The 2013 Academy Awards

Another year, another Oscar...or so it seemed. Though I unfortunately couldn't watch the televised event, this year's ceremony caused quite a stir. A falling Academy Award winner, a controversial tweet from The Onion and oh-so-cute Joseph Gordon Levitt dancing? Good or bad, this year definitely will not be forgotten. Same goes for the red carpet. While some starlets brought their A-game to the prestigious event, many should've thought twice before leaving their stretch limos. Shall we take a look at the best and worst looks from the night?

The Worst

Anne Hathaway (Prada): A far cry from Hathaway's award-worthy gowns, this Prada frock is less-than-impressive. Even if you have enough tolerance to look past the Miuccia- made "nipple exposure" and the unnecessary necklace (really, Rachel Zoe), this dress just doesn't compare to the high octane ensembles she's sported before-- let's not forget her eight epic ensembles from the 2011 Academy Awards. Winning the award for Best Supporting Actress was undeniably the biggest moment of her career thus far, yet she chose something so unremarkable (and quite boring). I personally dreamed a dream she wore something amazing to this red carpet. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed.

Jennifer Lawrence (Dior): I'm going to be honest: the dress is lovely albeit the fact that it's too editorial for the Academy Awards. With that in mind, the Oscar winning actress is on my worst dressed list because this look lacks practicality. In fact, all her outfits this season have resulted in some type of wardrobe malfunction. "This dress is really avant garde, will she have yet another mishap?" asked nobody on Lawrence's glam squad. Unlike Hathaway's minimalist nightmare, this ensemble is Oscar-approved; however, the Silver Linings Playbook star needs to learn how to wear dresses-- not the other way around.

Chris Tucker: The funnyman's tuxedo is looking a little clownish. However, nobody is laughing. Instead, this is just uncomfortable. While the suit's fit is fantastic, Tucker needs to learn that wide lapels and droopy bow ties are never okay.

Fan Bingbing (Marchesa): Though Georgina Chapman's craftsmanship is always inspiring, the styling is horrific.  The Marchesa number, plus the sparkling pink bracelets, plus the shocking lip plus the jeweled clutch equals a major fashion faux pas. A more minimalist approach to this dress would've been much better.

Kristen Stewart (Reem Acra): Considering this probably one of the very few times Kristen Stewart will be asked to attend the Academy Awards, this ensemble is beyond tragic. The starlet has the capacity to wow style elitists with her edgy aesthetic; however, this look is a tad sloppy. Personally, I don't love the tulle fripperies with the slender silhouette--the combination is too forced. And what's up with her hair and makeup? It seems as if the Twilight actress needs a good shower and a better makeup artist.

Halle Berry (Versace): Without a doubt, Berry is one of the most gorgeous ladies to grace this sacred red carpet. But she chose something so tacky, it's a little embarrassing. Though she's never a sartorial wallflower, this Versace number merits some unwanted attention. Actually, it's a little hypnotizing (and that's not a compliment). At 46 years-old, Berry looks fantastic; however, she's not getting any younger. I don't know about you, but I think it's time Berry starts making mature fashion decisions. Also, what is going on with this hair? I'm so over this chop.

Salma Hayek (Alexander McQueen): That hair.

Reese Witherspoon (Louis Vuitton): Once upon a time, Reese Witherspoon was a red carpet gem: she donned vintage Chanel and rocked Nina Ricci. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Though I love how this electric blue looks with her sunny blonde hair, this dress is an absolute disaster. Is it just me or is this dress very unflattering? Also, this ensemble lacks a standout accessory. Where's the major cocktail ring or fantastic earrings?  Call me crazy, but it seems as if her style is at a standstill.

Helena Bonham Carter (Vivienne Westwood): Nobody should expect the Les Miserables star to wear a conventional dress--she's quirky! However, I cannot stand this ensemble. She just looks a little too sloppy for comfort. Note to all fashionistas: you just can't rock messy hair with an equally messy dress. Luckily, I have reason to believe that the actress threw on a pair of matching shoes.

Helen Hunt (H&M): No, Helen Hunt actually wore H&M.While I obviously believe that you can dress stylish on a budget, Hunt's defiant choice was just wrong. The color and silhouette are fine; however, can we talk about the wrinkles for a hot second? Seriously, who would go to the most glamorous televised event in a wrinkled dress? Cleanliness is key, Helen, cleanliness is key.

Samantha Barks (Valentino): Yet another sartorial strikeout for the Les Miserables cast. Barks clearly is obsessed with black, cleavage-baring  dresses; however, this is not appropriate for the Academy Awards. Honestly, it's all too basic. Between the simplistic silhouette and the messy hair, it looks as if Barks doesn't even care to be at the Academy Awards. And let's not ignore that necklace. If you're seeking to show off your...goodies, don't add a necklace! It's not sexy--it's just juvenile.

Nicole Kidman (L'Wren Scott): Though the Aussie plays a vixen in The Paperboy , this shimmering number is anything but sexy. On the contrary, Kidman is clearly trying a little too hard to return to her fashion glory days (a.k.a. when she was Mrs. Tom Cruise). While style is eternal, everyone will reach a certain age when wearing a sequined dress is a little sad. However, I am glad she ditched the middle part.

The Best

Adele (Jenny Packham): We all know that Adele could own any karaoke contest that comes her way; however,  the songstress is additionally turning into a style maven. Thankfully, the award winning musician resorted back to her trusty black dresses; however, she hasn't ditched her newfound impulsive for drama. First of all, the jeweled details are to die for. Also, the cropped sleeves reveal just the right amount of skin. And that retro half-up hair? J'adore.

Daniel Day Lewis (Domenico Vacca): Rarely does a male actor decide to have a red carpet moment at the Academy Awards. Usually, men don the traditional penguin suit as their leading ladies take center stage. But awards night was Daniel Day Lewis's night, and nobody puts Daniel Day Lewis in the corner. daring to be different, the Lincoln star opted for a blue suit. Though it sounds weird in theory, the high-voltage color is perfectly juxtaposed with the actor's poise and British charm.

Joseph Gordon Levitt: I may be a bit biased (since Joseph and I are clearly soulmates), but the  Lincoln star looked absolutely adorable at the Oscars. At his very first Academy Awards, the actor wore a standard tux. For a "Joseph Gordon Levitt" twist, he paired this typical suit with a long bow tie and his trusty "Hit Record" pin. I'm smitten.

Amanda Seyfried (Alexander McQueen): No stranger to show-stopping ensembles, the Les Miserables starlet was once again a sight for sore eyes. Sartorially speaking, that is. The embroidered dress is insanely classic, yet the keyhole offers the tiniest dash of sultry vixen. Not to mention Seyfried also nailed this look on the beauty front-- the dainty makeup and polished updo is everything. 

Octavia Spencer (Tadashi Shoji): The Help actress is absolutely radiant. The angelic  hue is perfectly combined with the heavenly asymmetrical shoulder. Perfectly paired with a feminine pink lip and uber glam earrings, Spencer was a sartorial force to be reckoned with.

Zoe Saldana (Alexis Mabille): Seriously, can this style savant do any wrong?  Though the dress lacks  cohesiveness-- the appliqued bodice is unconventionally paired with the multicolored hemline-- Saldana polishes this look with standard dangling earrings, fresh makeup and "fuss-free" locks. What I love about The Words star is that she always tries something new. A new texture, color or silhouette--we're never bored!

Amy Adams (Oscar de la Renta): The magic of Oscar claims yet another starlet-- Oscar de la Renta, that is.  From the innocent color palette to brilliantly executed tulle skirt, this look is nothing short of heavenly.While a darker hue would create a stunning contrast with Adams's light skin, I kind of love how the pale dress looks on the actress. Fabulous.  Thankfully, Adams paired the extravagant ensemble with a sleek updo and minimal jewels.

Eddie Redmayne (Alexander McQueen): Fashion girls everywhere are probably wishing that their future husband is Eddie Redmayne (or some sort of variation of the Les Miserables actor). While his good looks are sure to make anyone with a pulse swoon, it's his keen eye for style that has me imaging our very chic lives together (sorry Joseph Gordon Levitt, it's nothing personal). Not only is his tuxedo perfectly fitted, he is also wearing smoking loafers. Smoking loafers to the Oscars? It's crazy, but it totally works.  Be still my heart.

Charlize Theron (Dior): Though we all tend to roll our eyes at Theron's "J'adore Dior" commercial, I must say that the red carpet fixture and the fashion powerhouse create an unstoppable duo. The angelic hue and the sleek silhouette screams minimalism, but the peplum adds the perfect amount of glamour. Speaking of glamour, how much do you adore those glistening cuffs? Amaze. Though I wish her makeup was more dramatic, I must say that she's rocking the boyish haircut.

xx

The 2013 BAFTA Film Awards

Most Americans were glued to their television sets last night as Fun made it rain (literally) and Mumford and Sons claimed victory. Alas, I was not watching the Grammys. I, on the hand, was in London, watching the BAFTA Film Awards. As a self-proclaimed award show fanatic, I noticed several difference between British and American ceremonies: the BAFTAs were shorter, paid little attention to the technical aspects of film and (most importantly) the red carpet was slacking. But before you bow your head in utter shame, the night did have a bevy of brilliant ensembles as well as terrifying looks. I will address the Grammys, for there's a lot to talk about, but allow me to give you a glimpse into red carpet style from across the pond.

THE WORST 

Helen Mirren in Nicholas Oakwell: Nothing about this ensemble is right. Nothing, I say! The Renaissance-esque silhouette is eyebrow-raising enough, but the real problem is the bubblegum pink hair. Though Mirren is undeniably the queen of cool, I can't help but wonder if the new hue is a mid-life crisis in disguise. 

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Haute Couture: If this season is an indication of anything, it's that the Silver Linnings Playbook star's days as a red carpet darling are numbered. Lately, I'm either completely unimpressed with her sartorial choices or disapprove of one tiny stylistic mistake that undermines the whole ensemble.  While I absolutely adore the bejeweled Dior creation, the slicked-back hair is just not jivin'. Coupled with a dramatic pair of earrings, it looks as if Lawrence had a rocking hairdo that the rain destroyed. In actuality, that could've happened (the weather was quite terrible);however, that's what on-call hair stylists are for.  In addition to the noncommittal look, the hair draws your eye down to the hips and thighs. And that's never okay. Instead, she should've opted for a messy updo or a low ponytail.

Samantha Barks in Celia Kritharioti: There's sexy, and then there's slutty. Perhaps it's the wet hair, but the Les Miserables star isn't looking that classy. And it's the BAFTAs for crying out loud! 

Amy Adams in Elie Saab Couture: The itsy, bitsy Adams struck out in Great Britain. Oh, that's not how the song goes?  Though this ensemble shouldn't be deemed "worst dressed," I'm just not crazy about this look. The top knot is a little overeager, especially with the laced bodice. For a sexier look, The Master star should've paired this ensemble with a sleek blowout. 

Elizabeth Banks in Chanel: As much as I adore Elizabeth Olsen and Karl Lagerfeld , this look is a little too extreme.  Though her beauty regime is absolutely radiant,  there are just too many fripperies in this ensemble. Oh how I wish the fringed straps would disappear. Then this look would be a million times better.

THE BEST 

Sarah Jessica Parker in Elie Saab: For this occasion, red carpet trailblazer  forwent kooky shapes and thought-provoking accessories. Instead, Sarah Jessica Parker opted for a simple black jumpsuit (with a pile of jewels, naturally). Some may call this ensemble plain; however, I admire the starlet's keen sense of what is event appropriate. She wasn't nominated, so why should she sport an avant garde outfit? The Sex and the City star apparently took the biggest risk of all and kept it simple. And honestly, if offers a refreshing take on what it means to get all dolled up.

Anne Hathaway in Burberry: This season's golden girl keeps on shining . The BAFTA winner-- and sartorial goddess-- nails it once again. With a studded column dress on, Hathaway seamlessly blends American minimalism with British funk. As for the beauty front, both the warm color palette and side-swept bob offer a friendly approach to cutting-edge style.

Marion Cotillard in Dior: After a less-than-extraordinary  ensemble at the Screen Actors Guild awards, it's safe to say that the style maven has made a comeback. First of all, what better way to brighten up a stormy London night with a sunny yellow hue? The silhouette is half Marilyn Monroe, half modernized sportswear-- a quirky combination, but it works! Progressive and classic. The French actress pumped up the glamour with vibrant lip and retro hair. C'est magnifique!

Eddie Redmayne in Burberry: It seems as if every girl on this planet is obsessed with the Les Miserables star. His boyish charm makes him an instant dreamboat, but it's his risks on the red carpet that truly make fashion groupies swoon. As expected, his latest experiment was a hit. Let's be honest, doesn't the navy make his eyes pop? Swoon.

Hayley Atwell in Antonio Berardi: What's black and white and  chic all over? I'm so smitten with this outfit. Between the sleek black and white color duo and the almighty peplum, this dress is seriously a show-stopper. The natural makeup and the soft waves tones down the dress's extravagance. Brava.

Photos courtesy of The Cut.

xx

2013 Golden Globes

Thankfully, awards season is finally here. Let us open a bottle of bubbly and cheer on our favorite movies, shall we? Additionally, the most fierce style competition has begun: the red carpet. Though Amy and Tina apparently killed their hosting gig, London's time difference is sometimes a burden, the red carpet was less-than-fabulous. But in the sea of subpar and average attires were some stellar ensembles. As always, I'm ready to share my best and worst dressed lists.

The Worst.

Amy Poehler in Stella McCartney: It seems as if the Parks and Recreation star is rocking her newfound single girl status; however, those shoes take this ensemble to the street corner. Plunging neckline and strappy platforms? Leslie Knope would be mortified.

Halle Berry in Atelier Versace: This is just horrendous. Not only is this ensemble showing way too much skin for the Golden Globes, that hideous print is making me ill. Berry doesn't need a flashy gown-- she's a classic beauty.

Jessica Chastain in Calvin Klein: Though this outfit is adored by style savants everywhere, I must say that I don't like this look at all. Compared to her series of homerun dresses last season, this Calvin Klein number is less-than-fabulous. Is it just me or is that halter neck extremely unflattering? 

Lena Dunham in Zac Posen: Maybe it's her awkward shoulders or that painfully cheesy smile, but Dunham resembles a preteen boy here. I don't understand why she always dresses so...old (besides the Met Ball, obviously). Dunham is supposedly a visionary, so why doesn't she dress like one?

Sienna Miller in Erdem: I know she just had baby and all, but what is going on here? Plain and unflattering? Good grief. 

Lucy Liu in Carolina Herrera:  Remember when you went to high school dances and there was always that girl who wore an awkwardly long dress? That's Lucy Liu. While this dress is gorgeous, it's definitely not appropriate for this red carpet. Save this for the Met Ball, dear.

Kelly Cuoco in Zahair Murad: Can someone please get this girl a stylist? Time after time, she's on my worst list.  She looks sloppy and as if she's headed to some Bar Mitzvah. Make it stop!

The Best.

Michelle Dockery in Alexander Vauthier: Can you get anymore regal than a white dress with a gilded bodice? Exactly.

Kerry Washington in Miu Miu: Literally, this is perfection. Though the overall silhouette is quite demure, the sparkles and sheer overlay give this look a dash of sex appeal. The long bob and basic accessories perfectly complete this look. All hail the new fashion queen! 

Megan Fox in Dolce & Gabbana: Remember when this starlet was borderline trashy? What a transition! Not only to I respect her sophisticated switch, I adore this look. This blush hue looks absolutely heavenly on the new mommy. Combined with the soft waves and the feminine jewels--perfection! 

Adele in Burberry: As everyone knows, I'm obsessed with Adele. While I think she always looks perfect, this post-baby ensemble is just lovely! Though I wish her outfit had a little more bling, the black gown and  polished updo scream retro glam.

Lea Michele in Elie Saab: Even though Glee is no longer the hottest show on the tube, the petite actress looks better than ever. But then again, Elie Saab makes everyone look better than ever. Unlike her previous show-stoppers, the diva opted for a sleek white number. I adore the halter neck and subtle slit. The hint of emerald adds the perfect splash of color to this angelic look. Brava! 

Eva Longoria in Pucci: Speaking of subtle slits, this is any but subtle.  I'm quite thankful for the slit-- Longoria would've looked too gothic otherwise. From the high bun to the fresh makeup, she looks absolutely chic. Actually, this dress is the antithesis to Michele's Elie Saab creation. But, oddly enough, I love both equally. 

Kate Hudson in Alexander McQueen: Leave it to the queen of cool to rock a boho glam ensemble. The extravagant keyhole screams vixen; however,  the rest of the outfit is sophisticated. Plus, black and gold combination is extremely fantastic. If I could change one thing about this look, I would put her hair in a sleek ponytail-- the long locks just block the ornate neckline. 

Emily Blunt in Michael Kors: I swear that Emily Blunt is my favorite on the red carpet. Every time I see her, she's always rocking a new trend or hot silhouette. Thankfully, the Golden Globes were no different. First of all, whoever is gutsy enough to sport yellow on the red carpet has my undying love and respect. Not to mention the berry earrings combined with the yellow is major. I also applaud Blunt for her originality- cutouts for an award show? Love it! 

Anne Hathaway in Chanel:  Though this look is a little on the plain side, you can't deny that Hathaway is a vision in white. Not only is this column dress uber modern, it's quite different from the actress's other red carpet looks. In fact, it's even different from most column dresses-- the slight peplum creates a more feminine look. Between her sartorial track record and this homerun, I cannot wait to see what she wears next!

All photographs taken from the Huffington Post.

The Style Files: That's Alright, I Found a Martyr in my Bed Tonight

As you probably know by now, I'm obsessed with Fun. Their album, "Some Nights," is literally life-changing. I actually haven't listened to other music all week. Anyway,  one of my favorite songs from this album is "Some Nights." It's essentially an alternative version of The Lion King soundtrack. Yes, it's that intense.

Style Spiration: The Oscars 

In honor of the Oscars- can you believe they're today- I'm dedicating this edition of  Style Spiration to some of my favorite Oscar looks. 

Natalie Portman at the 2009 Oscar Awards (Rodarte):  I can't even deal with how stunning this is. Not only is this dress perfectly executed, the quasi beaded bodice is gorgeous. What makes this look for me is the fabulous makeup. It's not overbearing by any means; however, it's so innovative. Pink lip and purple eyeliner? Fantastic. (Photo Cred)

Mila Kunis at the 2011 Academy Awards (Elie Saab):  This was definitely one of my favorite dresses from last year: the light purple works so well with the delicate lace. The minimal jewels keeps the focus on the dress' gorgeous detailing. Some people had issues with the light lace over her chest, but I think it makes lace look sexy. Translation? It makes the impossible possible. The glamourous hair and the feminine makeup finish this look perfectly. (Photo Cred)

Charlize Theron at the 2005 Academy Awards (John Galliano for Dior):  I'm going crazy over this detailing as well as the color. Nobody ever wears a color like this to the Oscars. This look is so successful because there's a fun play between smooth pieces and textured pieces. Her simple clutch acts as a neutral and balances the dress' ruffles and her super-intense hair. (Photo Cred)

 Michelle Williams at the 2006 Oscars (Vera Wang): Her stylist aced this look from head to toe, William's ensemble is daring and Oscar-appropriate. First of all, I love the yellow because it's so bold. And mixed with that red lip? Forget about it! The detailled neckline, the draped waist, and that fantastic train add so much style to a simple silhouette. Though I think this look would be perfectly fine without the necklace, it adds that dash of personal style. Also the low side bun? To die for.(Photo Cred) 

Nicole Kidman at the 2007 Oscars (Balenciaga): This is the definition of red carpet glamour. The simple silhouette plus that avant garde bow? Stunning. Also, that red is such show-stopper. To add an extra dash of glamour, Kidman piles on the sparkly jewels. Though that may seem like a fashion faux pas, her straight hair neutralizes the flashy bracelets.(Photo Cred)

Cate Blanchett at the 2011 Oscars (Givenchy): Serious question: can Cate Blanchett do any wrong? This dress isn't just stylish, it's a piece of art. I'm still going crazy over all of the intricate detailing. And that random dash of yellow? To die for. Thankfully, Blanchett's stylist knew to keep the rest of this look minimal. Her sleek hair, natural makeup, and dainty jewels make this look heaven on the red carpet. (Photo Cred)

All of Anne Hathaway's Looks from the 2011 Academy Awards: As always, Rachel Zoe managed to hit this red carpet round-up out of the park. From her adorable Lanvin suit during the ceremony to her uber luxe Valentino number on the red carpet, each of Anne's look are chic, extremely innovative, and super glamourous.  (Photo Cred)

Marilyn Monroe at the 1951 Oscars: Classic beauty that speaks for itself. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Emma Stone at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon (Elie Saab): This look is so classic and youthful at the same time. The silhouette screams girly and the detailing is beyond fabulous. To keep this look cohesive, Stone's wavy hair and pink lip adds even more femininity. The nude shoes elongate the leg and keeps the focus on the gorgeous dress. 
• Michelle Williams at the Mulberry Dinner (Mulberry): Sultry versus sweet! I love the play between the leather and lace. And the silhouette? Fantastic.  Keeping this look monochromatic allows us to focus on the fabulous details. The pretty pink lip gives an appropriate splash of color. 
• Kate Beckinsale at the Costume Designer's Guild Awards (Vivienne Westwood): Only Kate Beckinsale can make a Vivienne Westwood dress mainstream and super glamourous. The draping plus the dramatic neckline is too good to be true. I also am obsessed with this light grey because it's both versatile and innovative. The statement earrings and the super glam hair keeps the focus on that fabulous neckline. J'adore.

xx