Musette Spotlights HEARTTHROBS

heart·throb
n.
A pulsation of the heart; a heartbeat.
Sentimental or tender emotion.
Infatuation.
A Sweetheart.

Musette spotlights the onscreen men we will never, ever forget.

The Unlikely Yet Totally Irresistible Heartthrob:
John Cusack as Lloyd Dobler in Say Anything 1989
He was a mumbling, designated driving, trench coat wearing fool in Cameron Crowe's Say Anything, but something about Lloyd Dobler still makes the heart go pitter-pat. Lloyd believed in true love and had the endearing summer goal simply to be 'a great date' to the perfect Diane Court. But ultimately Dobler's heartthrob status is gained when he blasts Peter Gabriel's In Your Eyes from a gigantic boombox for his one and only to hear. Now that is wooing at it's finest.

The Dark Horse Of A Heartthrob:
Jake Gyllenhaal as Donnie Darko in Donnie Darko 2001
Before Jake belonged to Reese, was in films such as The Day After Tomorrow, and could be seen cycling with Lance Armstrong, he was Donnie Darko-the dark and edgy object of our infatuation. Confused and subject to obscure hallucinations, Donnie possesses heartthrob qualities as a result of his looks, (hot!) and his eerie conviction regarding the fate of the world. Not many troubled teens could convince us the world will end in 28 days because of a message he got from a giant bunny, but somehow our Darko does it.

The Guy We Wish We Knew In High School Heartthrob:
Michael Schoeffling as Jake Ryan in Sixteen Candles 1984
Scoring the hottest guy in school is pretty good compensation when your parents forget your birthday. Molly Ringwald, queen of 80's cinema, nabs her man after a series of embarrassing events, although we can't help but be more than a little jealous. Perfect hair, bod, clothes and deep, deep voice, Jake Ryan is a high school hunk with a sensitive side. When he chooses the quirky Miss Ringwald over his perky and popular girlfriend, Jake peaks to eternal heartthrob ranks.

The Why Can't Men Be Like That Anymore Heartthrob:
Gregory Peck as Joe Bradley in Roman Holiday 1953
Finding a drugged up woman asleep on a bench seems a suitable build up to a scandal, but not when Gregory Peck is the leading man. After this gallant and charming journalist brings a semi-conscious princess back to his apartment for the night, he tucks her into bed and takes an admirable place on the couch. This tale would probably pan out differently in today's big bad world, especially when a woman that even slightly resembles Audrey Hepburn is involved. However, Gregory Peck was a rare gem of a man whose stand-up nature and debonair looks place him in a heartthrob category all of his own.

Musette Hall of Fame 1

The Model: Lara Stone
Lara Stone is a bodacious babe that came leaping onto the scene, prominent eyebrows, big breasts, gapped teeth and all. Stone was quickly embraced by ID magazine and adored by Calvin Klein for her standout looks and healthy figure. Lara breathes new life into an industry where girls are plummeting to scarily low weights. This model will forever be a Hall of Famer for ignoring the fashion pack rats that have been known to say "we don't want you to be anorexic, we just want you to look it." Yikes! Go Lara!

The Director: Sophia Coppola
We heard The Strokes in Versailles, got fashion inspiration to last a lifetime, and fell in love with Bill Murray. How could this have happened without the directorial help of Sophia Coppola? She is responsible for the coolest films of our generation, and when caught in front of the camera, Sophia is every bit as chic as you could hope her to be. With a father in Francis Ford, a cousin in Jason (be still my heart) Schwartzman, and a brother in the über-cool Roman, Musette dibs a seat at Sophia's next family get-together.

The Designer: Doo Ri
Doo Ri Chung went from a one woman design house based in the basement of her family's dry cleaning business to the CFDA's darling. Her trademark shirts and jersey dresses may not be the most radical or cutting edge items on the market, but their quality, classic aesthetic and perfect fit make her label a favourite. With the sweetest of demeanor's, beautiful personal style, and self-made rags to riches tale, Musette gladly inducts Ms. Doo Ri.

The Actress: Maggie Gyllenhaal She has a slew of blockbusters under her belt, a famous husband, and a killer wardrobe, yet Maggie G. still seems like the type of gal you could get to know at your local haunt over cheap wine and french fries. With a down to earth look, the loveliest of smiles, and a knack for scoring super-cool film roles, Maggie possesses a sincerity many of her Hollywood cohorts lack. We love her as a submissive secretary, French speaking party girl, and Donnie Darko's sister. Marrying Jake seems tempting simply to be able to call Maggie 'sister in law.'

Musette Look of the Week

Charlotte Casiraghi at the Moscow Art Center
It is no secret that Musette is a fan of Charlotte Casiraghi, (see the Bright Young Things Best Dressed List for proof,) and a look like this simply feeds the obsession. For the opening of the Moscow Center of Contemporary Culture-ah Russia, how chic!-Charlotte transformed the simplest of little black dresses into elegance epitomised. Finishing off the look with red lips, fab shoes, and a perfect pout to boot, Charlotte got it all right once again. If you are going to swan around an art opening with Jeff Koons and a spoonful of caviar, you might as well do it in style.
As the working week comes to a close, inspiration is found via our favourite pseudo-royal. Thanks Charlotte!
x Musette

Musette Honours ALBUM COVERS

Clouds (1969)
She was the queen of all the flower children; the folk singing goddess of the hippie era. Joni Mitchell's naturalistic self-portrait that appeared on the cover of her second studio album, Clouds, seems to assert this well earned status beautifully. On the cover of a compilation consisting only of acoustic guitar and Mitchell's crystal clear voice, the singer portrays herself, piercing eyes, vibrant flower and all, on a backdrop of her hometown of Saskatoon in Saskatchewan, Canada, long before the days of commercial development. For the woman who made the words, pave paradise and put up a parking lot, famous, it seems a rather fitting image. Mitchell is undoubtedly a jack of all creative trades, but claims the visual arts as her foremost passion. It is no wonder she is responsible for each cover of her twenty one albums to date. Joni has remarked she is a "painter derailed by circumstance," yet Musette chooses to think of her as a woman who can do anything.

Musette Beauty File II

OH OH CHERIE!: FRANCOISE HARDY
Rising to fame in the early 60's with albums in both French and English, songstress Francoise Hardy possessed a unique look men could not resist, and women found hard to resent. Francoise has had the public in awe of her ever since she was the original'Yeh Yeh' Girl From Paris.With her fans ever faithful, it wasn't long until Bob Dylan was writing odes to Hardy in the cover sleeves of his albums, and director John Frankenheimer was casting her in the soon to be classic Grand Prix. Francoise has always had the ability to enchant even her most discerning peers.Francoise Hardy's cool factor was not short-lived by any means. Hipsters, intellectuals and rebels alike adored this beauty's voice and style during her musical heyday, yet years later she is inspiring Balenciaga collections and attracting collaborators such as Iggy Pop.
Francoise Hardy alone could make us all devout Francophiles; everything about this gal is truly worship-worthy.

Musette's ROCKING Style File

Is the thought that you will never look as cool as your favourite rock star getting you down?
Well cheer up, because Musette demonstrates how easy it is to channel rock idols without looking like you are headed to a costume party.

Exhibit A
PATTI SMITH
If you can't seem to duplicate her singing voice then borrow Patti's consistently androgynous look and make it your own.Team a pair of skinny trousers with ankle boots, a loose top, and a boxy blazer or waistcoat. Ditch the make-up for a day and walk with a swagger only Patti can top. Perfected above by Alexander Wang-Fall 2008 RTW

Exhibit B
David Bowie as ZIGGY STARDUST
Always wanted to get in touch with Bowie's wild alter ego? Following in his fashion footsteps does not have to be as wacky as you think. Now is the time to embrace 'skin tight,' whether it be in the form of a mini dress, (as seen in the Balmain Fall 2008 RTW collection) or a daring uni-tard. Go all out with bright make-up such as electric eyeshadow, bright blushes or matte, stained lips...Not all at once though, please.

Exhibit C
JANIS JOPLINIf you can't get enough of that husky voice and iconic style, be free to step up to the 60's fashion plate.Pair a tie-dyed top or pants with something more basic to balance it all out. While remembering to wear your hair wild, look out for a pair of round sunnies to complete this psychedelic look.

Tackle the Burrrrs With Violets for your Furs

Winter doesn't have to be all about pasty skin, wind burn and numb fingertips. In fact, the coziest of all seasons has potential to be just as romantic as the warm summer sun.

Princess Grace is adored by fans on a chilly Manhattan street.

Ali McGraw and Ryan O'Neal make the most of the snowy weather in a scene from Love Story, 1970.

Take a cue from Ali and Grace by embracing the cold instead of cursing it.
Marni Fall 2008 RTW

Don't be afraid to go all out this winter in elaborate warm woollies that will have every passerby gazing in envy.
Marc Jacobs Fall 2008 RTW

When the winter blues are getting you down do not despair; wrap up in your favorite scarf, let the nippy air invigorate you, and whistle that oh so relevant tune by Billie Holiday:

It was winter in Manhattan
Falling snowflakes filled the air
The streets were covered with a film of ice
But a little simple magic that I'd heard about somewhere
Changed the weather all around, just within a trice

You bought me violets for my furs
And there was blue in the wintry sky
You pinned the violets to my furs
And gave a lift to the crowds passing by
You smiled at me so sweetly
Since then one thought occurs
That we fell in love completely
The day you bought me violets for my furs

Many butterfly kisses & snow angels from Musette to you x

Let's Go Away...To St Tropez

This summer, capture the spirit of all that is glamorous by seeking inspiration from 1960's St Tropez. This French gem of a town has long been a magnet for the rich and fabulous, most famously the quintessential sex kitten, Brigitte Bardot. Bardot made fashion waves on sea and land, sporting itty-bitty bikinis on Riva motorboats, and floppy hats and strappy sandals while lounging at cafes. Whether you are luxuriating at the beach or hitting the city sidewalks during your next holiday, reuse the looks that BB made so memorable by sporting 60's inspired luxury leisure-wear that will make your summer as shiny and shimmery as it should be.Borrow ideas from Chanel's beyond cool 2009 Resort collection in classic dresses, flared trousers, plaited headbands and timeless hats. Take time to embrace your inner French bombshell by soaking up the rays in a vintage inspired two piece, (like the Calvin Klein beaut featured above.) Strap on a pair of espadrilles, and be sure to demand a new speedboat with every summer fling-just as Brigitte did.

PS Those who are on the other side of the world and rugging up for winter, stay tuned!

Musette Loves: A Travel Pro On The Go!

Adorable, artistic, and fashionable, Emma Tramposch is some sort of enviable jetsetter. Always cute and comfy while on the go-go, Emma's job as Project Coordinator for famed artist Guillermo Gomez-Pena takes her from NYC to Portugal in the blink of an eye. When she isn't organising sold out perfomances, Emma can be found rambling around San Francisco with her sweetheart Boyd, sipping coffee at some special local spots, and peacing out to the likes of Cocorosie and Wolf Parade.

"Oh, The Places You'll Go!"For a relaxing five day getaway in the beautiful island of Nantucket, Emma brings along an array of bohemian summer blouses-perfect for the warm sun and sea air.
From left: Tops from the Gap, Peko 1988, vintage, and Nolita.

"Let's Get Lost"
In a super-cute le Sportsac, Emma unpacks necessities such as Pierre Hardy for the Gap gladiator sandals, a Marimekko jewelry purse, (holding favourites from Skylark boutique in New Zealand, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and South Africa) t-shirts and headbands from American Apparel and a skirt from Anthropologie. Oh and a pair of Chucks-of course!

"The Captain Has Turned Off The Seatbelt Sign"
Emma thanks the likes of Jurlique, Bumble and Bumble, MAC and Fresh for her clear skin and in place curls at the end of a long haul flight.

Musette inquires as to how this worker bee manages to keep it all together in the air and on land.
Sum up your personal style in three words.
Ecclectic I guess.
Who are your style icons?
My sister Molly. Guillermo Gomez-Pena. Punky Brewster.
In my opinion, people I know personally and don't have a stylist are the most original.With the exception of Punky of course, who I only know on a spiritual level.
You travel a lot for work, what is your ideal plane outfit?
My ideal outfit would be one of those zip-up polar-fleece suits. But since I wouldn't get through security with that on just some comfy pants and a top that involves a hood of some kind. I like to transform into a cocoon on long flights.
If they lost your bag in transit what would you be most lost to go without?
I worry about that possibility so I usually pack my favorite things in a carry on.
Darn those TSA guidelines! What wee items do you bundle into your transparent baggie?
Facesoap, moisturizer, toothpaste, small face-cloth, hand sanitizer, Origins moisturizing face mask.
I've caught you on holiday, what do you like to wear most on the cobblestone streets of Nantucket?
All things madras! Just jokes, at this time of year, anything light-weight and comfortable.
How about reading material-what do you like to curl up with on holiday?
On the plane I catch-up on magazine reading which I never seem to have a chance to do at home. Harper's and Cabinet are my favorites.
Cute carry-on. What usually is in that bag of tricks?
Laptop, reading materials, ipod, something warm to put on in case the person next to me is a fan of the overhead AC!
Adrien Brody just called and wants to hang out in the flight lounge! What are you going to wear?!
I'd probably ask him if I could just borrow some of his clothes from The Darjeeling Limited.
Any final tips for packing well?
Outfits! I plan outfits that I don't necessarily wear when I get there but at least it usually means I haven't forgotten anything.
I also try to pack a few days ahead so I can edit down. I love packing but get obsessed by it. I try to only bring things I feel good in.

x Musette x

Musette is Listening & Liking

The idea of Scarlett Johansson making an album was initially disconcerting. She was in a Justin Timberlake video and a Disneyworld campaign after all. But once contributers such as DAVID BOWIE and NICK ZINNER, (from the Yeah Yeah Yeah's,) got on board, and TOM WAITS himself gave the thumbs up, this beauty's debut musical effort was looking pretty appealing. Anywhere I Lay My Head covers Scarlett's favourite Tom Waits songs, while featuring one track she wrote herself. Of Waits' diverse appeal, the budding songstress tells ID magazine, "I think he's an artist who has a very different song for every occasion." Scarlett's characteristically deep and husky voice comes across cool and fresh, and her slightly monotone range is reminiscent of The Velvet Underground's very own Nico. Musette bets this album will be appreciated by fans and skeptics alike, for it's unique approach and high quality result.

Falling Down from Anywhere I Lay My Head
x Musette

Musette Movie Magic TAKE TWO!

Musette Takes Two by appreciating some of film's greatest female characters, and the outfits that made them.

Jeanne Moreau as Catherine in Jules et Jim 1962Irrational, manic and astoundingly beautiful, Jeanne Moreau's Catherine had both Jules and Jim wrapped around her little finger. In a love (triangle) story that spans decades, our leading lady takes center stage in perfectly French leisure wear, warm winter woollies, messy up-do's and heavily made-up eyes.

Dress like a woman who could control the mind of two men in timeless looks inspired by this French classic.

Clockwise from left:Lanvin flats, swing jacket by Stella McCartney, Oscar de la Renta jersey, 3.1 Phillip Lim striped sweater, Chanel No. 5 perfume, ribbed stockings by Missoni, Miu Miu pleated skirt, Prada platforms, Celine cropped trousers, Chanel liquid eyeliner.

Camilla Belle as Rose in The Ballad of Jack and Rose 2005Set on a contemporary commune, Camilla Belle's Rose epitomizes the perfect modern day hippie. This nymph-like beauty frolics through her vast landscape in light cotton dresses, embroidered tops and worn-in jeans.

Become a clean, green flower child in effortless looks brought to us by Rose.

Clockwise from left:Michael Stars turquoise necklace, embroidered top from the Gap, Rosebud Salve lip balm, Topshop gladiator sandals, See by Chloe peasant dress, Acne jeans, Top by Anna Sui, Marc by Marc Jacobs moccasins

Mia Sara as Sloane in Ferris Buller's Day Off 1986She was the coolest girl in school, why else would Ferris risk everything to get her out of class? Mia Sara's Sloane was the on-screen heroine of the 80's in fringed leather, slouchy boots and a bad-girl attitude to match.

Recapture all that was fabulous about Sloane in an 80's inspired outfit. Add accents of pale pink and a touch of hairspray to top it all off.

Clockwise from left: Prada Hobo bag, Fekkai hairspray, Rick Owens leather jacket, grey sweatshirt from Dorothy Perkins, Marc Jacobs boots, Sunglasses by Luella, Chanel nail polishes, 3.1 Phillip Lim shorts, Chanel lipstick

Gwyneth Paltrow as Marge in The Talented Mr. Ripley 1999Set against an ideal backdrop of 1950's Italy, The Talented Mr. Ripley mastered glamorous vintage style, particularly with Paltrow as the gorgeous Marge Sherwood. Marge's all-American summer style features looks that are just as relevant today.

Cinch your waist, tie a scarf in your hair, and honour everything you love about Dickie Greenleaf's one true love.

Clockwise from left: OPI nail polish, Marc by Marc Jacobs sweater dress, Banana Republic bikini, scarf by Diane von Furstenberg, Burberry shirt, Mary Jane flats, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel skirt, Mulberry Bayswater bag, hair clips by Dorothy Perkins, wedges by Prada


Scarlett Johansson as Charlotte in Lost in Translation 2003Scarlett Johansson's Charlotte made being an angst-ridden newlywed look pretty good. In a wardrobe provided mainly by Sophia Coppolla's pal Marc Jacobs, Charlotte explores Tokyo by getting back to the very best of basics.

Keep it simple in items that are classic, comfortable and travel-ready.

Clockwise from left: Marc by Marc Jacobs wool jacket, Acne jeans, fine knit cardigan by Miu Miu, Marc by Marc Jacobs umbrella, trousers by Calvin Klein, Marni flats, Thomas Maier cashmere sweater, Scarf by McQ, Converse sneakers

Musette Likes: Mick's Girls

Musette takes a chronological peak at some of the women that couldn't help but become part of Mick Jagger's world.

Marianne Loves MickSinger Marianne Faithfull was discovered at a Rolling Stones party and, well, the rest is rock and roll history. Mick and Marianne's five year love affair was tattered by drug addiction, a miscarriage, and generally bad behavior. This notorious couple wasn't all trouble though-Marianne is said to have inspired the chorus of Wild Horses and parts of Sympathy for the Devil. Also, Marianne was later able to get over Mick, clean up her act, and eventually continue singing.

Bianca Loves Mick
One year following his break up with Faithfull, Jagger married a beautiful actress and model with a progressive eye for fashion named Bianca. The marriage, (which was held in St. Tropez,) lasted ten years and resulted in the birth of Jade, their only child together. The fame Bianca gained from her marriage brought her friends in high places, (ie. Andy Warhol,) a private plane, and a permanent spot on the dance floor at Studio 54. Today Bianca is a human rights activist, and her daughter Jade is as much of an it-girl as she was.

Carolina Loves MickHe might have been married to Bianca in the mid 70's but the Rolling Stones were also the world's biggest rock group. Constant touring meant exotic locations and equally exotic women. Say like a getaway in Mustique with a young Carolina Herrera. Herrera was not yet a fashion designer but had already been dubbed one of the world's best dressed women. It seems as though Mick just can't resist a woman in a cool outfit.

Jerry Loves MickModel Jerry Hall and Mick fell so in love they left their respective partners, (Bianca and Bryan Ferry) to partake in the longest relationship our rock god has had to date. Hall and Jagger had four children together, finally marrying almost a decade after they met. In '99 the two called it quits, and today Jerry searches for boytoys on an MTV reality show while living off her hefty divorce settlement.

And finally...

L'Wren Loves MickEx-model turned fashion maven L'Wren Scott, towers over Mick Jagger at 6 feet 4 inches. The two are constant companions and according to Mick, the striking L'Wren is his life's "main point of interest." Scott was the leading stylist to the stars in New York when she and Mick met up, and she proceeded to deck the lead singer out in Nikes, floor length jackets and tight jeans. Maybe it's because he isn't getting any younger, but Mick and L'Wren seem a devoted couple-apparently he has never been healthier, and she is now a fashion designer, racking up the rave reviews.

So, we are guessing Mick was partially bluffing when he sang, 'I can't get no satisfaction...'

You Look Wonderful Tonight

The red carpet. Thoughts of flashbulbs, fashion and fabulousness spring to mind. Musette takes a look at women who have beautified the red carpet due to their dresses and their demeanor.

Jessica Stam in vintage Dior Couture
2007 Costume Institute Party of the Year It is commonly at parties like the Costume Institute Gala that models come along with the designer that has dressed them. However last year Jessica Stam was far more than a designer's doll- she was a vision of independence and chicness, having arrived alone and chosen her own dress. Wearing a backless and beaded gown, Stam stuck out of the crowd due to her unique fashion choice and effortless on-camera cool.

Michelle Williams in Vera Wang
2006 Academy Awards She was up for an Oscar and in love with her co-star. It was at the 2006 Academy Awards that Michelle Williams asserted her new found power in Hollywood. In a breathtaking ruffled Vera Wang gown, Williams' red lips, perfect hair and devoted boyfriend were proof that Dawson's Creek was only a distant memory.

Kate Moss in Topshop
2007 Swarovski Fashion RocksIt seems as though only Kate Moss could transition from 'cokehead' to fashion powerhouse in the course of year. After bouncing back from scandal with a lucrative deal from Topshop, Moss has appeared in look after look that makes the affordable line look like couture. It was at last year's Fashion Rocks party that Moss' star shined the brightest, in a short swarovski crystal fringed dress. The flapper dress went perfectly with a new 'do, transforming Kate into a modern Brigitte Bardot.

Kirsten Dunst in Rochas
2006 Cannes Film Festival With a plaited mane still red from Spiderman, Kirsten Dunst soaked up the limelight at the premiere of Marie Antoinette in Cannes. Wearing an elegant long sleeved dress which accentuated her long, lean figure, onlookers knew why this self-assured beauty had been asked to portray such an important woman in history.

*Important Note: It is not only the rich and famous that have the ability to carry off unforgettable elegance. Next time you get dolled up, (whether it be in a second-hand find or your favourite frock,) strike a pose, work the crowd and soak up the limelight like the leading lady you really are.