Red Carpet Review: The 2013 American Music Awards

The few months that separate the Emmys and the Golden Globes are torture. While style savants can always tune into E!'s Fashion Police or gossip with their equally trendy friends about Jennifer Lawrence's red carpet choices, there's a major void when you can't overdose in glamourous evening gowns, tailored suits, and ridiculously awful ensembles. Let us take a moment to thank the American Music Awards for giving us a quick (and completely necessary) fix. Though many of the outfits were questionable, you must admit that these looks give you something to talk about. Check out which starlets hit a sartorial high note and which ones fell a little flat.

The Worst

Aubrey O'Day: I will only say this once: COVER UP FOR CRYING OUT LOUD.

Heidi Klum in Marchesa: It's a general rule that supermodels can pull off anything, whether it's couture or a burlap sack. As of last night, it seems as if this rule has an exception: when Klum wears ultra ethereal Marchesa dress. Georgia Chapman makes some of the most incredible gowns known to mankind; however, this one  looks like it went through a horrid paper shredder incident. Since there isn't much covering the Project Runway host, the black patch of fabric feels uncomfortable (and unflattering). If the dress wasn't cringe-worthy enough, I can't say that I'm loving the bangs either. Sure, the fringe on her head matches the bottom of the dress, but too much fringe is rarely a good thing.

Jordin Sparks in Jovani: Though I am a major supporter of highlighting your best asset, Sparks's ensemble is featuring too much. The high-slit is a great way to show off her legs, but the embellished bodice makes the singer look top-heavy. And that slick topknot and halter neckline do not help the situation. Between the cocktail ring, blinged out heels, and stack of bracelets, Sparks is a victim of over-accessorizing with intent. Instead, she should've nixed the accessories and give her hair some more volume.

Kelly Osbourne in Rami Al Ali: As someone who's supposed to be a fashion authority, this look is a major miss. Though the craftsmanship is fantastic, nobody (and I mean nobody) needs to wear that much tulle to the American Music Awards. Though the flared skirt is darling, Osbourne is too short for this frock. Oh, and another thing: lay off the lavender hair! It's so 2012.

Phoebe Price: There are no words to adequately describe how terrible this is. The hat, the earrings, the waistband, the tulle (oh, the tulle), the hemline-- the everything. Please just make it stop!

Mayra Verónica: Though cutouts are usually a great way to add a dash of sex appeal to any outfir, this attendee needs to learn when enough is enough. While sheer lace overlay has the power to be super sultry, this lighter color palette looks too maternal , and the revealing neckline and slit of skin clash with the color scheme. The result? Granny gone wild. And nobody wants to look like "Granny gone wild on the red carpet." 

The Best

Emma Roberts in Lanvin: She may not always get it right, but Roberts is not one to shy away from an innovative fashion statement. Fortunately, this look is perfect. Everything about the getup compliments her features. The loose silhouette on her tiny frame is slimming without causing any eating disorder rumors, while the gunmetal gown and fuchsia accessories beautifully contrast her blonde hair. The relaxed waves, especially with the dangling earrings, keeps this sophisticated look fun and youthful.

Miley Cryus in Versus Versace: The provocative singer is known for sporting scandalous outfits in her music videos and performances; however, Cyrus's white suit is surprisingly tame. Rest assured style savants, a power suit is not only for the boardroom. With a shortened hemline, punky safety pins, and no top underneath her blazer, the "Wrecking Ball" singer give this working woman look an edgy twist. For a finishing touch, Cyrus channels her inner lady with poised black pumps.

Zendaya in Donna Karan: Not to sound dramatic, but I'm so obsessed with this look it's a little bit insane. The 17 year-old starlet gives tribal chic a modern twist with fun jewels and platform strappy sandals. Unlike Jordin Spark's over-accessorized fiasco, the asymmetrical shoulders and simple design demand some extra bangles. On the beauty front, the fashionista's long hair and voluminous lashes complete the look without drawing too much attention away from the ensemble. Brava!

Kylie Jenner in Maiyet and Giambattista Valli: Is it just me, or are the Kardashians seriously keeping up with the hottest trends?  From Kim's amazing post-pregnancy looks (thanks, Kanye) to this outfit, I am in complete awe. A far cry from the minidresses that the famous family  usually wear, the youngest Jenner channeled her inner rock-n-roll diva and created a look that is so simple, yet so fierce. The 16 year-old smartly accessorized with pointed boots and a quilted Chanel bag, both of which truly make the ensemble.  Oh, and let's not forget that the new bangs are absolutely amazing! Unlike Klum's American Music Awards mishap, Jenner balanced her new fringe with a sleek silhouette.

Photos courtesy of Because I'm Fabulous, New York Daily News, and Huffington Post

xx

The Style Files: I Can Barely Breathe, Near Your Features

This week, my fabulous friend introduced me to this song and I haven't stopped listening to it since. It's upbeat but still very hip. I hope you enjoy it.

STYLE-SPIRATION

Lately, I've been so busy I can barely breathe, but I will say that I successfully devoured Bazaar's September Issue this morning. I became instantly intrigued by Julie Macklowe when I saw her "A Fashionable Life" spread. The woman owns some of the McQueen from Savage Beauty. In the profile, she said that her life isn't the most casual, which I can relate to/ admire. So this week's style spiration goes to Julie Macklowe and to not being casual!

At the 2009 Costume Institute Gala (Oscar de la Renta). I'm so into this look. The dress is very extravagant and fairytale esque; however, she kept the accessories very simple slash completely nonexistent. Gorgeous. (Photo Cred)

At a YSL event (I have no idea who the designer is). I love how her shoes and clutch match perfectly; however, they are not annoyingly matchy-matchy. The detailing of the dress is beyond incredible and the simplicity of her accessories are the perfect counterpart. Definitely not casual! (Photo Cred)

I completely understand why casual looks are essentially to our well being and the world of fashion, but there's nothing like putting on a stellar outfit. It's just a boost of confidence

• Leighton Meester at the Toronto Film Festival (Alexander McQueen): Even though McQueen created this gorgeous dress, this whole look is so Ralph Lauren, don't you think? I love the simplicity and cleanliness of the hair, dress, makeup, belt, and even the clutch. Those leopard shoes are the perfect pop! If this look could speak, it would say: "Oh, hey. What's up? POW!" STYLE DO: try pops of prints! I always love her effort to try something new. Sometimes, it doesn't work; however, she totally aced it this time! 
• Beyonce in NYC (Michael Kors):How many pregnant people do you know who would wear this? Nobody? Yes? She looks flawless and fierce as always, even when she has baby Jay in her belly! The completely black ensemble is perfect because it really points focus at the amazing cut-out situation. Can Beyonce really do any wrong?
• Emma Roberts at Stone Rose Lounge (Marchesa): I'm actually going crazy for this dress. The silhouette and hemline is so feminine; however, the soft leopard print makes this dress a little more current. That beaded belt is quirky, but surprisingly works for this look. She kept the rest of the look pretty classic, accessory wise. But can I just say that the soft updo is PERFECTION with this dress. 

Also, I'm so excited for the Emmy's tonight! I'm thinking sleek silhouettes and pops of color! 

xx

The Style Files: You're By My Side and It Helps to Be Crazy

One time, I went to this O.A.R concert with two of my friends, and it was absolutely awesome. Fast forward two-ish years later, and you'll find me EXTREMELY thrilled to get the new O.A.R CD for my birthday. I've been listening to it everywhere I go, so I highly recommend it. And by recommend it, I mean pushing it in your face and forcing you to listen. I love this song, "Taking on the World Today," because it makes me feel like I can do anything on the most stressful days (aka today aka I'm sorry is this blog isn't my personal best). So listen and enjoy.

Style-Spiration: Anne Hathaway

This summer, my friends and I have been on the world's biggest "let's-go-see-a-good-movie" phase. Ever since the beginning of the summer, I've really wanted to see One Day, starring Anne Hathaway and that guy from Across the Universe. So obviously, I stalked the premiere pictures. And obviously, Anne Hathaway had on a fab dress, just sit tight for the weekly! This got me to thinking about Anne's style. While I could just attribute this to the styling, aka Rachel Zoe, I really do think that there's something about Hathaway that makes haute couture look, dare I say it...oh I dare, effortless. So in honor of that effortless je ne sais quoi and the movie, One Day, this style-spiration is dedicated to her! 

At  the Valentine's Day premiere in Marchesa I'm sure I've blogged about this before, but hey I'm gonna blog about it again. This is STUNNING. Usually I would think the dramatic blue and black would be a tad boring; however, the details on the Marchesa dress literally makes it for me. Obsessed. Even still, there's something so relaxed about this look. Maybe it's Anne's awkward stance or maybe it's because I think that bracelet is a bit much, but I don't see Anne Hathaway as a style icon. Instead, I look at her and think, "she's just one of the girls." I suppose this is a weird style-spiration theme, but we're rolling with it. (Photo Cred)

Chillin' at the 2009 MET Ball in Marc Jacobs. I think the reason I admire this is because, in my humble opinion, it's so wrong. The hair scares me, the shoes are hideous, and that dress is not a typical MET Ball ensemble.Hathaway, however, hold her head up high and is proud of her ensemble. This may sound like the exact opposite of my opening argument- I frequently think of these style-spirations as an argumentative piece- but I'm getting somwhere. (Photo Cred)

At the 79th Annual Oscars in Valentino. I'm obsessed with this dress. While the lace and the oversized bow could come off as a little granny, the stacked bracelets makes this look youthful. And of course her hair and make are divine, which makes this a classy look; however, I can't get over those bracelets. They're a little chunky and funky, which makes this so appropriately refreshing for the Academy awards. (Photo Cred)

The reason Anne Hathaway is a admirable style-spiration because she humanizes fashion. I know whenever I open up a magazine or see awesome red carpet looks,  I feel like pressure is on; however, I rarely get that from Anne Hathaway. Sure she can be perfectly styled, but there's something about her that keeps it casual. And yes, sometimes she gets it wrong, but she keeps trying. This is getting weird...onto the weekly.

The Weekly

• Emma Roberts at a Westward by Emily and Meritt for Kate Spade party (Kate Spade): I really like this look because it's rather quirky. Let me break it down for you: the dress is youthful but very classy, the shoes are a perfect wow factor to the dress, the jewels define feminine fun, and the hair and makeup is divine. But then there's that huge clutch. Hmmm. While I would question and hate this, I kind of like the odd bag because it gives this look character and personal style. Stylists and press people can perfectly style a look from head-to-toe, but it's not truly expressing yourself if you don't have something unique to you. Okay so take that well-worded description and apply that to all of Anne's looks from the previous section
• Jessica Chastain at The Help premiere (Oscar de la Renta): Although this look is very been-there-done-that, I'm such a sucker for an eggplant and turquoise color combination. Even though the earrings are very eye-catching, I like how this look was styled so you focused on the fabulous De la Renta details. That ruching on the dress creates some fabulous movements. Also,  minimal jewels was the way to go with this look. She looks wonderful!
• Anne Hathaway (surprise) at the One Day premiere (McQueen): Stunning. The hem on this beautiful McQueen dress is classy, flattering, and all around chic. I like there's a detail overload on the bodice, ultimately directing our attention to her face. And with that nice hair and quasi-theatrical makeup, it's a smart move. I don't think she needed the silver, I hate mixing metals, bracelets, but the shoes make this look more cohesive. Good job, Miss Hathaway.

xx

The Weekly: Having Fun Kiddies?

So a few days ago, I finally watched Valley of the Dolls. It has always been quite popular in the fashion world and, after seeing it for myself, I can totally understand why. I'm so smitten with that movie. First of all, I'm obsessed with celebrity train wrecks; I'm currently watching Dirt and that's so addicting. But let's talk about the fashion in this movie. Literally, to die for. It is the epitome of mod-glam. Since this movie is so old, there's hardly any good pictures depicting the awesome fashion, so I'll just show you the trailer:

Photo Cred

I don't think anyone will understand my infatuation with this movie until you see it for yourself- instant play on Netflix- so I am very sorry for the lack of material. What I love most about this movie's costumes, as well as the time period in general, is the combination of simplicity and drama. There weren't many prints, the craftsmanship on all of these pieces were incredible. Some were adorned with sequins, fur, and lace, which I obviously love. Sometimes, I feel like the minimalist-istas were heavily inspired from the simplicity of the sixties, but took it way to far and made it boring.

Photo Cred

Actually, parts of Chanel's 2011 Resort reminds me of some of the looks in Valley of the Dolls. Even though I didn't love this collection, I did think that some pieces had a good mixture of simplicity and drama.

Photo Cred

The color really imitates the time period, while the draping on the sleeve gave this skirt suit some more pizazz! 

Photo Cred

Without the pant, the drama of the skirt mixed with the simplicity of the black and white is so Valley of the Dolls.

William Travilla (the costume designer) did an incredible job evolving each character's style throughout the movie. When we originally meet Neely O'Hara, her clothes were rather simple: leggings and a cardigan here or there. She wears a cherry red turtle neck with some layered necklaces when she sings for a radio station. As she gets more glamorous and more detrimental, she sports a luxe leopard jacket as well as a red scarf wrapped around her head.  At the pinnacle of  her demise, Neely was completely titled "hot-mess," with her lace bra and slit skirt.  Through his costumes, Travilla makes the demise of each woman more real. Please please rent this movie and appreciate the art!

And now, onto the weekly!

Emma Roberts at the Pirates of the Caribbean in LA (Stella McCartney and Dana Rebecca): Sometimes I forget that Emma Roberts was in the show, Unfabulous, or that she is Julia Robert's niece. Instead, Emma Roberts is shaping up to be her own starlet, with an incredible emerging style. I think she's making that transition into adulthood and I think she's handling it beautifully. Exhibit A? This look. The LBD with the statement necklace was fun, but definitely sophisticated and older. The white clutch made sense and added some much needed funk. Love it!

Blake Lively at the Chanel Resort Show (Chanel and Christian Louboutin): Although I'm not a big fan of her new hair hue, I am so smitten with this outfit. Wearing sequins in the day is something I think is risque but, when worn appropriately, is awesome. What makes this leggy look good was how she did not experiment with colors, just texture. Even her animal skin pumps are a neutral, which continue to elongate the leg. I'm also glad she didn't over-accessorize: the necklace and the brooch were just perfect. Ugh, she's always so good.

Rachel McAdams at the Midnight in Paris Premiere (Maxime Simeons): There's only one word I can use to accurately describe this look: pretty. It's just so feminine which, regardless of what's "trendy," I always love. I love how she kept the look light with the nude Ferragamo pumps; however, the rosettes as well as the bright pink lip gave this look the appropriate "pop." I do wish that she had a messy updo though. Regardless, she looks amazing.

Sarah Jessica Parker at a Ballet Gala (Valentino): Is it really weird that I like this a lot? I know that granny-style isn't the most flattering, but I think the form fitting Valentino is a great contrast to the granny lace attire. The slightly messy updo and cross- body bag also made this casual. I know most people hated it, and  I really tried to, but I just can't. I think that Sarah Jessica Parker has a really good eye and I think that she successfully mixes a bunch of outfits. I don't care what people say,  Sarah Jessica, bravo! 

Rachel McAdams at another Midnight in Paris Premiere (Marchesa):  This Marchesa is one of those situations that are incredible runway pieces; however, very hard to make a good red carpet look. But, through minimal jewels and soft waves, McAdams totally rocked this. The pointed gold heels also made this less ice skater princess and more old school glamour. The minimal makeup also made viewers think of this dress as art instead of a costume. I think that was the key to this look: old school glamour. I am, however, extremely interested on how this dress would look with a modern edge (sleek ponytail and a dramatic eye).

The Weekly: Let's Reflect

 First thing's first.

Happy New Year!

I hope that everyone had a fun and safe holiday that will be followed by a year of laughter, health, and fabulousity.

I had a whole list of looks that I thought were good  this week but, due to the technological hardships we are facing in Londontown, I decided to do a list of the best of the best. My favorite fashionistas, who were seen in my weeklies,  and what I think should be in store for them in the new year. 

So let's get this started, yes?

Claire Danes has been doing some great stuff this year. What I love most about her looks is that she can do a range. She can rock a soft and classic  Armani Prive, but can go toughie and innovative in Burberry. She is such a blank slate and looks gorgeous no matter what. Though I'm a big fan of accessories, I think the fabrics of these dresses are so intense that a plethora of jewels would ruin it. In the future, I would love to see Danes experiment more with silhouettes; differences in volume and length would totally spice up her wardrobe. Maybe something like this Lanvin? With that in mind, let her pile on  the jewels!

Regardless of some of her mistakes, I do love Diane Kruger. Unlike so many celebrities of our day, she always dressy trendalicious and classy.I enjoy how she actually seems to care about what she wears; she's been spotted at Chanel resort shows! Though some of her looks may not make the best dressed lists, she always take risks. What kind of person can go from Jason Wu, to Chanel, to Vuitton in just a few months (from classic, to feminie and chic, to trendy, respectively)? Diane Kruger can. And the best part is, all three of those looks are so effortless on her! Diane Kruger, oh yes she's a muse to the (insert style here) look. It's cliche, but I have no critiques, just keep doing what you're doing. While it'd be great to have more commercial hits, she's taking risks and they definitely speak more to the fashion-inclined.

Emma Watson and Emma Roberts are the two best dressed Emma's in Hollywood. What I love best about their two styles, is how they're aging with grace and class. Some celebrities channel their inner Miley Cyrus to show off their womanhood, but these ladies use their class to show that they are better than the others. Watson's incredible white Burberry to show off a mature side of her and Roberts keeps it young but appropriately sexy in Julien Macdonald. The only improvements these two ladies can do is keep growing into their style. Though this look is great for their age, I think that both of them should begin to grow into some minimalist looks. Maybe some Calvin Klein with major statement pieces?



Without a doubt, Blake Lively is probably the biggest fashion icon of this decade. The new face of Chanel bags? Getting shoes named after her by Louboutin? Sitting next to Anna Wintour during fashion shows. Trust me, I read the articles! It's just enough to be threatened by any aspiring fashionista. But, to give her credit, she does have a smashing sense of style.  My favorite part about Blake Lively's look is how she self-styles herself. You rarely see that anymore, which makes me respect her a lot. She knows just how to rock a Marchesa with the perfect amount of accessories , for example. That takes skill! Every look of hers is very different which, considering she doesn't have a stylist, is a lot of work so you must give her credit for that as well. In the next year, I think she should start to be more sophisticated with her fashion. She tends to show a lot of cleavage which isn't necessary, she should focus on her great taste!


And Kate Hudson is utterly fabulous. Do I love her because I love her movies? Or because of her personality? Or because Rachel Zoe styles her? I'll never know BUT she's done some amazing things this year.  What I think is great about Kate is that she can make even the most atraditional dress classy and chic. I mean...we never see her in a full skirted gown, do we? Nope! And that's because she does what's current. Like the Pucci she wore at the SAG Awards. Honestly, who else would be able to pull that off? And the Lanvin she wore at the 2010 Glamour Woman of the Year  was, once again, extremely atypical but it  worked for her and it was quite fabulous.  I think it would be interesting in 2011 to see Hudson wear some typically feminine pieces, maybe some De la Renta. Just think, how random, confusing, and ultimately fabulous would that be?! 


Here's to an up-coming year of great fashion and fun! 

The Weekly: Sleigh Bells Ring

Hello! So this week has been rather uneventful; studying, studying, Christmas present shopping, and oh,uh, more studying! But it is very exciting because Christmas is so soon. 13 days!  So shall we star the "12 days of Christmas" song tomorrow, yes? Good. So, in celebration of the Holidays, I am going to blog about something that's on my Christmas list, or a good present idea, everyday until the wonderful holiday happens! Sounds good? Yay!

Present Number One:

Photo Cred/ Source: http://moxycreative.com/ensemble/

The alliance between fashion and music are relatively strong. As we have all experienced through Madonna, Gaga, and every major star, musicians set the trends. When I saw this poster, I became obsessed. I love how it covers major artists and their choice of style. What's even better is that they have posters for the individual artists. It's the perfect thing to get any fashionista or music fanatic. Just picture it in an office and jam room; how fabulous?!

($30).

Now, onto the weeklies! 

Bare with me, there are TONS.

• POSH SPICE at LAX (Giambattista Valli): A few days ago, Poshie Posh tweeted about this jacket. It is probably the most fabulous cape I've ever seen. The high collar and pockets make it trendy, but in black, it is a forever piece. I love how this look was an all-black outfit.  She kept it simple, so she looks undoubtedly clean and chic. And oh-so posh!
• GWEN STEFANI at The Kennedy Centers Honors (Prada): Sometimes, Gwen Stefani bothers me: she's a little too rough around the edges and rocker. Like, put on some clothes, please? But she looks fantastic in this yellow Prada. Yellow's so tricky to perfect, and she "hit it out of the park" (sports terms, lolololololol).  Her hair looks great, the accessories are matchy, and that red lip sticks true to her inner rocker. The high neck with the mermaid skirt is something  we don't see many celebrities wear, but Gwen is classy and savy enough to pull something like this off. Bravo! 
• CARRIE UNDERWOOD at the ACA's (George Chakras): I admire Carrie Underwood  for her transition; from American Idol winner to being a major fashion queen, her looks have gotten more and more risky and fashion forward. Like this George Chakras is absolutely stun.ning.  Though this red is so great with her complexion, but it's the shear asymmetrical neckline that makes this piece.  How Jessica Rabbit of her? Her fashion taste has evolved in such a steady way, major props.
• EMMA ROBERTS at the British Fashion Awards (Julien Macdonlad): LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE. This Julien Macdonald is so youthful but so chic at the same time. I love the blue print and the black tuelle everywhere is awesome. I also loved how she paired it with tights. Tights just pulls the outfit completely together. I love how she didn't put her hair in a sleek up-do and created minimal accessories; this dress is fun enough, no need to add extras! It's so quirky but, at the same time, so awesome.

xx