The art of a scandal

Everybody loves a good scandal to tittle-tattle about. Schaddenfruede (to see one’s peer, especially a disliked one, do the downward spiral) is a guilty pleasure that most people can’t help indulging in.

Here are five portraits of the elements that lead to disgrace and teatime conversation fodder. Deny it if you want, but a scandal compels the senses, no matter how cerebral and sensible one may be. Who hasn’t had a glimpse of Winona Ryder’s sticky finger incident? Or perhaps the outrageous affair of Kris Aquino and Joey Marquez? Perhaps getting closer to home: Who is your co-worker knocking boots with in the bathroom during coffee break?

It’s a pastime for many and an obsession for some. Whatever the case, my advice to the scandalous diva is: Look good while you’re on your way down ... by not dressing the part! Forget the slutty outfits – to look like the scheming trollop takes the bolt from the blue of a juicy scandal. The demure bitch is always king.

The clothes presented here are from the coquettish Soiree collection by U of Rustan’s designed by Hindy Tantoco and Katrina Tantoco. It is just one of the four holiday themes that the U holiday collection is offering this coming season. The romantic look of the Soiree collection includes knit tops with antique details, drapey chiffon, long flowing dresses, antique-inspired garments, feather and faux fur trims. An elegantly innocent and deceitful look for the tart with an appetite for trouble. After all, what can be more intriguing than an impolite member belonging to polite society?

Among the other collections is Preppy with a Twist, which is a melange of Brit boarding school angst-inspired looks; Retro Sport, a collection of funky sportswear; and Risky Bizness which is an assortment of career wear – tweeds, pinstripes and smart casual styles.

U is found at Rustan’s Department Stores in Makati and Alabang.