Rei Kawakubo has a keen sense of observation.  Many of her garments seen to be inspired by the European garments that are part of museum collection.  Unlike many designers, instead of reproducing these pieces integrally or in a theatrical manner, she will retain their essence and incorporate key elements within her work.  The one-armed dress seen above has a sleeve similar to the outerwear capes seen in the bustle era of the 1870s and called dolmans.  Although this sleeve is typical of victorian dress, he incorporates it in the dress and creates an extremely contemporary looking piece.