Driving, in the 1920s and 30s was one stylish past time. While European and American high society dressed for the occasion, top fashion designers not only took inspiration from the roadways, but created couture ensembles to match that most coveted creation, the car. Jeanne Lanvin, Jeanne Paquin, Madeleine Vionnet, and Elsa Schiaparelli, all known for innovation and bold modernity led the effort. Through September 2, the Phoenix Art Museum displays exquisite pieces by these designers, all inspired by the automobile.

"Automotivated" includes everything from the drab "dusters," which protected the clothing from the dirt kicked up by open-air motorcars like the cumbersome Curved Dash Oldsmobile, to the sleek, bias-cut gowns that mimicked the curved fender of the Ford Model B.

An oasis from the desert heat, the Phoenix Art Museum contains a vast collection of art from around the globe. Unique, don't-miss, permanent exhibits include the Thorne Miniature Rooms which include exact replicas from historic homes in the US and Europe, and ArtWorks, an interactive children's gallery.

Just ten miles from the museum, the fantastic Sheraton Crescent Hotel, with its 166-foot water slide awaits. Keep the heat at bay in the outdoor pool, or satisfy that frenzy you've worked up from all that fashion, across the river at the Metrocenter, Arizona's second largest shopping mall. Adjacent to the mall is the Four Points By Sheraton Phoenix Metrocenter, probably a better choice for you fashionistas. Maybe you’ll find a hot little number to go with that brand new Chrysler Sebring.