Black Lace: A History of Elegance and Eroticism in Fashion

Beautiful rich woman standing in front of castle holding her breasts wearing black lace
Black Lace. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2025

Black Lace

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A History of Elegance and Eroticism in Fashion

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Model: Gina Iannece for the Heroines & Vixens Series

Photography: Tony Ward

Styling:  KVaughn

Makeup & Hair: Michael Connor

Lighting: Anthony Colagreco

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Black lace has long been a symbol of sophistication, mystery, and sensuality in the world of fashion. Its intricate patterns and delicate texture have captivated designers and wearers alike for centuries, transcending cultural boundaries and evolving into a timeless emblem of erotic allure. From its origins in European aristocracy to its modern-day interpretations, black lace has woven itself into the fabric of fashion history, embodying both elegance and seduction.

The history of black lace dates back to the 16th century, when it first emerged as a luxury fabric in Europe. Initially crafted by hand in regions like Flanders and Venice, lace was a labor-intensive textile reserved for the elite. Black lace, in particular, gained prominence in the courts of Spain and France, where it was used to adorn garments for royalty and nobility. Its dark hue contrasted strikingly with the pale complexions of the aristocracy, creating an air of mystery and refinement. By the 19th century, black lace had become a staple of mourning attire, popularized by Queen Victoria after the death of her husband, Prince Albert. Yet, even in its somber context, the fabric retained an undercurrent of sensuality, hinting at the duality of life and death.

As fashion evolved, so did the role of black lace. By the early 20th century, it had shed its association with mourning and emerged as a symbol of feminine empowerment and allure. Designers like Coco Chanel embraced black lace, incorporating it into their collections to create garments that were both elegant and provocative. The flapper dresses of the 1920s, with their sheer lace overlays, epitomized the liberated spirit of the era, while the lingerie of the 1940s and 1950s used black lace to evoke a sense of intimacy and desire.

The erotic allure of black lace is deeply rooted in its ability to reveal and conceal simultaneously. Its translucent quality allows glimpses of skin, creating a tantalizing interplay between modesty and seduction. This duality has made black lace a favorite in lingerie design, where it is often used to craft pieces that are both delicate and daring. In cultures around the world, black lace has been embraced as a symbol of femininity and sensuality. In Latin America, for example, it is a key element of traditional bridal wear, symbolizing purity and passion. In Japan, black lace is often used in modern fashion to blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary edge.

Today, black lace continues to inspire designers like KVaughn and captivate wearers. From haute couture runways to everyday streetwear, its versatility and timeless appeal ensure its place in the fashion lexicon. Whether adorning a wedding gown, a cocktail dress, or a piece of intimate apparel, black lace remains a powerful expression of elegance and eroticism, a fabric that transcends time and culture to embody the eternal allure of the feminine mystique.

Brian Hunt: A Classic Session With Lumen Foxx

Nude woman hanging on rope at Tony Ward Studio
Photo: Ethimo Foto, Copyright 2025

Text by Brian Hunt, Owner Ethimo Foto, Copyright 2025

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A Classic Session With Lumen Foxx

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My subject for this particular shoot is Lumen Foxx. She is a classically trained dancer who I chose for her ability to hold poses requiring strength and balance. The ceiling height and exposed beam at Tony Ward Studio  allowed me to hang a heavy mooring rope for Lumen to create poses with. During lighting changes Lumen would study the portraiture on the studio walls, which also serves as a gallery space.  Sometimes the photographs  provoked her to ask questions about the work on display, which honestly enhanced our working rapport more than I expected. 

Nude model hanging on mooring rope at Tony Ward Studio
Photo: Ethimo Foto, Copyright 2025

 TWS is like visiting a gallery or a museum, the environment promotes a discussion of ideas, and the sharing of lifes stories. Quickly we found ourselves in a steady flow of poses as if we were trying to outdo the subjects who were depicted on the walls. Near the end of our time TW peeked in to check on us, and answered questions about several of the key pieces in the studio on exhibit. After hearing the backstories on a few of the pieces, Lumen and I rallied for one last set of poses that turned out to be some of the strongest material of the day.  I can’t help but think that the vibes emanating from Tony Ward Studio and the  and the visit from Tony himself attributed to a grand finale. 

Frontal nude with red hat photographed at Tony Ward Studio
Photo: Ethimo Foto, Copyright 2025

 

To access Brian Hunt’s Facebook page, link here: https://www.facebook.com/EthimoFotos/

News: Trump Destroys D.E.I. Hiring

DEI workplace illustrations by A.I.

Trump Destroys D.E.I. Hiring

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In a sweeping move that has sent ripples through the federal workforce and beyond, President Donald Trump has issued executive orders dismantling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs within the federal government. These actions, which include placing DEI staff on paid leave and deactivating related web pages, mark a significant departure from previous efforts to promote inclusivity in public institutions. 

The administration’s stance is that DEI initiatives constitute “illegal and immoral discrimination programs” and divert from merit-based hiring practices. By revoking Executive Order 11246, originally signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965 to prohibit employment discrimination by federal contractors, the current administration aims to eliminate what it perceives as preferential treatment based on race, sex, or religion. 

Critics argue that dismantling DEI programs threatens decades of progress in addressing systemic inequalities. Civil rights advocates express concern that these measures will reduce workplace diversity and hinder efforts to combat discrimination. The rollback of DEI initiatives is seen by some as a step backward in promoting equal employment opportunities for historically marginalized groups. 

DEI hire_drag_queen-illustration
DEI

The implications of these executive orders extend beyond the federal workforce, potentially influencing the broader American economy and job opportunities for people of color and other non-white ethnic groups. Federal contractors, who were previously mandated to implement affirmative action programs under Executive Order 11246, may now feel less compelled to prioritize diversity in their hiring practices. This shift could lead to decreased representation of minority groups in various industries, as companies may no longer be incentivized to actively promote inclusive hiring. 

Moreover, the administration’s directive to encourage the private sector to end DEI initiatives could have a chilling effect on corporate diversity efforts nationwide. Businesses that once invested in DEI programs to foster inclusive workplaces might scale back or eliminate these initiatives, fearing potential scrutiny or repercussions. Such a trend could exacerbate existing disparities in employment and advancement opportunities for underrepresented groups. 

The trickle-down effect of these policies may also impact educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. With the federal government signaling a departure from DEI commitments, universities and nonprofits that rely on federal funding might reconsider their diversity programs to align with the new directives. This could result in reduced support systems for students and communities of color, further entrenching systemic inequities. 

In summary, the administration’s recent executive orders to eliminate DEI programs represent a significant policy shift with far-reaching consequences. While proponents argue that these measures restore merit-based practices, critics contend that they undermine efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, potentially reversing progress made in creating equitable opportunities for all Americans.

DEI hire_drag_queen-illustration
DEI

The Art of Trust: A Nude Model’s Perspective

White college student modeling in the nude for a photography class
Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2024

Text by Tony Ward, Copyright 2024

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The Art of Trust

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When she first volunteered to model nude for my Photography and Fashion Class, I knew it would challenge not just her sense of vulnerability but also the dynamics of trust and professionalism between myself, my peers, and my students. Seated in the center of the studio, illuminated by carefully angled lights, she learned that trust is not an abstract concept in such intimate settings—it is the foundation of everything.

As a seasoned photographer and instructor at the University of Pennsylvania, I began the project lectures with an earnest discussion about boundaries, respect, and the ethical responsibilities of capturing the human form. My words were reassuring, but the real test came when I stepped onto the set with my student. There is a rawness to standing unclothed in front of a camera, yet my demeanor and guidance made it clear that she was not merely a subject—she was a collaborator in the creation of Art.

From the outset, I emphasized precision: how a slight change in pose could transform a composition, how lighting softened the sharpness of vulnerability, and how every shadow told its own story. But the most important element, I explained, was the critical trust between artist and model. Each instruction that I gave was measured, devoid of intrusion or presumption. My professionalism reminded the student that this was not about exposure but about free expression. 

One moment in particular during the instruction stood out. As I adjusted the angle of a spotlight, I paused and asked, “Are you comfortable?” It was a simple question, but it conveyed so much more: an acknowledgment of my autonomy and a reminder that this was her space as much as mine to photograph. That question made all the difference.

Throughout the session, I became acutely aware of how trust shapes the creative process. Posing nude is not about perfection; it’s about presence. It’s about the willingness to be seen fully and the courage to believe that those seeing you—whether peers, an instructor, or an audience—will treat your vulnerability with care.

In retrospect, the experience transcended the act of modeling. It became a lesson in collaboration, communication, and the delicate art of honoring another person’s humanity. As much as this project taught my students about the interplay of lighting, setting, and pose, it taught me far more about the power of trust.

Transgender Identity: A Journey of Authenticity and Courage

Portrait of transgender male by Tony Ward copyright 2024
Danae. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2024

Understanding Transgender Identity

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A Journey of Authenticity and Courage

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In a world rich with diversity, understanding the nuances of identity is crucial. Among the many facets of human identity is the experience of being transgender—a deeply personal journey of aligning one’s internal sense of self with their external reality. But what does it truly mean to be transgender?

A transgender person is someone whose gender identity—their deeply felt sense of being male, female, or something beyond—differs from the sex assigned to them at birth. This distinction between biological sex (often categorized as male or female based on physical attributes) and gender identity (a psychological and social construct) is central to understanding the transgender experience.

For many, the journey begins with an internal realization. A transgender person may feel that their assigned sex doesn’t align with how they see themselves. This disconnect, known as gender dysphoria, can cause emotional distress, but it is not universal. Some transgender individuals embrace their identity without experiencing dysphoria, focusing instead on self-expression and authenticity.

Being transgender is not defined by a specific path or set of actions. While some may undergo medical interventions such as hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgeries, others choose not to or cannot due to personal, financial, or health reasons. Transitioning can also be social, involving changes in name, pronouns, clothing, or behavior. Each journey is unique, and there’s no “right” way to be transgender.

Transgender individuals exist in every culture and have throughout history. Despite this, many face misunderstanding, discrimination, and stigma. Education and awareness are vital in fostering acceptance and creating environments where transgender people can live authentically. Respecting a transgender person’s chosen name and pronouns is a simple yet profound way to show support and affirmation.

It’s also important to recognize the incredible resilience of transgender individuals. Many navigate societal expectations, personal challenges, and systemic barriers with courage and grace. Their stories enrich our understanding of humanity and remind us of the strength it takes to live one’s truth.

At its core, being transgender is about authenticity. It’s the pursuit of aligning one’s life with their true self, despite the obstacles. By embracing transgender individuals with empathy and respect, we move closer to a world that celebrates the full spectrum of human identity.

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Portrait of transgender male by Tony Ward photographer copyright 2024
Danae. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2024