Katy Perry's LED Dress

In the cold light of day, Katy Perry's chiffon dress looks somewhat cute and reserved for a woman renowned for wearing bold, impractical outfits in the past (including what appeared to be a Christmas tree and a carousel). But as soon as the lights went down at the Costume Institute Gala Benefit, Katy's dress lit up- thanks to LED lights concealed within the dress. London company CuteCircuit was behind the innovative dress. The label designs 'wearable technology'. Literally. That's one way of making sure all eyes are on you at a big event. And we thought we'd seen it all after Gaga's bubble dress. Apparently not. Now we're just wondering what Katy's wedding dress will be like...?

Kay Weston

Met Gala Brawl

So I know we've been covering the Costume Institute Gala Ball all week and maybe you're thinking what else is there to report on? But, oh my goodness, is there ever more to report on.

First off, it was model-themed and ironically (or fittingly) there was a model brawl. Well, kind of. The story goes that Brooke Shields, in all her 80s model glory, was having a conversation with Kiefer Sutherland, who was clearly in an 80s state of mind, when Jack McCollough (half of the Proenza Schouler design team) walked up and interrupted the conversation. Although the details are sketchy, it's pretty clear that McCollough is probably the least intimidating person and Sutherland, Mr. Jack Bauer, could probably kill you in a bar fight. Anyway, long story short, Sutherland allegedly headbutted McCollough and broke his nose.

Now I don't want to get catty but where was Naomi Campbell during all this? If there was going to be model-involved violence, I was sure she was going to be involved. Oh well, beating up a 130 pound designer is by far more pathetic hitting your assistant with phone. Way to bring the class to so-called Oscars of fashion.

I'm sure Anna Wintour will be making some revisions to her invite list for next year.

Models Get Their Due

For as long as I can remember, celebrities have dominated the covers of magazines, fashion ads, and even designer labels. It seems that if you just have a wee bit of talent acting or singing, you somehow are qualified to model Marc Jacobs or craft a line for Target. And while I don't want to rain on anyone's parade, it's high time that the models--the actual artistic vehicles for designer clothes--started to get some respect.

So now, with the recession in full swing and the organizers of the Costume Institute Gala at the Met scrambling to come up with a tasteful theme, the verdict is now in: The Model as Muse with be the tribute at this year's event. Focusing the creative influence models like Twiggy, Kate, and Naomi have had on major designer's lines, the exhibit will highlight models as more than just a body to hang the clothes but as the influential force behind them.

As always, the opening will be a star-studded event but it would be great if the Institute decided to invite some new, up and coming models to the party in order to prove their not only interested in models' past creative voice in fashion but their current one.