Diane and I have finally made it to Rome where we have been invited to attend a promotional men's underwear event which will be held--with considerable irony considering the recent Italian election results--in the formerly fascist Roman suburb of EUR (pronounced 'ay-or'). Built by Mussolini in the 30's, EUR was envisioned by Il Duce as a modern version of a powerful, prestigious Rome. EUR's "square coliseum" and other futuristic interpretations of classical, ancient Roman architecture still stand in various stages of decay, and are considered by many as masterpieces of kitsch.
The day before the underwear event, Diane and I stroll through the Eternal City.
The event at EUR is a mixture of international celebrity, Fellini-style pansexuality, and a dash of flamboyant political satire. Chiseled Roman male models stride through the crumbling remains of Mussolini's failed fascist experiment, showcasing the latest styles of briefs, boxer briefs, thongs, and jock straps from 2xist, Adam + Eve, C-IN2, Ginch Gonch, Calvin Klein, and Diesel.
One model sports a pair of briefs with a handgun printed over the garment's contour pouch. Printed across the rear is the slogan: "A single gunshot cannot destroy the beauty of fascism".
Sophia Loren is chatting with Sofia Coppola. Quentin Tarantino is ogling the sandaled feet of a pretty young Italian model. Donatella Versace is showing her tan lines to Chris Wilson of Page Six. Dario Argento is discussing his latest film with Karl Lagerfeld. Morrissey--who now resides in Rome--is discussing the new Italian prime minister and how it will impact Italy's relationship with the United States with the writer Gore Vidal.
An Italian journalist interviews Diane for a Roman newspaper. "What inspires your look?" he asks.
"Goya, Pasolini, Marie Antoinette, Anna Magnani, a fascination with the young widows, Jean Moreau in The Bride Wore Black. Everything and nothing," she tells him.
Diane and I spend the rest of our time at the party making lists of stories we want to pitch to magazines before taking a cab to Trastevere where we feast on lasagna alla finnochio, snails and tripe.
I'm still laughing. Kisses, Diane
Posted by: DP | May 08, 2006 at 01:56 PM