Fashionistas of the Year

As another year comes to an end, it's time to bow down to the women who brought their fashion A game this year.

  

Gwyneth Paltrow is the epitome of high class glamour, and her style completely reflected that this year. Gwyneth started off the year by showing up to the Oscars in not only a timeless Tom Ford dress, but accompanied the look with a sleek cape. Really, who else could pull that off? Not one to be forgetten, Gwynnie continued to keep everyone oohing and ahing with her Prada dress at the Met Gala. With style like this, Paltrow's 40th birthday bash on her yacht with Beyonce and Jay-Z seemed to take a backseat to her 2012 highlights. 

 

From movie star glam to a model's every day fabulousness. Miranda Kerr knows how to wow at events, fashion shows, and in editorials, but her street style surely inspired countless Pinterest boards this year. For Kerr, the streets of NYC were her runway and errands were only done in the fiercest stilettos. Hailing a taxi while juggling a baby never looked so effortlessly flawless. Miranda Kerr is living the Park Ave mom dream.

Considering she's probably going to win an Oscar for her performance in Zero Dark Thirty, it makes sense that Jessica Chastain was the fashion siren on red carpets this year. From film festivals to award shows, Chastain was topping those best dressed lists. She made her first big splash at the Oscars in a intricate Alexander McQueen dress that complimented those red locks beautifully. Then came the Cannes Film Festival, where she looked like Hollywood royalty in Gucci (and with the rave reviews she was getting for her performances, she basically was). And most recently, Jessica experimented with a bold leather blue Jason Wu dress at a Fashion's Night Out event. One thing we can certainly conclude from her 2012 style is that when Jessica is on stage accepting that Oscar, she'll most likely be making a bold fashion statement for 2013 as well. 

Movie Review: Les Mis

I cried, I laughed, I swooned...I rushed to the bathroom to see how badly I damaged my makeup. I knew that Broadway's biggest musical was going to leave an emotional impact but was not prepared to be leaving the theater as such a mess. As expected, Anne Hathaway's "I Dreamed A Dream" sequence produced many tears and "cosigns" to her much talked about Oscar hype. But after Hathaway took the audience into a deep depression, I thought my emotions were safe because really, what could be more saddening than selling your body for your child's sake? Turns out, there were still more revolution children involved to continue my bawling.

My particular favorites in the movie were Samantha Barks and Aaron Tveit. As someone who is too attached over Eponine singing On My Own, I was ecstatic over Samantha's casting. Considering how short the role seemed (seriously, did anyone else feel like her part was severely cut?), she left a huge impact in the film. And then there was Aaron Tveit. I have a special place for Aaron in my heart after meeting him in his Catch Me If You Can days. It was a beautiful moment when his baby blues looked into my eyes as I blabbered on about how perfect he was and then instructed my sister where to stand when she took our picture. In that moment, I melted and knew he was a major husband contender. Of course, Les Mis only confirmed that belief. Aaron was incredible as Enjolras. And when he held up the iconic red flag? Maybe that wasn't the most appropriate time to be swooning, but I did...along with more crying.

Despite the mixed reviews on the film, I thought Les Mis was well done. Like the film version of Rent, which I will defend till the day I die, no one is ever pleased with how Broadway musicals are transformed into Hollywood movies. The two are nearly impossible to combine, but at least Les Mis was done justice (Remember when TSwift was in talks to play Eponine? This could've taken an awful turn...). Besides, I rarely see people in the movie theater so affected to the point of blowing their noses from crying and then clapping loudly at the end of films. In my experience, Les Mis did succeed with brining the stage atmosphere to the movies.

It's Prada or Nada

My jaw is actually dropping from this Prada Resort 2013 campaign. The flapper look has been making a comeback for a little while now, but these modern day Daisy Buchanan and Holly Golightly styled photo-shoots are beyond perfection. Kudos to Prada for not only continuing their great styling leftover from The Great Gatsby set, but also subtlety tipping their hat to the modern day flapper look. Both eras love accessorizing but there's something a bit edgier and riskier with today's ever experimenting generation. While the 20s' style was utterly timeless, it's more preferable to dazzle those Hamptons parties with straight long hair and high platforms nowadays. 

Fashion's Ultimate Angelic Secret

With the holidays approaching, so is fashion's most extravagant and energetic runway show. The Victoria's Secret angels are back lighting up the glittery Manhattan runway with the help of show stopping performers like Rihanna, Bruno Mars, and Biebs.  Here's a sneak peak of some highlights from the show that airs December 4th on CBS!

High Fashion

In addition to the old school pros (Lima, Ambrosio, Kerr), the angels were a bit more high end fashion this year. Two particular fierce scene stealers were previously returning angel Karlie Kloss and newcomer Cara Delevigne. The 20 year old, who typically models for designers like Oscar de la Renta and Burberry, was definitely in a new element. Those sharp eyebrows might be a different look for VS, but maybe it's what the brand needs? With the Brazilian era slowly coming to an end (never forget you and your JT hating ways Gisele!), a little British youth may be what's needed to spice up this new generation!

Shine Bright Like a Diamond

It can't be easy or all that great for the self-esteem to be put next to lingerie models whose lives revolve around being in the best shape. So it only makes sense to get Rihanna, possibly one of the most confident performers in the music industry right now, to accept the challenge. No worries about the styling VS producers. Ri Ri even performed in her own lingerie. New secret fantasy bra contender anyone?

Fantasy Bra

....speaking of which! Alessandra Ambrosio got the honors of wearing the $2.5 million Floral Fantasy bra. Strutting around in the only bra that actually monitored so intensely by security, Alessandra official made her mark as VS vet. 

Fashion Wonderland

Tis the season to max out the credit card! The holiday months have arrived so here's to cherishing the fashion trends I'm grateful for...

Cat Eyes

Maybe winter isn't exactly considered the prime time to be indulging in gorgeous sunglasses, but how else can you fiercely shield your eye rolling during the family fun times?! Ever since Nicole Richie circa Simple Life in 2004, I've been a huge fan of the big sunglasses look. In fact, if there's one thing about those Olsen twins I can fully support (besides the flawless masterpiece that was Holiday in the Sun) it's their "bigger the sunnies, higher the cheekbones" style. Recently, I've totally fallen in love with the cat eye styled sunglasses but was apprehensive on how to pull them off. With this beautifully crystal studded Tiffany pair, problem solved. The shape is clear, yet subtle enough.

M.A.C. Liquid Foundation

Hola winter, aka the worst skin season ever. Need a nice stocking stuffer to clear up those flaws? This foundation is the perfect fix. I've never been a foundation user but this product has been like discovering magic. Take the smallest dab, spread, and bam! Sure, it made exfoliating a little scarier and truth baring. However, it gets the job done if you're really looking to clear up your complexion. 

Metallics

Instead of sticking to the basic dark colors, metallics are a great way to add something special to your outfits. The eye catching material easily sharpens up appearances. 

Bold Colored Peacoats

The pop of color trend that just won't die--not that I'm complaining. Hustling through the snow and wind in the city is not a fun, or glamorous, task. So while bundling up and trying to stay warm, I've personally opted for a red peacoat from Express. When feeling physically defeated, it's the easiest and most consistent way to up the appearance a little. 

Emmy's 2012 Red Carpet!

And we meet again award season! Celebrities pulled out their Hollywood Sunday best for the Emmy's and stunned with lots of shimmer and shine. My personal favs consisted mainly of the blue and cream toned dresses. From modest to sparkly eye catching, all of these looks were effortlessly gorgeous!

On the red carpet, Hayden Panettiere stated how she was advised to channel her "Georgina" while strutting in her Marchesa dress. While channeling the flawless goddess Georgina Chapman seems like an impossible task, Hayden still brought her best. Hayden's short height might have brought a little stylist hesitance for pulling this dress consisting of so much fabric, but I loved the big drape of the gown! The mid-night blue tone mixed with the gold sheerness was perfect for the autumn season. 

It was refreshing to see Emily VanCamp on the red carpet, seeing as this whole patiently wait for Revenge's return is becoming very difficult (one more week!). Her J. Mendel gown had such an antique and vintage look that was only more emphasized thanks to the jewels she was sporting(bow bracelet anyone?). The creamy tone was mixed wonderfully with Emily's soft appearance. 

Let's be honest, it'd be weird if Sofia Vergara didn't wear a curve flattering dress. Sure, the structure of the Zuhair Murad dress wasn't new but the sea color was breathtaking! The vibrant shade had a bit of a Little Mermaid reminiscence to it, which I loved even more. The tropical vibe of this gown was perfect for Sofia's fun and exotic persona!

QUEEN! Nicole Kidman was basically in her own class with this Antonio Berardi gown. Like many other ladies of the night, she sported a blue tone but her gown made a particular standout. The design had a beautiful originality to it and nobody can work that type of class like Ms Kidman. Definition of timeless, right here!

Fashion Friday: Baring It All

Those makeup ads really are all about simplicity! This past week, both Dolce & Gabbana and Dior have released beauty ads featuring their A-list spokeswomen nude. For Dior, Natalie Portman stripped down to model off Dior's Rouge Nude lip color. Although it's not Natalie's first time showing some skin while modeling for the brand, the sultry look is certainly a big change from her Miss Cherie ads. Dolce & Gabbana, on the other hand, gave Scarlett Johansson a softer look for its Perfect Luminous campagin. Similar set ups for the French and Italian designers but completely different appearances. Hard to say which brand did it better but I'm slightly leaning towards Scarlett's more natural ad! Molto bella!

All About Kate

Where would fashion's inspiration come from if it wasn't for the models! The supermodel phenomena is responsible for a good chunk of Vogue's evolution, designer's collections, and of course jaw dropping ad campaigns. One of those frequently seen models, Kate Moss, has particularly influenced fashion in her own way. Before Gisele lead the Brazilian model craze by storm and Karlie Kloss dominated Vogue editorials, Kate was everyone's fashion muse. While she's had her fair of controversies from her rockstar romances to her not so star worthy scandals, Kate has proven why she has and always will be fashion's greatest trend. After more than twenty years of modeling, Kate's smoldering high cheek bones are still gracing many billboards and magazines. Here's a look at some of Kate's various model moments:

Versace

Just Cavalli

Rag & Bone

Longchamp

 Mango

Dior

"In difficult times fashion is always outrageous."

-Elsa Schiaparelli 

Fashion Friday: Oscar de la Renta Elegance

Oscar de la Renta: designs beyond explainable perfection where the ads can be this simple because the dresses do all of the marketing. 

Ay swoon! As if still trying to recover from the flawless Oscar de la Renta Fall 2012 collection wasn't hard enough, now the designer's breathtaking looks are being displayed all over the glossy pages of Vogue. Fall advertisements are always the best due to their sharp, fashionable edge. Which is exactly what Candice Swanepoel and Katryn Kruger are showing in this Oscar de la Renta collection! Elegance, poise, and overall fierceness...it's no wonder the expression "Oscar de la Renta posture" was coined.

Fabulous Fall Must Haves

With fall right around the corner, the most stylish fashion events are also getting very close! Before fashion shows start up, here are some items I'm obsessed with this fall and others that I'm dying to have in my closet.

4.

 

Trendy Trench Coat

This year, I'm aiming for a more glamorous fall/end of winter coat. Specifically one like Emma Watson's Burberry jackets! As fabulous as the studded coat is with its endless nightwear potential, I'd personally opt for the leather sleeve one. I've already started incorporating leather sleeve jackets into my wardrobe (see leather and lighter jacket from Urban Outfitters) and I think I'm going to stay faithful to this style! 

3.

Ankle Boots

Why is it so difficult to find the perfect pair of ankle boots? I'm still searching for casual ankle boots with a little heel, but not high enough to slow me down while walking in the city. However, the heel isn't the tricky part with the ankle boots hunt. The real problem is the cutoff. Ankle boots might be small footwear with a short length but they should still be spacious enough so that jeans or leggings look neatly tucked into the shoe, not bunched. Right now, my heart is set on these cognac ankle boots from Aldo! 

2.

Cheetah,  Lots of Cheetah

I've obviously been a very big fan of the trends involving color blocking and color popping so it's no shocker that I love patterns. Prints are always playful and fun, whether it's a classic polka dot pattern on black and white or a more sassy standout, like cheetah print. Up above is just a little glimpse of the cheetah shirts I've got lined up for the fall. From gray jeans during the day to black leggings at night, the animal print leaves no clothing match making limitations. And of course, I had to purchase some print worthy wedges for the nighttime!

1.

Fall Purse

What outfit is complete without the perfect handbag? As someone who's been obsessing over purses since she was 6 years old, I truly believe handbags are a solid investment. And until I can make that big leap of investing in a Birkin, my faux Park Ave styled bag will do. The cream and black color bag from Aldo is perfect for the fall and winter. It's also has enough space to fit all my necessities. With FNO on the first week of September, you can bet that a big handbag like this will be your big advantage. 

The Little Black Leather Dress!

I always love spotting different fashion trends in move costumes and did just that after seeing The Dark Knight Rises. When I wasn't swooning over the man candy and gasping from the action scenes (and you know paying attention to the plot), I found myself admiring Anne Hathaway's total HBIC persona. As someone who also appreciates the nicer things in life like pearls and diamonds, I wasn't shocked that I loved Hathaway's Catwoman. In fact, the performance made me wish Hollywood showed off more powerful stiletto fighting women. Which leads me to my new obsession, the LBLD- aka the Little Black Leather Dress! The LBD is every women's favorite and easy way to look effortlessly flawless. With the addition of a little leather, the dress has a vampy take on the traditional outfit choice. And with fall right around the corner, the sleek attire is perfect to throw on for a night out for cocktails!

Ladies who sport the leather:

Angelina Jolie

A decade/10 kids later and Angelina never really stopped rocking the sultry leather dress. As one of the  most action movie oriented actresses, it makes sense that Jolie loves the sharp appearance so much. In this Michael Kors dress from 2009, she looks ready to start her own fight scene right on the red carpet.

Emmanuelle Chriqui

At the 2010 ESPYS, Emmanuelle Chriqui opted for a more subtle touch of leather in this BCBG Max Azria dress. The short length along with the different fabrics(love the mix of sheer and leather) is a great way to play up the basic color. It's bold without coming off too strong!

Miley Cyrus

What a fab way to show up to your coming of age movie premiere with your hot new Australian boyfriend! Miley had a bit of her own Angelina moment but kept it young, and even more stylish, with the frilly shoulder pattern. 

Emma Stone

Last but certainly not least, Emma Stone took on the LBLD with a little design! The texture of this Versace dress is so gorg it honestly looks like artwork. Easily, my favorite leather black dress yet!

Fashion Friday: Get Classy with Ann Taylor

Aren't the Ann Taylor ads with Kate Hudson just the definition of class act? For months now, I've found my attention constantly being drawn to the large printed ads while shopping in malls. The ads have a beautiful layout and it's refreshingly different to see Kate Hudson in such a Upper East Side attire, instead of her usual boho chic appearance. Needless to say, I was thrilled to see Kate's continuation as the spokeswomen for Ann Taylor's Fall 2012 ad campaign.

Whether it's due to her performances in the most entertaining romantic comedies or her role as Penny Lane in Almost Famous, I've always had a soft spot for Ms Hudson. Like her iconic mother, Hudson represents the image of an ageless beauty, which is perfect for the brand. Kate gracefully embodies the timeless yet relatable elegance that Anne Taylor reflects, making the ad collaboration a perfect fit.

"As a young girl, I looked up to the sophisticated style of Ann Taylor, so it's been very cool to see how the brand has evolved to meet the changing needs of modern women."

-Kate Hudson

Red Carpet Report: Teen Choice Awards 2012

The Teen Choice Awards are always a fabulous refreshment during the summertime(aka the season of no award shows). The fun spirited show offers the chance to bang out the most youthful and summer themed outfits! Here's a look at some stars who got it right and others who were almost there...

Best

Lea Michele looked adorable in Versace head to toe! The mini dress was anything but simple with the curvy shape at the waist and chest. The details of the dress are reminiscent of a classic spring/summer wedding dress design but with a little more freedom! Lea looks like she's channeling a fun and single Sex and the City character ready to conquer the summer Hamptons.

Zoe Saldana, queen of taking chances with fashion. I really love seeing actresses sport the crop top with high waist skirt outfit, however I think it typically looks better in motion than photographs because of the outfit's fullness. Still, Zoe looked great with this unique green colored ensemble. The blue Louboutins were also a nice touch to dazzle up the outfit!

Victoria Justice continued the night's trend of wearing new summer styles with her mullet dress! I love this look of having the dress short in the front yet long in the back, and the young starlet totally pulled it off. Adding the cheetah print and belt, Victoria looked perfect for the occasion!

Coulda,  Woulda , Shoulda

And now for those who were so close, yet a little too far away...

Oh Ashley Benson, what happened! One, if you're going to wear black during the summer you better make it sleek due to the lack of color. And two, girl those pants! I'm totally all for a nice corset but the loose fit of the pants are not flattering on Ashley's small frame. A tighter bottom, peplum skirt, or even better matched belt would've saved this outfit! 

There's technically nothing offensive about this outfit, but it is too bland for the fun event. If someone else wore this, I would say it looks cute...but it feels like Taylor Swift has worn this type of dress many times before. I like the side cutouts and beige shoes but she could've definitely stepped things up. Taylor has been on the cover of Vogue and should have fun with having that on her fashion resume! Switch it up with at least some bold colors TSwift!