Michael Weinstein

Back in the fifties, Sweet Sixteen wore penny loafers and bobby sox and was a perky lass. That changed with the sexual revolution and by now--as Angela West represents her in formal color portraits--the girl coming of age fancies herself an insouciant fashion model partial to vampy, slinky dresses. It is only with difficulty that West's subjects wedge themselves into the glamour mystique, which is why her images pack a punch--behind their vain efforts to be chic, these would-be sophisticates are still sweet, possibly perky underneath their facades, and-above all-vulnerable. Some do better than others at making themselves fashionistas, but most are uncomfortable in the pose and are often dyspeptic; others cannot suppress befuddlement or barely restrained mirth.

Angela West shows at Carl Hammer Gallery, 740 North Wells, (312)266-8512, through March 10. (2007-02-13)

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