Haltered States
Evoking the liberated, can-do babes of the '70s (think Kate Jackson in Charlie's Angels), designers from Giorgio Armani to Carolina Herrera have revived the slinky halter dress. The bold versions seen on spring runways come in sensual fabrics including silk and liquid jersey—instead of, say, quiana—and plummet to the waistline in some cases (time for the double-stick tape). Why take the plunge? "Halter dresses look elegant and sophisticated, and they make women feel sexy," says Max Azria of BCBG. Gloria Reuben agrees: "They're very flattering; I have quite broad shoulders, and I love how halters make my shoulders and neckline look. Any chance I get—winter or summer—I'll put one on." Floor-length or daring mini, this look says, "I am woman." And what could be groovier than that?

behind the seams

MOST IMPROVED
Leaving London for L.A. in February'01, Pamela Anderson looked out of place (if in character) as a Baywatch honey—bouncy hair, tight skirt, revealing top. But at Heathrow this March, bound for L.A. again, she was a perfect lady—sleek ponytail, neat trench and quiet slingbacks. Is she channeling Grace Kelly? Time will tell...

MALE POLISH: Before the Oscars, Best Actress and Best Actor hopefuls can indulge in at-home spa treatments from Estée Lauder. A bod squad including eyebrow queen Anastasia Soare and dermatologist Dr. Daniel Taheri is on call to buff Jack Nicholson, Nicolas Cage and other nominees. The deal also includes Manolo Blahnick pedicure sandals and Veuve Clicquot (guess you'd call that a booty treatment)....

BIRDS OF A FEATHER: In Milan, Donatella Versace and Christina Aguilera teamed up at the designer's show on March 4 to announce that Christina will be Versace's face for fall. (Or were they posing for the poster of
Goldilocks, the Rock Opera?)...

FASHION STATEMENT: No gift bags at L.A.'s Independent Spirit Awards: Instead, Express will suggest that stars give back to the shrinks or handbag holders who have helped keep them afloat. Nominees can select an Express outfit to send with a thank-you note: "Dear (what was your name again?)"...

AND THE WINNER IS:... Revlon's Oscar goody bag will go not only to nominees like Salma Hayek but also to two lucky star-gazers outside the Kodak Theatre. Fans in the bleachers will receive pouches with Moisturous Lipcolor; inside, two will find tickets good for the haul sent to celebs (tears and speeches optional).

THE GOLDEN RULE: THINK BIG
Suddenly, celebrity style setters are adorning themselves with queen-size gold necklaces and pendants. Vintage or modern, these regal pieces have a single theme: The bolder, the better. "Even when you pile it on," says Yossi Harari (who designed Heidi Klum's necklace), "the effect is still elegant." (Talk about showing your assets!)

I Really Love My...
...Yves Saint Laurent sandals. On the premiere and awards-show circuit, Best Actress nominee Julianne Moore stepped out in $425 patent leather-and-velvet open-toe heels from the YSL Fall 2002 collection—pairing them with luxe fabrics for a look that's Close to Heaven.

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