Yesterday.

The Painted Pony, St. George, Utah.

You've got to have some panache to wear this blouse. Panache like Dietrich or Gardner. There's nothing timid about it. There's also something wonderfully unencumbered and free.

She was up to the task.

Holding court for a lucky group of admirers (a martini glass never had it so good), there were curious looks in her direction. I saw the waiter stumble (twice).

She seemed oblivious to it all.

Who knows what she was doing in her free time. Boxing with famous turkish trainers? Exploring the Berlin club scene? Dating Sinatra? Surely not (at least the Sinatra part).

That's what she reminded me of.

An era that no longer exists.

But it should.

Talk about a masterclass.

Even now, I'm not sure if it all was orchestrated for effect.

I'd like to think she had what they used to call, it.

Glamorous V-Ruffle Blouse (No. 6199). Sultry poly georgette blouse with pearlized buttons. 1940s-era V-shaped ruffles at the collar with pleated (and adjustable) cuffs that look fantastic when you gesture emphatically. Figure-flattering bust darts. Lined through the body, unlined in the sleeves. Imported.