Coming out of the Art Deco closet

KATE NEWTON I had visions of posing in 1930s glamour - becoming the Bette Davis of 2006, Hawke's Bay's own Greta Garbo. But my launch as this year's Art Deco reporter wasn't exactly done in style.
After fossicking through the racks of 1920s and 1930s attire at Napier's Deco Affair store, I found the perfect Art Deco dress - an emerald number with a black sash and sequinned design on one side.
But stepping out of the fitting room and standing in front of the shop mirror, I discovered my darling dress made me look frumpy; the round toe shoes made my feet look stumpy, the headband made my hair flat - and the feather boa made me itch.
The shop ladies Lee-Anne Freeman, or "Penelope' when she's dressed up, and Ann Whyte, told me if I was to embrace this risque and feminine era, I also had to embrace the dreaded curves.
"There were not a lot of shorts and tops that hide everything back then. It's all about showing off your curves," Penelope said.
The Art Deco era was all about frocks- but picking the perfect one is not for the clueless, as I found.
When it comes to dressing in Art Deco style, a girl has a decision to make.
Either you pop on a 1920s drop-waisted frock or a waisted 1930s one - and for goodness sake don't confuse your colours.
Pastels were popular in the 20s but darker colours took over in the 30s, darling.
If it's all sounding a bit complicated then just stick to black, which is "always standard", Penelope advised.
If you decide on a 30s frock, then keep the length between the mid-calf and the ankle but if you venture back to the 20s then it is perfectly acceptable to be a bit more daring and wear it just below the knee.
Pair your frock with a pair of court heels, or T-bar shoes, and you are halfway there.
The hairdresser is the next port of call but hair length will depend very much on the decade you choose.
Braving the bob is the only option if you chose the 20s but the 30s allow a bit more length -just don't forget the finger waves.
Parasols (those umbrella things) are fun and bandeaus (head pieces with feathers) a must, but keep the feather boas for all those after-dark cocktails.
Beading is essential but hit the shops before you hit the costume hire because this style has made a comeback and is too good to take back after Art Deco week.