Fast forward to the present day, and beauty pageants seem as relevant as white gloves and Playtex girdles, writes Rowan Pelling.

An 18-year-old Australian model with Down syndrome is breaking down barriers and proving that a disability needn't stand in the way of a dream.

"Sneaker collecting is in the tradition of other male collecting, like baseball cards and fine wines," says the curator of an upcoming sneaker culture exhibition.

Its a classic rags to riches story that's almost too much of a cliché to be true, but an Israeli teenager with no experience strode down the catwalk at Paris Fashion Week.

Developed during the Great War, plastic surgery has changed the way we feel about the way we look. Harry Wallop reports.

Tall, short or funky, there’s a pair to fit every need.

Spy can reveal Kiwi fashion label Deadly Ponies is a favourite among some of the world’s pop music and Hollywood elite.

Complementary shirt and tie combinations elevate a humdrum suit to the next level.

French fashion designer Christian Audigier has died in Los Angeles aged 57.

Australian supermodel Miranda Kerr's latest business venture comes in the form of a personally-designed jewellery line.

A new survey has busted some myths about our lingerie shopping habits.

Pebbles Hooper brings you the best, worst and most bizarre celebrity looks from around the world this week.

Brighten up your cool monochrome with a stunning lipstick.

Mid-winter weekend getaways beckon, so dress for ease.

'Human rug' Brian Viner tries out chest and back waxing for men. His verdict? Aaaaaargh!

Proving why she's still one of the most sought-after supermodels in the world, Naomi Campbell oozes sex appeal as she models the latest range of racy lingerie for La Perla.

For a third season New Zealand’s iconic grassroots farming brand Swanndri has collaborated with menswear specialists Barkers.

From underwear to shoes, bags and designer clothing and at a fraction of the price? Here are some of the best bargains in Auckland.

A "rejected" ivory lace wedding dress was advertised online, seeking "lasting love and holy matrimony".

After squatting in skinny jeans for hours while emptying kitchen cupboards, an Adelaide woman collapsed and spent four days in hospital.

Meet Clare Hornby, the woman behind the Duchess of Cambridge's svelte Breton look.

Prolonged wearing of sheepskin boots can cause damage to the foot arch because of lack of support from the boots, podiatrists warn.

Eighties’ street smarts and underground sub-cultures collide for an inspired take on dressing with an edge.

Catwalks and ad campaigns are turning silver. Judith Woods talks to the woman who has just been spotted - at the age of 82.

Viva managing editor Amanda Linnell shares highlights from today’s Viva magazine. Follow her hyperlinks below and be informed and inspired at viva.co.nz.

From Google Glass to Bluetooth watches, the world of wearable technology is booming. Science reporter Jamie Morton looks at 10 examples.

Add a touch of class with faux fur this winter.

Top model Danielle Hayes unveils her own fashion line, YY Express.

Liz Lamb is a Kiwi high-jump champion, health food blogger and model, and if she lived in France modelling agents could be sent to jail for hiring her.

Mid-winter formalities never looked better with these luxuriously dark options.