Quick Bites: Valentino misses the mark, ScarJoh sizzles, Chowder me happy

• Valentino finished up the pointy end of Paris Couture Week F/W 2011 with, to be honest, a fairly disappointing show (top). Creative directors’ Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri helmed a collection that was classic but lacked inspiration, and judging by the runway pics — much of the finesse, cut and fit that was Mr Valentino’s infamous calling card. They managed to make rake thin models look thick waisted and frumpy, so one must ask … what hope would there be for the mere mortal? style.com

• On a much sexier note, screen siren Scarlett Johansson remains the pouting face of Mango, with some steamy looks for the Fall-Winter 2010-11 campaign. Looking good ScarJoh! mango.com

• We are craving this delicious Mussel, Leek and Bacon Chowder with religious zeal … perfect for chilly southern hemisphere eves snuggled up with the day’s papers, a good Sunday night movie and some Irish Soda Bread for mopping up scant remains. Who would want to leave the house with such warm temptation … thank you dinnerdujour.org