Online - October 21, 2004

Just Bead It

Wifebeader Tops

When the names got passed out in garment heaven, certain women’s items really got screwed. And, as you might imagine, they’re none too pleased.

The stole is resentful. The muff is pissed as hell.

And the wife-beater? Well, it’s absolutely livid.

Laura Dahl is doing her part to make some amends. She’s spun the unfortunate moniker nicely into her funky Wifebeader line of bedazzled tops: abstract, provocative designs, fashioned with crystals, semiprecious stones, and cultured pearls. They elevate the simplest look with a soigné touch.

Dahl’s work with purveyors of glam like Catherine Malandrino and Cynthia Rowley fostered a healthy obsession with wardrobe classics, and traveling the world inspired her to adorn them by hand with jewels. Envision a lovely cluster of pearls cascading down the front of the most comfortable thing in your closet. It’s enough to take the edge off any indignity.

Let’s hope the shirt feels the same way.

Available online at wifebeader.com.