Monaco

"January 8th is also a very important day for the principality of Monaco. It was on this day 717 years ago when a Genoan thug of some ill-repute, Francois Grimaldi, disguised as a monk in hood and robe, knocked on the palace door in Monte Carlo after dark. When it was opened, Grimaldi, already with scabbard in hand, murdered the man, and with his men entered, killed the reigning prince and  took over. Seven centuries later, the Grimaldis are still firmly ensconced in the palace in Monacoville, in the land that Somerset Maugham (who lived nearby) referred to as “Sunny place for shady people.” As well as a large contingent of retired ex-pats living comfortably and quietly in a tax haven over looking the beautiful Mediterranean."

From The New York Social Diary

Grand Prix of Monaco

Sunday is the annual running of the Grand Prix of Monaco, the most stylish venue in motorsports. Sleek cars, brave drivers, a city street course and beautiful women. It's a pleasure watching rich people having fun, at one the world's most renown pleasure domes.

Once upon a time, Monaco had a contest to select its frumpiest citizen. The winner was selected to hand out prizes to the race winner. The photo below shows winning frump #1 in the early 60's. The hand shaker is the guy who puts on the race. He is also advising on deportment. Note the fins on the Caddy.

By 1966 the citizens of Monaco had planned to retire the prize. Apparantly, there was but one frump in Monaco, and she was having trouble finding parking downtown on race day, and wanted to give up the honor. The locals chipped in, bought her a decent hat and a make over. Seemingly, she decided to stay on.

1966 winner Jackie Stewart

It's a shame they didn't pick this chic. She lived nearby and had time on her hands.

(1955 Vogue out take)

Toad
(sorry Mel)