2013 Cannes Film Festival

Welcome to Cannes, where glamorous movie premieres, swanky after parties and apparently jewelry thieves dominate. As expected, the film festival is more like a fashion show in disguise: the industry's fiercest stars cascade down the red carpet in threads that command attention. While some ensembles made style mavens coo in adoration, others were cringe-worthy.  Ready for another red carpet review? I sure am!

The Worst

Julianne Moore in Christian Dior: Even the chicest celebrities succumb to a tragic wardrobe malfunction; however, Moore's fashion emergency was especially disgusting. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard of the disaster that is "toe-mageddon." It's a shame because otherwise, Moore looked flawless. I love the picture-perfect blowout with the feminine silhouette and dainty jewels. Though I appreciate her sense of humor, I hope she learns a lesson and never wears strappy sandals again.

Janet Jackson in Armani Prive: Sleek menswear with a hip hop twist? No thank you. Overall, this look is just confused. The slouchy pants and pulling blazer create a major fashion faux pas. Additionally, the dainty necklace and chunky platform heels are just too much. Instead, Jackson should've opted for a fitted suit with closed toe,pointed heels.

Rooney Mara: Ever since her breakout role in Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Mara has been applauded for her glamorous and gothic aesthetic. At the Catching Fire party, the actress sported a look that was neither glamorous nor gothic. Personally, this look gives me the heebie jeebies. I'm all for spicing up your sartorial choices, but it's important to know draw the line. For starters, the hat needs to go.

Li Yuchun: There's too much fringe, and then there's too much ombre fringe. While both are quite terrible, the latter is a surefire way to get my starmp of disapproval. Moral of the story: it's not okay for Cannes, it's not okay for the Grammys--it's not okay for any type of fesitivies.

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior: Though I completely adore the cool girl's allegiance to the fashion house, it seems as if Jennifer Lawrence needs a crash course in styling. The berry lip and classic Dior silhouette are deliciously feminine, but the hair is sloppy. Translation? It's simply too edgy for this look. Additionally, this ensemble lacks a dainty choker necklace or dangling earring.

Florence Welch: Once upon a time, the Florence and the Machine songstress was the queen of the ethereal style (to a point where it was annoying). While it's great to see Welch in a new uniform, a pink gown with an embarrassing amount of polka dots is a big no. Not only does the pink look off with her coloring, this feels more like a costume than couture. Better luck next time?

Emmanuelle Seigner in Alexandre Vauthier: The deep v may have (somewhat) worked for Jennifer Lopez  way back when, but Seigner is simply too old to wear this sexual  number. If that neckline wasn't traumatic enough, I don't like how she matched her lip and dress color-- too much! 

Jessica Chastain in Versace: Perhaps Seigner should've opted for this dress instead. Though Chastain is always a vision, this Versace number looks very matronly on her. Plus, the long pendant feels a little random.

Zhang Ziyi in Giambattista Valli: What's black, white and absolutely dreadful? This Giambattista Valli ensemble. The zebra-esque pattern clashes with the film festival's elegance. And what's with that tulle trail? A ballerina costume gone wrong!

Jessica Hart in Valentino: Textured mini dresses are hard to wear. Though Hart probably believed her red sandals would make a statement, they actually prompted this outfit's downfall. So what's the take away lesson here? When wearing a frivolous dress, keep the rest of your ensemble simple with shoes that are either nude or match your dress's hue.

Audrey Tautou in Lanvin: Tautou's styling was on-point, she balanced this shimmery mini with minimal accessories and nude heels, but this dress is way too young. Chic? I say "sweet sixteen."

The Best

Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior: Unlike her black and white fiasco, this ensemble works a million times better with her beachy locks. The pink shoes and neon details may initially seem matchy-matchy; however, the unconventional hemline makes this look fabulously offbeat. The "girl on fire" is back!

Fredia Pinto in Sanchita Ajjampur: Thanks to Pinto, old school glamour made a roaring comeback at Cannes. A shimmery number and a deep red lip may be too much in any other scenario, but this is Cannes. The lack of accessories give this ensemble a sense of control.

Tanya Dziahileva  in Georges Hobeika Haute Couture: A vixen in white! I love how Dziahileva juxtaposed femininity and funk.The white appliqued gown screams girly while the harsh red lip is beyond edgy. J'adore! 

Sonam Kapor in Dolce and Gabbana: Extravagant, yet Kapor's floral number is perfect for Cannes. Unlike most of the soiree's attendees, this style maven choose to have a princess moment in a full-skirted gown. Kapor completed this regal moment outfit with perfectly curled hair and a dainty necklace.

Nicole Kidman in Valentino: After a slew of "too-young-for-comfort" ensembles, Kidman finally rocks a gown that is both glamorous and age-appropriate. The high neck and intricate details offer the perfect Grace Kelly-inspired  image. Brava! 

Kirsten Dunst in Michael van der Hamm: Fortunately, the starlet has broken away from her string of awful ensembles and looks absolutely flawless doing so. The multiple patterns are perfectly balanced by the frock's modest silhouette. Though the polished hair allows the dress to take center stage, the bright red lip proves that Dunst is still wearing this dress (as opposed to the other way around).

Emma Watson in Chanel: For the Bling Ring actress, simplicity is key. Similar to her Met Ball look, Watson donned yet another classic silhouette. Luckily, the glitzy bodice spices up this lackluster shape. To prevent a Liberace moment, the starlet paired this dress with edgy jewels.

Carey Mulligan in Vionnet: Black and white strikes Cannes once again. Though the color palette is overplayed, the sultry cutout brings something new to the sartorial table. The fresh makeup and lack of accessories allow onlookers to focus on the dress's beautiful execution. So smitten.

Sara Forestier in Giambattista Valli: Take note, Zhang Ziyi: this is how someone wears Giambattista Valli. The innovative black and white print spices up the ever-so-popular mullet silhouette. While red shoes with a black and white number tends to look tasteless, the updated t-strap shape and coordinating red lip gives this ensemble a dash of updated Hollywood glamour.

Olivia Palermo in Roberto Cavalli: The east coast fashion icon spiced up the elegant celebration with this Cavalli number. The short hem and clashing textures are super sexy; however, in true Palermo fashion, the tastemaker carefully plans her hair, makeup and accessories. The final result? A fun and sophisticated summery outfit.

What looks are you loving from Cannes? I'm dying to know! 

Photos courtesy of Vogue.and Telegraph.

 xx

The 2013 Met Ball

Though this post is a few weeks delayed, not blogging about this year's Met Gala would a major faux pas. On May 6th, the CFDA's punk exhibit opened and its rebellious aesthetic was splattered on the red carpet. From funky hair to "bad girl" threads, it seems as if our favorite tastemakers' ensembles were an extension of the exhibit. But that doesn't mean every look was spectacular. On the contrary, a handful of looks were reminiscent of a horror flick. Check out my best and worst dressed picks below! 

The Worst.

Elle Fanning in Rodarte: I know a punk exhibit calls for defiant makeup; however, this eye makeup gives me the heebie-jeebies, especially with the tie-dye dress. Instead of portraying punk, the potent dress and matching makeup creates a train-wreck.Fanning would've looked a million times better had she sported a sleek black dress and zany makeup.

Marion Cotillard in Dior: The French bombshell is known for her cutting-edge taste;however, this ensemble leaves fashion fanatics feeling unimpressed. Not only does this nude ensemble completely wash Cotillard out, it looks like something you'd find at Forever 21. And instead of adding a necessary burst of funk, the black and white shoes just don't make sense. Hopefully, the actress's "worst dressed" streak will end shortly. 

Cameron Diaz in Stella McCartney: Though the gold spiked belt is absolutely righteous, the rest of the look is too matronly for both the Met Ball and Diaz. The starlet is 40 years-old, yet this ensemble automatically adds another 20 years. And that slicked back hair? No thank you! 

Miley Cyrus in Marc Jacobs: Spiked hair? Mesh dress? Oh, she's just being Miley. In terms of Met Ball attire, this ensemble s perfectly aligned with the exhibit's punk theme. So why is it on my worst dressed list? Even though dressing for an event in crucial, a tastemaker should never compromise his or her level of sophistication. Yes, Cyrus is prone to sporting revealing ensembles; however, this dress is on another level. Additionally, the spiked hair and fire engine pout makes her look a little crazy.

Lily Collins in Vivienne Westwood: Silly Lily, rain ponchos are never chic. Though I appreciate the  use of diverse fabrics, this whole ensemble is just wrong. If  you weren't deterred by the full skirt,  Collins's stringy locks suggest that Mother Nature rained on her sartorial parade.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Valentino: Though this frock is an improvement from the actress's barely-there look at the Iron Man 3 premiere, it's just not right for this occasion. To be blunt, there is nothing about this ensemble that screams Met Ball. Even the infamous Tom Ford cape attire better captured Vogue's ultra-glam aesthetic (not to mentioned that hot pink hue would've been perfect for last year's gala). But above all things, Paltrow is on my worst dressed list for her sourpuss attitude towards the Met Ball.  If you think being at a soiree with fashion's biggest influencers is unfun, there is seriously no hope for you.

Kim Kardashian in Givenchy: There's not doubt that the reality star has received negative press for her inflatable pregnancy; however, her poor choice of ensembles doesn't help smother the criticism. Most of the time, Kanye's baby mama is dressing as if she weren't pregnant. The result? Her style choice are unflattering and look quite uncomfortable. Instead of wearing skintight threads and busy prints, Kardashian should focus on sporting pregnancy-friendly outfits: comfortable shoes, airy silhouettes and empire waists. Though this look is less-than-perfect, I will defend that infamous floral glove. Some think it's a style don't, but let's forget she's at the Met Ball. This wouldn't be appropriate for the MTV Movie Awards, yet the Met Ball demands crazy accessories and creativity.

Zooey Deschanel in Tommy Hilfiger: So now we know why The New Girl star has bangs. Not only does her new do destroy the quirky girl reputation she's worked so hard to secure, she looks matronly. Though this blue asymmetrical dress is darling, it's not right for this event. We're never going to see a punk Deschanel; however, her outfit from the 2012 Golden Globes is more appropriate.

Florence Welch in Givenchy: There's a fine line between being a fashion icon and being predictable. Whenever the Florence and the Machine frontwoman steps onto a red carpet, I'm expecting her to wearing an ethereal Givenchy number. And she did just that at this year's Met Ball.  She shouldn't diss her personal style; however, fashionistas and fashionistos everywhere are getting a case of déjà vu.

The Best.

Miranda Kerr in Michael Kors: As always, the model extraordinaire makes us a little self-loathing in this barely there  Michael Kors number. The dark berry lip and studded clutch offer a dash of vampy glam while the cutout dress keeps this look summery and fun. My only piece of criticism is that Kerr should've pulled her hair into a tight ponytail--the added drama would've made this look absolutely perfect.

Sarah Jessica Parker in Giles: Truly, this is what the Met Ball (and fashion) is all about.  From the clashing patterns to the ornate faux-hawk,  the fashionista embodied the funky theme without losing her style integrity. I'm so glad she makes unexpected sartorial choices after all these years because she continues to teach us that fashion should always be fun.

Rooney Mara in Givenchy: Though Mara's onscreen alterego, Lisbeth Salander, would've fit in perfectly at this year's gala, the emerging actress looked absolutely flawless. As my favorite Givenchy look of the night, Mara's feminine frock was perfectly juxtaposed by the gothic lip and slicked back hair. The result? Punk with class. Brava.

Sienna Miller in Burberry: Adhering to punk's literal interpretation, Miller's surplus of spikes is darling. Though this concept could be executed just about anywhere, this ensemble reminds us that the use of accessories can actually make a look go from drab to fab.

Emma Watson in Prabal Gurung: Seriously, can Emma Watson do any wrong? Though this dress is similar to Kerr's outfit, the Bling Ring gives this revealing silhouette a classic twist. Her look may not be very "punk-inspired," but I think she looks stunning.

What were you favorite and least favorite looks from the night? Sound off below!
All photos courtesy of Vogue.com.

xx

The 2013 MTV Movie Awards

 From the hilarious Rebel Wilson's hosting gig to the highly anticipated Catching Fire trailer, this year's show was more than a reminder that summer is just around the corner. As always, the looks that paraded down the red carpet boasted the good and bad (scratch that, mostly bad) of spring fashion.  So let's take a quick break from recounting the latest spring trends and check out the best and worst looks from last week's red carpet.

The Worst.

Kylie Minouge Paco Rabanne: Compared to other award shows, the MTV Movie Awards are more youthful. In addition to the young audience, the show has a heavy emphasis on young Hollywood. While this must've been inconvenient for Minogue, wearing a sultry dress is not the way to combat the age gap. Though the pop sensation never shies away from an attention-grabbing ensemble, this officially cross the line. Cover up!

Amanda Seyfried in Three Floor: The color palette and hypnotic graphic are refreshing; however, the lackluster styling puts this look on the worst dress list. Though Seyfried's hair and makeup are very pretty, the lack of accessories and a bold lip enables the dress to wear the actress. A bright red lip and a dark, chunky sandal would easily turn this miss into a hit.

Chloe Grace Moretz in Louis Vuitton: Though I love the denim-on-denim trend as much (if not more) than the average fashion girl, this look is too casual for the red carpet. In short, this ensemble makes no sense. The patchwork denim plus the girly T-strap heel equals trailer park chic. Also, the minimal makeup washes Moretz out! This dress would be great for a casual lunch, but not for the red carpet!

Kerry Washington in Michael Kors:  Though Washington consistently nailed each red carpet look during awards season, nothing last forever. Not only is this high-low skirt too high, the overall concept is just too much for the MTV Movie Awards. If I were to style Washington, I would've put her in this Jason Wu number: the dainty texture and edgy leather accents define Washington's classic, yet though-provoking, aesthetic. 

Ke$ha: It seems as if Ke$ha is trying to be Rachel Zoe's latest minion, but she failed...miserably. Overall, this ensemble is just confusing. The sheer Gypsy Junkies pants clash with the casual top-- the floral undertone on each piece is not enough to creative a cohesive ensemble. And what's with that fringe vest and the wide brim hat? This isn't Coachella, sweetie.  To make matters even worse, the deep lip is scary. I want to forget this ever happened, but I can't.

Selena Gomez in Julien Macdonald: Usually a red carpet darling,  the songstress looks more like a Vegas showgirl.  The defiant hairdo and glitzy dress are too much. Though the Spring Breakers star rightfully paired the dramatic ensemble with nude shoes and simple makeup, I still think she went a little overboard.

Macklemore: Instead of spending his 20 dollars at a thrift shop, Macklemore apparently buys his threads at a costume store. Seriously, what is this? If he forwent the extravagant cape, the electric blue suit would've been enough to make a semi-respectable fashion statement (especially with those super cool smoking loafers).

Hana Mae Lee in Marco Marco: I can only imagine that this Pitch Perfect star sported the cigarette headpiece for comedic purposes; however, the rest of the ensemble is dreadful. If you can look past that atrocious hat, which I barely can, the strappy pumps do not work with the dress's dominatrix-inspired neckline. Instead of creating a cohesive ensemble,  she just looks sloppy. This dress would look a million times better with a nude platform heel and sleek ponytail.

The Best.

Emma Watson in Maxime Simoens: Always dressed to impress, Watson continues to shine in this blue crush dress. The geometric neckline and chunky pair of heels balance the otherwise dainty silhouette. Together, the natural makeup and polished hair create the ultimate blank canvas. Though the actress experiments with different shapes and fabrics, Watson always dresses to please both mass media outlets and fashion snobs.  

Beau Mirchoff: Though I'm more of a Jake Rosati type of girl,  this Awkward  star can make any girl swoon. Matty McKibben, Mirchoff's onscreen persona, dress like your average jock; however, the actor brought his sartorial A-game to the red carpet. Not only does the blue jacket offer a casual take on the traditional suit, the fetching hue makes his eyes pop. The grid button-down adds a thoughtful amount of detail to this ensemble. Between his good looks and impressive style, I can't wait to see him on the red carpet more! 

Skylar Astin: The Pitch Perfect star won our hearts with his  soulful voice; luckily, he continues  to wow us on the red carpet. Though a standard suit is too formal for this occasion,  nixing the tie instantly relaxes this look. That boyish smile and subtle stubble are the perfect finishing touches. 

Zoe Saldana in Givenchy:  To be perfectly honest, I love most of Saldana's outfits. Thankfully, this Givenchy number is no exception. Though this attire  isn't a standard MTV Movie Award outfit, Saldana is never one to stick to the sartorial status quo. In my opinion, this look is all about balance. With voluminous curls, a poppy lip and strappy heels, Saldana made this potentially drab uniform a red carpet hit. Additionally, the floral skirt gives this gothic silhouette a necessary dash of energy. Brava. 

Kylie Jenner: Youthful and sophisticated, Jenner is perhaps the most stylish member of the Kardashian Klan.  The essentially monochromatic ensemble and light pink lip makes this ensemble feminine without being too girly. To give this number a youthful twist, the shred of skin injects a dash of sex appeal. Can all teenagers dress like this?

Photos from Elle UK and The Huffington Post

xx

2012 MTV Movie Awards

If there are two things I'm disgustingly obsessed with, it's Russell Brand and Fun. As we all know by now, Fun is my favorite band- even before "We Are Young." And let's be honest: who doesn't love Russell Brand? I can happily say that I've read both his memoirs, own his comedy DVD, and cannot wait to see Rock of Ages. So obviously I was excited for the 2012 MTV Movie Awards. Let me just say that the fashion did not disappoint- there were some stellar looks and horrific ensembles that I couldn't have dreamed of if I tried. Ready for a crash-course in the red carpet? Let's hope you are!

The Worst

Shailene Woodley in Stella McCartney: I wish this wasn't on my worst dress list; however, I blame it all on Shailene's hair sylist. Stella's feminine pantsuit looks perfect on Shailene- the top's silhouette gives her a curvy figure while the bare back is super sexy. But that hair ruined everything. As she was accepting her award for "Best Breakout Star," I was too consumed by ill-styled locks...oh and how she kept saying "dude." It's not that the hair was "messy chic," it was literally falling apart. Major no-no. This just goes to show you how crucial your hairstyle can be. (Photo Cred)

Julianne Hough in Sally LaPointe: My heart is actually breaking. There is so much that's wrong with this ensemble, where to begin. The mid-drift? Ab-bearing ensembles are huge this season; however, it's all about proportion. Word from the wise: a crop top, regardless of the sleeves, with a mini skirt is tasteless. Speaking of that skirt, we should talk about that peplum. Wrong trend at the wrong time! No need to sport two edgy trends at once! It's like she's trying to overcompensate for the god-awful straightening job. I'm sure her outfits in Rock ofAges are chicer.  (Photo Cred)

Brooke Hogan: For once, I am genuinely speechless. Like, I'm tying to find the appropriate words to describe my feelings, but all of the phrases I can think of are painfully crass. And for that, I will refrain. But just know that this ensemble makes me sick to my stomach.(Photo Cred)

Though I don't like bashing Elizabeth Banks or Elie Saab,  it's my duty to teach them a valuable lesson. First of all, this jumpsuit scares me. Perhaps it's the detailing, but this playsuit reminds me of a spider. If this outfit wasn't disappointing enough, what is going on with Elizabeth's hair? Trust me, I love the fashion girl bun as much as the next stylista, but she looks way too serious. Lighten up  girl, it's an MTV awards show.(Photo Cred)

Ciara in Balmain: I love the concept, but why is this so short? I'm mildly traumatized. (Photo Cred)

Josh Hutcherson: Sure, this is a terrible photograph, but maybe it'll help show you how horrid this ensemble is. Note to all single guys: drop the hipster hats. Baseball hats? Fine. Knit beanies? Cute. But these indie fedoras? Just stop. They make me uncomfortable and 99.9% of the time, you'll look like an idiot. If that wasn't enough, the proportions of this ensemble was just wrong. Too baggy in some places, but too tight in others (like the upper thigh/ crotch area). I'm concerned. This whole ensemble is also way too wrinkly. He would've been so much better with dark wash jeans and a light chambray. I should be Josh Hutcherson's stylist. Obviously. (Photo Cred)

ZZ Ward:Who are you and why do you look so terrible? For the record, both are serious questions. Stop me if I'm wrong, but all my research makes it seem as if she's wearing a navy suit with a black hat. While I love navy and black together, it looks like she's trying to make them look like one hue. So wrong! The key to mastering a black and navy ensemble is putting them right next to each other. That way, you're telling critics, "I have NOTHING to hide!" Also, what's with that shirt? Sure, I love Urban Outfitters as much as the next teen, but enough is enough!  (Photo Cred)

Lucy Hale in Catherine Malandrino: As much as I love Lucy Hale, and as much as I love color-blocking, this dress has to go. Nothing makes sense! Let's have a crash course in color-blocking, shall we? If you're rocking this colorful trend, make sure the rest of the accessories are neutral. While metallics can be considered neutral on special occasions, this is not one of those occasions.  The metallics and the various colors are competing with each other. A classic case of poor styling, if you will.(Photo Cred)

Nicky Hilton: I'm so confused right now. The dress screams "sweet sixteen," but those pointed shoes are uncomfortably matronly. On a side note, can we just reflect on how skeletal Nicky looks? I feel bad. (Photo Cred)

                     

Mila Kunis in Fendi: If I could have one sound effect to describe this ensemble, it'd be "belgh." This ensemble is either here nor there and a little too short for my liking. Speaking of the length, the hemline looks a little sloppy. It's not even that this dress is horrible: it's just that I expected better from Mila.(Photo Cred)

The Best

Charlize Theron in Lanvin: Though my friends and I found Snow White and the Huntsman to be boring and super long, I must say that I have a mild girl-crush on Charlize Theron. Not only is she a phenomenal actress, but she's always a red carpet staple. Fortunately, she ceases to amaze us. The ketchup red is gorgeous with her complexion and I love the peplum's wave-like effect. The down do and strappy sandals give this ensemble a dash of summery fun. But really, can you ever go wrong in Lanvin?  (Photo Cred)

Emma Stone in Martin Grant: Seriously, this is so flawless. I'm obsessed with the black and beige motif. While the matching shoes and ensemble may sound overbearing in theory, Stone plays with silhouettes to make this interesting. Sophistication hits the MTV Movie Awards as Stone finishes off this ensemble with a gorgeous updo and bright pink lip. This look has been criticized for looking too sophisticated, but would you rather have a million Brooke Hogans running around? (Photo Cred)

Emma Watson in Brood: If anyone can pull off a zany design and make it lovable, it's Emma Watson. Brood's quirky pattern and questionable peplums are deemed stylish through Watson's styling.The bold bracelets and tough, strappy sandals make this whole ensemble rocker chic. Let's be honest, Watson could wear a plastic bag and still be the coolest girl at the party. On a random side note, I just watched the trailer for her new film,  The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and died a little bit on the inside. (Photo Cred)

Kat Graham: Definitely my favorite of the night. She looks sophisticated and super trendy. Since her black gown is long-sleeved, and neither the v neck nor the high slit are too revealing, Graham looks sultry not slutty. The Style Correspondent's gilded accessories prevent another "Angelina's leg" moment by keeping this look fun and youthful (as opposed to overtly vixen). The neutral makeup, slicked back hair, and stunning platform sandals are perfect. Literally, perfect. (Photo Cred)

Chris Hemsworth in Hugo Boss: This is the perfect gentleman apparel for the MTV Movie Awards. Though the concept of the ensemble suggests an uber formal attire, the lack of a jacket is crucial- it makes him look like he's ready to have a good time. And where better than the 2012 MTV Movie Awards? All in all this outfit is relaxed, yet sophisticated. And it doesn't hurt that it's on Chris Hemsworth...(Photo Cred)

Janelle Monae: If you thought Monae was going to wear a dress, you're 110% wrong. What I love about Monae is how dedicated she is to her menswear-inspired style. Though her outfits have the same concept, she never bores us. The ankle hemline and punchy, pink lip gives us something to gush over. Hats off to that! (Photo Cred)

Andy Samberg:  I have this unspoken theory that Andy Samberg and I would make a lovely couple. Don't ask me why, but I have this irrational love for him. This love only deepens with this A+ outfits. To every, single man out there: this is what you should wear every, single day. The suit jacket and polo create a quirky combination; however, the monochromatism makes it acceptable. Samberg's fresh "kicks" gives this look a pop of color as well as a dash of youthfulness. Swoon city? A little bit.(Photo Cred)

xx