... she would love the ruby slippers designed by Manolo Blahnik (!), Christian Louboutin (!!), Betsey Johnson (!!!), and 16 other "it" designers, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of "The Wizard of Oz" in 2009.

What a designer fantasy to re-imagine the iconic shoes. The two sketches I've seen so far are whimsical and fun:

[Betsey Johnson's take is a little stripper-ballerina-meets-Vegas-showgirl, but you have to give props to the sock rosette.]

[Jimmy Choo's shoes are all Hollywood glamor: "Coming soon to a Victoria Beckham near you."]

The whole collection will be revealed at a Saks Fifth Avenue gala on Sept. 4 to kick off Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. Then, the shimmery shoes will make various stops around the country before they are auctioned off next fall to benefit the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.

I bet you three heel clicks that if Dorothy slipped on these stilettos in Manhattan, she'd never, ever want to go home to Kansas again.

Bra shopping has always been a personal struggle for moi. To be delicate, I have an undersized chest. Translation: I practically swim in Victoria's Secret's smallest underwires. I've often been tempted to go sports-bra-only for life. If it wasn't for the Calvin Klein outlet's heroin-chic bras (thanks for everything, Kate Moss), I would have taken the 100% cotton plunge a long time ago.

Even so, my whole lingerie drawer is stuffed with boring colors and shapes. Oooh, beige. Black. Light pink. Settle down!

I recently read about Itty Bitty bras, a whole company dedicated to making couture bras and camisoles for the chest-challenged. The phrase "Itty Bitty" is a little hard to swallow — it's somewhat belittling, no? — but I'll set my pride aside to jump for joy. No gaping. No odd puffiness. What a dream.

I'll have to wait until my cute polka-dot bra comes in the mail to make my final judgment on Itty Bitty. Have you tried this line yet, dear Stylephilers?

One of the best things about visiting my parents in my hometown of Amherst, N.H. — besides spending time with them, of course — is stopping at the Marshalls in Nashua. The selection is always above par. It's not that ladies from the Northland aren't stylish — if you've ever met my impossibly chic mother, you know that's not true. Rather, the racks are just less picked over than in the Hub.

And if you need new sunglasses, get thee to your closest, well-stocked Marshalls. I nabbed not one, but two pairs of Marc by Marc Jacobs shades this weekend on the clearance rack for $20 each. The other big name designers filling the spinning shelves? Gucci, Valentino, D & G, Coach, and Kate Spade, to name a few. The gang's all here.

[Marc by Marc Jacobs. Rad prices by Marshalls.]

Look luxe for less. Heck, you can even wear your new sunglasses at night. I'm right there with you.

Hello, 'philers

I see you're also stuck at the office on a day that we should clearly be out frolicking on the beach, eating Pringles, listening to Pat Benatar, and smearing Ban de Soleil on our shoulders. When I have a hard time focusing and need a little diversion at the office, I head over to the Museum of Kitschy Stitches. This Web site boasts a lovely collection of crocheted monstrosities and shows what can happen when good yarn goes bad. Even better, sassy blog mistress Stitchy McYarnpants is a local gal who is blessed with a gift for ripping apart the ridiculousness of these outfits. But don't listen to my rantings. Check out her fashionably hilarious site and kill some time.

Nelson Mandela is turning 90 next month. So, earlier this week, singers, athletes, and stars gathered at London's Hyde Park for a fund raising dinner to honor the former South African president. Robert DeNiro was there. So was Will Smith, Oprah Winfrey, and Pierce "Eternally Hot" Brosnan (so hot).

Somehow, the Pussycat Dolls' Nicole Scherzinger clawed her way into the star-studded affair. And she wore this:

[Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images]

Um, come again? Who shows up at the birthday fete of one of history's most vaunted figures in a lacy, peek-a-boo top? Maybe Nicole lost a contact lens and thought "Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday party" on the invite actually said "Meeting of the Madonna World Fan Club." Hey, it could happen to anyone.

Talk about disrespect. Don't cha wish girlfriend had a touch of class?

I just got back from Toyko Monday, and I have a confession: I had a total Gwen Stefani moment in the city's Harajuku 'hood. It's easy to become enamored with the shopping district's street style — though you may never teeter around Boston in eight-inch chunky platforms and pink "Flock of Seagull"-style hair, you have to respect the Japanese teeny-boppers who can truly pull it off.

[The one on the right may be wearing a furry Trapper Keeper. The jury's still out.]

The next best thing to scoping out these preening style icons in person? Tiffany Godoy's new book, "Style Deficit Disorder." Godoy is the real deal: She has written for Japanese fashion and culture magazines and lives in Tokyo. "Disorder" explores the history and iconic designers of Harajuku and features commentary by Patricia Field, John Galliano, and other fashion figures.

Maybe it'll inspire you to spice up your office casual with angel wings and quilted neon leg warmers. Maybe not.

Break out your safari jackets and female tuxedos, the Sundance Channel pays tribute to Yves Saint Laurent on July 5 with back-to-back documentaries on the French designer. David Teboul's film "Yves Saint Laurent: His Life and Times” shows at 7, followed by Teboul's “Yves Saint Laurent: 5 Avenue Marceau 75116 Paris," at 8:20. The documentary goes behind the scenes and follows the designer as he prepares his final 2001 women's collection.

I hear there's some big basketball game going on now? I only know of this because the folks at PF Flyers sent some info on this new sneaker, which they developed with 80 (!) year old Celtics legend Bob Cousy. Named in his honor, the Cousy is $60, and if your not a fan of the Kermit the Frog green, you can pick these up in black, navy, and natural.

No, I haven't been spiking the Kool Aid again. I was actually inspired by a shirt that the so-mellow-it-hurts singer wears on the cover of the July, 2008 issue of Men's Journal. (apologies for the lousy quality of the cover image).

His tee is custom made by a company called Redress Design, which makes hand-cut, custom order shirts. You get to specify what you want on the shirt based on designs that creator Joanna Hogan has made. They are priced between $80 and $250. I am completely with these bird design shirts. I'm not a father, at least not that I know of, but if I were...

Is there any crossover between Boston Celtics fans and fashionistas? For the sake of this post, I'm going to assume that there is so I can tell you about some official new NBA bling that celebrates the Celtics return to greatness -- at least I'm told they've returned to greatness by my friends who drink light beer and favor Dockers.

Er, yes. As I was saying, the NBA has released a slew of fashionable Celtics duds, including this B...for Betsy Boston Celtics cashmere and crystal hoody (!)

and this Adidas gold track jacket

And if you know of any good Celtics viewing parties -- the kind that perhaps serve watermelon martinis instead of light beer -- let me know.

I don't have all that much to say about Cate Blanchett's delicious Armani Prive dress on the Cannes red carpet. Except: Wow.

[Pascal Le Segretain / Getty Images]

How does she do it? The flesh-toned dress is completely counterintuitive. It's almost like she brought a Benjamin Moore paint swatch of her skin tone to Giorgio and said: "Fiammifero!" (That's "Match!" for all you non-Italian speakers.) Yet, Cate just glows in a gown that would wash out 99% of us mere mortals. The confection almost looks like an extension of her own body — which sounds weird but still, against all odds, works. Love it.

(While we're at it, check out more celebs on the Cannes red carpet here. And the Globe's Ty Burr is blogging live from the film festival. Exciting all around!)

OMG, Sarah Jessica Parker, your head has turned into a giant acorn, and it's sprouting butterflies and roses! My head sometimes does this as well, but only when I've been out until 2 a.m. drinking Diet Pepsi and Absolut Vanilla. Ugh. Here's SJP at the London Premiere of "Sex and the City" today. Yeah, I'll admit it. Even with the crazy acorn hat, I'm still dying to see this movie.

Just a little heads up for you fashion-crazed Bridzillas.. the Peabody Essex musem is having a special fashion guest speaking at its wedding exhibit "Wedded Bliss, The Marriage of Art and Ceremony." Because it's Monday, and I'm feeling too lazy to type, here are the details:

Sandy Schreier, the author of Hollywood Gets Married and other books on fashion, will discuss celebrity weddings and provide an insider's look at the behind-the-scenes details of movie and real-life weddings. Schreier's presentations will include descriptions of the costume designs, photography, bridesmaids' dresses, food, exploits of off-screen in-laws and wedding guests and, of course, the bride and groom.

Schreier, who owns more than 10,000 museum- quality pieces of 20th century French couture, American fashion and Hollywood costumes, has designed costumes for The Supremes, accessories for Yves Saint Laurent and styling for Bette Midler. Her designs have appeared in Vogue and Bazaar magazines. She has discussed film fashion on Oprah and has been a guest on CNN and AMC, where she has appeared regularly since 1995.

Schreier's lecture is the first in a series of lectures connected with PEM's exhibition Wedded Bliss. A book signing reception will follow Schreier's lecture. The Wedded Bliss exhibition galleries will be open prior to the lecture from 6 to 8pm for guests to visit.

Program Details

Tuesday, May 20
8 pm | Morse Auditorium
Reservations by May 18. For reservations please call 978-745-9500 ext. 3011.
Members $10, nonmembers $15
Made possible by the George Swinnerton Parker Memorial Lecture Fund.

A twiggy yet toned Kate Moss is the star of the ad campaign for Agent Provacateur's new bridal collection, White Wedding. The gory animated ads find Miz Sexy Moss in a macabre world of severed heads, blood, and bondage, set to a techno remix of Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit." Not exactly the stuff magical weddings are made of — unless you're into all that, no judgment here — but I think the images are grotesquely beautiful in a sort of Tim Burton-meets-Disney-meets-"Kill Bill" way:

[Cuts like a knife, er, scissors.]

The last slide? Kate in red bra, undies, and knee high boots and Bardot hair standing next to the creepy words "Let them eat Kate," scrawled in faux blood. Something tells me this gal does not celebrate Valentine's Day.

This is one resourceful crafter who really loves Clinton. Talk about wearing your heart (and Hillary's face, coincidentally) on your sleeve:

[Wonder who she's voting for? / AP Photo]

It has a certain Roy Lichtenstein flavor, doesn't it? I can't tell if each visage is hand-painted or airbrushed using a stencil. Also, this woman's earrings are glittery Hillary Clinton portraits.

Political allegiance aside, Republicans and Democrats alike can respect the time and effort it took to create such a glitzy garment.

(On a related note: Kate Jackson wrote an interesting piece about political baby digs for the Style section in December. Read it here.)

Got a Carrie complex? Nursing a raging girl-crush on Samantha? Also — got a couple thousand dollars to spare?

Well, then, you can rock bling straight from the "Sex and the City" movie coming out on May 30. New York jewelry designer Jennifer Fisher is currently selling hoops, necklaces, and bracelets worn by our four favorite fashionistas for the film.

Like:

[Yellow gold hoops worn in the movie by Sarah Jessica Parker, $1980.]

These baubles probably won't make the movie release date seem any closer. But you could certainly wear the hoops to a "SATC" marathon in anticipation of the Big Event.

And to help tide you over, here's a picture of Samantha in a particularly wackadoo sun hat and purple caftan-looking dress. Enjoy!

You know I love me some J. Crew (on sale, that is), but their new yoga line crosses the line for me. They've invaded every other area of luxury living: Cashmere sweaters for Rover? Check. Sequined mini dresses for toddlers? Check. Khakis covered with embroidered anchors, presumably for yachting? Check. I guess it was only a matter of time before the preppy polos giant introduced yoga-specific digs.

The soft, stretchy pants, sweatshirts, and camisoles with built-in bras look comfy enough. And the yellow-and-white striped yoga bag has functional straps on its side for securing your mat. They even have a cute label of an actual downward dog where the tags should be. But — reality check — since when is it O.K. to sell "yoga headbands" for $14.95? I, for one, will not give in. I will happily score the same style headbands at Target for $8.

[This isn't a headband. It's an investment.]

Boy, I'm grumpy today. I need to read some Fug Girls and snap out of it. Or maybe do a few sun salutations.

I met a chic lady at a sewing class in Davis Square last week. Her name is Martini, she lives in Dorchester, and she took up sewing because she likes to dress like a "1950s housewife" and couldn't find the perfect dresses in stores — fabulous, right?

Anyhow, she mentioned how much she loves the Sartorialist (who doesn't?) and that she's actually started her own version of the blog right here in Boston. It's called Beyond Boston Chic, and although it's derivative, the blog's also a great look at what fashionistas and hep cats in our own city are wearing to Whole Foods or while walking around the Common. We're often ribbed for having a conservative approach to fashion in New England — so not true! — but Martini is showing off just what makes us unique.

Be sure to wear your funkiest minidresses and flats out and about this weekend, lest you see this sewing style-maven snapping photos in your neighborhood. No mom jeans, no leggings, and definitely no fleece vests!

[One of Martini's recent finds: a psychedelic dress in Porter Square / beyondbostonchic.blogspot.com]

Want to be the hottest little fish in the fashion pond this summer? Snag one of these too-cute suits from Paris lingerie designer Princess Tam-Tam:

[One fish, two fish, wonderfully chic orange fish.]

The suits also come in navy blue. I like the ruched briefs with the triangle top best, but you can also opt for a wired top, bandeau, or a string bottom. Buy them directly from Princess Tam-Tam online, or from Saks Fifth Avenue online — each piece will run you between $70 and $100 clams.

True, paisley or black one-pieces are probably more sophisticated swim options, but I believe in having some — warning, cliche coming — fun in the sun.

(In case you were wondering where the name "Princess Tam Tam" comes from, the Interweb tells me that there's a 1935 Gréville film of the same name starring Josephine Baker. Thanks Wikipedia!)

I'm an avid runner, but I'm also a roll out of bed and throw on grubby orange shorts and a "Souhegan High School" t-shirt kind of runner. I could never understand why some people insist on plunking down hundreds of dollars for Puma tights and Stella McCartney sports bras — the designer pieces are cute, but soon get as sweaty and dingy as the rest of your athletic gear.

That said, I received an email today about New Balance's spring gear collection. And — I can't believe I'm about to say this — I actually like their new running dresses. Yes, dresses. As in, people who see you sprinting down the street might think you're super late to a tennis match or a garden party (What could you do? You had to go back for the wine coolers!) But just imagine how airy and free it would feel to jog five miles in the summer heat in a seamless short skirt:

[Run, Courtney, run!]

I've seen the dresses in a minty green and black and they retail at $70. And lest you're afraid of flashing all the afternoon shoppers one gusty afternoon on Newbury Street, you can get matching spandex boy shorts for $38. Phew!

Stylephilers: Would you wear 'em?

Warning: If you have a heart condition, are prone to seizures, or are simply intolerant of tacky fashion, I suggest you stop reading, step away from the computer, and pop in some "Sex and the City" DVDs until the nausea subsides.

Sorry to do this to you, but honestly, sooner or later you'd be exposed to this:

No. Please, no. Stylephile's sheer hatred of these atrocious shoes is well documented (Here. Or here.) Somehow, I learned to live with kids and outdoorsy types wearing them — accepting things I can't change, and all that jazz. But high-heel crocs? Sadly, I foresee these plastic travesties clip-clopping their way onto Long Island beaches this summer. Gross.

I never went to the original Fashion House at District, but I'm thinking of getting dressed up and taking part in its grand return on April 3. Nicole Romano is the featured designer. My theory is that fashion always goes better with a couple of lychee martinis. See you there, kids?

OK, time to redeem myself for posting about that squirrel. H&M has unveiled illustrations of clothes from its forthcoming partnership with Marimekko. I was expecting the sun dresses, but I was completely not expecting men's clothes with this line. And is it just me, or is there more than a hint of Rhoda Morgenstern lurking in those maxi dresses and headscarves. Chic!

Here are a few of the illustrations. The clothes arrive at H&M on April 10 and cost $19.00 to $49.00. What do you think, 'Philers?

Damn, this squirrel has a better wardrobe than I do. This is Sugar Bush Squirrel, a fashionista rodent living in Florida. She has a full wardrobe, her own calendar, myspace page, and an owner with way too much time on her hands. The squirrel's page is a little scary, but the pictures are cute, that is if you're into animals that are dressed up like humans the way that I am. What? Animals can be fashionable too.

Do you ever get the urge to purchase and stockpile neat maternity and mommy chic clothing and accessories for when you're ready to have kids? No? Just me. O.K.

I love these Cake Collection bags from California-based company Petunia Pickle Bottom (Sounds like a Candyland character, right?):

[Cosmopolitan Caryalls from the Cake Collection, about $342 each]

When I first saw these carryalls with their gorgeous cut velvet exteriors, I had no idea they were actually diaper bags in disguise. The retro-looking bags have seven exterior pockets and several interior pockets for bottles and other necessities.

The bags come in four fun color combos with tasty names like Chocolate Cherry Cake and Pistachio Layer Cake, and are available locally at Lester Harry's and Kiwi Baby.

Absolute tot couture.

I know how you ladies love your Tar-jay (I only wish they'd get a bit fancier on the men's side), so you'll be excited to hear that the department store is debuting a new label called GO International. The inspiration behind the label is something like this: Designers for the store "canvassed the globe to find the newest fashion trends, and translated them into easy-to-wear and low-cost ensembles." Translation: Cheap knock-offs! But wait a minute, isn't that what H&M does already?

This isn't to be confused with the store's Go International designer program, which enlists up-and-coming designers to create lines for the store.

The first Go International label collection launches April 13 and includes some very hip pieces, such as a mod shift dress with circle pockets, wide leg trousers, and boyfriend blazers. Prices range from $16.99 to $49.99.

Radaronline.com has an interesting post today about the latest cover of Vogue magazine, which features LeBron James and Gisele Bundchen.

Apparently controversy is stirring in some African-American circles because James, the first black man to make the cover, is posed in what some are calling a stereotypical manner: "black man as savage in search of the prized white woman."

Check it out and tell me what you think.

Buying affordable but stylish kids shoes can be a tough assignment. Stride Rite is an obvious choice, if you can deal with the mob scene at the store. You actually have to sign your name on a waiting list to receive assistance. Ugh.

There's Payless and Marshall's, which are hit and miss, and Nordstrom, which is amazing but pricey.

Now our own Clarks Companies North America is attempting to make a footprint.

The company, based in Newton Upper Falls, is launching a kids line of footwear in 14 U.S. markets this month.

It plans to offer about 100 styles of sandals, sneakers, dress shoes and boots. Prices will range from $35 to $55 and will fit children from infant stage to five years of age.

The shoes will be sold exclusively at Clarks stores, including locally at the Natick Collection and Faneuil Hall.

"We really want to give people another option," said Joanna Linder, director of retail marketing at Clarks. "We feel like there's room in the premium market for our brand, which is known for comfort and fit."

Clarks is a subsidiary of C&J Clark Ltd cq. in Somerset, England. That parent company has been selling children's shoes in England for more than 100 years.

Linder said the Newton-based Clarks, which has 104 U.S. stores, has been testing its children's line in four stores around the country since the fall, including Faneuil Hall. Given the favorable response, the company decided on a larger roll out.

Just in time for spring.

Be still my heart. WWD is reporting that my girl Rachel Bilson is collaborating with DKNY on a sportswear line dropping in September. O.K., so her latest movie "Jumper" bombed. She still has rad street style and lovely face-framing bangs:

[Oh, make me over.]

Look for R. Bil's jackets, jeans, and sweaters under her nom de thread: Edie Rose for DKNY. I've seen a quick preview and the color palette is all sophisticated black, white, and yellow. Can't wait.

In case you missed this bit of hot tranny mess, the fierce Amy Poehler channeled "Project Runway" winner Christian Siriano on "Saturday Night Live." Diet Pepsi nearly shot out my nose I was laughing so hard. Amy Poehler, will you marry me?

Actress/model Milla Jovovich and artist/singer/model Carmen Hawk just ooze cool — so their clothing line, Jovovich-Hawk, is like the hipster fashion equivalent of a rock supergroup. I love the spring collection. So flowy, so girly, so perfect for warm climes.

One problem: The stuff is expensive. I'm still coveting a J-H cocoon-like sweater dress from fall. I was only about, I don't know, $700 short of purchasing one.

That's where el Target (pronounced tar-jay) comes in — to the rescue, as always. The national retailer's collaboration with Jovovich-Hawk hits stores on March 2. Here's a sneak peek. Minidresses, floppy felt hats, and short shorts, oh my! And everything in the line is under $39.99.

Here are my three favorite looks:

[I like these dresses so much I might marry them.]

Now that the fanfare (and Gary Busey) has faded, it's time to take a look at some of my favorite dresses from the Oscars last night. Natch you all read my story this morning in the Globe and checked out the gallery on boston.com, and if not, how dare you call yourselves stylish.

First, my favorite dress of the night is a three-way tie:

Marion Cotillard

Anne Hathaway

and (drumroll please)

Hilary Swank.

Wost dressed:
I love Tilda Swank. But here she looks like a 15-year-old boy trapped in a curtain.

Heidi Klum's John Galliano Oscars gown, of course. The "Project Runway" host was living la vie en rose in the Old Hollywood confection, don't you think?

You can actually win her dress in a Diet Coke contest. No, really. Of course, you have to be a rewards member with points to enter. So, down some Cokes and make 'em Diet, natch. How else will you squeeze into Klumster's form-fitting dress? The contest runs through March 10, and Coke will donate $1 per entry to support women's heart health. Alas, Seal is not included.

(I'm recusing myself from this contest for the following reasons: 1. I'm trying to cut back on drinking soda; 2. I already have, like, 10 Galliano dresses overflowing from my ginormous walk-in closet. If you really wanted me to play your little game, Coke, you would have offered up Anne Hathaway's stunning, draped Marchesa gown with budding rosettes. Gorgeous!)

... keeps the doctor away. A Marc Jacobs apple a day, however, depletes Courtney's paycheck faster than you can say "Granny Smith."

I know that MJ has sold his cartoon-like watch pendants featuring whimsical plastic-coated fruit for a few seasons, but I just saw a new design that I need, well, now:

[Behold: The Apple Pendant Watch, $150]

How very spring! I'm not usually drawn to such cutesy accessories, but I think the long silver chain (it has a 19-inch drop) and simple face elevate it to chic and office-appropriate. The prospect of pairing this necklace with a black shirt dress thrills me to the core. (I really, really wanted to squeeze that pun in there. Thanks for obliging me.)

It's the gift that will be on the list of every awkward girl and effeminant boy this Christmas -- the Ugly Betty Doll. It's Betty Suarez in her infamous Guadalajara poncho. I'm definitely more of a fan of the cloth dolls, the plastic one kind of creeps me out, like it's going to come to life in the middle of the night and start going through my pantry looking for Pepperidge Farm cookies and listening to my Olivia Newton John CDs.

[see what I mean? She's totally thinking 'I'm going to come to life and steal your snickerdoddles tonight.']

Anyway, the dolls will go on sale this August.

Shameless giveaway time! You may have read that I was in New York last week for fashion week, and you may have also read that I attended the "Project Runway" Bryant Park fashion show while I was there (jealous yet?).

Well, chickadees, I want to share the goodies with you. I'm giving away the swag bag that was on my seat for the show. It contains Tresemme hair products, L'Oreal makeup, a copy of Elle, a Saturn keychain, a giant Hershey bar, and.. I don't remember what else. But it's all yours for the taking.

Here's what you have to do: E-mail me the name of the brand of jeans that Heidi Klum was wearing the day of the show (here's a hint, she's now designing for this brand). Send your answer to muther@globe.com. If you're my friend or coworker, go away, you're not eligible.

UPDATE: We have a winner! The very stylish Gina Buchalter of Saco Maine was the first to correctly answer that Heidi was wearing Jordache jeans at the Bryant Park show. Congrats.

Rest easy. Threadless has now made it much easier to shop for the guys (or gals) in your life. For $200, you can ensure your man has a clean, artsy t-shirt to wear each month for a year.

Some recent t-shirts o' the month:

[May '07: Protective Plastic Shell by Manos]

[December '07: Paint the Town Red by patperry23]

Order today, and the first shirt should arrive by March 15. Sweet.

O.K., so it isn't *technically* morning anymore, but you can bet that Pink and Cyndi Lauper are still sleeping after the Grammy bashes last night. Clearly, I'm on rock star time.

I didn't get to watch the entire awards show last night — a girl needs rest to be at her snarky blogging best — but I did nose through some of the red carpet galleries on Boston.com and have a few words for the winners and wannabes:

Rihanna works it really hard. And she is absolutely gorgeous. I can forgive her "Umbrella" and the tulle 80s prom dress confection she's wearing, but that hair needs to go. It's way too Denise from the latter seasons of the "Cosby Show."

I know, I know. Usually I'd be lashing out at the gratuitous metallic pleather in this photo. Hear me out: If I'm 68 and look half as fierce as Tina "What's Love Got to Do With It" Turner in anything skintight, I would absolutely rock it. Silver stretch leggings and all. Plus, her duet with Beyonce on "Proud Mary" was hot.

Maybe I'm biased because I have a crush on Mark Ronson, but I thought he pulled off this slightly shiny suit with style. I mean, he's just so cool. I couldn't see him wearing something without a little bit of edge to it.

Prince, you little red corvette! Love the pompadour. Love the glasses. Love the popped collar. Love the cherry-colored suit. Tres chic.

I could go on:
- Look! Debbie Matenopoulos did her best Celine Dion.
- Bai Ling, you are one kooky umbrella with a side of crazy.
- Ace, the biking expo hits the Staples Center next
weekend!
- And finally: Who keeps inviting class act Kid Rock to these things?

What do you think, dear Stylephilers? Check out the red carpet photos, and tell us what the celeb style highlights and lowlights were last night.

It's a good day when I open my inbox and see chunky, bright wooden bracelets, ripe for the picking. Feast your eyes on Lazuli's "Mango" painted wooden bangles:

[Put 'em in my weekender and I'm ready for the plane to Bali.]

These little bursts of sunshine are $45 each. I especially like the copper beads — they add just enough sophistication. Get the bracelets online or at Lazuli's Copley Square showroom.

The retailer is hosting a casting call in six cities, including Boston, this month for two faces for its Spring 2009 advertising campaign.

Aspiring models (men and women over 18 years old) should go to the Prudential Center store at 760 Boylston Street on Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Twenty finalists will be selected per market. Their images will be posted on a search site and the public will have the chance to vote for their favorites. The public's opinion will count for 49% of the decision.

The top two finalists will be announced on Feb. 29 and invited to New York, all expenses paid, to participate in a fashion show at the store on Fifth Avenue March 6.

No pressure but industry experts will be on hand for a look-see.

The winners will get a $1,000 shopping spree at Lord & Taylor.

More details are available at www.lordandtaylor.com/modelsearch

I guess that means the winners WON'T be getting paid thousands of dollars like the other regular models in the shoot...hmmm.

Marc Jacobs' kicked off fashion week early last night with a screening of the new documentary about himself: "Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton." (Ego, much?) Obviously, the glitterati came out in droves for the party. And Heidi Klum apparently skinned a large muppet to create her coat:

[Cookie Monster called. He wants his fur and his cookies back, Klum-ster!]

I love the whole black-and-midnight blue thing going on here. And her bangs are gorgeous. But the jacket makes her look like a linebacker (Go Pats!). Plus, the blue shoes are way too matchy-matchy.

Heidi: You have the whole Fashion Week to redeem yourself. Go!

Is it me, or is the South Shore Plaza in trouble?

I don't mean to pick on the Braintree mall, but that's the one I visit most. I can't help but notice how many empty store fronts there are these days.

Belle USA is gone. Bombay. The Irish Cottage. The picture place where everybody used to go for holiday cards (Sorry I've forgotten the name already). Heck, even McDonalds didn't make it. McDonald's?

That says a lot about the economy. And the rents no doubt.

Walk through Macy's and Lord & Taylor. They are empty. Scary.

The only thing growing are those annoying kiosks where the salespeople pounce every time you walk by. Let me see your nails! Try this lotion! You should buy this trainset!

Give me a break. It's so bad that I refuse to walk into Lord & Taylor from the first floor. Those people are beyond aggressive. It really brings down the quality feeling of the mall, which is a shame because I'm a mall rat.

She's the wife of actor Forest Whitaker. She's a former model with Ford NY and Elite.

Now she's launching a lip gloss line, Kissable Couture. Tonight, the Lynn native is visiting LuxeBeautiQue in Swampscott which is owned by Whitaker's childhood friend Amy DePerrior.

If you want to see her, she'll be there from 7 to 9. The address is 222 Humphrey St.

You can check out the colors at www.kissablecouture.com

I don't know why I had great style expectations for the Spice Girls' concert last night. I wasn't actually there — so I can only comment on the photos the Globe shot at the show — but judging by this picture, the girls need a stylist who wasn't fired from Cirque du Soleil:

[Gold lame for everyone! And peace on earth! Yay!]

C'mon, Posh! Don't you design clothes? Aren't you an international fashion icon? Can't you help your less fortunate friends?

Some thoughts, from left to right:

Ginger: How did the Ice Capades try-outs go? Don't worry. If you don't make it, you can still be a plastic pop star!

Sporty: My, my, what a nice futuristic zoo keeper outfit you have!

Scary: Three words. O.K., maybe four. Giraffe-print front wedgie. Sporty's going to put you back in your cage.

Baby: Not bad, but that safari beige color really washes you out.

Posh: You know I love you, but you look like a cross between a naughty maid robot and David Bowie.

Stop the presses/blog: I almost forgot. These outfits were designed for them by Roberto Cavalli! Now we know where to place the blame. Maybe this is his idea of a practical joke?

I guess it could be worse. At least the SG's have seemingly cut gratuitous pleather unitards, metal devil horns, and hideous, chunky platform shoes from their wardrobes. Somewhere the synthetic clothing manufacturers of the world are weeping.

Tom Brady may be the suave, sexy (Hello, wet T-shirt contest in V Magazine!) poster boy of the Patriots. But what about Junior Seau's classy hat selection? Or Matt Light's flowing, glowing locks? Hayley and I wrote a story in today's Globe about the style highlights and lowlights of our favorite team's season. Enjoy — you may even see mean Laurence Maroney wearing a Louis Vuitton mini manpack. And, go Pats!

[Junior Seau: He's so hot right now.]

Heck — we may even forgive Belichick for his cut-off sweatshirts (and sweatpants!) if his team takes home the trophy.

Well the Hollywood A-list finally got to strut their free duds tonight.

The fashion community has been going crazy because, due to the writers' strike, there have been no televised awards shows in which they can showcase their creations.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards were an exception and all of Hollywood royalty turned out.

Some folks, like Eva Longoria Parker, were fabulous as usual. Her mermaid style Naeem Khan gown, which dipped in the back and had a train, was gorgeous. Her red bead earrings and curly short 'do were perfect.

Marion Cotillard, star of La Vie en Rose, was elegant in her Nina Ricci pleated gown. And Sara Ramirez was hot in her pink strapless gown. Strapless is the look of the moment, that's for sure.

Some stars missed the mark. Angelia Jolie fueled those pregnancy rumors with a flowing ombre-print gown from Juliana Cairone. And Brad Pitt was a mess with his long hair and messy goatee.

Jane Krakowski was the worst of the bunch with her green Catherine Malandrino gown with a hideous halter necklace made of what looked like stones. Yuck. The woman had the nerve to be talking about other stars on the E! preshow. Never a good idea.

I will post photos tomorrow when they are available.

I tend to think that sports-related clothing is about as stylish as Britney Spears on a shopping spree at Kohl's. Bottom line, if you're not a member of the team, why would you wear a Patriots jersey?

So, I'm sure you're now wondering, what should I wear to the big Superbowl party? Well, I've never actually been to a Superbowl party, so I can't help you there. But a company called 2 One 5 is selling this Not NY T-shirt, which seems a bit more clever than standard Patriots gear.

But before you slip one of these on, think of how Tom would feel seeing you trashing the city where he's been spending so much time these days.

Oh, Anthropologie. I love you so. Just entering your downtown store is enough to set my heart aflutter. Felt fedoras. Poppy Ora Keily bags. Haute hippie jersey dresses that drape just so. Wooden tables that appear to be cut from the most stylish Redwoods in California. I could go on.

But we have a problem. Well, maybe it's more of an issue. Your sweaters are so cute, often with unexpected and colorful details — but when are the details just too much? Take the "Corsage" sweater jacket at left. At first blush, I was smitten by the oversize flowers and contrasting black and white stitching. It looks like something Carrie would wear in a more demure "Sex in the City" moment. (You know, like when the girls are at the pool or something.) But when I tried it on at the store this weekend, the flowers appeared comically large and awkward affixed to my shoulder. I looked a bit like a garish craft project.

Verdict: I didn't buy the sweater. But I still feel torn. I almost purchased it online as I wrote this post.

So Stylephilers, I want to know: How big is too big? How much is too much? Do you like large or intricate flowers, buttons, and details on your clothing? If you saw me wearing this sweater on the street, would you discreetly point and laugh? My closet thanks you for a prompt response.

Like the rest of New England, I watched the Pats' amazing game on Saturday. And while I was swept away by the euphoria that comes from a good pummeling, I couldn't help but notice this post-game conference faux pas:

O.K., Randy Moss. We get it. You're a big deal wide receiver. You like to be flashy. But please, please look in the mirror before you appear on national television.

We all had something to say about this little number: King Smurf, a choir boy performing with Funkadelic, colorblind Busta Rhymes. And are those Superman symbols on your sleeves?

Randy, if you want to make our Most Stylish Bostonians list next year like your boy, Ellis Hobbs III, you're going to have to work a little harder.

I'm so on Team Posh. Naysayers like Mr. Blackwell — and he's 85, so I'm pretty sure we could take him — love to point out her affinity for minis and sourpuss pout. I still can't believe she topped his yearly "worst dressed" list with all the Christinas, Britneys, and Sharon Stones out there. Vigorously shaking my head.

I couldn't pull off half the angular tops and thigh high boots that Mrs. Beckham wears to CVS, but hey, she always looks fresh, unique, and oh-so-put together.

Even when she's rocking the deranged Cindy Loo Who look for Marc Jacobs' new ad campaign:

Oh, and there's another cute shot of her lost in the bag with only her well-heeled legs poking out. Check out the rest of the shoot here. Team Posh = 1; Team Mr. Blackwell's Blowhards = 0.

Last night's episode of "Project Runway" left me weeping like Ricky (that's him, above, in his hat o' the week) at a screening of "Love Story." Kevin, my favorite hetero hottie on the show was sent packing after tarting up his high school student to look like a Filipino floozy. Well, heck, Kevin is straight. Cut him some slack. What does he know about making women look good?

I didn't appreciate Kevin's little speech on the catwalk after he was booted. Save it for the reunion special, Kev. If you wanted to make the judges regret sending you home, you should have taken off your shirt and sat in Michael Kors' lap. Oh, I kid. I think Kevin is a better designer than Sweet P and Chris March.

But speaking of weepy Ricky, his dress was far worse than Kevin's. It was a bland, shapeless frock that did little to flatter the poor girl wearing it. The producers were probably afraid of auffing Ricki because the torrent of tears he would cry might flood the stage. And although everyone focused on Christian's behavior last night, can we all just take a moment to look at how ugly his dress was? Egads.

It seems cruel to post an item about summer clothes on a frigid day like today, but no one ever accused me of being kind, so here I go. H&M is teaming with Marrimekko this summer, releasing clothes in classic patterns created by the Finnish textile company in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. The collection hits store in April, and I suspect these summery ensembles will disappear quite quickly.

Yes, we all know that Bono can do anything he damn well pleases. He writes music, hob-nobs with politicians, saves entire villages from famine, and wears sunglasses at night. But can he design clothes? The Hard Rock Cafe will begin selling a Bono-designed tee next week.

To be fair, the T-shirt is more about being made with pesticide-free cotton and chemical-free ink than about making a fashion statement. A percentage of sales goes to the Wildlife Conservation Society, supporting its Conservation Cotton Initiative. And if you want to know more about that initiative, you're clearly reading the wrong blog. Bono's design is cute in a rustic, Western Massachusetts kind of way. If you dig it, it costs $26.

C'mon, Mischa! What is the matter with you? We so talked about this already:

[When hideous pants happen to former "it" girls.]

I have vials of venom to spew about these khakis/jeans/whatever — namely that they appear to give you a constant front wedgie — but, Misch, let's make a deal: I'll spare you the sarcasm if you promise to give up high-waisted pants in 2008. It's not that hard. Stop raiding your frumpy aunt's old armoire, for starters. Even she hasn't worn these jeans since 1986. Some fashion crimes should only be unearthed in time capsules.

UPDATE: Well, I'm pretty sure they don't have high-waisted jumpsuits in prison.

When I picked up freshly hemmed jeans from my new tailor last week (Giovanni's Atelier in Bay Village -- two thumbs up for their perfectly attached original hems, by the way), the guy at the counter took one look at me and asked if I was from California. (Thought process: Do I have guacamole on my face? Do I look unusually tan? Californians don't really have accents, do they?)

He pointed to my bright blue winter coat and yellow scarf combo and said that women in Boston only wear black and gray all winter. Now, I have my fair share of black and gray basics — cashmere sweaters, dress pants, sweater dresses, etc. — but I am the biggest proponent of wearing bright, loud colors all winter long.

Why? Because it's frigid out and starts getting dark around 3:30 pm, that's why. I have to inject some color into this New England scene, or I'd go crazy from January to March. Plus, wearing a punchy scarf or orange high heels almost makes going out in the snow and wind chill a teensy bit warmer. Almost.

I'll leave you with some inspiration:

"Sex and the City" trailer anyone? The trailer really doesn't say anything about the plot, but SJP is wearing this crazy dress with the giant attack flower. Perhaps that's the plot.

Apologies kids. I know I'm totally behind on the "Project Runway" blogging, but I'm making up for it now by sharing a bit of news. The dress that Victorya and Kevin designed for Sarah Jessica Parker's Bitten line is now for sale at Steve & Barry's.

Unfortunately, the nearest stores are in Taunton, Kingston (!!) and Leominster (!!!), but if you like the dress enough, what's a little driving? The dress is $19.98, the matching plaid vest is $14.98. At last check, the dress was not yet available for sale online. I'm kind of on the fence about the neck-bow thing, but the rest is cute.

I made it quite clear last year that I'd rather wear a pair of Kleenex boxes filled with red ants on my feet than Crocs, those hideous foam rubber shoes that are the preferred footwear of children and adults who are too lazy to lace their shoes.

Now it seems that the company I despise more than Robin Williams is opening a store in Boston on Friday. I think a demonstration is in order! Who wants to join me in a fashion picket line? They're going to be selling the clown shoes, and Crocs apparel. I can only imagine what that looks like.

So, if you have anyone named Bozo, Clarabelle, or Krusty on your shopping list, your Black Friday just got much easier. That is if you can get past me in the picket line. Good luck!

Speaking of "Project Runway," Nina Garcia, fashion director of Elle magazine, will be at the Nordstrom in Natick on Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. She'll be doing a little meet and greet action to publicize her book, "Little Black Book of Style." The event takes place in the via C department of the store.

Jack Spade, the masculine counterpart to Kate, has opened a Newbury Street location in a petite 300-square-foot location selling man bags, ties, hats, scarves, gloves, sunglasses, and other mancessories.

I'm enamored of the space. It's filled with all sorts of odd bits, like that taxidermied squirrel and an old sofa that was found in a South Dakota school house. Personality is always great, especially in a tiny space, and this one feels like an eccentric yet trendy old uncle's study. The new store is at 117 Newbury.

The numbers are in, and the season four premiere of "Project Runway" was the cable network's highest rated season premiere.. ever.

Once I stopped feeling bad for poor Chris March as he hobbled toward those fabric tents, I was completely enthralled. The first challenge was a bit bland. Where's the creativity? Where are the whacky materials? Make those designers create model-sized couture by adapting dresses they're forced to purchase at Lane Bryant. Now that's a challenge!

I was convinced that the crazy marionette-making yoga lady was going to get the boot. The model couldn't even walk in Marionette lady's dress (she won't be on long enough for me to bother learning her name). But, alas, it was poor Simone who was auffed. Note to future contestants: Crazy is OK, boring is not.

The tall drink of water known as Rami (simply called "the hot Israeli" at my PR viewing party) won the challenge with an elegant, simple dress. It was safe, but pretty. Let's face it, he won the challenge by flirting with Tim Gunn.

Just kidding, Tim.

There are two things I already love to hate about this season of 'Runway.'

1.
His bad hats.

2.
His arrogance.

Target's past partnerships with accessories designers — like Devi Kroell or Hollywould — just haven't done it for me. Most of the materials seemed cheap (and more importantly, looked cheap).

However, Target is a wily little devil, always full of surprises. Like this one:

[Beau coeur = Beautiful heart. My sentiments exactly.]

The national retailer has launched a collaboration with jewelry designer-to-the-stars, Dominique Cohen (And by stars I mean Brittany Murphy, Anne Hathaway, and Judith Light. Yes, that Judith Light). The sweet ring above is one of the best pieces, and the "Beau Coeur" design comes in a pendant necklace, drop earrings, or a bangle as well.

And the Target pieces cost thousands less than Cohen's usual 18K gold and gemstone creations.

See the whole collection here. Christmas shopping? Check.

This Isaac Mizrahi-designed Charlie Brown dress is up for auction on eBay (current bid just $405). It's a size 4 (I always wondered what Charlie Brown's dress size would be if he grew up to be a female impersonator).

The dress is made of beaded sequins, natch, and the proceeds go to the charitable foundation Dress for Success. Bidding ends at 10 p.m. on Halloween. Happy bidding, Charlie Brown.

So the breaking news here isn't Kate Moss' fresh eye-grazing fringe. (But honestly, her hot bangs could be the news, if only because every tween and lesser starlet will soon be scrambling to the salon for a chop. Kate is the sexy after all.)

What I really want to talk about is her shiny new holiday collection for Topshop. The minidresses, sheer tops, and waistcoasts hit stores and the web Thursday. Not every piece is a grand style slam (A sequined kerchief? Really?), but the best looks scream party, preferably with fake snow, glittery disco ball, and plenty of eggnog.

Behold! My favorite dress:

[Oooh-la-la!]

I'd have to try it on to truly commit to this glitzy thigh-grazing number. Sigh &mdash unless I wing it to New York or Lon