KarTRASHian

For those who know me, this post's title may come as a bit of a shock. I love the Kardashians (you shouldn't be that surprised to hear I'm watching Keep Up With the Kardashians as I write this). From their low-class reality show to their empire of boutiques, products, and social events, I think the Kardashians are insane geniuses. Even that four hour wedding special had me watching and rooting for Kim and man- Kris. In my mind, the Kardashians can do no wrong. They're successful! They're entertaining! They're funny! They're fashionable! Little did I know, I would have to rethink the latter.  Now you must be wondering what happened. Cannes happened.

(Photo Cred)

Sure, there have been a lot of crazy outfits at this year's Cannes, but this one is officially my least favorite. Ever. So why didn't I just include this bad boy in my Cannes roundup? This ensemble was so painful, it needed my undivided attention. I must admit, her hair and makeup is stellar. Sexy and clean at the same time. Scratch that- I like her makeup. I'm such a sucker for the smokey eye and nude lip combination. That hair, on the other hand, needs to go. A slick ponytail would've been perfect, not this greasy mess!  And that awkward slicked back do is horrendous with the Balmain. Speaking of Balmain, as much as I love Olivier Rousteing and everything he does, this gilded mini just does not work with Kim. She's too boobalicious and curvy for this silhouette and deep v. Especially for Cannes! This is a classy event- not the MTV movie awards. On a side note, why  is Kanye even wearing jeans? THIS IS CANNES! HE'S AT CANNES FOR HIS MOVIE.  For such a glam-obsessed "couple," I'm majorly disappointed.  In a world of red carpet glam, does this really suffice? No.

As if this ensemble couldn't get any worse, Kim decides to put on those Giuseppe Zanotti booties. Not only are they an uncomfortable height, but why would you ever pair those with a mini?  She looks like a second-rate street walker. I hate it. This weekend, I decided to re-watch the first season of Keeping Up With the Kardashians and Kim claimed she was a stylist in one episode. I scoffed as any fashion snob would.

To top off this fashion horror story, Kardashian did the unthinkable: repeated an outfit. Sure, she didn't wear the same thing twice, but she stole Gwyneth's show-stopping Pucci from the 2011 Emmys, which is worse.

(Photo Cred)

Though this happens all the time in Hollywood, Fashion Police wouldn't have a weekly "Bitch Stole My Look" segment if there wasn't, this is terrible. How could you copy a look as infamous as Gwyneth's? So wrong. Especially since the same dress is showcased at two very prominent red carpet events: the Emmys and Cannes. Plus, it's not even like Kim looks better. While er hourglass figure offers a different look, I hate those earrings. They are neither here nor there.

Kim has had some fashion successes since then; however, I really wonder if I'll ever forget this. As much as I hate to say it, I feel like Kim Kardashian is no longer relevant in the world of fashion. It's fine, I was always more of a Kourtney fan anywho.
xx

The Style Files: And This is Crazy

Once again, I'm obsessed with a Fun cover of a song I've already deemed trendy. But it's not my fault that Nate Ruess' voice makes me melt. All he needs to do is cover One Direction and I'll be one happy girl!

Style Spiration: Reese Witherspoon

My almost unbearable schedule this past week has made me appreciate clean and simple style. Though I'm a frippery fanatic, going back to the basics is absolutely necessary every now and then. In honor of stress-free style, I'm dedicating this week's style spiration to the queen of simple chic: Reese Witherspoon. She has the ability to dress age-appropriate, classy, and fashion-forward at the same time! 

This is by far the best pregnancy-friendly look I've seen in a while. Witherspoon quickly stepped away from the world of following chiffon at this year's Cannes and sported this fitted, black,  long-sleeved mini. The thin  silhouette perfectly complements her baby bump without look trashy. For a kick of summer-approved style, the pink heels act as that ever-so necessary pop of color. The subtle smokey eye, paired with the soft pink lip, allows Witherspoon's pregnancy glow to shine through.(Photo Cred)

Only a year after her fantastic Oscar win, Witherspoon brought simple chic to the  AcademyAwards with this drama-packed Nina Ricci dress (it all sounds ironic, but so accurate). From the subtle ombre to the diagonal ruffles, this gown pairs a typical silhouette with standout embellishments. Witherspoon strays away from the typical Oscar beauty regimes with the sleek down-do', smokey eyes, and a barely- there lip.(Photo Cred)

Even off the red carpet, she still has it. This occasion, for example, shows off a luxe, casual aesthetic. I love the monochromatic mix of different textures. The light fedora is so incognito chic. J'adore! (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Nina Dobrev at Cap D'Antibes (Elie Saab): What a vision! I'm so obsessed with this blue, sequined number. The dropped shoulder and high-slit make this ensemble classy, glamourous, and so not something an ice queen would wear. If you're in a mood for a striking contrast, look no further than the silver accessories. Can we say fabulous? Dobrev's fashion bun is the perfect way to finish off this ensemble. 
• Bella Heathcote at Vanity Fair and Gucci's Cannes bash: I'm literally obsessed- so in love with this editorial ensemble. Metallics and neutrals- ie black and white- create a striking combination. Fortunately, Heathcote nixes the jewels, which creates a clean look.  Not to mention she aces the beauty front: blunt bangs and gothic lips are musts for the fall!  Can we even think of a more spectacular combination of simple lines, gothic glam, and cutting-edge magic? No!
• Jordana Brewster at a Coach benefit: Gone are the days of color blocking being the end of discussion. Now, let's focus on a new way to approach your favorite hue- monochromatism. I'm obsessed with mixing different textures and fabrics that are the same color- so chic. Jordana Brewster totally rocked this monochromatic trend. From the whimsical, oversized clutch to the printed blouse, this look is super sweet.  The silver shoes add the perfect finishing, quasi-monochromatic touch!  

xx

Cat Attack

Cat Attack by kmulvey featuring cat eye sunglasses

Tom Ford cat eye sunglasses, 390 CAD
Karen Walker Eyewear cat eye sunglasses, $280
Prism cat eye sunglasses, £265
J.Crew cat eye sunglasses, $98
1950's Cat Eye Glasses - Lois B. Nelson, $103

The Style Files: It's an Ache I Still Remember

I know I deemed "Somebody That I Used to Know" trendy a couple months ago; however, I'm obsessed with this cover. Fun and Gotye rolled into one? Too good to be true!

Style Spiration: Rachel Bilson

Between her strong presence on websites like Who What Wear and her quasi-comeback in Hart of Dixie, Rachel Bilson- and her style- is everywhere. Bilson has a strong, polished style that could make any  fashionista swoon. Let's take a peek, shall we?

From the retro wide-legged pants to the poppy white frames, Bilson hits this casual  look out of the park at a Sunglass Hut event. Sure, this look may come off as a bit...casual-  the hair is unstyled and the barely-there makeup infuses effortless chic into this ensemble. Let's be honest, what says "fashionista" better than effortless chic?  (Photo Cred)

I absolutely love the Zac Posen creation Bilson sported at an Art of Elysium event. The feminine silhouette and fabric combination is divine; however, the vivid rose color adds a dash of glamour. The matching lip, girly hair, and minimal jewels are super refreshing. (Photo Cred)

If you look quickly, it's like Audrey Hepburn time traveled to the millenium!  Bilson exudes ladylike style at the Tribeca Film Festival. The boxy silhouette is perfectly paired with the brocade-esque embellishments. The soft pastels look sharp against the black pumps and clutch. And that 60's hair? J'adore! And when a certain Mr. Lagerfeld is your arm candy, can you really be on the worst dressed list? Exactly. (Photo Cred)

As always, Bilson aces street style.  I love the way she blends layers and different fabrics together. The solid booties are so unexpected, which is what personal style is all about. But before we write off this look as "edgy", the braid brings this look back to its original casual aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

The beginning of summer means a lot of things: tan skin, bikini shopping, iced beverages, and, oh, Cannes. Ready for some exceptional red carpet style? I am! 

• Freida Pinto at the Cannes Film Festival premiere of Moonrise Kingdom (Michael Angel): In my mind, Freida Pinto is a fashion miracle. We don't see her on every red carpet; however, she ceases to amaze me with her cunning sense of style Though the beaded bodice may sound over the top, the relaxed peplum and draping on the skirt balances out the extravagant fripperies. The simple ring and drop earring beautifully complement the sparkle in her dress. Pinto recruits the stunning updo to finish off this red carpet glam look.
• Diane Kruger on the Le Grand Journal show (Balmain): As any stylista knows, Diane Kruger is the queen of edgy fashion. Fortunately, she does not disappoint here! Kruger perfectly blends simple and feminine silhouettes with chunky accessories. Tres chic. The simple makeup and casual hair bring the two extremes together. 
• Kate Moss at the Marie Curie Cancer Care event: That's a fur I need to own.
• Diane Kruger at the Cannes opening ceremony (Giambattista Valli Haute Couture): Princess alert in Cannes! Although this ensemble is a world's difference from her Balmain outfit, I'm obsessed with both.The sweeping silhouette is perfectly combined with the gorgeous aqua and dramatic asymmetrical shoulder? So smitten! 

xx

Met Ball 2012

The Oscars is always a very bittersweet occasion for me. While I love the dialogue between movies and fashion, it's the end of award season. In short, it's the end of award season fashion. Thankfully, May brings us something that's a million times better than the Oscars- The Met Ball. The greatest designers, hottest celebrities, and most fantastic designs? Fash-gasm. Though I've been writing this post at a glacial pace, I'm so thrilled to share with you my best and worst dressed lists!

The Worst

Mary Kate Olsen in The Row: Even if I could tolerate the ill-fitted, uber matronly frock, the rest is absolutely horrific. First of all, the dainty bag simply does not work with the stealth frock. Juxtaposition that is neither cohesive nor conservational? No thank you. The makeup makes her look way too chiseled, which ultimately screams "bad trip to the Botox doctor." Last, but certainly not least, the hair. I'm all for quirky hair but this went past disheveled chic and straight to electrocuted freak. I love the Olsen sisters- even Elizabeth- and cherish them as style icons. Except for this occasion. Very, very wrong.  (Photo Cred)

Bruno Mars in Burberry: The suit is fine. I actually love the textured bow tie with the animalistic shoes. What I have a problem with is the hair. Big fashion faux pas. (Photo Cred)

Beyonce in Givenchy: Though this dress is very appropriate for the Met Ball, I just don't like it on Beyonce. She could've worn something more sophisticated or sexy. The purple feathers and lace gloves are a little...cheesy. Whenever I think of this Givenchy collection, I immediately go back to Zoe Saldana's purple moment
at the 2010 Academy Awards. Something is clearly wrong is Beyonce receives less attention than Zoe Saldana (that's just the way it is).(Photo Cred)

Kirsten Dunst in Rodarte: Captain America chic? I'm not feeling it. Instead of embracing her risky, ethereal fashion sense, Dunst opted for a matronly skirt suit. While this might look fabulous on Meryl (but then again, what doesn't?), it's too old for Kirsten. And too plain. I feel like she just rushed to the Met Ball from her Broadway debut. (Photo Cred)

Rachel Zoe in Rachel Zoe: Trust me, I'm not happy about this either. Though I think the fringe dress is genius, I hate the jewels with it. Not only is the statement necklace too bohemian for the Met Ball, it also looks weird with the dropped sleeve. It seems as if Rachel Zoe is too busy promoting her own line than gushing over beautiful pieces and styling stunning looks. I miss the good 'ol days. (Photo Cred)

Kristen Stewart in Balenciaga: No, absolutely not. First of all, patchwork is so 1996 it's not even funny. The placement of each color, fabric, and pattern is not flattering. Instead, Stewart looks a bit chunky. And those shoes? the opposite of chic- weird, creepy, and a mistake all around. Her hair and makeup is way too casual. This is the Met Ball, not Coachella! And no accessories? I'm traumatized. Obviously, I never expect fashion gold when Stewart walks on the red carpet, but this is a disgrace to everyone involved.(Photo Cred)

Shailene Woodley in Christopher Kane: Oh, make it stop! She used to be so chic...what happened? Not only is the print absolutely hideous, but the leather straps around the waist are unflattering. And no jewels? Seriously, what's going on here? (Photo Cred)

The Best

Rihanna in Tom Ford: How major is this ensemble? The sleek silhouette plus the croc skin equals perfection. The drop back and slit gives this fashion-forward dress a dash of sex appeal. Though I usually critique the red carpet tributes (Hunger Games reference) for not doning enough jewels, I love the lack of jewels with this dress- clean, raw, and overtly sexy. J'adore! (Photo Cred)

 Rooney Mara in Givenchy: Ladies and gent, Miss Mara is back! I'm obsessed with this ensemble. The lace skirt is super romantic while the daring asymmetry, shameless sheerness, and deep lip pushes the envelope. The slicked back hair balances off the fripperies of this ensemble. Didn't I say that she was a style icon of 2012? (Photo Cred)

Marina Rust in Vera Wang: So classic. I love the combination of the ruffles and soft gray. The soft makeup and romantic hair? Perfection. (Photo Cred)

Jessica Pare in L'Wren Scott:  Favorite golden girl! The gold metallics have this woven effect that I'm obsessed with. The statement earrings adds a glimmer of edge and sophistication. Pare subdues this uber glam look with feminine makeup. She's phenomenal!  (Photo Cred)

Camilla Belle in Ralph Lauren Collection: Can we say gothic glam? Belle looks stunning in the plunging neckline and ornate details further this gothic vibe. She's sexy, sophisticated, and youthful at the same time. Plus, that dark lip is absolutely everything. (Photo Cred)

Candice Swaepoel in Rag & Bone: I dream of being David and Marcus'  muse. Not only am I completely jealous of Candice for attending the prestigious ball with the design geniuses, her ensemble is to die for. From the lace-embellished back, to the semi-masked slits, to the flattering dual tone design, this dress is flawless. To top it off, the braided ballerina knot exudes an edgy, feminine aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

Coco Rocha in Givenchy: Only Coco Rocha can rock this poppy Elizabeth Taylor original to the Met Ball. While most red carpet staples sport the typical ball gown, I love how Rocha stepped out from the pack and did something totally unexpected and original. The jeweled, paisley embellishments spice up this look so Rocha didn't look too casual. As for beauty, that pink hair is so funky and on-trend! (Photo Cred)

Gone are the day where Emma Roberts was only famous for being Julia Robert's niece...and star of the sub-par teen show, Unfabulous: she's officially a red carpet must. I love the sharp contrast between her pale skin and this bright mustard Escada. The relevant peplum and the thin belt gives this dress a contemporary twist. But don't write this look off as tween chic just yet- the old school hair is so regal and gives this look an elegant flare. (Photo Cred)

Amy Adams in Giambattista Valli; This is such a stellar red carpet moment. From the sleek silhouette to the juxtaposing black and white, this dress works perfectly with Adam's soft, orange waves and the bright red lip. The gilded bow belts dishes out a potent dose of avant garde chic. So major.(Photo Cred)

Renee Zellweger in Emilio Pucci: The Bridget Jones' Diary star said farewell to her typical Herrera gowns and surprised spectators with this fabulous Pucci dress. In my humble opinion, this is the best that Zellweger's looked in a long time. Between the sheer sleeves, sultry cutouts, and textured train Zellweger gets the Met Ball seal of approval. Fabulous!  The messy updo gives this dress some humility; however, the fantastic earrings perfect the transition from casual hair to a standout dress. (Photo Cred)

The SJP

There has been some...lively dialogue about Sarah Jessica Parker's Valentino ensemble. Some people love it, others hate it. People have even asked my opinion about this ensemble. Though I don't think this is her best, I do believe this ensemble upholds her style aesthetic as well as the Costume Institute's dress code. You're never going to see Sarah Jessica Parker in a typical starlet gown, which is something I adore about her. She's quirky, she takes risks, and always makes a statement. How could you not love that? (Photo Cred)

xx

The Style Files: Goodnight, I Go to Bed Dreaming of Change

A couple years ago, I saw Steel Train alongside The Postelles and Fun. My love for them had a major comeback this week when they randomly popped on my iTunes. Witty, poppy, and kind of quirky- the perfect way to start summer!

Style Spiration: Zoe Saldana 

I'm going to go all hipster on this Style Spiration- I liked Zoe Saldana before Avatar.  However, this starlet has only recently "made it" as a fashion favorite. Whether it's a different silhouette or an edgy frippery, Saldana always tries something new. As every fashionista knows, it's so easy to only wear what you're comfortable in. With every step on the red carpet, Saldana breaks down her fashion wall. Ergo, she's invincible. 

I'm obsessed with the Elie Saab couture dress Saldana rocked at a Cosmo Latina event. The applique bodice works perfectly with the subtle tiered skirt. Also, can we talk about the detailing on that heel? To die for. The bright lip and the soft hair finishes this look with a strong girly punch! (Photo Cred)

Love this blend of futurism and romanticism. The bold shoulders are perfectly balanced with the slightly trumpeted skirt. As for the jeweled embellishments- the perfect slice of glamour. The low maintenance hair prevents an overbearing red carpet moment.  Tres jo jo. (Photo Cred)

 A celebrity can have an amazing stylist and be the least chic chick out there. In my opinion, street style is the true test of fashion. Are we surprised that Saldana aced it? Nope! The dark-washed skinnies are so Parisian chic with the cutout heels. Let's not forget that the softly draped scarf is perfection. Even sans makeup and minimal hair styling, you know that Saldana is a fierce fashionista!  (Photo Cred)

At this point of the style spiration, you're probably wondering where the splash of color is. Between the raspberry hue to the peasant-like ruffles, this Louis Vuitton dress is something else. The matching jewels creates a monochromatic ensemble that anyone would kill to wear. The relaxed hair as well as the monochromatic makeup screams understated elegant. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Natalie Portman at the New York City Ballet Spring Gala (Dior): Clearly, the Black Swan star could not stay away from the world of tutus and pas de beurres for too long. Simply stated, Portman looked gorgeous at this event. The navy and black color combination offers an edgy alternative to pure black. From the leather bow at the bodice to the tiered tulle, this Dior dress also offers a hint of femininity. Portman completes this look with subtle jewels, fresh makeup, and a messy updo.
• Emily VanCamp at Hollywood's Sunset Tower Hotel (Alice + Olivia by Stacey Bendet): Funky lace,  a feminine peplum, and a pop of color? Needless to say, I'm obsessed. The all black ensemble subdues all the fashionable fripperies. Not only does VanCamp rock the ensemble, she also conquers this look on the beauty front. Those loose waves are to die for! 
• Catherine Middleton at a Claridges' dinner (Roland Mouret): The duchess is looking absolutely regal in white. The slit and platform sandals give this look a dash of edgy glamour. I feel as if we always see Middleton in structured, printed midi dresses or princess-esque attire. It's definitely nice to see Middleton is something- dare I say it- minimalist and sleek. As always, Middleton finishes up this ensemble with her signature long locks. 

Unless you're living under a rock, you know that today is Mother's Day. I just wanted to give a shout-out to my mother- she's my rock, my cheerleader, my partner-in-crime,and my favorite shopping buddy. Everyday, she inspires me to be the best I can be and teaches me that pure sophistication never goes out of style. I love you more than anything and am so lucky to be your daughter!

 xx

The Style Files: I Think I Want to Live My Life and You're Just in My Way

One of my friends exposed me to The Cults and I kind of love them. How Gossip Girl during the summer is this song? J'adore!

The Style Files: Tennessee Thomas 

As much as any fashionista loves trends, it's important to know that personal style is all about being yourself. And Tennessee Thomas nails it. The Like drummer's quirky, rocker, and totally British look is to die for.

Does she know that sheer laces and a red lip is the sartorial key to my heart?(Photo Cred)

Though it'd take a lot to get me to wear a gingham dress, I love how she experiments with different colors and textures.(Photo Cred)

A feminine dress with an androgynous shoe? I love a successful, "just thrown together" ensemble. Thompson so knows how to rock it.(Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Lucy Hale at the ABC Family upfronts: This pretty little liar is on trend! Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that pops of neon are totally in. The dress' classic silhouette is balanced by the energetic earrings. The poppy lip makes the neon less abrasive (and always gives Hale's ensemble a dash of personality).
• Lea Michele at the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences' screening of Glee (Jenni Kayne): As much as I dislike Lea Michele, I'm obsessed with this ensemble- springtime fresh! I'm so smitten over the texture and metallic component of the dress and heels, respectively. The sleek updo and fresh makeup give this look a fun and feminine vibe.
• Kate Hudson at the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner (Jenny Packham): I'm literally obsessed with the glitter overload. The subtle two-tone glitter makes this dress different from its sequined counterparts. Can we talk about that high bun? Tres chic.

xx

A Little Bit Rock-n-Roll

Though I love my florals, lace, and girly apparel in general, I'm such a sucker for a rocker-inspired ensemble. Maybe it was because I was seeing Fun later that night (yes, they're the best band ever), but I was compelled to unleash my inner Joan Jett.

From the spray-paint effect to the black and beige color combination, this tank is versatile and edgy.

Although I rarely don silver jewelry, do you really think I could say no to this statement bracelet? It gives the perfect dose of hardcore edge. Whenever I wear this bracelet, I feel like a powerful woman- kind of like Wonder Woman.

In true Trendologist fashion, no outfit is complete without a fun pattern. These leopard loafers are super versatile, comfortable, and undeniably fierce. 

FYI: I sported a bright pink shoulder bag to the concert. Sine the leopard loafers and bag had enough distance from each other, it gave this look a quirky dose of personal style. 

Want to copy this trend? Well, my lovely readers, vintage-inspired tanks and jeans are officially your new BFFs.

Once again, these fantastic pictures were taken by none other than Christine Chen. 

Did I mention that Fun was incredible? This bad boy was taken by yours truly.

xx