Black Leather Dresses: How Do We Make Them Work For Us?

Kate Bosworth can wear a paper bag and look half-way decent, so it is misleading to look at a dress looking magnificent on her and extrapolate to ones' self. And what of when the dress only looks meh like this one? If  she only looks ok, is it even remotely possible that an average person can pull it off? I don't actually think so. And so I turn my attention to the recent spate of other black leather frocks that have recently made themselves known on the red carpet.
Let's look at dear old Blair Waldorf/Leighton Meester. I think she is struggling to find her personal style niche and tries way too hard, in general. This dress is no different. It doesn't really suit her and doesn't really make her look pretty. She looks fine, of course, she is a lovely looking girl. But does she look beautiful or amazing or mesmerizing? No. So where would that leave us if neither her nor Kate can make these rather rigid (breastplates anyone?) and conflicted dresses work?

I think the first requirement is much softer leather. The second is bags of attitude and the personality that resonates with rock 'n roll and rebellion. And the third is a flair for accessorising. Something like a bit of a lilac bootie to lift and edge the whole thing. Then maybe it will work. I think that Vampire Diaries Kat Graham is getting there with this frock she wore on the weekend. Almost. Lose the neckpiece and you're there. Good luck to you all.

Michelle Obama v Diane von Furstenberg in Dressgate, The Final Chapter

During the state visit by the Chinese President to the US, I posted on the stunning dinner dress by Alexander McQueen that Michelle Obama wore. I alluded to the disgruntled mutters that it was a dress by a British designer. But subsequently these mutters rose to a roar of disapproval. Culminating in a statement issued by Council of Fashion Designers of America president Diane Von Furstenberg, who said:

"CFDA believes in promoting American fashion,” the statement read. “Our First Lady Michelle Obama has been wonderful at promoting our designers, so we were surprised and a little disappointed not to be represented for this major state dinner.”

Oh dear. I am going to first of all excuse one of my design heroes DvF as she recently suffered a terrible skiing incident which left her face shmooshed and bloodied and she is at home recovering at the moment. But that kind of accident is going to make you crabby, right? I mean, of course we all want to support our local industry, but you don't hear that kind of outcry when Mrs O wears an African design. Thankfully. Because we love it that she supports fashion democratically. 
Supporting local is important, and she does that in spades. So if one dress out of every ten happens to be designed internationally, who gets hurt? And she looked totally awesome.
But trust our lady of first, Michelle Obama, to silence the argument once and for all yesterday, when she responded to questions with all the pragmatism of a real woman and all the incisive insight of a leader, when she said,

"Look, women, wear what you love. That's all I can say. That's my motto. I wear what I like because...I gotta be in the dress, so..."

Enough said.

Did Anne Hathaway Lose A Style Bet?

I don't often point out people's style failings. I say unto each their own and I would rather focus my energy on the positive aspects of our amazing industry. However, sometimes it is a public service. Like with this inexplicable outfit seen on Anne Hathaway last week.
My only real question is, "did she lose a bet" or possibly, "is this a joke" as I simply can't wrap my head around the possibility that this was a considered sartorial choice for a woman who seldom puts a style foot wrong. Worn to the day-time launch of the animated film, Rio, in Los Angeles, I just can't find the logic in the combination of a cropped, striped brown jumper and spotted navy cropped AND frilled pair of trousers. It just does nothing but bad things to a beautiful girl. And yet I can't look away. Like a garment car crash, it is. And what is that thing around her neck?? I wept.
On a day when we are all about the red carpet, this is sending nervous shivers down my Oscars-anticipatory spine as Annie is due to host the gig. Please let her stylist (Rachel Zoe) get her in hand in good time and get the right looks onto her fine bod. We just can't handle this level of misstep at the Oscars.

Elie Saab SS11 Haute Couture Is So Very Pretty

So with only weeks to go till the Oscars red carpet, I am guessing that the shimmering beauty of the Elie Saab gowns shown last week at the haute couture collections in Paris are somehow going to make their way onto it. And they should.
In sherberty hues like lilac, chartreuse, blush and salmon - anchored by nude and black neutrals and punched up with a smattering of burgundy - the colour palette lends itself to girlie girls of which there are plenty nominated.
But this collection goes beyond just what is appropriate and dazzling on the awards shows red carpet (although let's never forget Halle Berry wearing his backless design when she tearfully accepted her Academy Award all those years ago. A classic Oscar look, I think you will agree from this Lebanese designer.)

This confectionary tale in Chantilly lace and encrusted crystals is a story of romance and character. It demands personality and style from its wearer to truly fill out the gowns. And yet it allows the talent and dynamism to succumb to the giddy notion of romance, and for the woman to feel like a pretty girl again. Who in the current age would want that?
I can't wait to see the women of substance on the red carpets in these gowns. I want to see them properly brought to life and all their gorgeousness set alight. I think they will be wonderful.

SAG Awards 2011 Red Carpet Risks: Did They Work?

So I mentioned in my post below that the 2011 SAG Awards red carpet threw up a number of surprises that made for interesting water cooler debate in the fashion office. Some of them worked - Helena Bonham Carter in Marc Jacobs being the most exciting of these. And some didn't. Someone has got to have a word with the lovely Nicole Kidman about proper use of jewels. Please.
But have a look at these attempts that split opinion:
The delightful and brilliant Tina Fey did not wear black. Did it work? Oh yes it did. It looked fresh and fun and classy. I personally missed her authentic signature in the look - she looks a smidge too much like someone styled her - but it was a lovely change and she looked beautiful.
Claire Danes took a long walk far from her usual 'austere' simplicity style. Not only did the clean lines give way to a bit of flounce, but she was one of the few who embraced pattern in this Louis Vuitton frock. Did it work? Well yes it did, on balance. The dress looked good. She looked younger, vibrant and more modern. I think I might have chopped that belt off at the buckle. Maybe lost the buckle entirely as well. Then it would have been delightful.
And finally, the hilarious and charming Julie Bowen of Modern Family wore a jumpsuit. With a plunging neck. A case of just because you can, doesn't mean you should, per chance? I mean she looked awesome. Wow. But for the red carpet? Even for the SAG awards? Maybe not. A risk too far I think. Having said that, keep your eyes on O Magazine as we have a brilliant interview with Julie coming up in the April issue. It is actually possible to love her more than you already do. Fact.

SAG Awards 2011 Red Carpet Winners

The SAG Awards are not the Golden Globes or the Oscars. They are slightly less fancy-pants and the red carpet needs to reflect that. What actually happened last night at the 17th annual SAG Awards, was that the style was all over the place. There are no rules so things run a little awry and those clearly defined trends of the Golden Globes red carpet was distinctly missing. There are however three pieces of good news - the Oscars will be back on track - everyone knows what to do there, some surprising winners emerged from all the confusion, and one brand new red carpet look really stole my heart.
Dianna Agron (from Glee) wore a tea-length Chanel couture gown in navy blue spangle that broke all the rules and was simultaneously retro and totally contemporary. Who knew tea-length could be so perfect for an awards ceremony? This was unquestionable my favourite look of the night.
Not only did Dianna rock the tea-length, but Helena Bonham Carter nailed it in this new silhouette as well. Yes, I said HBC. Seriously - how beautiful does she look? Still just enough of her signature cray-cray to keep us who love her happy, but stunning shape and beautifully accessorised. Wow. Surprising.
Another Glee favourite who stole my heart was Heather Morris who I have featured as a top look at the last two awards red carpets. Not only do I adore her character Brittany S. Pierce, but I think she is an amazing dancer and a total princess of awards ceremonies.
And my final top look of the night goes to the impeccable Julianna Margulies in YSL. Stunning, classic beauty, just simple enough to be appropriate. Just dazzling enough to stand out. How do I turn into her when I gown up?

There were of course others that were beautiful and are sure to top other people's winners' lists. I thought that January Jones' Caroline Herrera dress was beautiful. I thought that Annette Bening looked supremely elegant, joyous and sophisticated and I love Sofia Vergara in anything. This blue is incredible. It could have done with and extra 5cms of seams on the boob region, but I will forgive her pretty much anything. Good work gals.
Now it is up to you guys to post comments on what you thought of the SAG red carpet. Over to you.

SHOW OF THE WEEK

little machines

Well we made it through January. Such a weird nebulous month. We always feel that the year starts properly by February. People trickle back from coast and country, makers return to benches and kilns, galleries install new shows to inspire us all. Which is exactly what's happening this week with Pieces of Eights first exhibition of the year Dougal Haslem's The Turtle and The Merman

As you can tell by these images the show has a lot of whimsy to it but rest assured Haslem is no slouch as a maker. a masters in gold and silver smithing at RMIT and an acute eye for detail undercut the cutesy aspect of the work. 

I do have to admit there is an almost overwhelming desire to see if this turtle winds up and scurries across the floor. Show opens Feb 1 and there is a floor talk Feb 9 - more info at Pieces of Eight. RAMONA

NEWS: Bill Cunningham Documentary Coming Soon

For those of you who know me and this blog well, you will know that I love and worship the originator and master of street style fashion photography, Bill Cunningham, above all other blog impostors. Not only does his charmingly old-fashioned way of describing fashion appeal to me, but I love his low-key, razor sharp focus on what is important - and it is not celebrities.
I wrote a piece a couple of years ago as a mini-biography of the great man, as there is so little available about him. You can read Precursor to the Blog: Style Hound here.
So imagine my utter delight at hearing someone (in this case Richard Press) has convinced Bill to let them shoot a doccie about him! I can watch the trailer alone over and over - and I just can't wait for the movie to be released. It is my highlight of the year. Watch the trailer on the Grazia website and you too will be seduced.

South African Designers in International Creative Publication, Schön

I always get excited when our local fashion designers get recognition internationally. Nothing makes me happier. And one of my favourite designers, Stiaan Louw, is a master of this, having recently gained traction with European and American hipster publications, both online and print.
Stiaan, together with some of my other favourites, Christopher Strong, David West and Suzaan Heyns are featured in the latest edition of international creative collaboration magazine, Schön (a bit like our own Chew, the Magazine). Congrats to all of them.
There is just one teeny, tiny problem. The article, The Lay of the Land, proposes to discuss the state of South African fashion, how it is growing, and the tension that exists between being a contemporary fashion designer with access to first world influences - and the desire to express themselves as 'African' designers.
This is a great subject. One that is oft explored and debated with very little agreement but lots of opinion. It is an issue at the core of where many designers find themselves and what inspires much of their best work. And yet this article feels more like going down the 'You, Me, And Everyone We Know' market. There is no representative sample of wonderful SA designers - just our mates. There is no evolution of the argument and not much that makes it relevant to an international audience, rather it is a piece by a South African that reads for a local audience - which is rather a missed opportunity, don't you think? Never-the-less, I do hope that many people enjoy the exposure to some of our best fashion talents and it sparks opportunities where there may not have been before. Best of luck to all of them.

Rebecca's World: Aimee in Flirty Florals

Rebecca has been away in the wilds of KwaZulu Natal for the past few months and has sent me this missive from the farm. We miss her and hope she will be back in CT soon. Please.

"Trainee buyer for Foschini, Aimee, looks ultra comfortable and summery in this cute floral playsuit from Wardrobe accessorized simply with a dainty gold necklace and tassel bag. I love it!"

We love it too. Perfect for the hot summer we are having down here in Cape Town.

Gemma Arterton for G-Star, and Gucci Gone Wild?

I don't know Gemma Arterton very well. I have seen a number of interviews with her, both on TV and in print, and she comes across well - charming, witty, impossibly pretty but down to earth. And no matter what she says, that peaches and cream complexion is always going to scream 'wholesome'.
Which is why I was properly surprised when she was announced as the new face of edgier denim brand, G-Star. Don't get me wrong, I like the brand and I like the girl, but together? Not so much.
But we will see. You can read about Gemma's G-Star adventures on her blog, which is quite fun.
In the mean while, she turned up at the Gucci Vogue party in Paris this week looking all lace-up-hot with slightly wilder hair and quite hectic shoes and it made me think maybe I have got her all wrong? Maybe she isn't as good as she seems? Nah, good-girl-playing-bad, is more like it. But I don't mind. She looks good and mixing it up is what playing with fashion is all about. And she is just so impossibly pretty, isn't she?

BARBIE!

burp.

It was that kind of day. Last year's invasion day bbq was sunny, hot and full of the sound of willow on willow as we enjoyed a massive klopathon in the backyard. This year however dawned grey and cool so it was ALL about the food. And there was a lot to keep us occupied. The menu included: mint and ginger punch, grilled haloumi, olive dip, roasted balsamic mushrooms, grilled asparagus, garlic and rosemary turkish bread, roast cauliflower, rocket, fetta and duhkah salad, apple, walnut and cos salad with a delicious yoghurt dressing, tomato, bocconcini and basil salad, green pea and haloumi fritters, butterflied lamb roast, spicy italian pork sausages, and chicken skewers cooked on the architects japanese import fold up hibachi.  And then there was cake.

I got so excited about tucking into my platefull of food that I couldn't even wait to get the camera into focus.

And apparently the sausages were so delicious that the womble even managed to pull James into the station in order to squeeze one in.

the Hagrid handed in-house primary teacher DJ even brought along an amazing selection of beers from around the world, which to quote him were "good and strong... burp".

Max of course held out for dessert... Miss P's famous Ginger Fluff Sponge and Shula's pomegranate topped version of Maggie B's now infamous chocolate pavlova. DELICIOUS. we all realised that by the time we'd managed to empty the groaning table full of food into our now groaning bellies it was well after 5 and there was no time for Klop.

Which was just as well because as it turns out, within minutes of getting home all of us were pretty much in the same position as Master Maxwell... completely unconcious on the couch. Top afternoon. BECK

The New Ingénue and Olsen Sister - Elizabeth Olsen

Look at her smiling! I have yet to find a photo of this young 21-year-old actress, Elizabeth Olsen, looking grumpy or sour or terrified or brooding or anything remotely negative. In fact, the latest star to emerge from the Sundance Film Festival seems like a ray of sunshine and light in a snowy landscape as she sets about promoting her two independent films, Martha May Marlene and the horror Silent House.

Sister of much more famous Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley, her style is similar but very different. She wears her sisters' cast offs, for sure. She even talks about their clothing lines Elizabeth and James (named after her and her brother) and The Row. Promoting them where it seems appropriate, letting her work speak for her on other occasions. So she wears the same garments. She doesn't seem to be too dressy either, much like her sisters. But she differs in that she doesn't over-layer and dwarf her small frame. She gets about in practical flats. She accessorises with colour and she keeps her lines relatively clean. And then there is that smile. Possibly the best way to dress up an outfit in any circumstance.

Royal Wedding Style: The First T-Shirt

Oh how I laughed when I saw this tee from UK supermarket giant, Sainsbury's. I mean, it is quite pretty and super cute. But also because it skirts around the 'no-t-shirt' position on Royal Wedding merchandise pretty smartly. It reminds me of the Kulula World Cup ads that were so minxy. You know exactly what they mean. But it doesn't need to be said.
From what I understand Prince William and his bride-to-be didn't want their faces emblazoned across people's chests on a t-shirt. I totally understand that. It is really tacky. So this option - retailing at only £10 - is a clever response. Great first-mover advantage from Sainsbury's. Now let's see how the rest of the UK high street responds.
Thanks to Alex, image courtesy of http://www.fashionfoiegras.com

The Chanel Haute Couture Front Row Ladies

Ah that Karl Lagerfeld can pull a lady like no other 70-year-old chap. And by pull obviously I mean get to his front row. Chanel stalwarts and devotees flocked to the triumphant Haute Couture show earlier this week, including his muses Vanessa Paradis, Diane Kruger and Alexa Chung. Of course they all looked super-awesome in their Chanel outfits. I like how VP scruffied hers up. I love, love, love Diane's shoes and you know that no one rocks a tuxedo like my mate Alexa.
However, my highest praise has to be reserved for that navy and black combo worn by an exceptionally ladylike Kirsten Dunst. Where has this actress been of late? Well, I know there was the obligatory stint in rehab. Some smaller appearances and a couple of major covers in the last year. But I mean where has she been as an actress? I had all but written her off when she started dating Johnny Borrell and I truly hated her in Spiderman. Argh. But there is something about her that may suit getting a bit older, a bit wiser. Some charm and self-awareness that could render her so much more sympathetic.
If this look is anything to go by, I like what I see. In fact, come the winter months you may see me rocking something very similar. Loves it.

Vogue Gucci Party Brings Out The Fashion Week Style

French Vogue threw Gucci designer Frida Giannini a dinner soiree a couple of nights ago as part of Paris Haute Couture Week at the Hotel de la Rochefoucauld Doudeauville. And what a style statement it turned out to be. We get a bit fashion-fatigued in the first few months of each year, what with awards season red carpets, launches and fashion weeks. So it takes something striking to break the ennui and make us take notice. This party got my attention.
The first thing about this party's red carpet was that almost all the 'names' were wearing Gucci. Obvs. It didn't hurt that the SS ready to wear collection was a bit of a triumph, to my mind. I really loved it. And the look is personified by Olivia Wilde's party outfit.
The second thing that struck me was that I have never seen Jessica Alba look this good. I am not fan of the girl, but really this is a dazzler of a look.
Diane Kruger forsook (yes it is a word, I checked) Chanel and Calvin Klein for the evening, which is pretty remarkable, and she looked awesome. She didn't even need Pacey Witter on her arm to do it either. More's the pity.
And I love seeing the new gang of Monaco royals out and about. I simply cannot help but think that Charlotte Casiraghi is simply one of the most beautiful young women on the fashion scene at present.
What do you guys think of the fashion?

Introducing Josephine de la Baum for Agent Provocateur

French actress, singer, girlfriend of DJ Mark Ronson and now model, Josephine de la Baum has already caught the eye of fashion followers across the globe as they revel in her sexily-disheveled, ladylike, curvaceous style.
And it hasn't passed by the advertisers unnoticed, with underwear brand Agent Provocateur being one of the first to snap her up to be the face of the label.

The pics are out and are (obviously) a bit risky so I have selected the tamer ones for you here. But she is definitely a name to keep an eye on as she blends French coquette with English eccentricity to personify hipster cool for 2011.

Gossamer Light and Twenties Hints in Chanel Haute Couture SS11

Last night I kept taking a break from very entertaining dinner chats to check my Twitter feed for images from the Chanel Haute Couture show. Luckily my friend Janet totally got it every time I breathed out and whispered, so, so pretty.
It's probably worth mentioning the aspects that stood out for me, rather than a critique of the show.
First let's look at the shoes - they are flat. Specifically, Kaiser Karl insisted, the new look is now with flats. It changes proportions totally and is a bit scary. But we all know the power of KL when it comes to shoes - clogs anyone? So we need to get our heads around it now.
Secondly I marveled at the incredible lightness of touch, fabrication, beading and the iridescent shimmer of the entire collection. There is a gentleness about it, without losing the edge. It is fantasy and classic silhouettes in one. How does he do it?
Thirdly one needs to mention the twenties influence - the dropped waists, the bubble evening wear, the straight lines. It feels so right for now - but dare I suggest this is the first of the Boardwalk Empire styling influence? I mean it worked for Mad Men, can we see it happen again?
And finally, the 'jeans'. KL introduced the slim leg trouser/jegging/legging situation into the collection to reflect how women wear it. Not only is this a departure for any designer, but this is Haute Couture - no allowances for real life are usually made. And it is in this that the real scandal lies.
Once again, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel resets the bar and dazzles us with incredible workmanship and innovative ideas. He is in his 70s now and continues to outshine, outtrend, outdo the younger designers, many of whom have been disappointing so far. I shall resume my worship of him immediately.

Three Classic Handbags Every Woman Should (Try to) Own

I am undeniably a shoe and handbag girl. That's where my main fashion investments go. Quality and classic, iconic styles winning every time. I am lucky enough to have as a prize possession the mamma of all beautiful investment handbags. It is called the Smythson Nancy and is everything that is subtle and discreet about luxury leather goods. And you have probably never heard of it. That is the way I like it. You see I don't like flashy labels and blazing logos.
But I will admit to chasing a Chanel 2.55 across London and paying an inordinate amount of money for this iconic handbag - that I have never worn for fear of damaging it. Seriously. I know.
I have also of late come into possession of the most beautiful Louis Vuitton clutch from their most recent collection, which I use every evening event I attend. I love my bags and other than the 2.55, I do use them everyday and frequently. It is such a satisfying way to smarten up or distinguish an outfit.
I mention all this as the O Magazine web site just published a story on the Three Classic Bags That Every Woman Should Own. I'm not sure this is totally a realistic goal, but it certainly is worth aiming for one of these in your lifetime. It will change your life.

Trend Alert: How to Wear Block Colour Cocktail Dresses

If you look back over the past few weeks - excluding the awards shows - you will see a preponderance of fantastic, vibrant, exciting cocktail dresses in plain, block colours.
The best way to adopt this trend for yourself is to find a shade that really makes your skin glow. See how Kirsten Dunst has chosen a deeper colour for the same effect. Just find the one hue that works for you.
Then make sure you choose a frock made with the highest quality fabrics. For real shimmer and ladylike opulence, silk is the way to go, of course. The pink silk of Jayma Mays is stunning in it's simple quality.
Be careful of the stiffer fabrics if you need to sit down for any length of time, as it will crease badly and give you very broad hips. This is not a good look. The same applies if you are pregnant as you will get under-the-bump-lines like Natalie Portman here.
Fit is key, naturally. The tighter the dress, the better the fit needs to be, so if in any doubt aim for a body skimming silhouette rather than skin-tight, as this will land up making you look more expensive. Jennifer Garner has gone for a more avant garde design which works equally well while still showing off her figure.
And finally, pick the right length for you. Cameron Diaz demonstrates how shorter does not necessarily always mean sexier in this asymmetrical frock of desire. Although having said that Malin Ackerman punches above her weight in the dazzling persimmon mini that looks amazing.
Have fun!

Last Night I Fell In Love With Dior Haute Couture Again

Oh my giddy aunt. How do I love John Galliano's Dior Haute Couture? Let me count the ways. First, he always takes us on a flight of fancy based squarely in the heritage of Christian Dior. Second, he references the golden age of Dior for a modern age - with New Look silhouettes being made contemporary. And third, his collections are ladylike and feminine and a total dream for any girl. And of course he always dresses up, which is always a plus.
For this collection Galliano literally 'drew' on artistic inspiration, basing it on the work of 20th century illustrator, René Gruau, who collaborated with Christian Dior for much of his career. Galliano mimicked his calligraphic brushstrokes in the embroidery and beading, and the fluidity of illustrative line in voluminous ballgowns, which rose and fell around the body in a series of waves. The gloved arms outstretched also echoed his work without losing any of the classic Dior motifs. Seriously, I am in love.
Yes this may be the whimsical land of haute couture, but every year it takes my breath away and reminds me why I love the House of Dior so very much.
PS: That belt in the last image - used in several colours thoughout the show - I am pretty darn certain it comes from South Africa. Anyone got any insight?

Alexa Chung For Superga Sneakers

I am obviously a Converse girl. I have loved and nurtured my Converse for years, getting them to that perfect place where they are still wearable but are essentially worn out. But there comes a time, even in a fashionista's life, when comfort has to count for something. And the day I tried on my first pair of Supergas was the day that I became a cheater on my Converse. I LOVE my gold Supergas. They are SO comfortable. And they are less obviously hipster than the Converse, which is important when you are getting on in years.
It must have been something I said at book club about it all, because next thing we hear, my mate Alexa Chung has been named as the new face of the Italian brand. How very awesome. It is the 100th anniversary of the Superga brand and Alexa has been brought in to up the preppy and give the brand a stronger presence in the UK. Good thinking Superga.
But hang on. Does this mean that Superga are now to become the hipster sneaker?? Oh, bollocks, I don't care. They are so comfortable.

FOUND

misson brown 

To be honest while Ramona HATES the op-shop I love them, but for some reason (read inhouse architects demands for clean surfaces)  i've been sadly neglecting my passion for a few months now. Maybe its because i've been clearing out so many precious things from the study in anticipation of the new 'arrival' that I found my op-shop antenna twitching yesterday. I don't know - something about out with the old and all that. I'm very glad I gave in and headed out on a mission.  As it turned out with the first three things that fell into my lap it was in fact Misson Brown.

A little brown ceramic measuring metric cup jug, these amazing brown, fawn and lime green fairisle mittens and the brown bird tea-towel below.

As you can see from the brown owl detail below, the bird teatowel was really unputdownable. And I do love it when the op-shop gods start styling things in color palettes for you.

Then however things started turning blue...

This brilliant Better Homes and Gardens Barbeque Manual featuring fabulous thematic outdoor eating options like the one below. All the printing is that gorgeous litho style hypercolour that only the early sixties printing press can deliver.

Followed by this Richard Scarry What Animals Do book,  

Which, while a faded tanny- red on the outside opened up to a brilliant turquoise interior, emblazed with the following...  

and filled with the kind of illustration work that makes the ladies of HML such massive Scarry fans.

And the last find couldn't have been more topical (or indeed tropical) - and straight out of Miss P's amazing Queensland Flood Relief effort of last week...

I even managed to stash all my finds before the architect got home. Not that I was worried. BECK

New Style Obsession: Jennifer Lopez on American Idol

Seriously? How did this happen? I was all ready to find Jennifer Lopez on American Idol annoying and inauthentic. I was expecting it to be all about her, and in a way it is, but in a fabulous, diva, beautiful, stylish way. And now I am hooked.
I want to see what Jenny from the Block (as Ricky Gervais specified at the Golden Globes) is going to wear every week, how her lion's mane of honey highlighted hair is going to be styled, how she is going to manage that mascara when the tears come.
In the first two sets of auditions that we saw yesterday, she was warm and soft and showed potential to be a good friend and interesting commentator. And then on top of that she wore fierce little skirts and a smattering of Lanvin. I haven't been this excited for next week for ages. Is Jennifer Lopez going to join the ranks of Dannii Minogue and Cat Deeley for me, as I watch each week for their outfits? How very unexpected.

African Designer, Azzedine Alaïa, is the Darling of the A-List

I was watching the news this morning and I am genuinely caught up in the populist revolution taking place in Tunisia right now - and the overflow into Algeria, Egypt and Yemen. And then, being me, I start to think things like "I wonder what Azzedine Alaïa must think about this."

Alaïa, one of this generation's most popular and talented designers, is of course Tunisian by birth, an African designer who has found favour both with the bureaucracy of the Parisian couturiers and the American showbiz A-listers. This is an accomplishment for anyone, but especially for a farmer's son from a small north African nation.

And while a part of me will always be gripped by socio-political issues, what brings it home is the people. And the people who love our people. Like blog favourites Michelle Obama and Victoria Beckham - and most recently Gwyneth Paltrow wore pale pink Alaïa to an event last week.

Paz de la Huerta in US O Magazine

Paz de la Huerta plays the mistress in the new Martin Scorsese TV phenomenon Boardwalk Empire. Have you seen it yet? Please do so we can talk about it. It's on M-Net and the styling is the best thing since Mad Men hit the screens.
Anyway, in real life Paz is mates with Courtney Love. And she plays an ex-dancer with abandon and unembarrassed nudity, having about her a fragile but antagonistic quality about her that makes her seductive and a little scary. But in a sexy way. I think. Certainly she is intriguing.
And trust the mother-ship to be on the ball and have already secured an interview with her. In the February O Magazine in the US she talks about her fashion sense and make a LOT of good points. She loves silk scarves for example, which was unexpected.
Despite rather notoriously being photographed worse for wear after the Golden Globes last week, I think that she looks fantastic in the Victor/Victoria pose off with herself in O US. Hopefully we can get the piece for O Mag in South Africa and you can read all about her soon. In the mean while, watch Boardwalk Empire and let me know what you think. 

GALLERY OF THE WEEK

little things, big things grow

The ladies of HML have made a decision. Every time the gutsy little Handheld Gallery has a new show we are going to plug it. We have been so impressed by the enterprise we have serious craft crush. Every time we go there we are inspired and energised - what more can you ask for?

For fresh ideas on installation of objects this is the gallery to look at. At the moment there is a great show by artist Kathy Fahey: Penang and Back - inspired by a residency there. Artist books, sculptures and drawings (some as small as 10cm) crammed into this tiny space.

Looksee! Chock full of zines, books, posters and objects - its an Aladdin's cave really.

They are also accepting proposals for shows in the second half of this year - maybe it's time to get that proposal together?

Craziest location of course, which in some ways makes it even more interesting. Handheld Gallery, just doing its thing. RAMONA

Location:
Suite 18, upstairs
Paramount Arcade
108 Bourke Street
Melbourne, 3000

Entry via Bourke or little Bourke street. Go straight up escalator to top level. Tues-Sat 12-5.