Amused by "Model as Muse"

In my quest to become a style icon, I must further my knowlege of fashion. This afternoon I discovered that, as I write this, the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual Costume Institute Gala is in full swing. In accordance with this year's theme, "Model as Muse", John Galliano dressed and escorted actress Marion Cotillard.

I'm loving your shoes Mr. Galliano.

John Galliano's silvery suit was tame compared to this dramatic Isabel Toledo Cape worn by Vogue's Andre Leon Talley,

and Madonna's playful Louis Vuitton "can-can girl" look.

Isn't the fashion world fascinating?

Connect the Dots

Would you wear these two prints together?

I did today.

Without shame.

Marc Jacobs Sets The Standard

for aging gracefully. Here's Marc in 2006 ...

and looking hotter than ever in April, 2009.

Going Down Under ... One More Time

From Australian Fashion week, Zambesi from New Zealand.

Dayne Johnston (above) designs the men's collection which includes these fun alternatives to a basic summer tank top,

and this zipper vest.

Finally, someone who loves zippers as much as I do.

Fashion Week, Australia?

Fellow Style Icons in training, I'm ashamed to admit that until several days ago I had never heard of Australian Fashion Week. I realized I needed to open my eyes and take a peek down under. While researching Australian Menswear Designers, I discovered and fell in love with Saint Augustine Academy.

Designer Alvin Manalo (pictured above) describes his line as indie-rock-alt-country-goth-mod-new-wave-post-punk-alicious with a touch of Cary Grant.

Looks from current and past seasons include this drape necked top,

a twist on the classic white button down,

a vest/bustier hybrid,

this vest with a punk twist,

and some gorgeous brocade* jackets.

*Woven fabric having a raised floral or figured design that is introduced during the weaving process. The design, appearing only on the fabric face, is usually made in a satin or twill weave.The background may be twill, satin, or plain weave. The rich, fairly heavy fabric is frequently used for evening dresses, draperies, and upholstery.

These looks are very much my aesthetic. Explore Saint Augustine Academy for yourself.

Fishing for Compliments

My friend Ty (enabler of my shopaholic tendencies) and I went shopping yesterday. To freshen up my wardrobe for summer, I picked up a seersucker* blazer, a basic black fitted short sleeved shirt, a pair of slouchy lightweight plaid shorts, and a few pieces of costume jewelry, including this cloisonne** fish pendant.

I removed the chain and snapped the hook off the little guy's nose with some needle nose pliers.

There are two small hooks on the underside of the pendant ...

which allowed me to attach the enamel fish to the lapel of my blazer.

The faux jade flower ( formerly a bracelet) is attached in the same manner.

The total cost for my custom, embellished Summer Jacket? $72.

*A lightweight cotton fabric with a woven crinkle achieved by altering tension in the warp yarns. Seersucker is synonymous with the classic summer suit.

**cloi·son·né / ˌkloizəˈnā; ˌklwäz-/ (also cloisonné enamel) • n. enamel work in which the different colors are separated by strips of flattened wire placed edgeways on a metal backing.

Stylish, Smart and Frugal you say? Stop ... you're embarassing me.

Attack of the Bluebird!

My Insight "Extreme Slouch Ladies Bluebird Jeans" left scratches on one of my Paris Bistro Chairs. I guess I need to be more conscious of where I'm placing my ass.

Note to designers : Chunky metal details placed low on the back of a garment can be hazardous to furniture.