Today, many North Korean women prefer logo-emblazoned goods, as well as anything that can incorporate sequins or diamantes — tops, hairpins and even high heels. The latter, especially, have become de rigueur.
In Pyongyang the wives, daughters and mistresses of the new rich, or dongju (‘masters of money’), are immaculately turned out. Unlike other symbols of wealth, such as fridges or air conditioners, being accompanied by a fashionable female is a conspicuous way of displaying wealth.