Gaddafi's sometimes bizarre fashion choices

In a speech today on Libyan state television, Libyan leader Colonel Moammar Gaddafi refused to step down, even as top officials resigned to protest his regime's bloody attacks on civilians. In response to Libyan diplomats calling for the ruler to relinquish power, Gaddafi said, "I will not leave the country, and I will die as a martyr."

His speech, characterized as bizarre and rambling, reflects decades of boldness and defiance that is typical of the Libyan leader.

As Vanity Fair pointed out in 2009, he has always worn these traits on his lavish sleeves, reflecting his sheer oddness through his flamboyant sartorial tastes.

Two years ago, Vanity Fair published "Colonel Qaddafi--A Life in Fashion," highlighting the bizarre behavior and fashion choices of the dictator.

While nothing about today's revolts, riots and violent crack downs are tongue-in- cheek like the magazine's 2009 style profile, Gaddafi's extravagant lifestyle and strange behavior has always been visible through his choice of dress, highlighting decades of bravado and bluster that may ultimately be his downfall in the days ahead.