Style Classics: Capucine

I've always loved the first movie in The Pink Panther series, starring Peter Sellers, David Niven, Claudia Cardinale, and Capucine. It's absolute classic 1960s glamor, from the costumes, to the Henri Mancini soundtrack, to the setting in Rome and the Italian Alps. The French actress and model Capucine is the most glamorous of all, and unfortunately, it's difficult to find many pictures of her these days. She was a highly successful model, showing for Dior and Givency, among others. She was also close friends with Audrey Hepburn, and served as a witness at Hepburn's 1969 wedding.

Her elegant "look."  

I believe this is a publicity shot (film unknown).  She often wore classic, unfussy looks.

Capucine played in numerous films, opposite actors such as Peter O'Toole and William Holden (whom she dated for two years). 
Here's Capucine as a french show girl, in the movie North to Alaska, playing opposite John Wayne. 

Stunning even in a shower cap.  From an amusing scene in The Pink Panther.  

The final court scene in The Pink Panther. It's a shame there are so few images from this film, because her entire wardrobe is STUNNING.  Worth watching just for the clothes.  Note Claudia Cardinale as Princess Dala (RH side) lovely in a chocolate and cream ensemble.

Unknown location, but it's a beautiful setting.

Sport fashion.  This is probably from the skiing scene in The Pink Panther. 

Images: fashionspot.com, tedstrong.com, ebay.com, fanpix.net, moviemarket.com, photobucket.com, photobucket.com. 

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2009 Chelsea Garden Show

Every year in Chelsea, London, the Royal Horticultural Society sponsers a spectacular flower show - you know how those Brits like their flowers! The first day of "viewing" is reserved for the royal family, and for the next three days the show is open to the public, every glorious garden. Famous gardeners from around the world create miniature masterpieces complete with fencing, fountains, topiary - all sprung up overnight. I had the delight of visiting the show a few years ago, and it was an incredible vision. Jamaican gardeners had created 10 foot people from foliage (think Rose Parade), thousands of orchids scented silk tents, and every inventive gardening gadget under the sun was on display (and for sale. Bad for the old credit card). This year the show is taking place May 19 - 23; if you're going to be in town, make sure you get a ticket. You'll be glad you did.

Here's a sneak preview of plans for some of the gardens coming out this year.

A few favorites from the 2008 show.

And if you're really into gardening, check out this blog by some of the gardeners working on the event - you'll get a view into how they manage to pull off a "termporary" garden once a year, as well as some of the hazards they face - from cows eating the flowers to thunderstorms.
All images: www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea.