Beauty

Trends don't always go from the runway to the masses overnight. And looking, um, cold is no exception. London's spring 2009 runways were awash in nipples showing clearly through sheer tops, glorifying the areola to a level never before seen (see T.R. Annie to the left wearing a sheer black top). But with much of the world not quite comfortable walking around essentially topless, the trend has adapted to (more or less) real-woman celebrities, who flaunt their nipples through opaque fabrics. Recently, it seems an increasing number of famous gals are stepping before cameras with nipples unabashedly ablaze.

Since Victoria Beckham caused quite the stir when she stepped out with erect nipples on June 10, debate has ensued over whether hers were real or fake. That issue aside, a doctor at the Harley Medical Group says Victoria is a nipple pioneer, ushering in an age of "nipple role models." Patients used to come in and ask for breasts like Pam Anderson, but now this doctor predicts women will start asking for so-and-so's nipples. Already Beckham, Megan Fox, and Christina Ricci stand to be that so-and-so. Surely, there are more.

But has good old-fashioned cleavage really become so passé?

Are purposely erect nipples not vulgar?

Tell us, do you think nipples are fashion's best new accessory?

Or do these ladies need a once-over with a hair dryer and a lesson in decency?