David Bowie with his model wife Iman

The result, as shown in pictures 12 months ago, was a rosy glow, a bulkier figure and even a double chin.

But while the rest may have done wonders for his health, he clearly felt it did nothing for his image.

Yesterday came the return of the Thin White Duke, the persona he adopted in the late 1970s. As Bowie, 60, stepped out at a fashion industry event in New York, he appeared to have shed pounds, and rediscovered the wiry frame that has epitomised his image over four decades.

Dashing in black tie and with his model wife Iman on his arm, he looked svelte and streamlined.

Three years ago, Bowie underwent an emergency operation to clear a blocked artery. Fifteen months later, he spoke of the drastic lifestyle changes he had made.

"I decided to take a year off and do nothing. Now I go to the gym, I don’t drink and I am feeling really good."

1315 CelebsandBubs Published 6/6/07   Message Add to Friends