Say it with a fan

[Photo/Sylvain Le Guen-Air A la Mode-Gigogne(Stephen Jackson)]

From judicial sentences in imperial China to gallant chats at Marie Antoinette's royal court, the fan has long been used to convey messages. Unisex, elegant, and both useful and futile, fans reveal as much as they hide. Here are three ways to cool yourself down in style while flirting with some exciting codes of seduction.

[Photo/Sylvain Le Guen-Booklet & Profil, copyright Nathalie Baetens]

1. Fancy

Spending a night at the opera so you can whisper sweet nothings into the ear of your betrothed? Don't forget your hand fan. When it comes to being sophisticated and unique, these elegant little wings are a girl's true best friend. What's more perfect for showing off than this precious, light accessory? Be it one of silk gauze, satin or leather, or with some magnificent embroidery, you'll surely find the perfect fan to enhance your beauty and bring a breath of fresh air between the two arias.

French fanmaker Sylvain Le Guen, who designed custom creations for Sofia Coppola's 2006 film Marie Antoinette, defines his fans as pieces of art. "I see the fan as an extension of the hand and I want it to be its owner's mirror, whether he or she is strong, glamorous, bold or refined," he says. "I thus love to play with different materials such as light feathers, thick paper or sequined silk to create pieces that merge art and fashion."

As soon as you enter the opera house, your magnetic presence will arouse lust and desire in the hearts of countless admirers – and that may be way too much to handle for a single woman. Don't panic – rely on a little help from your fan. Flutter it to say "I'm engaged" or wave it slowly to say "I'm married" and they'll be sure to keep a safe distance.(sylvainleguen.com)