally facing the most powerful of demons – the one that killed her father – and, en route to the confrontation she seeks with Onigen, Saya wages a one-girl series of battles in which she dispatches with her samurai sword hundreds of lower level demons. 

Not so dark

Saya is played by beautiful Korean model/actress Jeon Ji-hyeon. (Remember, traditionally, Asian people say and write their family names first, and their given names second.  Because she’s young, I am going to call her by her first name here.)   By the way, don’t be confused: For an English audience, Ji-hyeon changed her named to Gianna Jun, and the film credits list her as only Gianna.   To complicate things further, some Internet sources list her name as Jeon Ji Hyun and Jun Ji-hyun.  I thought Jun Ji-hyun was accurate, but a  Korean movie data base site that I trust has her name listed exclusively as Jeon Ji-hyeon.  My feelings about these things is that one should always believe the way the country of origin spells and pronounces a name.   You’d have to think the Koreans know how one of their own spells and says her name. 

Whoever cast her in “Blood: The Last Vampire” is brilliant.  Ji-hyeon is one of Korea’s most popular young actresses, beloved for her starring roles in romantic comedies.  Who could have imagined she could pull off such an impressive performance in an action thriller, relying on martial arts fight sequences throughout?  In an interview, Ji-hyeon said she never imagined she’d play a part in an action movie, but that she had a lot of fun doing it and is hooked. 

While I haven’t seen any of Ji-hyeon other movies, I am extremely impressed at the transformation she makes of herself from a romantic comedy legend to a role in which her very dark character doesn’t smile once throughout the movie.

Always lovely

I am so glad I saw ‘Blood: The Last Vampire” because I am now a Jeon Ji-hyeon fan. 

I am so extremely impressed with her.   For a 27-year-old, she is very professional and classy, almost always wearing dresses, high heels and pantyhose during public appearances and in fashion photo shoots. 

It is so heartwarming to see a young professional displaying good taste and showing such grace and elegance in her young career.  I am looking forward to seeing more of  her. 

“Blood: The Last Vampire” is done by one of the producers of “Hero” and “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”   An extremely good story with wonderful acting and martial arts fights, “Hero” stars Jet Li, Maggie Cheung and Zhang Ziyi.  It is one of my favorite martial arts movies because the story is so beautifully told (and I love Maggie Cheung and Zhang Ziyi).  And, of course, you know all about “Crouching Tiger …”    

While “Blood: The Last Vampire” might not win any prestigious film awards, it is definitely worth checking out.  It often runs on the Encore channels.   

Pantyhose in other Action Settings

In some of my earlier blog posts, I’ve gloated over how often pantyhose are  worn by some of the female contestants and most of the female audience members at the site of the hit Japanese game show, “Ninja Warrior,” known as “the world’s toughest obstacle course.”    

Talk about pantyhose in unexpected places!    I so love the Japanese.   How many female athletes competing in a brutal obstacle course would be wearing pantyhose in Western countries?  And how many spectators sitting on bleachers at such a venue would be dressed in skirts, high heels and pantyhose anywhere except in Japan or other Asian countries? 

Resident goddess

Back to pantyhose showing up in movies in which you wouldn’t expect them,  I’ve often praised Milla Jovovich (and/or the costume designer) of the “Resident Evil” movies for dressing Milla’s character, Alice, in pantyhose for many of the scenes in which  she’s shooting and kicking the crud out of zombies. 

These rare cases are so impressive to me.   While today, so many movies that are set in business or formal scenes feature lead characters who dress up, except for the awful bare legs look, it’s so rewarding to see that some actresses (and/or costume designers) have so much class that they dress their star characters in pantyhose.   They truly get what so many others don’t – legs look so much better in pantyhose.

Delicate beauty, but ...

A couple of my other favorite action movies are “Beyond Hypothermia,” about a beautiful Chinese professional hit woman, who dispatches countless dudes, while dressed in lovely outfits, including high heels and pantyhose.  There’s just something about a delicately beautiful and petite woman (Wu Chen-Lien at right) dressed all femininely, while toting a high-power rifle that’s bigger than she is, and wielding assorted semi-automatic handguns.  Maybe it’s the juxtapositioning of the whole thing – pretty but deadly women, kicking butt, while wearing the most feminine thing in the world – pantyhose.  

And, you’ve read before how much I love “Princess Aurora.”  Don’t let the title fool you.  This is a Korean movie, starring the immensely popular Korean singer/actress Uhm Jung-hwa, who plays a heartbroken mother out to avenge the kidnap/murder of her young daughter (who loved the character, Princess Aurora.)  

Taking a stand

Despite the fact that this movie is pretty violent, it is a heart-wrenching, beautiful story, incredibly well-written and superbly acted.   I love Uhm Jung-hwa and will buy anything I can find that she’s done. 

Unfortunately, “Princess Aurora” is not available on DVD, but it is shown on IFC (Independent Film Channel) from time to time. 

Besides that I love this actress and this movie, one of the reasons I am recommending you see this is because Jung-hwa wears stunningly beautiful outfits, complete with high heels and pantyhose throughout the movie.  

While not quite as powerful or well done, another two movies I like are “Black Angel” and “Black Angel 2,” about a young Japanese woman who, years after witnessing the murder of her yakuza boss father, becomes an accomplished hit woman, who eventually extracts great vengeance on the new yakuza clan. 

Real-life angel?

The beautiful star who plays Black Angel is Riona Hizuki, who wears all black (naturally) dresses and pantyhose throughout the entire movie.

Seeing a trend with me here?  I guess I like movies in which women assassins extol the virtues of dressing femininely while blowing (mostly men) away.   Hey, I’m sure men would rather be done-in by a beautiful babe in pantyhose, than killed a little bit each day by women who go bare-legged.   Guys, am I right here?

Recently, I watched the movie “Salt,” starring Angelina Jolie as a CIA spy (or Soviet Union double-agent?).  In the beginning of the movie, her character wears a skirt suit with high heels, but sadly, no pantyhose.  Too bad.  I thought it would have been very attractive and sexy if she had been wearing pantyhose when she kicked off her heels to fight and flee once her cover was compromised.  

How about you?   Do you love it when you see pantyhose in unexpected places?   What’s your favorite action (or otherwise) movie, in which the lead actress wears pantyhose throughout?   Or, do you have a favorite pantyhose scene during a movie?   Please share so that we all can enjoy!

Return of Pantyhose TV ads a Good Sign

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

Miss the old days when pantyhose TV commercials were a staple of advertising during the 1970s, 80s and certainly into the 90s, but not since?

Well, Hanesbrands announced recently that its L’eggs brand will return to television commercials for the first time since 1997.  “You’re in luck: You’re in L’eggs” apparently is the new message.

Is this an indication that pantyhose are officially back?  Not exactly. An Associated Press article quoted a Hanesbrands report of a nearly 70 percent drop in sales in 2006 compared with the volume that the “Number One seller of hosiery” enjoyed in 1995.

And during the past several quarters, the company reported sales drops in sheer hosiery, including a 9 percent decrease during the fourth quarter of 2010 (reported on January 27, 2011), while innerwear, outerwear and men’s underwear all posted double-digit growth.

Still, there is reason for optimism, as noted in Hanesbrands’ announcement.

Apparently, the new L’eggs commercials follow an animated character as she prepares various outfits (each with pantyhose) for different parts of her day from dressing for the office to going out at night.  The idea is to show how L’eggs pantyhose complement various fashion niches.  Animated, huh?  Hmmmmmmm.

I’ve often fantasized about how great if would be if a Hollywood actress endorsed ActSensuous?  I don’t mean as an official spokesmodel.  We’re not there yet.  But it’s fun to imagine having a celebrity who makes it known that, when she wears pantyhose, she chooses to wear ActSensuous.

I like to contemplate which star would be perfect for ActSensuous?  While there are so many beautiful and glamorous celebs out there, the list of those who actually would be perfect for ActSensuous would seem to me to be quite small.  That’s because, while any pantyhose looks fabulous on a beautiful celebrity, let’s face it – the Number One feature of ActSensuous is THEY’RE EXTREMELY SEXY!

Since ActSensuous are 100 percent nylon and completely sheer to waist, the actress who makes ActSensuous her preferred pantyhose would have to be … you know, really sexy!  She couldn’t be just a beauty who has the class to always wear pantyhose, but rather, someone who truly “gets it;”  someone who honestly believes that pantyhose are sexy.

See how the list would have to be a short one?  Here are some of my favorite actresses, and the pros and cons about their being the right celebrity to represent ActSensuous:

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman – She is a very talented actress.  She’s gorgeous and just oozes femininity.

She’s also very classy, which I like.  She always wears pantyhose in all the right settings.

Yes, Nicole is one Hollywood actress I would love to see in ActSensuous pantyhose.

She is sexy, but does she really think pantyhose are sexy, or is it that she just has the class to always wear for the right occasions?

Nicole is “To Die For” in pantyhose, but I’m not sure she’d really be the perfect celeb for ActSensuous.  But I do love the idea of it.

Julianna Margulies – She wouldn’t be caught dead not wearing pantyhose for the camera or during a public appearance, which is reason enough for me to love her.  And she’s a great actress.  But do you think she sees pantyhose as sexy?  I doubt it.

Parker Posey

Parker Posey – A few years ago, she might have been the obvious choice.  She actually carried the nickname “Miss Pantyhose” because of her devotion to wearing in her movies.  I have to think that she is one who truly thinks pantyhose are sexy, which makes her perfect for ActSensuous.  My only concern is that she isn’t as visible today as some of the other stars I’ve mentioned.  But she remains a very intriguing possibility.

Catherine Zeta-Jones – Another talented actress whose beauty is compelling.  She has so much class and grace.  I never see her not wearing pantyhose for the right occasion.  She’s sexy, but I think her commitment to wearing pantyhose is all about the class.

Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu – She is awesome!  She is gorgeous, very sexy and just plain adorable.  When she wears pantyhose and high heels with a suit or a dress in some of her TV or movie roles, she is incredible.

Unfortunately, I don’t see her in those outfits often enough, and rarely in pantyhose during public appearances or awards shows.

I love her, but sadly, I don’t really think of her as “a pantyhose girl.”

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh – Maybe a few years ago.  Today, I just never see her in pantyhose anymore.

I put her on my list because I love her more than any other actress.  I think she’s the most beautiful woman in the world for the many qualities she possesses.  She epitomizes femininity, class, grace and elegance, while projecting a physically powerful persona.

Hollywood directors say she is the most professional actress out there, and she is completely genuine.

She looks awesome in a dress and pantyhose and high heels, but one would be hard pressed to see her dressed that way today.  It hurts me to admit that she’s not the one to represent ActSensuous, but I’ll never make a list of beautiful and wonderful actresses that doesn’t include Michelle Yeoh.

Zhang Ziyi

Zhang Ziyi – If Michelle Yeoh is the most beautiful woman in the world, then Zhang Ziyi is the most gorgeous woman in the world.

Literally, from head to toe, Ziyi is total perfection.  Most of the movies she’s in are kung fu period pieces, which means she’s wearing robes and pajamas.

But of all the stars out there, no one wears beautiful skirts, dresses or suits with pantyhose and high heels in real life as often as Ziyi.

Zhang Ziyi

Ziyi might not necessarily be “a pantyhose girl,” but she has the class and sense to always do what’s right and wear pantyhose for all public appearances.

She might not be the household name in the U.S. that Michelle Yeoh is, but her recent track record of appearing in Hollywood movies (“Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” “Hero,” and “Rush Hour 2,”) makes it just a matter of time before she is.

She is magnificent in every way, and to be able to say that Zhang Ziyi wears ActSensuous pantyhose would make my mission in life complete.

Could it really happen?  The very thought of it is too thrilling for me to be able to believe that it could.

Karen Mok

Karen Mok – Someone who truly “gets it,” Karen Mok seems to live in pantyhose.  She is ultra feminine, very lovely, and has killer legs.

Karen Who?  Precisely.  No one in the U.S. knows who this very talented Chinese singer/actress is.  You might have seen her in Jet Li’s “Black Mask,” in which she plays a quirky library coworker to Li’s character.

Karen isn’t as known to us as the likes of Michelle Yeoh, Gong Li, Zhang Ziyi and Shu Qi because “Black Mask” might be the only “mainstream” movie she’s been in, but she’s huge throughout Asia.

Karen Mok

Probably her best role was in “So Close,” a Chinese movie in which she starred, alongside Shu Qi.

Karen is brilliant.  I think she speaks five languages.  I believe it’s just a matter of time before Karen becomes more of a household name in the Western world.  When she does, she’d be my choice to represent ActSensuous.  As lovely as she is, she’s also very cute and has a great personality.  But mostly, she exudes sexiness, and I would think as devoted to pantyhose as she is, she and ActSensuous would be a perfect match.

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich – Yes, Miss “Resident Evil” herself.  Let me tell you, she is awesome.  What’s not to love?  She is beautiful and adorable.

She can shoot and kick zombie butt with the best of them, yet, she also does dress-up extremely well.

And not just in her movies.  I’ve seen her wearing pantyhose during public appearances, awards shows and talk shows more than anyone.

Milla is cool, and she is HOT.  I don’t know if she thinks pantyhose are sexy, but from what I’ve seen of her, I wouldn’t doubt it.   One thing is for sure:  She is incredibly sexy in them.

It would be awesome to say that when Milla Jovovich wears pantyhose, she chooses to wear ActSensuous.

Bai Ling

Bai Ling –  I know what you’re thinking … Bai Ling?   Seriously?   YES!   I mean she is a little wild, a bit strange, definitely out there.  But she is unique and really cool, and I just love Bai Ling.

For one thing, she is a fine actress.  I’m not kidding.  If you don’t think so, you probably haven’t seen her in “Red Corner” opposite Richard Gere, or “Paris.”  Those were excellent roles for her and she was fantastic in them.

Bai has tremendous talent.  It’s just that she usually doesn’t choose quality roles or well-written screenplays.

Bai Ling

Bai always seems to wear wild outfits, but she is a breathtakingly beautiful girl and she’s got gorgeous legs and feet.

And in the few times I’ve seen her in a pretty outfit with pantyhose and high heels, she’s unreal.

Bai Ling is exotic and ultra sexy.  She might be the one actress who, more than anyone, would truly “get” ActSensuous.

She might not give pantyhose much thought, but I’ll bet that when she does, she’d prefer to wear pantyhose that were created and designed to be very sexy.  Just like she is.

Yes, when it is all said and done, I can’t help but feel that Bai Ling belongs in ActSensuous pantyhose.  If I could have whomever I wanted, I would choose Bai Ling to be the Hollywood actress who makes it known that when she wears pantyhose, she wears ActSensuous.

Please, someone get me Bai Ling.

NOTE:  There certainly are other suspects I’ve considered, but I left them out for space reasons.  But here are a few who deserve honorable mention:

Obvioulsy, I love Sandra Bullock, but while she most often wears pantyhose in movies and sometimes during public appearances, she’s another one who I think chooses to do so because she has class and professionalism.  I don’t really consider Sandra a “pantyhose girl.

Gong Li

Named one of the “50 Most Beautiful Women in the World,” Chinese actress Gong Li is amazing.  She is devastatingly gorgeous and looks incredible in pantyhose and heels.

Unfortunately, it’s not often one can  see her in pantyhose when she makes public appearances, but this one at right, makes me wonder why she doesn’t show off this look all the time.

While she is a superstar throughout Asia, she’s been in a few Hollywood movies, such as “Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Hanibal” and “Miami Vice,” where she looked stunning in a suit and pantyhose and heels.

In the end though, I’ve seen too many cases where Gong Li embraces the bare legs look in the public spotlight, which, of course, means she’s not the most likely candidate to represent ActSensuous.

Finally, I just adore Chinese-American Hollywood actress Joan Chen.  I’ve never seen her in a movie in which she didn’t wear beautiful dresses and pantyhose and high heels.   She is so gorgeous and glamorous, but I can’t find one photo of her wearing pantyhose in public.  Not one.

I am so intrigued by her, but she has become too Americanized and follows the trend of most Hollywood actresses in doing the bare legs thing.   To me, that is just sad.

Tell us, who do you think should be the celebrity who, when she wears pantyhose, chooses to wear ActSensuous?

Entertainment industry can make or break pantyhose

Robin Maryland, President, ActSensuous

Is what’s considered fashionable a case of art imitating life, or life imitating art?  Everyone knows that fashion was influenced more by the golden era of Hollywood than anything else, and I am sure it’s every bit the case today.    

Life Imitating Art

By now you know that Sarah Jessica Parker is “credited” with creating the “bare legs movement” with her “Sex and the City” TV show and movies.  When everyday women saw the show’s high-profile characters strutting around New York City – fashion capital of the world – all dressed up minus the pantyhose, they completely lost their minds, adopted the idea, and from the mid-1990s to present, pantyhose practically disappeared as a fashion staple.   

Art Imitating Life

As the bare legs culture grew in popularity among non-celebrities, naturally, more and more actresses and entertainers jumped on the bandwagon, too.  It was almost as if celebs felt obligated to sport the new fashion look since they are expected to be the trendsetters in such things, and it had become clear that anti-pantyhose fever already was firmly established among the general population.

 Coming full circle

While pantyhose were disappearing in society, even in the workplace, the entertainment industry’s role in it was evolving from instigator in creating the bare legs culture, to one of jumping onto the bandwagon, to now becoming the one place where pantyhose most likely are seen and appreciated today.

 There’s one thing you can depend on about fashion – no fad lasts very long.  What’s “in” eventually becomes what’s “not in,” and you can be sure that as soon as what’s not in takes off and everyone gets enough mileage out of it, ultimately, it will become what’s in again.  

Geena Davis

Today, entertainers appear to be split on the wearing of pantyhose.  Thankfully, some truly professional stars, such as Geena Davis, Julianna Margulies, Linda Fiorentino, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Fran Drescher, Holly Hunter, Goldie Hawn, Shelley Long, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman to name a few, never bought into the bare legs thing and, as long as the role or the scene they played didn’t preclude it, they always wore pantyhose.  And there are some bright new stars today who are contributing to bringing pantyhose back into popularity, among them the likes of Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, and for the most part, Katie Holmes, Kate Moss, Megan Fox, Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Alba, Milla Jovovich and Olivia Munn.

 Pantyhose on display

Already this year, stars wearing pantyhose has been a frequent scene in many TV programs, movies and entertainment venues. 

Paula Abdul jokes with host Craig Ferguson during an appearance on The Late Late Show Jan. 12, 2011.

I have to give props to Paula Abdul, who always wears pantyhose as host of her new show, “Live to Dance,” and always wears when she makes appearances on the late night talk shows.  To me, that shows that she is professional and classy.  Good for you, Paula.

 So, it seems that the best we can hope for these days is this pantyhose love-hate relationship in the entertainment industry.  Last week, I saw Gwyneth Paltrow on Jimmy Fallon.  She wore a short dress and very sheer nude pantyhose.  Sadly though, lovely little Sandra Oh appeared on Jimmy Kimmel, wearing a slacks outfit. 

Those who have seen Sandra only on “Grey’s Anatomy,” might be surprised to learn that she has gorgeous legs (and feet), and she’s shown them off in pantyhose in several movies.   Sadly, she mostly does the bare legs thing during red carpet or publicity events.  I just don’t get that.  She doesn’t seem like the follow-what-everyone-else-is-doing type to me.   She is one celeb I really wish would glam it up a lot more because she can do it so well, and it would show a totally different side of her.  Oh well.  I still love her. 

Maggie Q stars on TV's 'Nikita.'

Also last week, I couldn’t wait to see Maggie Q on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno just to see if I would win the bet I made with myself that she would wear a short dress and high heels but no pantyhose. 

Sometimes, I just hate being right.  Then again, with someone like Maggie Q and her perfect Asian skin, whether she’s wearing in this picture or not can be difficult to tell. 

She really looked good on Leno.  Here’s a small pic I found of Maggie on the Internet.  Is she wearing?  Could be.  I doubt it, but I want to believe that she is.

 This weekend, I re-watched the movie, “Get Smart,” with Steve Carell, who did a great job as Maxwell Smart.  

When the movie first came out a few years ago, and when I saw it again on Saturday, I was so disappointed in Anne Hathaway for not wearing pantyhose in her role as Agent 99.  (She “Missed it by THAT much!”)

UPDATE (See the Reader Comments on this post.   Looks like I was wrong about Anne Hathaway.  One reader provides compelling evidence that, at least in one scene, Agent 99 indeed was wearing.  “Sorry about that, Chief!”)

 And speaking of spy shows, another celeb I am disappointed in is Piper Perabo, who stars in TV’s “Covert Affairs.”  She’s really lovely, but she did the bare legs thing on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson last week.  Sorry, I just think that shows a lack of class, and I had a different image of her than that. 

 I have written before about my disappointment in the way she often doesn’t wear pantyhose with her otherwise professional attire on “Covert Affairs,”  despite that advertising spots almost always show her in pantyhose. 

Again, I don’t know who’s at fault – Perabo or the show’s costume designer – for Perabo’s character not wearing pantyhose on ”Covert Affairs.”   I wonder how much say Perabo has about the matter, and which way she’d lean if she did have a say. 

It’s interesting, as one reader commented, that advertisers don’t miss the opportunity to show off Perabo in pantyhose during promotions for the show.

 Check out this site: http://www.emrahyucel.com/tr/entry/category/all/company/5/customer/0/page/8

and scroll down to the bottom of the page.   You’re looking for page 16.

<< ÖNCEKİ 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | … 94 | SONRAKİ >>

On page 16, the “Covert Affairs” set is about halfway down the page.  These are some beautiful publicity photos, and hopefully, a sign of the outfits to come on this show. 

And it’s not just on TV and in movies that pantyhose are finding their legs again.  One of this blog’s devoted followers, Peter A., pointed out earlier this month that everywhere he looked, he saw the professional models and visitors wearing pantyhose during the Jan. 18 Detroit Auto Show.  I love that.  Thanks for the photo, Pete.

Seriously, why not Pantyhose and open-toe high heels?

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

     Since I started my blog in May 2009, I’ve written 30 posts.  I am really proud of a few of them: “Why Bears don’t wear Pantyhose,” “A good time to be Asian,” “Even Aliens wear Pantyhose.” 

     But the post that has been, by a wide margin, the most read, and seemingly, the most appreciated, is the one I wrote in January of this year, “Why not Pantyhose with open-toe high heels?”  So, as 2010 comes to a close, and I want to finish as strongly as I began this year, I feel compelled to give you what you obviously want. 

     Now, please don’t think that I couldn’t come up with something fresh and so decided to reheat this one.  OK, that’s actually pretty much the case, but seriously, during this entire year, I’ve been struck with what the stats show – that, when I have, for example, 200 visits in a day, 120 people read “Why not Pantyhose with open-toe high heels?”  

     Similarly, more readers have participated in the poll attached to that post than any of the others.  And the results?  As of this writing, of the 109 votes cast, 106 (97 percent) were for “Absolutely! Yes, please!” (to wearing pantyhose with open-toe high heels); only three were for “No way! No how! Never!” (3 percent); and zero for “Who cares?” 

     Because this post, and the ongoing debate over the subject, struck such a nerve with you, I decided to dig a bit further into the matter.  In January, my post began this way:

     Lately, I’ve read several posts on various blogs in which girls are asking for advice about what to wear to a special event.  Often – and I love this – they are open to wearing pantyhose but for the fact that they want to wear some sexy open-toe high heels and believe one is not supposed to wear pantyhose with such shoes.   Who made that rule?

      Today, my question is:  Who made these people “fashion experts?”

     This time, instead of stating my views, I went the scientific route and visited some websites of fashion magazines.  Like everything else on the Internet, you can find tons more information than you’re looking for, so if you want to see some of what I saw, you can write this in your Google search engine: top fashion experts on pantyhose and open-toe shoes

     In the interest of keeping the length of this post reasonable, I’ve selected for your viewing pleasure just three excerpts of advice/opinions about the topic from “fashion experts.’’ 

     Here’s the question posed to the experts: “Should you wear stockings with open-toe shoes?”

(Stockings?  Who wears stockings today?  I’m already offended.  Why couldn’t they just write pantyhose?)

     Below, you’ll see a direct quote from some of what these people wrote, a blurb about who they are and their qualifications, as well as mug shots where available, and my polite response to their idiotic statements.

• “I view it as one of the worst fashion offenses a woman can commit…   “When I see a woman wearing stockings with open-toed shoes, my first thought is that she must have some kind of nasty toenail fungus or calves covered with varicose veins.  Wearing stockings when it is not appropriate to wear stockings always makes it look as though you have some dirty little secret to hide. So if you must wear stockings, wear them with sensible shoes.  And if you must wear open-toed shoes, make sure that your toes are showing.  After all, that is the whole point of open-toed shoes in the first place.” 

Marlin Bressi

(Marlin Bressi:  An award-winning hairstylist and beauty expert whose work has appeared in numerous magazines and newspapers on several websites, such as Suite101.com, where he was Beauty Editor for two years.) 

     Hey, Marlin, it could be that the reason you used to be the beauty editor for two years is that someone finally discovered that you have no sense of fashion.  “If you must wear open-toed shoes, make sure that your toes are showing…”  Uh, two things for you, dude:  1.) Toes most certainly will be showing in open-toe shoes; 2.) Toes do show through pantyhose.  Nylon is sheer.  That means they’re see-through.  Go back to strumming your guitar and smoking dope, dope.   By the way, nice outfit.

• “Breathless with anticipation and wondering if you can wear pantyhose with bare toes? Relax, take a breath. The answer is no. Pantyhose and bare toes are not complimentary.” 

Anne Warchol

(Anne Warchol: A retired mother of three married children. People think I’m in my 30s, and I never tell them I’m 50.) 

     I got news for you, Anne.  It aint just that people think you’re in your 30s.  They also think you’re a moron.   “…wondering if you can wear pantyhose with bare toes?”  Seriously?  You can’t even pose the question properly.  Of course one can wear pantyhose with bare toes.  What – you think pantyhose are usually worn over socks?  “Pantyhose and bare toes are not complimentary.”  Huh?  Anne, you’re not only not qualified to weigh in on the topic at hand, you’re not qualified to leave your house.  And get a hairdo. 

• “Tights and stockings should not be paired together.  No way.  No how…”

 (Chelia Copeland:  Highly motivated, creative and versatile journalist with a graduate degree in journalism.  Over five years of writing/editing experience at a variety of newspapers, magazines, web sites, publishing companies and organizations.  No photo available.)

     Chelia, you’re a journalist with a graduate degree in journalism?  You’ve been a professional writer and an editor?  Well, so have I, and when I see two mistakes in one paragraph, I stop reading.  First, the issue is whether one should wear stockings with open-toe shoes, yet, your opening statement is “Tights and stockings should not be paired together.”  Huh?  Then, you write that you have “over” five years of writing/editing experience …”  Didn’t you learn in journalism school that the word “over” refers to a position in space, such as over the hill, or over the rainbow?  You should have written that you have “more than” five years of writing/editing experience … 

     Whenever professional writers get the little details wrong, they lose credibility in my book.  You lost me after your first paragraph, and I stopped reading.  So, while I don’t know why you are arguing against wearing hose with open-toe shoes, I really just don’t care what you have to say.  You have no credibility with me because, if you’re this sloppy in your own profession, you’re not qualified to comment on what is or isn’t fashionable. 

     There, see how delicately I handled these so-called experts?   Sorry, but I have little patience with stupid people – especially those who tout themselves as experts and then have the nerve to publish their views, despite the fact that they can’t construct a simple sentence.   I mean one knucklehead wrote that wearing pantyhose with open-toe shoes is ugly because the “seem” shows.  I guess he means the “seam.”  

      I wonder if any of these people have seen a woman wearing sheer pantyhose lately?  In many cases, unless you get probably way too close and/or stare with great intensity, you can hardly tell if she’s wearing pantyhose or not.  And today, even the seams are delicate and sheer.  And what if they do show?  I think it’s sexy. 

     Seriously, who made these people “fashion experts?” 

     As long as barely-educated windbags have a forum to express themselves, unfortunately, some women will be influenced by their stupid opinions.  I should point out that, thankfully, there are several writers taking the exact opposite position, so perhaps it all balances out.

      One positive about this raging debate is that there is one.  I mean as long as so many women are asking, and so many “experts” are answering, at least it’s a good sign for pantyhose lovers that so many people care.  Unfortunately, I believe the prevailing thought is this:  

     “The universal no-no is to never wear sheer nude hosiery with open toe shoes or strappy sandals — it just looks tacky.” 

      So states fashion expert Sharon Haver of www.focusonstyle.com

     I disagree with her.   Fortunately, so do many women who most influence fashion – actresses from throughout the world.   Check out the celebrities below.   Who’s going to tell them they are committing a fashion no-no?

Happy New Year, everyone!

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

Marlin Bressi

Anne Warchol

Lucy Liu

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich

Anne Hathaway

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba

Shu Qi

Karen Mok

Karen Mok

Gong Li

Gong Li

Maggie Cheung

Katie Holmes

ZiYi Zhang

ZiYi Zhang

Credit ‘Wear’ Credit is Due – Carrie Ann Inaba

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

     As you must know by now, I am nothing if not fair.   I’ve criticized Carrie Ann Inaba in earlier posts because she didn’t wear pantyhose during appearances that called for it, be it on late night talk shows, red carpet events, or on Dancing with the Stars. 

     I have searched for pics of Carrie Ann on the Internet, and here’s what I’ve found.  I have NEVER seen a photo of her wearing pantyhose.  Let me repeat that: NEVER!  Not one picture out of the hundreds and hundreds of them on the net.  

     So when I learned she was going to be the host of the new version of the game show, 1 vs. 100, I figured she wouldn’t wear dresses or skirts, and certainly not pantyhose, but I hoped with all my energy that she would. 

     Well, I am so happy to say that she has not let me down.  I’ve watched … I don’t know … half a dozen or so episodes, and in each case, she has worn a nice dress or skirt and sheer pantyhose – every single time.  I am so proud of her.  

     Does this mean she is maturing?  Exercising good judgment?   Showing she has class and professionalism?  Or maybe it’s the producer of the game and/or the Game Show Network (GSN) who is making the calls here.  

     Either way, she looks fantastic.  I mean she is such a beautiful woman, it was such a shame that she never showed any class or professionalism the way she dressed before.

      As a TV game show hostess, well, she’s no Bob Saget, who hosted the original version of the game show, but hey, who is? 

     In fact, many fans of the show have complained (justifiably so) that her voice is annoying, she has no sense of timing and she seems very uncomfortable.  That was all true, but I figured with time, she would improve, and she has. 

     The show may not survive, but it wouldn’t be Carrie Ann’s fault.  It just isn’t compelling with the top prize (if a contestant outlasts 100 opponents in answering multiple choice questions) being a whopping $50,000, when it was $1 million in the original version.  And then there’s the mob itself – 100 people who are shown via web cams, instead of live on the set as in the original.   I think for this show to survive, it has to make some major adjustments. 

     But this post is about Carrie Ann stepping up in a new role for herself – game show hostess.   I am proud of her for dressing professionally and with class and grace.  Of the several episodes I’ve seen, there were only two in which she (sorry) looked ridiculous – the ones where she wore a short skirt and knee-high boots.  Yuk! 

     Since I can’t find stills from the show online, I decided to take some pics myself with my cheap digital camera on my 15-year-old 60-inch TV.   I couldn’t get close enough because the set lighting is so bright, and the picture quality of my TV is better viewed from at least 12 feet away. 

     So while the pics I’m posting here aren’t of good quality, at least they’ll give you the idea of the outfits Carrie Ann is wearing.  

     Here’s what I want to know, and not just about, Carrie Ann:  When you look this good in a skirt and high heels and pantyhose, why would you ever wear goofy, dumpy, sloppy, ugly boots?  It’s the least feminine look there is. 

      Since the two episodes in which she wore those awful boots, Carrie Ann has worn high heels the past four or so episodes in a row.  I would hope that she sees what she looks like in boots, as compared to high heels, and made a conscious decision to pretty up her look.  

     I hope this is not just a fluke.  I hope Carrie Ann sees the light now, and that this is the beginning of a career choice for her – to dress femininely, and with class and professionalism when appearing on nationally televised shows.  

     For what it’s worth, Carrie Ann finally has won me over.  Like another game show hostess – Meredith Vieira – she is doing the right thing.  She is showing class, and she looks beautiful and glamorous in a skirt, sheer pantyhose and high heels in a venue that calls for it. 

     Good for you, Carrie Ann.

Pantyhose wearers catch more eyes

    

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

     From time to time, I hear from ladies who say they love wearing pantyhose because of the extra attention they get from men when they do.  

    They say they love it when they catch men staring at their pantyhose-adorned legs out in public. 

     Others tell me that their boyfriends or husbands are so grateful whenever they wear pantyhose, that they wear them often to please their men.

   More than anyone else, I hear from ladies who wear pantyhose at the office, sometimes because it’s required, or at least, expected. 

     In offices where the wearing of pantyhose is not required or particularly encouraged, it’s the ladies who are highly professional and classy who wear pantyhose of their own volition.  Those are my heroes. 

     These ladies tell me that when they wear pantyhose, they get a great deal more attention from their male co-workers.  But they say that this often causes a sense of uneasiness or even resentment among their fellow female employees.

Office girls in Korea would never not wear pantyhose to work.

     They tell me that female co-workers will approach them and say something to the effect of “You know, you don’t have to wear pantyhose.  You can go bare-legged.”  Or, “How can you stand to wear pantyhose every day?” Or (and I love this one), “Pantyhose are so  ‘out’ these days.” 

     Well, you know me – I think it’s downright pathetic when women blindly jump on the bandwagon in the name of what is thought to be “in or out of fashion,” especially if it gives them an excuse to be less feminine and not as desirable.  And I think it’s just plain wrong when women use that same excuse to go against time-honored business acumen, and then try to encourage others to do so, as well.    

     Anyway, it got me thinking:  How many of you have been approached by your co-workers about your wearing pantyhose at the office?   Or how many of you have noticed that you get more attention from co-workers, those in your circle, or people on the street when you wear pantyhose?

     Are you seen as a threat to your fellow females who don’t wear pantyhose and don’t want you to wear them either?   (And is that to keep you from garnering the attention of men, or to help them somehow  justify their own choice to not wear pantyhose?) 

     I’ll bet you have some stories to share.  Please do.

Office girls in China gather for a meeting. Wonder if the businessmen at this office find it difficult to concentrate?

‘Ladies, please …’ Class or No Class

Robin Maryland, president, ActSensuous

If you’re like me (and really, for your sake, I hope you’re not), there are a few TV shows that piss you off. 

You see, it really irks me when people miss opportunites:  To make a statement, to do the right thing, to be special.  With that in mind, here are the most obvious: 

TV shows that piss me off

•  Deal or No Deal 

Like the game – hate the dumb models.  Sorry, but the models rely on their short and beautiful dresses, their fancy high heels, their big hair and big – you know – brains, rather than glamming it up for the big occasion and wearing pantyhose.   Not impressed. 

Now, I will say this:  The few times it’s aired, the special Deal or No Deal Around the World is great. 

The Real Deal

A case in point, the models of the Phillipines, left, not only have the class and grace to wear pantyhose, they come out and do a rousing little coordinated dance routine to the show’s opening theme music. 

It’s very creative and really cool.

Likewise, the models in Estonia have the good taste to wear pantyhose.  In fact, I’m sure the models in all the countries except the good old USA “get it” and wear pantyhose. 

Back to DOND in the U.S., when the banker makes a statement with a special gimmick offer, he usually has one of his Robert Palmer band-looking girls deliver it, and she always wears pantyhose and looks incredible.  Why the other models (or at least the idiot costumer for the show) doesn’t see that and say, “We should really dress up all the models” is beyond me.  

OK, one more reason I hate this show:  The idiot contestants, the idiot audience members, and the idiot models always boo or put down the banker at every opportunity, which I understand is part of the act, but the banker is hillarious, and he should get credit for his antics.  Idiots! 

• Covert Affairs

 That’s right, I said it.  I had such high hopes for this show after seeing it advertised and watching the pilot, both occasions on which the star, Piper Perabo, wore a skirt suit with high heels and pantyhose.  

No longer a "special" agent

Well, that lasted all of that one whole episode.  Since then, the bimbo agent (uh huh) is always bare (bear) legged.  Yeah, like you’re going to go to work at the CIA in a suit and bare (bear) legs. 

Sorry, not a fan! 

 

A TV show that probably will piss me off 

• Nikita 

Coming later this month, it’s another version of the “La Femme Nikita” professional assassin story, this time, starring Maggie Q (“Balls of Fury,” “Mission Impossible II or III,” “Live Free or Die Hard”).  

Now, you’ve read my blog – you know how I love and appreciate Asian actresses for always having the good sense and class to wear pantyhose.  Well, I can tell you that I’ve NEVER seen Maggie Q in pantyhose and I am sure she won’t be wearing them in “Nikita.”  I do hope I’m wrong. 

TV shows that make me proud 

• The Good Wife 

Thank God for this show.  It’s a bigtime corporate lawyer show, so it would really have  infuriated me if the the female cast members weren’t dressed lawyerly.   

Always classy

But they are, and it’s an awesome show, too.  It’s very well written and acted.

Its star, Julianna Margulies, appeared on “The Late Show with  David Letterman” recently, left, and again one night last week, where she wore very sheer nude pantyhose.  I am really liking Julianna for being professional and doing things right.

• The Closer 

Never watched it, but I have seen it advertised many times and ALWAYS the lovely little Kyra Sedgwick is wearing a skirt suit with pantyhose and heels.  Good for her.  I probably will begin watching that show just to support her. 

• Ally McBeal 

No, seriously, the series is being re-aired and it’s the first time in 10 years that I’ve seen it.   Wow, talk about pantyhose city!   Calista Flockhart, below right, as the title character, along with fellow lawyers, including Portia de Rossi and Lucy Liu, make this show a real pleasure to watch. 

Adorable attorney

Watching the show is kinda sad though because it harkens us back to a very special time in our past, as even in the scenes where people (extras) are just walking through the streets of Boston, all the women are wearing pantyhose. 

Ahhhh, those were the days. 

OK, readers, what TV shows piss you off because the female stars don’t wear pantyhose in them? 

Or what shows make you proud because they do? 

Let us know.