Style needs

I have obsessed about the Hermès Collier de Chien for years. Introduced in the 1940s, it became an instant hit and a forever classic, simply called a CDC by its loyal fans. "Collier de Chien" literally translates to "Dog Collar". After all, the true essence of chic is about having a sense of humor and just a touch of bad taste.

Until this week, I never even summed up the courage to ask to try one on, mostly just pressing my nose to the glass in admiration. The CDC is available in a dizzying array of skins and colors, from calf to crocodile, in either Palladium or Gold plated hardware. Madison Avenue always seems to have new stock to unveil.

First, I tried Fauve (golden tan) matte alligator with Palladium hardware and it felt a bit too "Preppy Goes on Safari"--Not so good. Next, I tried Black calf with Palladium hardware and it looked classic yet Punk or S&M--Good. But, when I saw this Ombre Lizard version, I literally gasped. It is totally over the top in this relatively new and unique exotic skin to the Luxury brand, yet somehow the natural ring lizard tones of Grey and Cream blend with the Palladium hardware making it pop less, than say with contrasting Black--Perfection.

I will wear it in lieu of a watch on weekends or to parties. I may even wear it with a watch as Jean Paul Gaultier recently showed on the Spring/Summer 2010 Hermès runway.