Frocks and flicks

Marilyn Monroe's rendition of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" wouldn't have worked with emerald earrings, and "Men in Black" wouldn't have been the same if Will Smith had worn a blue suit. Downtown L.A.'s Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising knows that movies wouldn't have magic without costume design, so for the 16th straight year, the "Art of Motion Picture Costume Design" exhibition pays homage to the talents behind the seams.

Outfits from 25 of 2007's well-dressed films including "Hairspray," "Sweeney Todd" and "Marie Antoinette" -- the latter of which was the Oscar winner for best costume design in 2006 -- will be on display beginning Monday, and the 125-piece exhibit just might provide a pick-me-up for fashionophiles mourning the diminishment of this year's red-carpet season. (Besides, the exhibit text is far superior commentary to Joan Rivers' prattle.)

Those more interested in commerce than culture can visit FIDM's Museum Shop and purchase items related to exhibit pieces. Play Harry Potter with your own wand and Coke-bottle glasses, or score Japanese textiles inspired by Francois Girard's film "Silk." Pieces from Hilary Beane's FIDM-exclusive line of "Elizabeth: The Golden Age"-inspired baubles are also for sale.

The "Art of Motion Picture Costume Design" runs through April 12. The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, 919 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (800) 624-1200. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. www.fashionmuseum.org

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OPENINGS

Runway at Maxx opening Thursday: T.J. Maxx, the bargain hunters' old faithful, is adding a new, designer-filled Runway department to the Mission Viejo store. The company is mum about which names will fill the section, but jaunts to other Runway locations have turned up Roberto Cavalli and Prada. New clothing, bags and sunglasses will be brought into the store each week at 20% to 70% off original prices. 27690 Santa Margarita Parkway, Mission Viejo. (949) 859-8619. 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

SALES

Blue Dot Boutique Sale Saturday and Sunday: Summer is coming early in the form of a mega sidewalk-style sale featuring 16 of Orange County's best boutiques. Contributing storefronts include Costa Mesa's Goat, Corona Del Mar's Erica Dee and Laguna Beach's Black Flamingo. Clothing and accessories will be up to 75% off original prices, but leave the plastic at home; this is a cash-only event. And there are no fitting rooms, so follow mom's advice and wear emergency-ready underclothes if you want to try on something in public view. Orange County Fair Grounds, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 708-1500. VIP hours: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday; admission $25. General hours: noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; admission $12. Children under 16 free. www.bluedotboutiquesale.com