They may not have access to the latest looks from Paris (or fashion magazines, for that matter), but many of the women of Pyongyang do make an effort. Here are a few snapshots from a recent visit.
A math teacher.
On the Pyongyang subway.
A brief flash of individuality in the form of a pig hair accessory.
A docent at the War Museum. (Her version is not the same as Wikipedia’s.)
New and old traditions together.
A modern take on a traditional Korean dress.
Every North Korean wears a loyalty pin. (It’s kinda a big deal if you don’t.)
Librarian and patron.
On the streets of Pyongsong, a town an hour or so outside of Pyongyang.
Hotel employees in Pyongsong.
A spirited performance by school children.
Traditional dress at a mass dance in Pyongyang.
Dusty rose coordination.
Mom chic.
Wearing her finest for National Day.
So wrong, it’s right.
Color blocking while paying her respects at the cemetery.
This is probably as short a hem as she’s allowed to go.
A pop of color and plaid.
Lady in red.
A conservative look for day.
A moment at the Monument for the People’s Founding.
Most of the traffic cops are young and gorgeous.
Pattern on pattern in the park.
Blue on blue when you’re blue.
Crossing the major square in Pyongyang in traditional dress.