- Megan Fox is preggers with her first child thanks to 90210 alum/perennial hottie Brian Austin Green. I guess a naked pregnant photoshoot is  pretty much inevitable at this point. [E!]

- Charlotte Free is the new face of Maybelline, as announced in this brillz video by the bearded mastermind behind Shit Fashion Girls Say, otherwise known as P’Trique and featuring fashion folk like Betsey Johnson and Derek Blasberg. Video after the jump! [Huff Po]

- Kendall and Kylie Jenner, the gorgeous and leggy saving graces of the otherwise intolerable Kardashian klan, have landed contributor positions at Seventeen. [Fashionista]

- Michelle Williams says she’s totally up for a Dawson’s Creek reunion and since she’s really the only one with a career — though Don’t Trust the B in Apt 23 is kind of amazing — Pacey, Joey and the Beek should just paddle their way back to The CW. [Vulture]

- Flame-haired designer Sonia Rykiel reveals her battle with Parkinson’s disease over the last 15 years in her new book, N’oubliez pas que je joue (Don’t Forget It’s a Game). [WWD]

- Though the fashion industry has no qualms over its love of Barack (and Michelle) Obama, there are those who are throwing their monetary weight behind Mitt Romney, including Guess CEO/Gucci lover Paul Marciano. [Jezebel]

- Roberto Cavalli has jumped on the Rihanna train and has officially stopped giving a fuck. The outspoken designer took to his Twitter to shit on French fashion, continue to take a dump on Anna Wintour and praise Marc Jacobs while defecating on Louis Vuitton. I’m pretty sure this is EXACTLY for what social media was intended. [Styleite]

- Proving that she’s been shutting shit down for several decades, Michelle Obama‘s prom photo has recently surfaced and we’re talking satin, a thigh-high slit and décolletage for days. Take a note, trash. Meanwhile, Barack sure looked different back in the day — this must have been before he stopped smoking pot. [Telegraph]

- 161-year-old British label Aquascutum is close to shuttering its doors and laying off its 250 workers after officially going into administration today. [Financial Times]

- Now you too can smell like a stupid hoe. Nicki Minaj is, naturally, coming out with her own fragrance with the same monsters people behind Justin Bieber‘s Someday. [Coco Perez]

- The Huffington Post is among the winners of this year’s Pulitzer Prizes (for national reporting) though no Prizes were given out for fiction…unless you count The Huffington Post. [WWD]

- One Million Moms, apparently still licking their wounds over losing out to JCPenneys and its pantusit-wearing lesbian abomination, have set their sights on Urban Outfitters and its catalog which features two girls kissing. Strap yourself in, kids, we’re taking a direct flight to hell. [The Cut]

- Beyoncé posted a super sweet letter she wrote — by hand, no less —  to fellow HBIC Michelle Obama on her Tumblr in which she praised the FLOTUS for her grace, humility and sincerity. And she ended it with a smiley face period, just like Barack Obama does in his letters to Congress. [Refinery29]

- The Twitter accounts of several models, including Joan Smalls, Lily Donaldson and Jourdan Dunn were hacked yesterday when they apparently started hawking diet pills. Like models ever admit to taking diet pills. [Fashionista]

- Another one of the hacked models was Toni Garrn, but on the bright side, she’s now officially a Victoria’s Secret Angel. So she might actually need those diet pills since those ladies get cray cray around show time. [Modelinia]

- Noted crybaby bad boy Axl Rose tried to refuse his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with his fellow Guns & Roses but the Hall of Fame really doesn’t give a fuck. [Paper]

- Unsurprisingly, everyone and their mother has something to say about Raf Simons’ appointment to Dior. But it’s mostly positive — even from professional curmudgeon Cathy Horyn — which is actually surprising. [The Cut]

- What’s American for “Ooh la la”? Vogue Paris may now be available in English following a mysterious tweet by the mag earlier today. [The Cut]

- Fierce Lady of the United States/renowned HBIC Michelle ”Guns” Obama covers the May issue of Ebony magazine where apparently she addresses the issue of burning in hell following a one night stand. Literally, it’s the FLOTUS, show some respect and save that smut for Cosmo. [Styleite]

- Clearly bored and seeking a completely irreverent challenge, Karl Lagerfeld will soon be designing helicopters. But  not just any helicopters, VIP helicopters. It’s not known whether they will be large enough for a full-scale fashion show. [WWD]

- PETA didn’t take too kindly to Kanye West‘s suggestion that someone tell them his “mink is draggin’ on the floor” in his new song “Theraflu” and responded by hitting him below his costumey caveman belt. [Elle]

- Kim Kardashian, however, is “lovin’” the song and apparently Kanye as well. [TMZ]

- Barbie‘s running for President…although she looks more like Jackie O.‘s lesser known slutty sister Candy O. [Refinery29]

While in Tokyo for their Fashion Week, a journalist asked Herr Lagerfeld what he thought of the article and without missing a beat, the ponytailed one let loose the wrath of a thousand backhands:

“First of all, Tina Brown’s magazine is not doing well at all…She is dying. I’m sorry for Tina Brown, who was such a success at Vanity Fair, to go down with a shitty little paper like this. I’m sorry.”

This is not the first time Lagerfeld’s expressed his regret over Brown and Newsweek. During his much-ballyhooed guest editor stint at Metro, Uncle Karl also stated:

“I feel sorry for Tina Brown that her paper is really going down. It’s so skinny, it’s really what we call a ‘diet issue’ because it has no advertising and she certainly will not get advertising with this kind of article. I’ve never heard of this journalist [Robin Givhan] before, except for what she had written about Mrs. Obama, which made me already not like her — the journalist, not Mrs. Obama.”

And that is what we call shade. It’s highly unlikely that Karl Lagerfeld — always with his finger on the pulse of popular culture — has “never heard of” Robin Givhan, the first and only fashion journalist to win a Pulitzer Prize. In 2006, she was awarded the prestigious honor “for her witty, closely observed essays that transform fashion criticism into cultural criticism.”

One would think that after a thousand years or so, Lagerfeld would be used to criticism — even Pultizer Prize-winning criticism — though I guess once one gets to a certain point, one feels above reproach. But also after a certain point, and after a certain degree of success, everyone’s overrated. It’s what, to quote Blackglama, becomes a legend most.

- The Hollywood Reporter, a barometer of style if there ever was one, named the 25 most powerful stylists in Hollywood and neither Rachel Zoe or Brad Goreski are that powerful outside reality television and the front rows of fashion shows. [The Cut]

- The Kardashians return to Sears with a lingerie line, which of course called for the same half-assed Photoshopping job prevalent since the beginning of their partnership. If it’s terribly broke, why fix it? [Styleite]

- A musical based on War Paint, a book chronicling the rivalry between makeup giants Elizabeth Arden and Helena Rubenstein is coming to Broadway, with a little help from the people behind Grey Gardens and Wicked. Expect a shower of Tonys. [Telegraph]

- Roberto Cavalli may have leaked the beans about Jennifer Lopez‘s potential fourth marriage to her second back-up dancer, Casper Smart. [Huff Po]

- The networks that brought you Jersey Shore and Aqua Teen Hunger Force, MTV and Adult Swim,  think Kate Upton‘s newest commercial for Zoo York have too much “bleeped profanity.” Way to lose your b***s, a*****s . [NYDN]

The Palace sent a letter to noted d-bags PETA who smugly forwarded it onto the IFTF : “Her Royal Highness was not wearing fur. The coat was not lined with fur. We therefore insist that you remove the photo from your social media page and issue an immediate public retraction of your claim…To state that the Duchess is wearing fur is not only false but offensive… to portray the new Duchess wearing something so blatantly cruel and contrary to her country’s values is insulting.”

Ooooh, someone’s in trouble…

The International Fur Trade Federation then, obviously, took down the post because Queen Elizabeth II ain’t nothin’ to fucks with. But then, of course, PETA couldn’t help but gloat at their perceived victory: ”[Duchess Kate's] decision not to wear fur puts her in the company of public figures such as Michelle Obama, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, and the late Princess Diana, all of whom swore off fur because of the cruelty inherent in the fur industry,” the animal rights organization told TODAY.com. “This was a poor and desperate attempt by the International Fur Trade Federation to promote its products.”

Well, if anyone knows anything about poor and desperate attempts at promotion, it’s PETA. [Vogue UK]

Thomas Jefferson -- Founding Father Jungle Fever Scandal broke out in 1802 when James T. Callendar, a political journalist, wrote in a Richmond newspaper that then-President Thomas Jefferson had not only had an affair with his slave, Sally Hemings, but also fathered "several" of her children. While the rumors had been circulating for years prior, Callendar's article made it general knowledge. Jefferson's policy, setting the benchmark for all future sex scandals, "was to offer no public response to personal attacks." Today, however, it is widely-accepted that Jefferson was most likely the father of Hemings's six children.  [Monticello.org]

John F. Kennedy -- Some Like It Camelot By now everyone knows that John Fitzgerald Kennedy bedded anything with two legs and a pulse, but undoubtedly his most (in)famous liaison was with noted trainwreck, Marilyn Monroe. JFK and Marilyn spent a weekend in Palm Springs at Bing Crosby's in 1962, much to the chagrin of First Lady Jackie Kennedy. While it was just another conquest for the  lascivious world leader, Marilyn became obsessed with the pres -- of course by then she was already face-down in her pill addiction so that certainly didn't help matters. Monroe would memorably sing a breathless rendition of "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" shortly after the tryst -- adding fuel to the fire of a rumored affair -- only to die of an overdose a month later. Kennedy's involvement in Monroe's death, either directly or indirectly, has been subject to speculation ever since. [Daily Mail]

Abraham Lincoln -- Gaybraham Lincoln While he may be no vampire hunter, Honest Abe honestly didn't mind sticking his wood into his share of dudes -- allegedly. Rather, it's hard to pin the label of "homosexual" on Lincoln since the concept didn't really exist then, but rumors over the Great Emancipator's sexuality have persisted for some 150 years. From his romantic friendship with Joshua Speed to a bawdy poem about gay marriage and not to mention his bodyguard David Derickson sharing his bed when Mary Todd was away, there's enough evidence to build a case that Abraham Lincoln was at least a bit of a queer one. [Wikipedia]

Bill Clinton -- Lewinskygate "I did not have sexual relations with that woman." The mantra of a generation. Sex became a very public topic of conversation across the nation -- particularly what constituted sex -- during the dark, Ken Starr-haunted days of the Clinton administration when William Jefferson Clinton became only the second president in the office's totally impeach-worthy history to actually be impeached. Andrew Johnson was the first in 1868. Clinton's affair with White House intern and noted homewrecker Monica Lewinsky became a legal matter once Bill was accused of perjury and obstruction of justice when he denied said sexual relations. He was inevitably acquitted and through it all Hillary Clinton had his back. And I think we can all agree the Secretary of State came out smelling like roses after that little indecent incident -- although Bill's pimp status has forever been cemented. [Wikipedia]

Eleanor Roosevelt -- Ladies First for the First Lady Though she was not President, Eleanor Roosevelt had a large role in shaping the course of this country as First Lady. And just because her husband, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was arguably the greatest President of the 20th century, he was known to have his fun on the side as well. Enter Lorena Hickock, a journalist with whom Eleanor formed a lifelong friendship in 1933. Their relationship is documented in a number of letters, several of a very intimate nature. For example, in a letter "Hick" -- as Eleanor affectionately called her -- writes to the FLOTUS: "Most clearly I remember your eyes, with a kind of teasing smile in them, and the feeling of that soft spot just north-east of the corner of your mouth against my lips."  Sounds like Mrs. Roosevelt had a New Deal all her own, amirite? [Sappho]

- Get ready to go back to school and get some class. The Condé Nast College of Fashion & Design is now accepting applications. [Vogue UK]

- Michelle Obama wore Jason Wu — for Target — at an event in Florida over the weekend. And she looks super jazzed about it. [Huff Po]

-  Shit fashion people say at the Theysken’s Theory show. Not a viral video. Just real talk. My personal fave: “The after-party last night. How dare they? Cash bar?” Meanwhile, I don’t even know how they overheard that since I was nowhere near Thesyken’s Theory. [Paper Mag]

- While the CFDA recommends that designers don’t use models under 16, for his fall 2012 Marc Jacobs practically snatched them straight from the womb. [NYT]

- Of course the red carpet at the Grammys is entertaining enough, but add YouTube sensation Sophie Grace and gal Friday Rosie and the show just went H.A.M. [Fashionista]

- Stella McCartney has a new video for PETA that Cathy Horyn thinks is worth watching. Let me know, will ya. [NYT]

- Much like every diffusion line worth its salt, Jason Wu for Target sold out in, like, a day. [Racked]

- But this isn’t Target’s first time at the rodeo and the retailer is restocking their online shelves later this week. [InStyle]

- During the final three minutes of the Super Bowl there was an average of 10,000 tweets per second. That’s a lot of hashtalk. [TechCrunch]

- Vogue and Anna Wintour let Madonna have their logo free of charge for her half time show and as a result had the biggest bang for the smallest advertising buck of any of the big game’s blockbuster commercials. [WWD]

- Gisele can drop as many effing F-bombs as she effin’ likes since she’s the highest effing paid supermodel in the effing world. Dammit. [Modelinia]

- It’s no “The Boy Is Mine” but Brandy and Monica‘s new duet, “It All Belongs to Me,” is here. Sadly there’s no lyrical weave-snatching this time around. [Rap Up]

- Red-hot raptress Azealia Banks is apparently bisexual. But then again she’s a 20-year old kid from New York, so that’s like saying she apparently carries a knife on her. No big deal. [NYT]

- Blake Lively, speaking to Elle about her future baby plans, expressed an interest in trannying up America’s youth. ”I hope to have a few girls one day. If not girls, they better be trannies. Because I have some amazing shoes and bags and stories that need to be appreciated.” Now that’s the hallmark of a good mother. Meanwhile, some people take offense at Lively’s — and others — use of “tranny,” but those trannies need to grow a pair. Through hormone injections, natch. [Elle]

- And speaking of trannies, Lana del Rey on the cover of Vogue UK everyone! [E! Online Twitter]

- Remember those jerks who were trying to oust Ellen DeGeneres from JC Penney’s new marketing campaign? The gays are not having it. [The Cut]

- And in other Ellen news, the talk show host challenged the First Lady of the United States to a push-up contest. And Michelle Obama was not having it. [Styleite]

First Lady Michelle Obama waits backstage with Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg in the Green Room of the White House before making remarks to White House Historical Association on the anniversary of it's 50th year, Oct. 31, 2011. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama step off Air Force One September 19, 2011 upon arrival at John F Kennedy International Airport in New York City. Obama was heading to New York City to attend the annual United Nations General Assembly. AFP PHOTO/Mandel NGAN (Photo credit should read MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images)

First Lady Michelle Obama waits to be introduced at a DNC fundraiser at the Claremont Hotel and Spa in Berkeley, California, June 14, 2011. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson)

- Speaking of the Obamas, the campaign’s Runway to Win e-commerce site went live today, featuring designs by Proenza Schouler, Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, Alexander Wang and —  for kicks — the House of Dereon. [Runway to Win]

- Will wonders never cease? A Top Model contestant actually becomes a top model. ANTM‘s Cycle 10 reject Fatima Siad — the second coming of Iman — landed Hervé Léger‘s spring 2012 campaign. [The Cut]

- Blue Ivy Carter is officially a hitmaker. The less than a week old diva-in-training is the youngest person to enter the Billboard charts, riding on the coattails of daddy Hov’s “Glory.”  No one’s ready for this baby’s jelly. [People]

- Calvin Klein and his jailbait lothario Nick Gruber are apparently “on a break.” Guess Calvin finally put Nick down for his nap. [NYDN]

- Indie Music Style Star Azealia Banks is going Gaga, working with the Lady’s right-hand queen Nicola Formichetti on her latest video. [Fashionista]

- Nike‘s agreed to pay a group of nearly 4,500 Indonesian factory workers $1 million in overtime, which roughly comes out to the price of a pair of Air Jordans per worker. Congrats. [The Cut]

- Lingerie models stripped down to their skivvies in Paris’ Musee d’Orsay as part of a publicity stunt for panty purveyor Etam. Museum officials, however, were not amused. Mostly because they did it without getting permission to film in the museum first. [Huff Po]

Photo: Vogue.com

Wintour and Vogue have reportedly been “instrumental” in coercing assembling the 22 designers, including Marc Jacobs, Diane von Furstenberg, Tory Burch, Alexander Wang, Tracy Reese, Joseph Altuzarra, Rachel Roy, Narciso Rodriguez, Rag & Bone and Jason Wu. Wary of alienating Republican voters from their brands, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton initially nixed their labels from participating in Runway to Win, but Marc Jacobs — of which LVMH owns a majority stake — designed his T-shirt anyway, “following pressure from the magazine,” according to WWD.

On the other hand, Donna Karan, also owned by LVMH, did not bow to Wintour and is therefore not participating in the fundraising effort. And therefore won’t be seen in Vogue anytime soon…Kidding!…Not really.

Runway to Win’s e-commerce site, runwaytowin.com, officially launches on Thursday, but Wintour’s re-election campaign is not stopping there. She will also co-host an Obama fundraiser with actress Scarlett Johansson in February — which I’m taking as a sign that ScarJo will be on the cover around that time. See, kids, and you thought fashion and politics had nothing in common. They both require a steely nerve, a willingness to compromise and the ability to turn a blind eye to corruption. The blatant abuse of power doesn’t hurt either. [WWD]

Photo: Vogue.com

The first incident stems from a run-in at a Lisbon hotel — shortly after a “legendary” performance in the Portuguese capital involving at least one throw-up break —  that prompted Rihanna to tweet this blow for freedom :

“I just met the most racist cunt EVER!!! This man said the craziest shit abt black women called us dogs, sluts, we don’t look like shit, we don’t belong in the same hotels….needless to say, the #NIGGA in me came out! Bajan accent and all!Lol!Turns out the hotel manager’s black[...]Oh and he had the NERVE to diss black people in his Tighty whitey’s!!!! SMH[shake my head]…and tbh [to be honest] a lil black wouldn’t hurt him”

Just when she thought she had finished getting her Rihanna Luther King  on, there comes this hokey piece of journalism courtesy of Dutch fashion magazine, Jackie:

“She has street cred, she has a ghetto ass and she has a golden throat. Rihanna, the good girl gone bad, is the ultimate niggabitch and displays that gladly, and for her that means: what’s on can come off. If that means she’ll be on stage half naked, then so be it. But Dutch winters aren’t like Jamaican ones, so pick a clothing style in which your daughter can resist minus ten. No to the big sunglasses and the pornheels, and yes to the tiger print, pink shizzle and everything that glitters. Now let’s hope she won’t beat anybody up at daycare.”

Calling anyone “niggabitch” is already terms for a beatdown of epic proportions, but to add ethnic insult to racial injury, the kids at Jackie didn’t even bother to acknowledge Rihanna’s proud Bajan roots. Shortly after realizing that this was just about the dumbest thing to come out of a magazine since FHM‘s glowing portrait of Andrej Pejic, editor-in-chief Eva Hoeke issued a half-assed apology on the mag’s Facebook page, claiming it was all a joke gone horribly wrong. Rihanna, however, was not having it and once again took to Twitter to voice her righteous indignation:

“@evajackie I hope u can read english, because your magazine is a poor representation of the evolution of human rights! I find you disrespectful, and rather desperate!! You ran out of legit, civilized information to print! There are 1000?s of Dutch girls who would love to be recognized for their contributions to your country, you could have given them an article. Instead, u paid to print one degrading an entire race! That’s your contribution to this world! To encourage segregation, to mislead the future leaders to act in the past! You put two words together…@evajackie with the intent of abasement, that made no sense…’***** BITCH’?!….Well with all respect, on behalf of my race, here are my two words for you…FUCK YOU!!!”

Methinks RiRi may have had a little help drafting this Dutch doucehbag diatribe based solely on its level of coherence, but that is neither here nor there. For the first time in, well, forever I’m impressed with Rihanna. Aside from that bit of musical perfection known as “We Found Love,” Rihanna has given me a new reason not to dislke her. Dammit. [Fashionista]

©BAUER-GRIFFIN.COM Rihanna puts on a sexy show as she takes the stage at the O2 Arena. NON-EXCLUSIVE October 5, 2011 Job: 111006X4 London, England www.bauergriffin.com www.bauergriffinonline.com [KGC-138]

Let’s start off with the obvious: This has to be the most attractive family in the white house since the Kennedy’s. (Can we talk about how Malia’s model good looks and height for only being 13?!)

We’re also loving the patterns and color scheme happening. Oh and if you love little Malia’s dress you can get one similar at ModCloth.

Whether or not the Obamas stay in the White House for another 4 years, they still are making us green with all types of envy.

Link Love: Styleite

-Anna Wintour‘s biannual HJ to the industry, Fashion’s Night Out, will make an uncalled-for return next year to once again haunt the sartorial streets. [WWD]

-  Jonathan Saunders, Mary Katrantzou, Marios Schwab and Nicholas Kirkwood are among the finalists for next year’s British Fashion Council/Vogue Fashion Fund. [Vogue UK]

- Michael Kors IPO is listed at $20/share, which will probably be the least you’ll ever pay for a Michael Kors anything from here on out. [WWD]

- The First Family posed for a new family portrait and while it’s all cute and familial, we can clearly see Michelle‘s roots and homegirl could use a touch-up. [Just Jared]

- Vera Wang is getting in touch with her inner dude by outfitting some real dudes. While brides will wear her doomed David’s Bridal gowns to their weddings, their grooms will wear her new Men’s Warehouse tuxedos. And then everyone will go to the Olive Garden and cap the night off with a few PBRs. [WWD]

- While Vera slums it in the discount wholesale bin, Levi’s is classing their game up. The jeans giant will show at New York Fashion Week for the first time come February. Hopefully the CFDA will have cut whatever day said show is by then. [WWD]

25. Beyoncé at the VMAs How does an internationally-renowned pop diva announce her alleged pregnancy with as little -- and yet as much -- fanfare as possible? Why in Lanvin and Dolce and Gabbana, of course. Cupping her burgeoning baby bump on the red carpet, Bey let loose the dogs of publicity war when she thew her mic to the ground, ripped open her Dolce jacket, and announced to the world the coming of the Messiah.

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24. Karl Lagerfeld's obsession with Blake Lively Blake Lively is Karl Lagerfeld's kind of girl. And he didn't hesitate to let everyone know, naming the Gossip Girl star Chanel's official purse ambassador, throwing her in print ads, parading her about the French Riviera and most terrifying of all, showing her something bearing resemblance to actual affection.

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23. The rise of the tween style icon -- Hailee Steinfeld, Chloe Moretz and Elle Fanning cover LOVE magazine The kids are more than all right, they're fucking fabulous. Hailee Steinfeld, Elle Fanning and Chloe Moretz showed that style knows no age limits, landing on best-dressed lists while barely in high school. Miu Miu tapped Steinfeld for its fall campaign and Rodarte had Fanning star in a short film, while all three graced the cover of LOVE magazine this summer.

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22. Emma Watson, style icon Emma Watson truly came into her own this year in a series of flawless looks both on and off the red carpet, some stunning editorial work, a capsule collection with Alberta Ferretti and a campaign with Lancôme. Hermione's not a girl, and very nearly a woman.

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21. Christian Dior's disastrous Haute Couture show 2011 had its share of disastrous runway shows, but none as disastrous as Christian Dior's fall 2011 haute couture show. Left to his own devices, poor Bill Gaytten offered up an overwrought and wildly incoherent mess that, despite being maligned by pretty much everyone, still wound up on at least one red carpet thanks to Katy Perry. Let's just say she didn't help matters any.

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20. Christian Louboutin trademark case Christian Louboutin tried, and failed, and is still trying to copyright its "trademark" red sole. By the way, I'm legally obligated to use trademark in quotations.

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19. Versace for H&M One of the most buzzed-about diffusion lines of the year, Donatella Versace's exclusive one-off collection reignited interest in the brand's sumptuous archives and had everyone from Anna Dello Russo to Kanye West clamoring for those Medusa heads and Miami prints.

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18. Karlie Kloss comes of age They grow up so fast! Karlie Kloss turned 19 this year, covered Life Magazine, shed her clothes on several occasions, became a Victoria's Secret Angel and got eye-banged by Leonardo Dicaprio -- in other words, she very publicly became an adult and a supermodel.

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17. Lady Gaga wins over Anna Wintour Anna Wintour embraced Lady Gaga with open arms this year, putting her on the cover of Vogue and presenting her with the CFDA Fashion Icon Award. And Gaga thanked her by calling her a bitch and showing up in a walking wardrobe malfunction to the ceremony. BFFs, y'all!

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16. Elizabeth Taylor's death and subsequent jewelry auction Elizabeth Taylor's death was the passing of a true legend and a style icon but her legacy lives on not only through her films, but also her impressive collection of jewels and haute couture that is being auctioned off by Christies this month.

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15. Michelle Obama's McQueen controversy Michelle Obama had jaws dropping in her Alexander McQueen gown for China's state dinner but it was the fallout from the dress by Oscar de la Renta and other American designers that made the dress truly newsworthy.

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14. Victoria Beckham, fashion designer This year Victoria Beckham lived up to her nom-de-Spice by gaining real credibility as a designer, and not just another celebrity with too much time on their hands, while simultaneously stepping out of her husband's sexy shadow. A win at the British Fashion Awards for Design Brand of the Year capped off a year of living poshly.

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13. The Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum Sneaking in at the end of the year, the virtual Valentino museum is an innovative and ingenious step by one of the world's most iconic designers that makes his formidable legacy available to anyone who wants it. A novel and forward-thinking concept that belies Valentino's 800 years.

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12. The rise and subsequent fall of the fascinator Trends come and go all the time in fashion, but rarely has one particular trend impacted culture so hard and been discarded so fast. The Royal Wedding inspired ladies everywhere to make it a say-something hat day, but it was Princess Beatrice's fascinator that may go down as one of the most infamous pieces of millinery in modern recollection.

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11. Marc Jacobs stolen spring 2012 collection Lifted from a train en route from Paris, the theft of parts of Marc Jacobs' spring 2012 collection was this year's biggest and most intriguing mystery. Besides, of course, whether Marc himself would defect to Christian Dior or stick it out with Louis Vuitton -- who, coincidentally, was also a victim of theft just two weeks later. Yep, big coincidence.

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10. Fashion Week calendar controversy Tensions came to a head between the four fashion capitals, leaving the fate of upcoming fashion weeks up in the air. But if there's one thing we've learned from this is you don't fuck with the Italians.

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9. Kate Moss' fairytale wedding It was only a few years ago that Kate Moss was spiraling down a cocaine-encrusted rabbit hole, but fashion's favorite bad girl has finally settled down. Moss wed longtime beau Jamie Hince in an epic three-day long ceremony known cheekily as Mosstock. BFF Naomi Campbell was one of her bridesmaids, and in a show of solidarity, Moss chose a wedding dress by John Galliano. Kate Moss' wedding was not only front-page news, it garnered the most coveted cover of the year: Vogue's September issue.

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8. Bill Cunningham New York Originating and perfecting the art of streetstyle photography decades before The Sartorialist picked up a camera, Bill Cunningham finally got his time in the spotlight thanks to a heartwarming documentary that reveled a little of the man behind that ubiquitous lens.

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7. Kanye West shows at Paris Fashion Week Kanye West is a man of many talents, though fashion design may or may not be one of them. A true lover of fashion, West did his research and worked with the best people but in the end he let his usual over-zealousness get the best of him and the result? When prompted for her opinion on West's collection, Anna Wintour responded: "Ask someone else."

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6. Missoni for Target Missoni for Target took the high-low collaboration craze to a fever pitch, crashing Target's website and selling out shortly after hitting the shelves. That is, before those items appeared on eBay for several times what they had originally cost, thus negating the entire process.

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5. The rise of Lea T. and Andrej Pejic Transsexual lady Lea T. met Oprah and androgynous male model Andrej Pejic met the Queen of England this year. If that weren't enough of a moment, these two gals also shattered boundaries in fashion and modeling, and in the process became icons and role models to the LGBTQ community.

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4. The reinvention of Carine Roitfeld Quele scandale! Did she get fired? Did she quit? Are she and Emmanuelle Alt no longer friends? The rumors have been buzzing around Carine Roitfeld since she officially exiting Vogue Paris in February -- and in the process creating a future supermodel in Saskia de Brauw --  after 10 landmark, nipple-bearing years. But through it all, Carine has been the picture of calm and chic, hiking up her pencil skirt and reinventing herself as a brilliant and in-demand stylist/the coolest bitch on the planet. Stay tuned for another reinvention when Carine launches a new magazine and starts life as a grandmother next year.

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3. Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen wedding dress The speculation was unbearable for what was the biggest and most well-kept secret in an age of superfluous information. Though an unsurprising but nevertheless brilliant choice, Sarah Burton's handiwork cemented the Duchess of Cambridge (née Kate Middleton) as not only a bona fide style icon but a phenomenon on both sides of the Atlantic. Meanwhile, Burton proved she was the right person to carry on McQueen's brilliant legacy and take it to the next level.

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2. Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty The most successful fashion exhibit in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's  history, Alexander McQueen's Savage Beauty set records and inspired fashion lovers and neophytes alike. The exhibit proved so popular, in fact, the Met extended its run twice. Even then, there were still lines of people waiting hours to get into the museum, but for 661,509 people it was well-worth the wait.

2

1. John Galliano stars in Gallianogate John Galliano's downfall has loomed large all year, particularly since Christian Dior has yet to announce his replacement, despite a neverending back-and-forth with a stubborn Marc Jacobs. Following a stint in rehab, a guilty conviction in Paris for making anti-Semitic remarks, and the general destruction of his reputation, Galliano at least had one bright spot this year: designing good friend Kate Moss' wedding dress. Galliano's dismissal also raised questions about the stress designers are under to deliver  multiple collections a year -- just ask Balmain's Christophe Decarnin. Everyone's still waiting to see who Dior picks to take the throne and if Galliano can make a comeback after such a devastating fall. As 2011 comes to a close, 2012 has the promise of even more scandals, breakdowns and breakthroughs that we cannot wait to cover obsessively for you. If we missed any epic moments or if you're particularly incensed over Lindsay Lohan's Playboy spread not making the list, leave a comment below.

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Loree Rodkin is the jewelry design rockstar in question. Her creation sits on Lanphear’s ring finger above and below, and blurs the line between medieval and and modern. Rodkin’s designs will be joining the permanent collection at the Smithsonian, not for the fact that they seem from another era, it is because Michelle Obama wore Loree Rodkins to the Inaugural address.

As conversation jumped from jewelry to boutiques, I asked her to let us in on her store crush of the moment:

“I shop in the east village. Anywhere I can go where things aren’t picked through.” [AKA we're never going to find out where she shops unless we see it with our own eyes. She doesn't want us picking through first.] “But it’s hard, I dont really want to shop on the weekends. On a Saturday I’d rather go to a bakery and eat pie, put some whiskey in my coffee.”

This brings us to pondering transformable clothing, that it means even if two people have the same thing, it will look entirely different. It’s not only the accessories you put with it, it’s where you wear it on your body; trying new silhouettes by wearing something not exactly as it’s meant to be worn. Like her interns at Elle.

“I love when interns come to work with sweaters wrapped around their head.”

Which thus led to ruminations on New York being the best city for self expression.

“Back in Virginia they dont think outside the box. That’s why I had to be here.”

And we’re so grateful made it here.

My fellow sisters in the editorial trenches Amanda and Jessica openly gasped at MObama’s strapless Vera Wang, not least of all because who the hell knew Vera Wang could still turn out a black-tie stunner after that whole wedding dress disaster? Leave it to Mrs. Obama to pick Wang’s name out of the mud known as Kim Kardashian and give the designer a good shaking off to the rhythm of her patriotic hips.

Photo: Styleite

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 4: (AFP OUT) First lady Michelle Obama and U.S. President Barack Obama arrive for a Kennedy Center Honors reception in the East Room of the White House on December 4, 2011in Washington, DC. For their accomplishments and contributions to the arts actress Meryl Streep, singer Neil Diamond, actress Barbara Cook, musician Yo-Yo Ma, and musician Sonny Rollins where etched recognized as this year's recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski-Pool/Getty Images)

What exactly are the “proper measures”? That’s pretty vague wording and considering the measures the Vatican has taken in the past, clarity might be appreciated. But they didn’t mince words in their condemnation. “This shows a grave lack of respect for the Pope, an offence to the feelings of believers, a clear demonstration of how publicity can violate the basic rules of respect for people,” said the Vatican’s spokesman, a Father Federico Lombardi.

The White House has also responded to Benetton’s ads, but a bit more equivocally, as their spokesman said yesterday, “The White House has a long-standing policy disapproving of the use of the president’s name and likeness for commercial purposes.” So if President Obama was sucking face with Hu Jintao for artistic purposes, the White House couldn’t give less of a shit.

Benetton, for its part, retains that the ads were meant ” to combat the culture of hatred in all its forms.”  Nevertheless, the house pulled the image of the Pope going to Frenchy town with Imam al-Tayeb yesterday, apologizing for offending “the sentiments of the faithful.” However, no apologies have followed for offending the sentiments of Michelle Obama. [WWD]

*Kate Middleton‘s Alexander McQueen was a late addition and Rubenstein had to cut one of the dresses to keep the list to 100. So it was sayonara Nancy Reagan and her white one-shoulder inauguration ball gown. Michelle Obama‘s Jason Wu, however, remained in tact. [WWD, sub req'd]

Reese Witherspoon in Olivier Theyskens for Nina Ricci, 2007 Golden Globes: “Witherspoon’s slimmer figure, now snugly zipped into a strapless, canary-yellow silk brocade Nina Ricci cocktail dress, screamed, ‘Screw you, buddy!’”

Chanel RTW spring 2011: “Models rarely smile these days, but you can sense when they enjoy what they’re wearing. Kass could barely contain her delight.”

Rita Hayworth in Jean Louis, 1946,“Gilda”: “Strapless dresses owe their enduring popularity to Rita Hayworth.”

Julia Roberts in Marilyn Vance-Straker, 1990, “Pretty Woman”: “No matter how many times you have seen the film, the moment you can clearly recall is when you fell hopelessly in love with Julia Roberts — and that moment is marked by a dress.”

Michelle Obama in Jason Wu, 2009 Inaugural Ball: “Wu and the three women on his team set to work, spending more than three hundred hours making the gown.”

Halle Berry in Elie Saab, 2002 Academy Awards: “Because the gown was so right on her, it is the only one we ever imagine her in, regardless of how many premieres she graces.”

Princess Diana in David and Elizabeth Emanuel, 1981: “Let’s be honest. The gown is hideous…but it became one of the most copied Big Day gowns in history.”

Charlize Theron in Vera Wang, 2000 Academy Awards: “’We came real close,’ said Wang about the how-low-as-you-can-go open back.”

Marilyn Monroe in William Travilla, 1955, “The Seven Year Itch:” “Why the continued frenzy for an almost 60-year-old summer halter? Because of how it looked on the woman who wore it.”

Nicole Kidman in John Galliano for Dior, 1997 Academy Awards: “This wasn’t merely a sensational creation. This was haute couture-claiming turf.”

Kate Middleton in Alexander McQueen, 2011: “The legendarily loose-lipped House of Windsor became so close-mouthed it was as if there’d been a run on duct tape.”

Jennifer Lopez in Donatella Versace, 2000 Grammys: “No single outfit has ever caused more commotion on any red carpet anywhere.”

Madonna in Dolce & Gabbana, 2009, premiere for “Nine”: “The Sicilian dress is the essence of Dolce & Gabbana, the brand’s sartorial touchstone.”

Tilda Swinton in Alber Elbaz for Lanvin at the 2008 Academy Awards: “Amplifying Swinton’s translucent alabaster complexion, vibrant titian hair and knowing exoticism is a fashion sense that revels in her own singularity.”

Prada RTW spring 2004: “This Prada dress was striking for its level of ease.”

Photo: Style.com

Wu’s diffusion line will not be as massive as the Missoni juggernaut, which featured some 400 pieces including clothes, home furnishings and — why not — a bike. Rather, Wu’s collaboration  is part of Target’s Go International program and will consist of only apparel and accessories, in the similar vein of past Go International designers Rodarte, Zac Posen and Thakoon.

For his part, Wu seemed to really enjoy teaming up with the mass retailer:

“The exciting thing about this limited edition collection of affordable women’s wear and accessories is that it allows me to reach a wider audience and bring my designs to people who may not have been able to purchase them before. My collection for Target is chic and wearable. I think women everywhere will enjoy it.”

Just wondering, is it too late to hope for a 25-foot Michelle Obama to commemorate Jason Wu x Target? [WWD]

- Speaking of schooling the children, Condé Nast UK is opening up the Condé Nast College of Fashion and Design in London come next September. I’m hoping André Leon Talley will teach a class on haberdashery and great-capes.[Styleite]

- Hey tranny, it’s tranny. Andrej Pejic channels famous Warholian tranny Candy Darling in Chris Benz‘s spring 2012 collection. [Fashionista]

- While everyone was consumed with whatever was happening on Tuesday in and around the Tents — days have just blended together by this point — Michelle Obama was holding court at the White House for the 2011 National Design Awards. [Telegraph]

- Scientists recently discovered a diamond star of 10 billion trillion trillion carats. I’m thinking of a platinum setting. [BBC]

- And it’s a sad day in retail. Borders is closing. #fuckoffkindle [Racked]

- Don’t call it a comeback because it’s apparently never going anywhere. Latest Sex and the City news: a revamped TV show with Sarah Jessica Parker allegedly signed on to produce. [Fashionista]

- Lara Stone drowns in a sea of petals to the delight of Mert and Marcus for Tom Ford‘s Violet Blonde fragrance. [Design Scene]

- Remember that time that London burned down? Yeah, me neither, but despite the rioting and the chaos, rest assured Anglophiles, London’s Fashion’s Night Out will continue as planned. [Fashionista]

- Robert Pattinson is on the rags. The Twilight heartthrob is coming out with his own Rags by Robert clothing line. [Refinery29]

- Andrej Pejic, professional androgyne and noted wit, once threw on a fake baby bump in an ode to his Victoria’s Secret brethren (sistren?) only to be stopped by airport customs who thought he was trying to smuggle drugs. Story of my life, except that my fake pregnancy was actually eight pounds of cocaine. You live you learn. [NY Mag]

Hailee Steinfeld

- Three of young Hollywood’s best, brightest and fiercest get LOVE‘d by Mert and Marcus: Hailee Steinfeld, Elle Fanning and Chloe Moretz grace the mag’s Issue No. 6. [Models.com]

First there’s the Newsweek cover, which becomes all the more terrifying the more you look at it. At first glance I thought, “Oh, that’s nice…” then I noticed how badly Photoshopped it is and that Diana has apparently been digitally aged to represent her 50 years. And then some.

Even more disturbing is Diana’s expression which seems to say “This is a really bad idea but I had no say in it and I am completely embarrassed to be dug up and put in what looks like an off-the-rack number from Sears.”

But now the article. Brown interviewed some 250 people for The Diana Chronicles so she knows a thing or two about the Lady Spencer. At 50, Brown asserts, Diana would — like her mother, “a handsome woman to the very end” — still be “great-looking” albeit “there is no doubt she would have kept her chin taut with strategic Botox shots and her bare arms buff from the gym.”

She would be friends with Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, dress like Michelle Obama, be jealous of Queen Rania of Jordan and sleep around with a lot of really rich dudes. That Dodi al-Fayed character, Brown conjectures, would be tossed to the wayside for his “hopeless unreliability.”

As for  her son William‘s new bride, Kate Middleton, Diana “would have had to adjust to a broadening of the limelight.” Brown cites a particular moment when Diana’s handsome mother, Frances Shand Kydd, “suddenly burst out” before her daughter’s marriage: “I have good long legs, like my daughter!”

Brown, no doubt sensing an unrelenting bitchiness in tone, goes on to highlight the Princess’ charity work and reasons that “in the world disasters of the last few years—9/11, the tsunamis, the Pakistan earthquake, Hurricane Katrina…Diana would have been first at the scene in a hard hat with a camera crew (and, by now, 10 million followers on Twitter).”

Newsweek seems particularly obsessed with Diana’s social media presence having doctored up these two gems:

That’s right, there’s an entire fake Facebook page — a Fauxbook, if you will — revealing that Diana would love her some Ramona Singer and Sue Sylvester. She’d also put aside that whole Charles and Camilla business. Not only would Parker-Bowles fictionally be her FBook friend but Prince Charles, as Brown believes, would be “her best male friend in later years.”

Reaction to the article has been divisive to say the least. The word tacky has been bandied about and many of the article’s 130 (and counting) comments use “tasteless,”  “offensive,” “inappropriate,” “disgusting” and “poor taste”; and at least one commenter was prompted to cancel her subscription.

I guess that’s what you get for disgracing a beloved celebrity’s image with a poorly-conceived and shoddily-executed publicity gimmick disguised as a tribute. Who knew?

What do you think of Newsweek‘s portrait of Diana at 50? [Newsweek]

barr & barr‘s line of luxury handbags has been on the market since 2000 and used in the wardrobes of iconic shows like Sex and the City and Will & Grace. You can expect the best from barr & barr, as only the finest materials and careful, by-hand craftsmanship will do for owner and designer Helen Barr.

How can you win this beautiful, timeless bag? Head over to Facebook, LIKE barr & barr‘s page and leave a comment telling us what essentials you would carry in your fab new handbag. Hurry, this giveaway will only be up for one week. Good luck!

Kate, it seems, is taking a page out of the Michelle Obama playbook by adhering to the rules of wardrobe diplomacy —  the practice, as The Financial Times‘ Vanessa Friedman explains it, “of a national leader (or leading representative) wearing clothes from the country they are visiting as a form of economic and cultural outreach.”

For her tour of Africa this week, the Fierce Lady has mixed and matched her Narciso Rodriguez and J. Crew staples with Nigerian-born designer Duro Olowu.

Meanwhile, DVF is a logical choice for Kate. Not only an iconic designer and president of the CFDA, the DVF wrap dress is the prototype for those damn Issa and Reiss dresses Kate can’t seem to get enough of.

I can’t wait to see what else Kate wears — especially since she’s picking out her own wardrobe like the down-to-earth princess she is. Personally I’m pulling for some other all-American designers  to cover that emaciated royal back of hers. Imagine, Princess Katherine in Alex Wang?  [Financial Times]

The Wedding of Laura Parker Bowles, (daughter of Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall) to Harry Lopes at St Cyriacs Church, Lacock, WIlts. Photo Ian Jones. Kate Middleton

Speaking with the Huffington Post, Enninful notes that while there are “still very few black people,” the American fashion industry has reassessed its approach to fashion. And who else do we have to thank but that certified brick house of a Fierce Lady, Michelle Obama:

“You know, for one of the most influential women in the country to be black. I know that meant a great deal to a lot of black people in the fashion industry. And also now we have Twitter, we have the internet, and I’ve seen so many young black people who are involved in fashion. They’re making their own clothes, they’re styling, they’re taking photographs, and I guess the future generation to come, they’re all racing to become one global fashion industry. That’s what I hope, anyway.”

Enninful goes on to describe working with Franca Sozzani on the now legendary “Black Issue” of Vogue Italia, claiming the editix “put her money where her mouth is”:

“She continued to feature black models, she continued to feature different body types or body shapes. She continued to challenge the norm, which is the question that we’ve been talking about, and I feel that’s what we want to take from W as well. We want to make everybody a part of the after-party.”

It’s kind of ridiculous that it’s 2011 and we’re still discussing racism at all, let alone racism in an industry as forward-thinking and revolutionary as fashion. Andrej Pejic just did double duty in mens and womenswear during São Paulo Fashion Week, after all.

Luckily there are people like Ed Enninful leading the way towards a new ethnically rich and diverse fashion frontier. [HuffPo]

Troops will meet at their local DavidBartonGym 15 minutes prior to the start of Camp David and jog as a unit to their drill location. Camp David is available to DavidBartonGym members and non-members in New York City, Chicago, Miami and Seattle, from June 1st to September 1st:

New York City

Tuesday 6:00-7:00pm

Thursday 7:00-8:00am

DavidBartonGym location: 30 East 85th Street

Drill location: Central Park at 86th Street and 5th

212-517-7577

Chicago, IL

Wednesdays 6:30-7:30pm

Saturdays 9:00-10:00am

DavidBartonGym location: 600 West Chicago Avenue

Drill location: Erie Park, 630 North Kingsbury Street

312-836-9127

Bellevue, WA

Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:00-8:00am

DavidBartonGym Location: 11111 Northeast 8th Street

Drill location: Downtown Park, 10201 Northeast 4th Street

425-453-7887

Miami, FL

Wednesdays 7:00-8:00pm

Saturdays 8:00-9:00am

DavidBartonGym location: 2323 Collins at Gansevoort Miami Beach

Drill location: Beach Club at Gansevoort 2323 Collins Miami Beach

305-534-2660

Finally a reason to wear my camo booty shorts! Well another reason besides these gams, of course.

Hillary Clinton getting the big picture in Rick Owens.

Fierce Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama telling it like it is in Proenza Schouler. What, no McQueen this time?

Doonan decided former Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko needed more Dior Haute Couture in her life. As does everyone.

Susie Bubble wants Home Secretary of the United Kingdom, Theresa May, bubbling up in Versus.

Though she hardly needs the help, Carla Bruni-Sarkozy gets reworked in Stella McCartney. Only gripe, where’s the goddamn heel?

Samantha Cameron, wife of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, looking felicitous in Felicity Brown.

Former French Presidential candidate Segolene Royal going to werq in Dries Van Noten.

Nicola Formichetti threw First Lady of Cameroon and all-around fabulous black lady Chantal Biya in some Mugler. That heel is presumably also 24 inches.

Queen Rania of Jordan gets short and flirty in Erdem. Meanwhile, she’s a queen, for Elizabeth II‘s sake, not a starlet going commando at a film premiere.

Last, and certainly least, Sarah Palin, looking chic on her way to ruin what’s left of America in Christopher Kane. I can hear her cackling even through this illustration.

What do you think of these politically-charged high fashion makeovers? Personally, I think Hillary looks the best out of all of them —  giving goddess realness while sacrificing none of the power she’s been harnessing in those pantsuits over the last decade or so.

Link Love: Vogue UK

The reclusive designer announced yesterday that he would present a line of “semicouture” during Paris’ Couture Fashion Week, which runs from July 4th-8th.

After the death of his sister in the mid-90s, Alaïa chose to retreat from the spotlight and presented only to a chosen few at his studio. Despite this, his designs remained popular with Madonna, Victoria Beckham, Carine Roitfeld, Michelle Obama and of course, adopted daughter, Naomi Campbell. [Vogue UK]

- Simon Doonan continues to be in the running for “World’s Best Person” with his advice to FIT grads: ”Make sure you have at least one drag queen in your life.” They’re very “life-affirming.” That’s the kind of real-world advice I like to hear. [Racked]

-Remember that time that Michelle Obama met Kate Middleton and I literally collapsed on the floor in a fit of screams and panting from all the fierceness. Because all of that happened. [The Cut]

- Behold new comedy duo Lady Gaga and David Letterman. They’re like an old Vaudeville act, if Vaudeville was full of ironic, egg-incubating popstars eating paper in nothing but a Viktor & Rolf jacket. Which it was. [Refinery29]

- A look back on the style of the romance of the century also known as Oprah and Gayle Stedman. [Fashionista]

- And of course, today is the last episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show. I haven’t seen it yet, but I can imagine when I do I will openly weep for hours until I eventually just turn into a pillar of salt. At least we still have OWN.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 24: US First Lady Michelle Obama (R) meets with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge at Buckingham Palace on May 24, 2011 in London, England. The 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, and his wife Michelle are in the UK for a two day State Visit at the invitation of HM Queen Elizabeth II. During the trip they will attend a state banquet at Buckingham Palace and the President will address both houses of parliament at Westminster Hall. (Photo by Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Michelle will be rated on the below categories, five being the highest and 1 being the lowest.

Fit: 5

Appropriateness: 5

Trendiness: 4

Styling: 4

Hair: 4

Makeup: 5

Pose: 5

Confidence: 5

Michelle looks angelic in this flow-y and elegant Tom Ford dress. I absolutely love her accessories – the sparkling earrings and clutch are perfection against the First Lady’s ivory frock. I love that she wore gloves; I might have done them just a bit shorter. But she looks fantastic and can do no wrong in this gown.

The Suit: Everyone knows that the suit makes the man and that’s why the Don wouldn’t be caught dead not wearing one. There are many suits that a guy can wear that will carry the same presence. For the more conservative exec a plain black suit that fits well is always recommended and adding a pinstripe in your repertoire will have people appreciating you attention to detail. For a bolder guy a suits with materials that have a little sheen are great and if you really want to turn head goes with a color like cranberry. (SEE: Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Brooks Brothers & Topman)

The Shirt: The same rules apply for the shirt as it did for the suit. You rarely see Donald on Celebrity Apprentice wearing a non solid color (or white for that matter) shirt. To make this look your own bust out this this mindset and go for your patterns. It’s always cool when you take your jacket off and there is a completely new look there. (SEE: Bloomindale’s, Saks, & Mr. Porter)

The Tie: When it comes to style I feel like if you walked into Trump Towers without a tie you would be fired immediately. The Trump man keeps it pretty simple with his neck wear. To add some spice go for a tie with patterns or even switch up the texture by adding knit and silk ties to your collection. (SEE: Ties.com, 21MEN, & EXPRESS)

- Karl Lagerfeld, contrary to popular belief, will not be involved in the creation of Paper Passion, a fragrance inspired by the smell of books as reflected in a badly-worded statement allegedly from his European PR  person. [Mimi Frou Frou]

- Vidal Sassoon? More like Vidal Sassy.When asked about Kate Middleton‘s hair, the iconic hair-raiser said that it was “kind of neither here nor there” and said of Michelle Obama, “Oh! What wonderful straightening techniques they have today.” Hmm, someone’s sharpened their scissors and they. Are. Out. [Financial Times]

- Sassoon might want to keep comments like that to himself, no matter how innocent, since the British police are not having it for the Royal Wedding. 5,000 cops will be on hand this Friday to ensure that no one ruins this most beautiful, and costly, of days. They are ready to respond “robustly, quickly and firmly,” which is coincidentally how I respond to most “threats” or as I like to refer to them, “come-ons.” [Reuters]

- Balmain officially announced today that Olivier Rousteing (whom Styleite pointed out is a total hottie, thank you) will supercede Christophe Decarnin. [NYT]

- Dov Charney‘s  been busy fellating various financial resources and he’s come up a winner! The professional perv has secured $15.2 million from investors to keep American Apparel from descending into a unique circle of hell reserved for overpriced crotchless pants. [WWD]

*The Queen, it should be noted, is a huge SATC fan, though. She’s a total Samantha.

- Flavor Flav, he always said he wanted to wear Big Ben as a necklace

- Michelle Obama, at least one of us will be wearing McQueen

- Cher, I really want to gay this wedding up and Elton John‘s been slacking lately

- Sean Penn, I have a thing for Madonna‘s exes

- Muammar Gaddafi, too soon?

- Lady Gaga, only so she can see what it feels like not being the center of attention

- Naomi Campbell, I already added blood diamonds to the bridal registry

- The girls of Sex and the City, I wonder if they can write me into the third movie

- Fergie, the one from the Black Eyed Peas

- And since I was a wee Kate, I’ve wanted The Spice Girls at my wedding!  Except Posh, I never really cared for her…

Lady GaGa oustide BBC Radio 1 Studios with her purple china teacup that she has been carrying around with her since her arrival in Great Britain London, Engalnd - 20.04.09 Mandatory Credit: WENN.com

Flavor Flav Fox Reality Presents "The Reality Remix Really Awards" - Arrivals Les Deux Hollywood, California United States October 24, 2006 Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic.com To license this image (11064695), contact FilmMagic: U.S. +1-212-812-4100 / U.K. +44-207-659-2813 / Australia +61-2-9006-1785 / Japan: +81-3-5464-7020 +1 212-202-7732 (fax) sales@filmmagic.com (e-mail) www.filmmagic.com (web site)

- No. Plastic. Hangers. EVER! Macy’s is trying to reduce the size of its stilettoed carbon footprint with a number of sustainability initiatives such as replacing clear, petroleum-based clear plastic hangers with black, matte hangers made from recycled materials. [WWD]

- The Twitterverse Is Abuzz! After self-described “Young Business Woman. Relentless Opportunist, Restless Optimist” Amber Atherton tweeted this pic of a label apparently bearing Carine Roitfeld‘s name, rumor has it the former Vogue Paris editor will toss her chapeau into the design realm. Though the skeptic in me thinks that label could easily say “Carrie Poitfeld”…especially since the garment seems to have been “Made in Korea.”[Fashionista]

- First Lady of America, and my heart, Michelle Obama may have a new stylist after parting seams with Meredith Koop. One of Mo’s favorite go-to designers, Peter Soronen, told a panel at the New York Public Library‘s “Why Style Matters” discussion: ”We heard that she [Koop]‘s gone already. So I’m not even sure who it is right now.” But Soronen’s colleague, Ellen Carey, doesn’t rule out the return of Mrs. Obama’s original stylist, Ikram Goldman. However, if she doesn’t mind catsuits, sequins and being draped in a wild assortment of dead animals, I’m more than willing to take over as Michelle Obama’s stylist. [The Cut]

- The people of Japan finally have something to celebrate! After being barraged by the elements, they’re about to be besieged by couture. Givenchy and Converse have shacked up and the result are these totally bad-ass Chuck Taylors, available exclusively in Japan, where they will go on sale at Converse and Givenchy stores April 27th. [Style.com]

@fashionindie: So, first things first, what are you wearing?

@marian_kihogo: today I like to call my look ‘car mechanic by way of the 70′s’ I’m in vintage jumpsuit-vintage headwrap-vintage accessories

@fashionindie: You’re speaking my language, lady. I knew I wanted you to be my 1st Tweet-à-Tête interview b/c of your incredible style.

@marian_kihogo: total honour for me, seeing that it’s fashion indie and it’s your first!

here is a pic of what I’m in today

@fashionindie: I’m living for that scarf. Where’d you get it?

@marian_kihogo: the scarf is actually the product of a long story.To cut it short,I bought it off a lovely elderly lady She had it on her bag!

I paid her in bangle. We did a swap on a bus. Hilarious story, told you it was long

@fashionindie: I remember when I first saw you at NYFW. 12 ft tall, stunning, black head2toe, black fur coat, FUCHSIA LIP. #dead

It was like you were the walking embodiment of fierce. What inspires your style?

@marian_kihogo: thank you so much. Over the winter it was all about the faux fur and fuchsia lip. Something so rock’n'roll glam about it

my style has always been directed by the emotive plus a love of the 70′s,sharp tailoring & a need to express a present moment

I’m inspired by everything and nothing; a film, a moment, a woman on the street, a song, a place, inspiration is all around

@fashionindie: I’m all about the 70s. It’s funny you’re werqing a 70s car mechanic look, I was going for 70s college art prof.

@marian_kihogo: I love that ’70s college art prof’ I might have to try that tonight for a clients party

@fashionindie: Feel free, it’s all about a cardigan.

@fashionindie: When I actually spoke to you, I wasn’t at all surprised you were British. The Br. fashion scene’s always been so cutting edge

@marian_kihogo: I think it is because the UK has always been known for experimentation, that certain spirit of fearless willingness to create

the fashion scene here is such a mix. The slick established luxury – eg Burberry to the clever wit – Giles etc

we are fashion’s ‘enfant terrible’ but it has birthed incredible talent

@fashionindie: I agree. In NY it feels like you can always wear anything or try anything, but there’s no sense of rebellion. Are u a rebel?

@marian_kihogo: Im most defo a rebel in a sense.I’ve always lived by the ideal that the mass market is myself.what I want to wear for me goes

but I think that rebel is in every creative,a need to create a new path, to dress to pls self. No real creative can be a clone

@fashionindie: Rebel w/ a cause. Do u have any labels you absolutely can’t live w/o? Or are u more of an eclectic anything goes kind of gal?

@marian_kihogo: wow I’m more of a ‘does it move marian?’ kind of girl

so if it moves me it is a done deal. All I ever bought fashion wise challenged me mentally/emotionally.style is emotive

so designers like. Ana Šekularac, Jean Pierre Braganza, McQueen, Balenciaga, Halston, Prada (maria francesca pepe)@MFPepe

have become faves over time because I resonate with their vision, aesthetic and journey as creatives

@fashionindie: I’m looking over some preview images from the #McQueen #Met retrospective. It’s breathtaking.

@marian_kihogo: there will never be another McQueen; the fearlessness, the vision, the technical ability, the ability to weave a story

@fashionindie: So true. Though I love what Sarah Burton‘s been doing with the house. Are you interested at all in the #RoyalWedding ?

@marian_kihogo: ha I knew a question about the #RoyalWedding was coming! I’m actually interested in the gown. hoping for contemporary

@fashionindie: It’s all I hear about! Americans haven’t been this Anglophilic since the Spice Girls. I think we all love a giant spectacle.

@marian_kihogo: well hold your prada clutches and Dolce corset dresses as something tells me it is going to be huge

@fashionindie: But as a Brit, does it mean anything to you besides the gown? #stillhoping4McQ Is there a patriotic pride attached?

@marian_kihogo: there is patriotic pride attached as I think the Royal family is a beautiful thing. So for me, a new princess is exciting

there is a feeling of being all part of an extended bridal party as it were. Like one big party celebrating with them

@fashionindie: It seems to really bring the country together.

@marian_kihogo: Well put!

@fashionindie: I know here, our 1st Lady has a tremendous influence on fashion. Will it be the same for Kate?

@marian_kihogo: I think Kate will have an influence on fashion. Whether she will have as much effect as Princess Diana remains to be seen

I know a few people who are already tipping her as icon, there are those who went out and bought the Issa engagement dress

@fashionindie:  That dress was cute and all but Di’s a huge legacy 2 live up 2. So tell me about your blog? How’d you get started?

@marian_kihogo: my blog was actually the internet version of a scrapbook I’d compiled over yrs. It had fabric scraps,images, quotes etc

if I found something thought provoking/inspiring, it went into that tattered book. When I moved and lost it, the blog was born

@fashionindie: That’s brilliant! And you’ll never lose it, unless the internet disappears. #knockonwood And how did you get into styling?

@marian_kihogo: I started styling at 14,my friends mother looked a mess for dinner. I cut up her designer dress. She became my 1st client.

@fashionindie: “my friends mother looked a mess for dinner.” I hope you’re as honest with your other clients!

@marian_kihogo: oh honesty(with tact no doubt!:) is an important policy and most people value and respect it.

@fashionindie:  What’s a typical styling gig?

@marian_kihogo: there is no typical styling gig! That’s why I love it.

Everything from pre-styling someone for an alps winter get-a-away for month to a red carpet function.Its fun-hectic-constant

@fashionindie: When dressing a client, do you buy what you think THEY would like or what YOU would want to see them in?

@marian_kihogo: that’s a great question. It is always about what they like, what image they want to have the public see.

with clients we work to suit an image they want to create-develop-maintain.I offer tips/ideas but they must be happy

so it is a very symbiotic relationship. They provide the desired dream image and style icons, I bring the fuel with ideas

@fashionindie: Okay, for my final question. Music and fashion always go hand in hand for me. What are you listening to these days?

@marian_kihogo: love your last question! Rihanna‘s Loud album is fantastic, Notorious Big(brilliant), Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix

I am a huge music fan both new and old. Music and fashion go hand in hand.Thanks for the tweet-interview. Glam kisses, Marian

Michelle will be rated on the below categories, five being the highest and 1 being the lowest.

Fit: 5

Appropriateness: 5

Trendiness: 4

Styling: 5

Shoes: 5

Hair: 4

Makeup: 4

Pose: 5

Confidence: 5

The First Lady, working it as always, looks fresh, sophisticated and gorgeous in this embellished look. All women could and should take some style tips from her.

- Aguilera’s alcoholism knows no boozy bounds. [Celebitchy]

- Kirsten Dunst steps in to fill Julianne Moore‘s nonexistent shoes at Bulgari. Dunst won’t have to suckle any cubs, however, as the lion is now fully grown. Cue the opening to “Circle of Life.” [Huff Po]

- OMG, even James Franco‘s design illustration for his Gucci tux at the Oscars is dreamy. And, let’s be real, probably stoned too. [Style.com]

- Rachel Zoe thought her water could “totally break” at the opening for the new Tom Ford store on Rodeo Drive last night. That baby’s first words would have been, “I. Die.” [NY Mag]

- Lady Gaga‘s perfume will contain samples of her blood and will smell like an “expensive hooker.” [Huff Po]

- Salvatore Ferragamo was a friend of Dorothy. The designer created Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers for The Wizard of Oz, and is one of many designers to have collaborated in film. From Coco Chanel to Rodarte, explore a brief history of fashion in film. [Style.com]

- Just when you thought the White House couldn’t get more fierce, there’s a new bitch in town. Jeremy Bernard is the brand new, openly gay White House Social Secretary. I can’t wait for him and Mo to get mani-peds together while dishing over Barack‘s approval rating. In the bedroom. Go head girl! [Gawker]

- Ladies at the Oscars this year are not fucking around with their heels The rule is go sky high or go home. [NY Mag]

Photo: Celebitchy/WENN

[Above: Dangerously glamorous Michelle]

[Fashionista Michelle]

[First Lady-like Michelle]

[Charity benefit Michelle]

[State dinner Michelle]

[Interview-ready Michelle]

[Parade-waving Michelle]

[Easter Sunday Michelle]

[Presidential arm candy Michelle]

[Cute as a bow Michelle]

[Summer casual Michelle]

Follow these 11 looks, and channel your inner-Michelle. You’ll be on your way to “lady-dom” in no time!

This February 2009 photo released by The White House Feb. 27, 2009, shows the official portrait of first lady Michelle Obama taken in the Blue Room of The White House in Washington. (AP Photo/The White House, Joynce N. Boghosian)

- Alexis and Krystal Carrington have been turned into Barbie dolls for the 30th anniversary of Dynasty. Mattel has somehow perfected Alexis’ signature snide British bitchery though I was hoping Krystal would have the linebacker shoulders of her real life counterpart. They should’ve just dressed Ken up in drag…not like he has any business to tuck. [Gawker]

- Lauren Conrad claims that her new reality show, which would follow the creation of her new line, was “too high brow” for MTV. Of course in MTV speak, “high brow” means boring and lacking enough jacuzzi’d threesomes. [Fashionista]

- ESPN‘s manly “commentators drool over other men’s abs, thighs and guns. ESPN The Magazine’s response to the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue is its Body issue, which features entirely naked men (and some women).” Meanwhile, when I drool over other men’s abs, thighs and guns it’s all, “Dude, stop filming me in the shower.” Double standards. [NYT]

- Gaga may lend a helping claw to stylist/bff/Mugler creative director Nicola Formichetti by wearing Mugler to Grammys. Fingers crossed for a “Paparazzi”-themed robotic body cast! [NY Mag]

- People still care about Michelle Obama‘s McQueen dress. Meanwhile, in other news Egypt is falling apart. [MSNBC, The Daily Beast]

- Elle Fanning stars in The Curve of Forgotten Things, a short film in collabo with Rodarte, which will premiere tomorrow on Nowness.com. Let’s hope Kate and Laura negotiated their credits better this time around. [WWD]

- Gemma Ward returns for her first editorial in literally one hundred years. A little flat, but then again it’s for some Australian magazine no one cares about. Call me when she’s in a European Vogue and I might pick up. [Fashionista]

- Even Steven Shia LeBouf was handcuffed after getting into a bar fight in L.A. The fight erupted after some guy called the Transformers star a “f*gg*t,” but when Shia lunged at him he got ka-powed in the face and suffered a split lip. That’s not nice at all! Leave that little f*gg*t alone! [Daily Mail]

Horyn already expressed her approval of the gown, stating that it “recalled some of the opulent state dinners of the Reagan era” and trumpeted the gown’s approapriate level of “pomp”.  She also understands the subsequent fallout that has occurred, led by Oscar “The Grouch” de la Renta, over choosing a foreign designer for such an important occasion:

“His [de la Renta's] business is based in the garment district, and by using local factories for most of his production, he contributes to its prosperity. This is an important issue to him.”

She is less sympathetic, however, to the CFDA, whom she sees as being more than just a bit hypocritical in their condemnation and are simply trying to “goad” Mrs. O into wearing American designers:

“The truth is many of its members, including its president, Diane Von Furstenberg, manufacture a significant portion of their clothes outside the United States, mainly in Asia.”

But given the heated rhetoric over one gown chosen for one event over one week ago, Horyn thinks — and rightfully so —  that attention is being taken away from Mobama’s substantial accomplishments.

“I want her to be known for something other than her fashion. I want her to be a great first lady who truly cares about the lives of Americans at the time when many need help. I want her to be far more than “prime placement” for a dress label — whatever the country of origin. She supports a number of causes, notably healthful eating habits, but these deeds are being overshadowed by what she wears.”

Horyn goes on to cite an article in The Economist that expressed the hope “to hear more about what Mrs Obama thinks and a lot less about what she wears.”

That article, published during the first months of Barack Obama‘s administration, cited Michelle Obama’s impressive background  — she graduated cum laude from Princeton and earned her law degree from Harvard before embarking on a successful career in the public and private sector — and credited her hands-on approach during the 2008 election, traveling around the country giving “intelligent, substantive and well-delivered” speeches in support of her husband.

Ever since that election the White House, according to the article, has tamed down this image, trying “its best to turn the first lady into a celebrity mother-cum-clothes-horse,” in reaction to Hillary Clinton‘s  forthrightness during the first years of the Clinton administration.

“Hillary Clinton’s determination to act as a virtual co-president back in 1993 helped to create a backlash against her husband’s administration. It also raised uncomfortable questions about power and accountability. Given America’s continued neuroses about race, an outspoken black first lady might prove to be even more divisive than an outspoken white one.”

Not only would an “outspoken black first lady be divisive,” it would be downright alienating.  It’s true that Mrs. O has taken a back seat to her husband — his position practically calls for it — but that has not reduced her own merits. It’s really America’s perception of the Obamas and who Americans want them to be and want them to represent that has dictated this fanatic fascination with her sense of style.

At the onset of the Obama administration, there was an excitement that everything would be different, better. A sort of optimism that was frequently compared to John F. Kennedy‘s election some 50 years prior. And  with this new, black Camelot came — as The Economist put it — the “Jackiefication” of Michelle Obama.

Couple that with the fact that the Obamas were younger, more attractive and more accessible than any first family since the Kennedys and the American public couldn’t help but slip Michelle into Jackie Kennedy‘s iconic pillbox hat. It was all part of the optimism, but with this comparison we lost or forgot or chose to forget the Michelle Obama of the campaign trail; the passionate, articulate Ivy-league educated attorney who stood beside her husband rather than behind him.

It’s easy to forget that despite her flirtations with couture and high society, Jackie Kennedy was also a well-educated woman with her own opinions who later in life had a successful career as a book editor.  Hillary Clinton simply reinvented what a First Lady could do and hers is a large pantsuit to fill.

Horyn believes that the only person who can change the perception of Michelle Obama is Michelle Obama. But it’s all part of a great balancing act. After all, Michelle Obama represents so many things to so many people.  As an African American, she is an inspiration for all minorities; as a successful woman, she is an inspiration for other women; as first Lady of the United States, she is the face of America and a champion for civil causes; but at the end of the day she is a woman and like most women her clothes are an extension of her.

It’s impossible to please everyone, particularly when everyone has an opinion about what you say, where you go and what you wear. No doubt it would behoove the press to focus on the causes Mo champions, but let’s be real, that shit doesn’t sell. And if there’s one thing Americans respond to it’s celebrity culture. There are no bigger celebrities in the world than the Obamas and like all celebrities, we as a culture love to build them up and tear them down, only to build them up back again.

This dress controversy will blow over, but how will history remember Michelle Obama? Will she be proactive like Hilary? A style icon like Jackie? A lush like Betty? Sure Mo has a hand in her legacy, but America will remember what it chooses to remember. Thats the way history works. It’s written selectively by the winners, so for all her degrees and her speeches and her social work, will she only be remembered for a few great dresses?

We’ll have to wait to see how the rest of her husband’s presidency goes before we can even begin to answer that.

Link Love: New York Times

“CFDA believes in promoting American fashion. 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.”

For Barack’s sake, can a bitch just wear some McQueen?

Honestly, if I were the First Lady of the United States (there’s still time!) I would openly wear French couture and thumb my nose at any one who dared question me. And I would use taxpayer’s money to foot the bill.

Steven Kolb, Executive Director of the CFDA, however, seems to honor a woman’s prerogative and came to Mo’s defense saying:

“Mrs. Obama is the First Lady, but she’s also an individual and she’s a woman. She’s going to dress in clothes that she looks good in and that she feels comfortable in. I don’t think she’s making a statement by not wearing someone. She’s just choosing clothes as a woman.”

And what woman wouldn’t want to wear any of Alexander McQueen’s gorgeous gowns?

Link Love: WWD

Photo: Huffington Post

According to WWD:

“My understanding…is that the visit was to promote American-Chinese trade — American products in China and Chinese products in America. Why do you wear European clothes?…I’m not talking about my clothes, my business. I’m old, and I don’t need it. But there are a lot of young people, very talented people here who do.”

Barring the fact that de la Renta has been outfitting First Ladies since before Betty Ford had her clinic, Mo has a well-documented reputation of wearing and supporting lesser known American designers.

Bitter, much?

Robin Givhan, however, felt — rather intensely — that the nationality of the designer had less to do with her choice than what the gown meant as a statement:

“The red petal print, silk organza gown wasn’t so much an act of diplomacy as a broad statement about the new realities of the fashion industry. In choosing a dress from Alexander McQueen, Mrs. Obama championed the cause of artisan design, the legacy of bespoke tailoring, and the staggering creativity that can be nurtured in the frock trade when it is at its best.”

Or she thought, “Hey, it’s China, they’re communists, right? Give me that McQueen number, hack off the sleeves and sweep my hair up in a regal crown, I’m reading to orphan children right now.”

I’m sure there was more than that to Mo’s decision, but the extent of Givhan’s analysis might be a little over the top. Still she makes an incredibly incisive and enlightening point:

“In wearing the gown to honor China, a country that many view with disdain for its abundance of cheap labor, counterfeit products, and poor labor practices, Mrs. Obama seemed to be recognizing the country’s inevitable place in the fashion cycle and giving it its due. Indeed, Chinese consumers represent a vast new marketplace for designer companies, and the production quality of its factories continues to improve. In short, Mrs. Obama’s choice was an optimistic celebration of all that fashion can be and it seemed to suggest that China was welcome to be a part of that vision.”

I’m going to say it once, if you like it you should throw a goddamn Pulitzer at it. Again.

Link Love: NY Mag