10 Best Looks from the 2015 Met Ball

Call it the "Costume Institute Ball"  or simply "Anna Wintour's Party", but one thing's for sure: the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual gala is a big deal for fashion people. Instead of watching basic column dress after basic column dress cascade down the red carpet, our hunger for creativity is satiated by the extraordinary. This year, the Costume Institute celebrated the launch of the museum's new exhibit, "China: Through the Looking Glass."  From avant garde headpieces to barely-there dress a la Beyoncé, Kim and J.Lo, last night's level of extravagance did not disappoint. Didn't obsessively scroll through your Instagram? For those of us plebians who weren't graced with the golden ticket, check out the ten best looks of the evening.


Sienna Miller in Thakoon: Typically, menswear-inspired pieces are sexy in an androgynous, "wearing your boyfriend's button-down around the house" way. Rarely do they bare some serious skin and require rolls of double-stick tape. Sienna Miller's Thakoon suit posesses a potpourri of masculinity, feminity and sex appeal that is hard to beat. Paired with a simple black pump and tasseled earring, which agreed with the tassels on her belt, Miller's styling allowed the outfit to truly sing.



Sarah Jessica Parker: Say what you will about her fashion choices, but let's address the obvious: when there's a theme, Sarah Jessica Parker will not shy away from a sartorial challenge. Whether it's an ornate mohawk or a truly magical Oscar de la Renta ballgown, the Sex and the City leading lady consistently does something even the most stylish woman forgets every now and then: she has fun with what she's wearing. Her H&M dress, which she co-designed, isn't couture and the Philip Treacy hat may not be the most covetable piece from the gala; however,  the actress's enthusiasm to embrace a theme while looking tasteful and age-appropriate is worth celebrating.

Keri Russell in Altuzarra: It's amazing how a unique blend of fabrics can make a relatively common silhouette metamorphose from average to exceptional. Keri Russell's feathered frock, made by New York designer Joseph Altuzarra, perfectly encompasses that belief.  Is this attire the most theme -appropriate? No. But with an impeccable fit, irrestible color and innovative textile, it doesn't seem to matter. This dress is flawless. To keep this look undeniably sexy, Russell added a strappy sandal and smokey eye.

Diane Kruger in Chanel Haute Couture: As Sienna Miller also kindly reminded us, wearing pants to a high-profiled event is a tell-tale sign you're an It-Girl (like we ever questioned Kruger's level of coolness). While the silhouette is relatively progressive for the red carpet, the thoughtful embellishments provided a danity, unbashedly feminine twist. Kitschy and unexpected, but it's possible that Kruger's heart-shaped clutch made every on-looker smile. And for the finishing touch, the actress decorated her hair with Asian-influenced flowers. A fashion homerun, as always, from Joshua Jackson's better half.

Amanda Seyfried in Givenchy Haute Couture: In the grand scheme of all things Met Ball, this is nothing special. Yet there's no denying that the former Mean Girls star looks sublime. The subtle detailing around the bodice and waist surprising did not create the illusion of a bulkier frame. Instead, it offers an ethereal vibe that is rarely seen on a carpet as glamorous as the Met Ball's. The slicked-back hair and berry lip counteract this dress's light and airy aesthetic. Simple and relatively safe, but perhaps this is what the every girl would wear to an event this spectacular. 

Lady Gaga in Balenciaga: Goodbye meat dress, hello Balenciaga. The pop star turned Tony Bennett sidekick has come a long way from popping out of an egg mid-red carpet. But that doesn't mean the songstress has ditched her innovative ways. Instead, Gaga has arguably reemerged to be the face of sophisticated creativity. Case in point?  Last night's outfit. While the voluminous shape comanded attention, the whispy feathers and geometric jacket created a polished way to pay homage to the exhibit. Topped with an edgy crown and severe, sleek dark locks, Gaga's ensemble was perfectly daring and dramatic.  

Emily Blunt in Prada: Leave it to the former Devil Wears Prada star to sport an outfit that is both forward-thinking and sophisticated. The delicate floral pattern stuck to the night's Asian-inspired theme, but the contrasting colorways offered a fresh look at an othewise timeless ensemble. If this getup didn't have enough star quality, the berry lip and glitzy earrings made this look suitable for any leading lady.

Kate Hudson in Michael Kors: As Kate Hudson's co-star Matthew McConaughey once said in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days once, "Frost yourself." In head-to-toe gold, the actress took this line to heart and opted for a gilded getup that would make any  awards statue jealous. The shimmery brocade is a less bulky way to give the illusion of head-to-to sequins. Though the form-fitting silhouette boasted the Fabletics frontwoman's enviable boddy, the covered bodice stayed true to the integrity of the gala as well as the exhibit's theme. Goldie would be proud.

Kendall Jenner in Calvin Klein Collection: At first glance, this streamlined dress was a disappointment for America's hottest supermodel. But when you look closer, this beaded Calvin Klein dress is anything but boring. Between the labor-intensive beading and sexy ties along Kendall Jenner's frame, this dress would be ideal for an unconventional, modern-day Chinese courtesan. Though the dress is rather minimal compared to a sea of printed silk, baroque and embroridery that surrounded her, Jenner sultry bodice cut provided enough of a statement.

Rihanna in Guo Pei: Consider this a sartorial mike-drop. It's one thing to wear a Chinese-inspired dress; however, it is quite a another both sport an authentic Asian designer's creations and create this much of a statement. From the yellow hue, to the outrageous train, to the fur detailing, one would think this would cause an eye-sore. On the contrary, Rihanna's unwavering confidence and the fragility of the outfit screamed regal. Without a doubt, this is a fashion moment that will go down in history.

Which looks did you love? Sound off below!
Photos courtesy of Vogue.com and Glamour.com

xx

Red Carpet Review: Best 8 Looks From the 2014 CFDA Awards

Rihanna knows how to add shock value. If it's not her salacious music, or her Instagram woes, the public is always in awe of what the singer wears. Naturally, heads turned when Rihanna strutted down Monday's CFDA Awards's carpet in a sheer sequined Adam Selman number. Too racy? Too perfect? Days later, and it's still tough to say; however, one thing is for sure: Rihanna's dress is a conversation piece. But don't be fooled, style savants, there were several other CFDA-approved outfits that deserve to be gushed over. Check out the eight best looks from Monday's star-studded event. 

Liya Kebede in Wes Gordon: Yes, the CFDA Awards is second best occasion for any fashion plate to throw on a beautiful evening gown, but there's something surprisingly refreshing about the model's simplistic Wes Gordon dress.  The outfit on its own looks like a young Carolina Herrera while the white sandals make this look completely fearless. Kebede's extra voluminous curls with the sleek number give this look an after hours aesthetic. Obsessed.

Olivia Palermo in Ann Taylor: The former reality star is never one to shy away from a fashion risk, as they always seem to pay off for Palermo. However, sporting a lower market brand to such a high-profile event is new for the tastemaker, yet it works. Palermo adds depth to a monochromatic look by mixing different textures from head to toe. The lace-accented shoes continue the textural look, not to mention are also super chic.With a beachy bun and loads of gold jewels, Palermo proves that she can make any brand (and perhaps any look) a smash hit.

Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen: In their own designs, the stylish duo is an obvious choice for the evening's best dressed list. Known for their perfectly coordinating outfits, each twin gives her own twist to the long-sleeved black dress and emerald jewels. The result? Two looks that are effortless, sophisticated, and expresses two different personal styles. Brava.

Joan Smalls in Prabal Gurung: From short hems to plunging necklines, Smalls is never afraid to sport something sexy on the red carpet. The model's ethereal, yet provocative, Prabal Gurung gown from Monday's awards ceremony was a bonafide hit. While the chopped bodice and high slit scream vixen, the sleek gold accessories and Smalls's bangs give this gown a fashion-forward twist. Plus, the midnight blue acts as the ultimate neutral. So major.

Olivia Wilde in Decades LA: While fringe ran rampant at the Spring 2014 collection-- Altuzarra, Emilio Pucci, and Derek Lam, to name a few-- but translating this trend to the mass audience is a challenge. However, Wilde's take on this trend is spot on. Not only is the long fringe unapologetically glam, the asymmetrical shoulder prevents tragic flapper moment. And can we just reflect that she is a new mom in that curve-hugging number. Where can we find the name of her Pilates instructor?

Marion Cotillard in Dior: Though the actress's designer choice is no surprise, Cotillard's look is everything. While the shift silhouette and two-toned shoes scream girly mod, the dimensional components give this outfit a modern flair. But of course no ensemble is complete without a face full of makeup... or is it? On the contrary, Cotillard's au natural look is oddly refreshing and allows onlookers to focus on the dress. 

Karlie Kloss in Band of Outsiders: Wild, wild west chic takes a metropolitan turn as Karlie Kloss pairs a handkerchief-esque dress with exotic lace-up heels. Zestier than the model's signature ladylike frocks, this gown is a fashion risk worth taking. Though the silhouette is relatively minimalist, the cut-outs and gentle print rejigger Kloss's personal style. Let's not forget that the semi-sloppy top knot is the perfect finishing touch.

Jessica Stam in Giulietta: Unless you haven't received the memo, jumpsuits are the new evening gowns. There's a particular easy je ne sais quoi about playsuits that are perfect for the summer. Donning a monochromatic look, Stam aces this trend. The subtle peplum and keyhole neckline create the perfect mélange of sexy and sweet, which is undeniably fashion-forward. Stam's black jewel accessories produces a high-contrast look. On the beauty front, the model's metallic shadow and sleek bun are ideal for this warm season.

All photos courtesy of The Cut.

xx

Check Mate.

It's no surprise that I'm obsessed with all things editorial. And when an interesting fashion spread comes around, I tend to take notice. Recently, I was roaming around a convenience store in London and UK Glamour's April issue caught my eye. Though January Jones looks beautiful (as always) on the cover, all of my attention went to what she was wearing. I know, are we surprised? "Cheers for sporting Louis Vuitton's spring collection," many style groupies might've said as they picked up their copy and headed towards the till. I, on the other hand, couldn't get another editorial moment out of my head: AnnaSophia Robb's Teen Vogue cover shoot. Not to mention Rihanna sported pieces from the collection on the cover of Elle. Though there is no real competition-- each magazine has its own target audience-- I couldn't help but wonder who wore it better.

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After looking at these three variations (they're so similar, but so different), I've come to the conclusion that they represent three different aspects of fashion: AnnaSophia is runway, January is commercial and Rihanna is street style.  The Carrie Diaries did not merely throw on the ensemble and call it a day. Instead, her look is meticulously planned to play up the mod factor. Though Jones's statuesque frame is catwalk-approved, the Mad Men starlet looks as if she's toning the edginess down with red carpet worthy adored hair and a glamazon lip. Rihanna's red pout, on the other hand, offers a sense of street style that is splashed all over fashion blogs.

With that fashion nerd moment over and done with, let's talk business! She may be young, but I have to admit that AnnaSophia Robb has was it takes to be one of Hollywood's up-and-coming fashionistas. Though the top and skirt are supposed to be cropped, it just looks too cropped on Jones and Rihanna. On the contrary, Robb looks utterly classic. While the "Diamonds" songstress is giving the ensemble some personality, Jones looks very...forced in this ensemble. Even though Rihanna's low heel is trendy, I don't love how matchy-matchy this look is.

One of the reasons I love this collection is because Marc perfectly infuses some teenage spirit into the otherwise traditional Louis Vuitton brand. AnnaSophia Robb perfectly embraces this concept. Not to mention her hair and makeup looks divine.

And when push comes to shove, she rocked this look first.

Clean, sophisticated and funky-- Teen Vogue's fashion team nailed this one.

But what do you think? I'm dying to know!

xx

The 2013 Grammy Awards

Not even the strict wardrobe regulations could stop the music industry's hottest stars from killing it on the red carpet. In true Grammys spirit, a slew of sick pieces were culled from the masses and paraded around Los Angeles's Staples Center. However, not all ensembles were spectacular. It's the Grammys after all-- style mishaps are a necessary evil! Never fear, fashion groupies, I'm here to break down the good, the bad and the absolutely insane.

The Worst.

Jennifer Lopez in Anthony Vaccarello: No stranger to provocative  Grammys attire,  Jenny from the block truly pushed the envelope this year. I don't know about you, but I'm getting a little sick of the superstar sporting these revealing ensembles. As a mother of two, she needs to know when her sexual peak is over. And I think it's almost over. To end on a positive note, I must say that topknot is gorgeous.

Kimbra in Jaime Lee Major: Um, what? This is just awful. It's like Chanel's Spring 2012 took a tragic turn. I'm not sure if she was trying to give Britney Spears's controversial "Toxic" ensemble a feminine twist, but this gown should be sacrificed to the fashion gods. But let's be honest, they'd probably reject it.

Keltie Colleen: Color blocking can be lovely; however, it's a major faux pas when used and abused. Example? This outfit. Though canary yellow shoes would look stellar with a cobalt blue mini, that disgraceful slit ruins whole look. And doesn't that glitzy bodice remind you of Dancing with the Stars? Maybe the dress would be better if it was in black? No, I take that back. This should cease to exist.

Adele in Valentino: Stepping away from her trusty black frocks, the Grammy winner took a risk and sported a quirky dress. Though Adele's boisterous persona and soulful voice are enough to charm basically anyone, this outfit failed to score a high note with fashion critics. While I support taking a risk (regardless of a style maven's size), this Valentino number was not flattering. Instead, it draws a little too much attention to her hips. I think Adele should try a bright hue again, but perhaps stay away from the busy print. Not to menton the matching shoes are a little too much.

Lisa D'amato: In what world is this okay? From the clashing (not to mention cheesy) prints to the glitzy heels, this totally horrid. Someone, make it stop! 

John Mayer: The ladykiller has officially taken creepy to the next level. A plush blue jacket with baggy pants? You got to be kidding me. Either ditch the flashy jacket or get those pants fitted! Quincy Jones, are you pointing to the singer because he's the worst dress man of the night?

Ashlee Keating: Though this awards show is the perfect time to show some skin and sport some sparkle, Ashlee Keating takes this sartorial invitation too far. First of all, multicolored sequins are never okay. Paired with the awful yellow hair? Keating resembles a life-sized Barbie doll, and not in a good way.

Nicole Kidman in Vera Wang: There's a fine line between dressing young and hot  and trying too hard. Though I loved Kidman's Golden Globes ensemble, this dress is not jivin' with me. The yellow hue does not work with her complexion, plus the sheer lace overlay is not refreshing. Instead, it makes the Paper Boy star look a little too old. Also, lace for the Grammys? Instead, sport some sequins. 

Katy Perry in Gucci: The former Mrs. Russell Brand knows how to make a scene, but that's not always a good thing. While boys go crazy for the "Candy Queen's" revealing ensemble, fashion snobs are no amused. I'm not loving the light green hue, especially with the jeweled cutout. People aren't lying when they say less is more. 

Esperanza Spalding in Eden Diodati: Never a sartorial wallflower, the talented musician sported a matching dress and cape. While this would've looked sick in a vibrant color, this print is a little too much to stomach. Spalding's infamous locks only add fuel to the fire. Something's got to go-- preferably the cape. 

Florence Welsh in Givenchy: For the Florence and the Machine front woman, there's no such thing as too far.  I love Welsh's passionate for trying something new, yet it seems as if she has turned into fashion's new Green Goblin. The artificial spikes and deep lip is a little too theatrical for my liking. Florence, please stick to the Riccardo Tisci's ethereal pieces-- we like you much better that way.

Carly Rae Jepsen in Roberto Cavalli:  Everyone knows that most black dresses are universally chic; however, this pop princess is looking a little gothic in this Roberto Cavalli creation. The jet black hair, the semi-sparkling dress and the black nails? Way too much! In fact, she looks a little creepy. Call me maybe? In that ensemble, probably not.

The Best.

Allison Williams in Kaufman Franco: Nicole Kidman, this is how an actress properly infiltrates the music scene. The Girls actress, as well as up-and-coming fashion fixture, shimmered in this fitted Kaufman Franco number. The lack of eye-popping jewels and funky makeup makes this intricate dress truly pop. Also, her hair is absolutely divine! 

Drake: This is Grammys menswear done right. The oh-so-fresh rapper took a fashion risk and played it safe at the same time. How? So glad you asked. While the classic tuxedo is a go-to for any stylish gent, the navy and black color combination is so hot right now. The former Degrassi star finished this look with some scruff. Ladies, I order you to swoon. Now.

Rihanna in Alaia: For one night only, the "good girl gone bad" ditched her controversial threads and revisited her chic, island girl roots. Fashion slaves, now is the time to rejoice! From the halter neck to fairytale train, this gown perfectly blends Rihanna's edgy present with her delicate past. The middle part, coupled with soft waves, and vibrant pout offers the perfect dash of drama. Flawless! 

Fun (Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost and Jack Anatoff): Perhaps I'm a tad biased, but the indie trio absolutely shut it down. Sticking to their alternative styles, the bandmates paired jazzy shoes with quirky suits. Never playing it safe, I love how the band always achieves a cohesive look whilst pleasuring their personal preferences. They made it rain-- literally, figuratively and sartorially.

Taylor Swift in J. Mendel: All angst aside, I'm completely enamored with the man slayer's rockstar outfit. Whether the country-turned-pop star will ever ditch the angelic hue is unclear; however, she totally revamped her traditional look. The architectural bodice marks the (potential) end of Swift's lackluster strapless tops. Not to mention that slit commands attention. With the ethereal updo, Swift looks like a sultry Game of Thrones character. And that's definitely not a bad thing! 

Beyonce in Osman: Goodbye "Freakum Dress," hello chic pantsuit. As per usual, the megawatt diva wowed everyone with this alternative ensemble. The modern getup is perfectly paired with a funky red lip and a relaxed ponytail. On the accessories front, I'm obsessed with the coordinating jeweled cuffs-- so major! 

Chrissy Teigen in Joy Cioci: John Legend's beau brought her a-game to the red carpet on Sunday. Though this skin-baring dress would be inappropriate on some, Teigen is absolutely smoldering in this Joy Cioci number. The basic black creates a blank canvas for the extravagant trim. Additionally, the mint clutch and chandelier  earrings give this edgy dress a feminine twist.

xx

The Best of 2012

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

Sartorially speaking, of course.

Though these next few days tend to mirror an action-packed movie (starring Liam Neeson, of course) as we embark on a rampant search for our New Year's Eve essentials (ie: party hats, streamers, alcohol, an attractive boy to kiss and loads of sequins), let's just pause for a moment and reflect on this year's fashion. Like every year, 2012 had its rockstar moments and downfalls. Shall we start this review off on a positive note? Behold, 12 of my favorite looks from 2012.

Allison Williams at the Emmy Awards (Oscar de la Renta): Shockingly, we have yet to see a lot of Williams on the red carpet; however, we love what she's wearing when she does grace our presence. And by ours, I mean the gang of photographers that attend each event. As the Girls star proves, you don't need loads of shine to wow fashion's elite. Instead, all you need is a pop of color and a phenomenal silhouette. Additionally, this gown fits the actress like a glove. Though the messy updo is far from exciting, it balances the dress' pizazz.  Thankfully, the drop earrings add some spice to the otherwise boring hair. Brava!  (Photo)

Emma Stone at SAG Awards (Alexander McQueen): Most of the time, I (not so) secretly wish I was Emma Stone. Honestly, her life is pretty awesome: she is hilarious, has an adorable British boyfriend, stars in major motion pictures and has the ability to sport a plethora of different looks. Here, it seems as if Stone stepped right off of Mad Men's set. Her vibrant hair and lipstick is perfectly contrasted by the black ensemble. The actress did not try to rocking the proverbial boat with an extremely edgy beauty trick or accessory. Instead, this outfit is extremely focused. In a world with so many options, you have to respect that.  But before I conclude, can we please stop and talk about her bag? Major! (Photo)

Zendaya at the American Music Awards (Alice + Olivia): Though this ensemble would be rather primitive on an A-Lister, I applaud this red carpet newcomer. Unfortunately, most young starlets revert to skimpy ensembles or the very overplayed bandage dress. Ladies and gent, we have an original on our hands! This outfit is event-appropriate, age-appropriate and classy. While the silhouette says, "Here's your breakfast, Don Drapper," the punchy pout and the sparkly bodice are forward-thinking and demand attention. I cannot wait to see more red carpet homeruns from her!   (Photo)

Rihanna at the Met Gala (Tom Ford): To be quite blunt, I don't like Rihanna. I don't like her on-again-off-again status with Chris Brown. I don't like her music. And, usually, I don't like her outfits. However, I must say that she nailed this look. The good-girl-gone-bad's edgy hair cut is perfect with this contemporary Tom Ford creation. It's sexy enough to be adored by the masses; however, it's fashion-forward enough to be appropriate for the Met Gala. Thank you, Rihanna and  Tom Ford. (Photo)

Gwyneth Paltrow at the Academy Awards (Tom Ford): 'Twas the cape seen around the world. And fashion junkies everywhere raised their glasses in celebration. "Huzzah!" said the fashion junkies. "Relatively editorial ensembles have made it to the Academy Awards!"  The dress' silhouette, and the outfit's lack of jewelry, reek of minimalism. But then there's the cape.  Whether you die for this ensemble or think the cape is too elitist to deal with, you know that this Tom Ford creation (for the record, 2012 was a fabulous year for Mr. Ford) will go down in history. Just like Jennifer Lopez's Versace number, but better. Much, much better.(Photo)

Michelle Williams at the Academy Awards (in Louis Vuitton): Thankfully, the nominated actress did not disappoint. Besides the fact that this dress is too cute for words, I love Williams' look because it stays true to her onscreen persona-- Marilyn Monroe. Everything (from the ruffles, to the peplum to the dainty necklace) is fun and feminine! I also love the way her vibrant coral dress looks with her porcelain skin. Pin-up,anyone?(Photo)

Ariel Winter at the Emmy Awards (Katharine Kidd): Winter has gracefully transformed from that awkward middle child on Modern Family to a red carpet darling. This year, the young starlet truly wowed style snobs.The 14-year old girl manages to choose dresses that are youthful and sophisticated. Out of many style scores, this one is my personal favorite. Though the print and overall silhouette are super funky, Winter looks undeniably classy. Keep up the good work in 2013. (Photo)

Emilia Clarke at the Emmy Awards (in Chanel): I sometimes find my self actually falling in love with fashion. I'm currently in the "everything's perfect" phase with this Chanel number. Yes, this phase has lasted months. Not only is this dress just divine, I love how the Game of Thrones star styled this look. The light shoes and slicked back hair force onlookers to devote all their attention to the wonderful craftsmanship. Not to sound drab, but I think I would like to be buried in this dress. Just give Karl a ring-- he'll know what to do. (Photo)

Adele at the Grammy Awards (in Giorgio Armani): Let it be known that Adele is perfect in every way. She has the voice of an angel, wits of a jester and style of a red carpet veteran. If you disagree with that last part of my brief love letter to the British songstress, you clearly have yet to see what she wore to this year's Grammy Awards. Notorious for her black dresses, Adele gives her uniform a stylish kick with three-quarter sleeves and a dash of sparkle. The uber glam dress is perfectly paired with retro locks and a red lip. I just adore her and everything she does. (Photo)

Candice Swanepoel at Met Gala (in Rag & Bone): It's no surprise that I'm desperately trying to become a muse for the whole Rag & Bone design team. Though Swanepoel's Met Gala status makes me extremely jealous, I must say that this ensemble is superb.  The lack of show-stopping jewels and makeup allow the focus to be on the dress' beautiful details. Let's not forget that the slicked back hair directs your attention to that contemporary halter neck. Plus, I'm obsessed with this color combination-- a blue and black dress is dramatic, but not tacky. David and Marcus, next year is my year to accompany you two to the Met Gala.(Photo)

Jennifer Lawrence at The Hunger Games premiere (in Prabal Gurung): As most people know, I'm obsessed with The Hunger Games. Imagine my pure joy when Jennifer Lawrence rolled up to The Hunger Games premiere in one of my favorite looks from Prabal Gurung's fall collection. This pure joy has not faded. I was fortunate enough to see this stunning dress in real life this past summer. This dress was so phenomenal in person, I wanted to steal it. Alas, I didn't.  (Photo)

Lena Dunham at the Met Gala (Wes Gordon): Without a doubt, Lena Dunham was 2012's "It  Girl." Though she's had a few fashion mishaps (stay tuned), I'm still obsessed with this outfit. Though Hannah (Dunham's character on Girls) cheers when she finds a pair of shoes that almost match her ensemble, these pink heels are the perfect quirky touch for an already quirky girl. Let's also take a moment to gush over that gorgeous silhouette. Okay, that's done.(Photo)



Stay tuned for the worst of 2012...

xx