INSPIRATION: The pen-and-inked French Revolution decadence found in Vertigo Comics’ Madame Xanadu (Issue 5, to be precise), discovered at The Beguiling (601 Markham, 416-533-9168, www.beguiling.com). The ongoing origin series transforms a C-list ’70s DC Comics fortune teller into a youthful mystic who’s reelin’ in the years as a Celtic faerie-nymph, Kublai Khan’s oracle and, currently, Marie Antoinette’s clairvoyant. We’re eagerly anticipating the Nov. 26 release of Issue 6, especially for the cameo from The Sandman’s Death. Squee!
The immortal Madame Xanadu is sensitive to the occult, relying upon her tarot cards for sixth-sense interpretations and futurist forecasting. But all those readings for Petit Trianon guests can sure leave a girl with weak hands. JR Watkins (www.jrwatkins.com) Lavender Hand & Cuticle Salve, $8.99. Zellers (Galleria Shopping Centre, 1245 Dupont, 416-531-5704, www.zellers.com).
What, no super-villain? Writer Matt Wagner makes the gothic romance between Madame Xanadu and The Phantom Stranger (yet another immortal and distant magical character) the origin’s main arc. “[It] makes for exciting emotional tête-à-têtes,” he says. Cameo earrings and rose ring, both $12. Norma W (256D Augusta, 416-570-5584, www.normaw.ca).
Artist Amy Reeder Hadley (known for the fashionable teen romance manga Fool’s Gold) is a rising star in the comic scene, bringing a distinct sense of dress and appearance to Madame Xanadu. The Brit Boutique (thebritboutique.ca) “Oxford” clutch, $65. Shop Girls Gallery Boutique (1342 Queen W., 416-534-7467, www.shopgirls.ca).