Sideswipe: Aug 5: Fashion statement...

Photo / Supplied

This ironic top gets its point across about over-embellished contemporary fashion.

For those who have everything ...

Whether you are trying to keep 'em in or out, this would make a great addition to your home. A galvanised steel prison door from Auckland's old Mt Eden prison, with the words of the inmates scratched into its paintwork, is for sale on Trade Me. "A great part of New Zealand history to make a unique talking point of on your property ..." reads the listing. It's pick up only (because the door is a bit heavy) and the auction closes on Sunday.

Wassup you old folks?

A young reader writes: "What's with the old people in the media pinching youth phrases? It's try-hard. Last week there was Fair Go's Gordon Harcourt declaring something an 'epic fail', and then Herald Business columnist Fran O'Sullivan told the Government to 'man up'! I can't wait to hear Mark Sainsbury say, 'fo' rizzle', or for Leighton Smith to say 'LOL'. Stick to your own groovy lingo ya der brains."

On Yellow's advertising treadmill

Sara writes: "I received an invoice from Yellow to the tune of $700+. I had no recollection of signing up for another year of advertising with them and queried the invoice. I was informed they have the right to automatic renewal as per my previous contract and that I should read the small print. Sure enough, it said they would continue to roll over my advertising unless receiving written notification otherwise. Sounds though like there are a few people paying for advertising out there now for businesses that no longer exist. I'd be curious about the size of the Yellow Pages if all defunct businesses were no longer listed."