Apparently, it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that bling. Vanity Fair is reporting that the potential First Lady Cindy McCain — known for her rhinestone lapel pins — wore three-carat diamond earrings estimated at $280,000 and a $4,500 Chanel watch on Tuesday night. Tally that with her $3,000 Oscar de la Renta dress.

Here are VF's estimates:

Laura Bush

Oscar de la Renta suit: $2,500

Stuart Weitzman heels: $325

Pearl stud earrings: $600–$1,500

Total: Between $3,425 and $4,325 Cindy McCain

Oscar de la Renta dress: $3,000

Chanel J12 White Ceramic Watch: $4,500

Three-carat diamond earrings: $280,000

Four-strand pearl necklace: $11,000–$25,000

Shoes, designer unknown: $600

Total: Between $299,100 and $313,100

"There is nothing new except what has been forgotten." - Marie Antoinette



Clearly, McCain thinks the red carpet leads to the White House. But with foreclosures galore and that pesky recession ever nipping at our Louboutin heels, isn't it time to cut back on the glitz? And does she really need four strands of pearls?--Monica Corcoran



Photo: Getty Images