And speaking of Jean Desses ...

I've long been reading about Kerry Taylor Auctions , which is apparently the leading auction house for antique and vintage fashion; Vogue magazine declares that I can pick up a piece of classic couture from Kerry for a steal. However today is the first opportunity I've had to actually look through the whole on-line catalogue for an upcoming auction. All I can say is WOW.

I was drooling over Marisa Tomei's shocking pink 1950's Jean Desses frock this week, and Kerry Taylor has a number of stunning and singular 1950's and 1960's Jean Desses creations on offer, guaranteed to make your eyes water. For anyone who is not a struggling arts publicist in the midst of planning a wedding, perhaps you'd like to consider one of these ...

I think the two-tone blue draped cocktail frock is my favourite, but I'd be quite happy to receive any or all of them as a gift. For those of you who are a fan of the label, it is worth jumping onto the site to see the frocks from all angles. The last sparkly blue number features a low back and generous bow detail.

The current auction - scheduled for December 8 - is entitled Passion for Fashion & Fine Textiles including an important Audrey Hepburn Collection. There is a plethora of understated but chic Givenchy and Valentino items that the style icon herself owned, wore and in some instances lovingly bequeathed to friends.

There is also this beautiful ball-gown, which was not owned by Audrey and is also not a Jean Desses, but is in fact a 1950's Paquin creation that I just had to include in this post because it is so sublime. And lo and behold it features beaded tulle. Sigh.