Sundance 2009: Live from Park City

(First in a series)

My first time in a gifting suite, I wondered if this year is more subdued, less flashy, in keeping with the reality of the recession and people's pocketbooks. As I was given a guided tour, there seemed to be an offering of practically priced swag. Though I was heartened to hear from my colleague that at another suite, the MacBooks and the free fur of Uggs were flying out the door. And all gifted, if you have the golden ticket to get in.

The Amstel Lite gals and dogs caught my attention, and that of everyone on Main Street, posing outside the Hollywood Life House. The girls were just leaving to walk their fabulous boots (by Glaze) and the Saint Bernards up and down the main drag of the festival, "importing the free-spirit, open-minded attitude of Amsterdam" to Park City. 

In the Whiting & Davis/Glam Noir suite, I was introduced to one of the most brilliant inventions EVER. Don't you hate it when you're at a bar, and there's no place to hang your bag (perhaps that Whiting & Davis metal mesh handbag that you were gifted)? Pull out your very own purse hook from that bag, decorated with jewels or intricate design. Just don't forget to take it home at the end of a night of drinking.   

Want these boots by Onitsuka Tiger? Not in Park City? Too bad! Only Sundancers have access to the limited edition.

White House | Black Market was appealing to everyday, average women as well as the inaugural flurry with "the Obama dress." Made famous by Michelle Obama's appearance on "The View," the dress is available for $148, practically a steal compared with other campaign wardrobes. A new version in all black with white detail is coming soon.   

-- Rebecca Snavely

Photos: items from Hollywood Life House. Credit: Rebecca Snavely / Los Angeles Times

Photo: purse hook. Credit: Glam Noir/Triple C Designs