Les Curves

Softened silhouettes require jewelry that moves uninterrupted, notes Frank Liberto, a spokesman with Givenchy. “There’s a lot of drama in simpler designs.” Breaking away from its traditional classics, Givenchy responded with Les Courbes, a collection based on fluid round shapes finished in silver and 22-karat gold. “This new direction is more modern (and) sculptural than we’ve done in the past. It has the look of hand-molten metal, not cold but warm.” Prices are toasty too, ranging from $20 to $125.

Party With Sense

A beaded Versace number for $65? OK, so it’s only for the night. But who wants to be seen twice in something fabulous? L.A.-based One Night Affair opens a super-store Saturday in Westminster, with a selection of rental designer gowns and bridal and bridesmaid dresses. It can mean getting into something your life savings could never cover. “This is the wave of the future,” says owner Sharon Gilchrist. “Why not save money on the dress to spend elsewhere?” The 9,800-square-foot store will also feature Gary’s Tux and photography and limo services.

In Decent Exposure

Summer’s crocheted swimsuits don’t have to mean a Brazilian thong. Fuller cut maillots in nubby textured fabrics can make just as big a splash. “Women want suits that are adaptable and fit their figure,” notes Kim Dean, buyer for JCPenney. In addition to plenty of texture, Dean says earthy hues set the tone. An example is Sessa’s one-piece suit ($58).

Superstar Revival

The counterculture is finding Jesus, but it’s not faith they’re after. Images of Christ, the Virgin of Guadalupe and the Sacred Heart have become as trendy as wearing a cross. Mexican religious folk art and votive candles started the craze. Now street wear and accessory companies, like Hi-Fi, are offering several items in their collections. The Costa Mesa label has lighters, chain wallets, watches, T-shirts, shirts and chinos trimmed with picture buttons of the Holy Family. Designer Sean Barger, who grew up in a “really Catholic family,” says he’s “intrigued by the way people idolize these icons. It fascinates me how fanatical my family is.”