Designer on the Rise: Kara Mendelsohn, Founder and Designer of Cooper & Ella

Forget fine jewelry and the latest "it" bag: What a real fashion girl wants is a slew of elevated basics in a set of quality fabrics. While it's easy to think that securing an interesting silk blouse will cost hundreds —if not, thousands — of dollars, womenswear brand Cooper & Ella is here to prove otherwise. The label, which was founded in 2013 by Kara Mendelsohn, serves up some serious wardrobe wanderlust with flirty off-the-shoulder tops, pretty blouses and the ultimate summer dress —all in an array of silky textiles. And luckily for those savvy shoppers, Cooper & Ella is surprisingly affordable. It all sounds too good to be true until you realize Mendelsohn has been in the industry for nearly two decades. In this installment of "Designer on the Rise," learn about Mendelsohn's line and her secrets to having it all.

Kara Mendelsohn

The Trendologist: What inspired you to start your own line?

Kara Mendelsohn: After working in the industry for 18 years, I knew there was a white space in the market for tops that were sophisticated in design and reasonably priced. I launched with a very specific focus on this niche. I saw the opportunity and I went for it!

TT: Cooper & Ella really delivers some innovative pieces and high quality fabrics at an affordable price. Can you walk me through the design process?

KM: I start with what I wish I had in my closet, but could not find. Then I work through the current trends and re-interpret them for my customers. I work very hard on finding great fabrics that are affordable, machine washable and feel amazing on the body. Then, I work to build out a collection that offers options for day, night or work —often all of the above wrapped up in one design — to give my customer a new reason to buy.

Ava Cold Shoulder Top, $125, Cooper & Ella.

TT: I love how the brand donates some of its proceeds to the HOPE Foundation School. Can you tell me a little more about the charity and why you decided to start the EMPOWER initiative?

KM: It was important to us to build a meaningful philanthropic component into the company. We knew we wanted to give-back by ‘empowering’ those in need; children specifically as the brand is named after my son and daughter. Helping children was close to our hearts and we felt would be close to our customer’s hearts as well. We just needed to find a way to do it consistently and that would speak to the brand’s DNA and would truly make a difference.

We had the opportunity to work with the HOPE Foundation in India, and when we asked the group how we could best support the children of their HOPE Foundation School Tannery Road, Bangalore they emphatically replied, “By consistently funding their food.”

HOPE practices a ‘cradle-to-career’ solution that empowers children to succeed in life. By providing the meals we do to over 400 students at the school, their parents are that much more likely to send them to school in the first place as this could be their child’s only guaranteed meal of the day.We were so impressed by the charity, their dedicated teachers and the power of the meals we could provide that we decided to make a long-term commitment as a company.

Ella Dress, $225, Cooper & Ella. 

TT: I know playing favorites is nearly impossible, but what is the one style that Trendologist readers need in their closet this spring?

KM: The Esme is a great spring style. It’s a romper that’s sophisticated [and has a] flattering fit. I am going to live in it in the coming months!

TT: Between running your own fashion line and raising two kids, we can only imagine you’re a pro at multitasking. What advice can you give to our readers who are trying to juggle their personal and professional lives?

KM: Give yourself a break. Once you realize that you can’t be perfect at everything, you will be a happier person. I do the best I can on all fronts: As a wife, a mother and an entrepreneur. But there are days where I just don’t seem to do a great job at any of those things! Try not to put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect.

TT: Where do you see the brand in five years?

KM : I feel like I’m just getting started! There are so many things we haven’t yet even begun to tackle! I’m excited to continue to grow the brand, both in terms of volume and recognition, here in the US and internationally. I look forward to expanding into new product categories, beyond our tops, dresses, rompers, skirts and jumpsuits. Would love to even offer children’s someday!

Already obsessed with Cooper & Ella? Follow the brand on Instagram and Twitter.

xx

Designer(s) on the Rise: Vrai & Oro's Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson

"I hate jewelry," says no fashion-forward girl ever. Whether you're rocking an arm party on the daily or peering into your local jeweler's window every so often, there's something undeniably glamourous about some serious bling. And contrary to popular belief, diamonds aren't a girl's only best friend. We love sapphire, topaz, tanzanite-- amongst a slew of other precious and semi-precious stones-- and bare (yet sleek) metals. But what's a gal to do when tracking down an exquisite trinket at an affordable price feels like mission impossible? Enter Vrai & Oro: affordable, sustainable and undeniably chic. In this installment of Designer(s) on the Rise, co-founders Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson talk jewelry, business and what's in store for the budding jewelry brand.

The Trendologist: Congratulations on the wonderful line! What was your inspiration behind Vrai & Oro?

Vanessa Stofenmacher and Chelsea Nicholson: We have always been hugely inspired by companies that have shifted the way we see retail and e-commerce, such as Warby Parker and Everlane, even before Vrai &  Oro.  It is such an exciting time to be a part of the movement happening in e-commerce. We ourselves wanted well-branded, well-designed, high quality jewelry, but were discouraged by the price tags. So we set out to create an option for people to invest in luxury pieces that will last, while making the prices as attainable as possible by selling online only without the retail markups.

TT: What makes Vrai & Oro stand out is the ethical responsibility the brand takes on as well as the affordable price points. Can you elaborate on how these two aspects are possible?

VS & CN:  Being in Los Angeles, we are able to oversee where the pieces are manufactured, negotiate our costs, hold minimal inventory and have extremely fast turnaround times.  Our direct to consumer model reduces middlemen and eliminates the wholesale to retail markups, allowing us to focus on high-quality goods that are sustainable and last.

TT: Did you face any challenges by committing to a high-grade, yet affordable, line? How did you overcome these challenges?

VS & CN:  One of the biggest challenges we face is selling direct to consumers as we don’t have the support and outreach of retail brands that help market and sell products. This has been a challenge because it limits our network and audience,  but it has also been a blessing because it's forced us to be more creative in our marketing efforts and also given us insight into each of our customers in order to learn what is working for them and what’s not.

14K Gold Circle Necklace, $135

TT: Where did the name Vrai & Oro come from?

VS & CN: Vrai means truth in French, and Oro means gold in Spanish.  A few years ago , we moved to Paris together for a summer largely and are inspired by French design and culture [to this day].  Now that we live in L.A., we are surrounded by Spanish influence as well, so we wanted to incorporate that aspect.  The words themselves-- truth and gold-- embody the essence of our company: we are dedicated to transparency and using high quality materials that last.

TT: Playing favorites is nearly impossible, but what is one piece from your latest collection that Trendologist readers MUST have in their jewelry boxes?

VS & CN: Our solitaire diamond necklace is our most popular piece for a good reason. It’s such a classic staple that can be worn [daily] and it goes with everything. It layers beautifully with other designs.

14K White Gold Diamond Line Drop Earrings, $495

TT: What did you both do before founding Vrai & Oro?

VS & CN: Vanessa studied graphic design and communication arts at OTIS College of Art & Design. After graduating, she traveled to Paris with Chelsea and worked at the [emerging] design and marketing firm, CrazyBaby. After returning to the States, she founded a graphic design studio, Duk Design, where she designed websites and brand identities for startups and small businesses. Continuously furthering her education in technology and design, Vanessa (along with Chelsea) studied UX design at General Assembly. Upon completion, they planned and launched Vrai & Oro. 

Chelsea has always had a passion for business, fashion and creative marketing. After her first year of studying at the University of British Columbia, she moved to L.A. to launch a philanthropic clothing company, Elise Elizabeth.  After a year of running the company, she passed along the business in order to pursue travels and finish her degree. After spending time in various countries around the globe, she completed her degree in business and marketing at the University of Oregon. Chelsea then moved back to L.A. and continued her education in user experience design through General Assembly. As the course came to an end, Vrai & Oro began.

TT: As a design duo, what is it like to work so closely with another person in an industry that is fueled by creativity?

VS & CN: We’re both very creative in different ways, which works to our advantage. Chelsea is very creative in business and marketing while Vanessa is creative in branding and visual design. We both share ideas on every subject, but we have mutual respect for each other's talents so ultimately we trust each other to make the best decisions in our respective roles as creatives.

14K Rose Gold Double Stacked Diamond Line Ring, $295

TT: Where do you see the brand in five years?

VS & CN: We plan to continue growing quickly and, in the near future, hope to increase our in-person experiences [with] pop-up shops and showrooms.

TT: What is your advice for emerging designers?

VS & CN: Get involved in relevant networks and communities. We didn’t have any connections going into this business, but we wouldn’t be where we are today without the connections that we’ve made during our first year. Attending events, lectures and classes as well as reaching out and following up with key figures in our industry has been extremely helpful for us. We would recommend all emerging designers and startups to do the same.

Can't get enough of Vrai & Oro? Follow the brand on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. 

xx

Fall 2014 Trend: Chunky Knits

As temperatures plummet, wind chill skyrockets, and the number of layers multiply, chunky knits for these next freezing months seems like a no brainer. However, if the fall runway shows are any indication, this wintry style is just as stylish as it is practical. But, unlike a typical sweater and jean ensemble, these collections are anything but ordinary. At Christophe Lemaire, layers of scarves, sweaters, and cardigans in earthy tones were effortlessly piled over semi-flared denim. However, it was the unexpected knit leg warmers that exude a "wear me now" air. On the contrary, The Row's Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen created what appears to be the coziest, most textured look of the season. And most fashion fanatics will tip their hats off to any designer for creating a look that has both runway and lounge appeal. Though Michael Kors is known for being a king of American fashion, his take on this trend possesses an indescribable European nonchalance. Cool girls everywhere should be pairing their knits with masculine trousers. But don't write this trend off as effortless and mildly disheveled. Adam Lippes paired sleeveless sweaters with an otherwise ladylike look. And leave it to the Francisco Costa to utilize textures and send several knit, yet utterly minimalist, dresses down the catwalk at Calvin Klein. Whichever sartorial path you choose, this season's knits revitalize an otherwise wintry staple.

Christophe Lemaire Look 2

The Row Look2

Michael Kors Look 24

Adam Lippes Look 17

Calvin Klein Look 16

As easy as it may be to pair your sweater with a pair of skinny jeans and riding boots, amp up your winter wardrobe by styling your knits with more fashion-forward pieces. A basic sweater will instantly receive a chic upgrade when combined with a pleated skirt or wide-leg trouser. Though the pair of Uggs you secretly have lurking in the back of your closet seem like a great way to combat the imminent polar vortex, opt for a pair of a slim, up-to-there boot or sensible stacked heel. For an insanely stylish twist of this trend, focus on finding voluminous or extremely textured pieces in subdued hues, not vibrant brights.

1. 3.1 Phillip Lim 2. Bickley + Mitchell 3. Chloé  4. Hobbs 5. H&M 6. Maison Martin Margiela Line 1

What are you going to wear your knits with this winter? Sound off below! 

xx

DIY (Design It Yourself): ShopRagHouse

Shopping can be such a pain. Don't get me wrong: sifting through racks, editing down my favorites to what I must have, and blissfully carrying a slew of shopping bags is my idea of "Heaven on Earth." However, it's always a drag when you can't find what you're specifically looking for. Scoop neck when you were looking for a bateau neck? No thank you. A dress can be perfect, but if it has a dolman sleeve instead of a cap sleeve, forget it. To make the fashion world a more democratic place, and to actually find those threads you've been dreaming of, meet ShopRagHouse.

Similar to other fashion startups like Bow & Drape, ShopRagHouse gives you the power to design your own clothes. In order for your sartorial dreams to turn into a reality, a couple things need to happen. Fellow ShopRagHouse members vote for their favorite designs, and if yours wins, the company makes the winning designs available for crowd-funding. With enough pledges, fashionistas will be able to buy and sport that adorable cocktail dress you designed. Major, right?

Whether you are looking to jumpstart your career as a fashion designer or just have a really great idea for a forward-thinking jacket, ShopRagHouse is the perfect resource to help get your designs on the market. Since we all love supporting a fashion startup, why not donate to the brand's KickStarter campaign?  With the help of charitable style savants, ShopRagHouse hopes to expand their capsule collection, which currently consists of three dresses: the Diana, Elsa, and "Winning Dress". Rumor has it that there's a discounted, bespoke dress and a batch of cookies in it for you!

So what are you waiting for? Submit a design, donate to the KickStarter, or join ShopRagHouse today! 

xx

What I Wore: Office Friendly

On certain days, there's nothing more challenging than picking out a head-turnin', thought provokin' ensemble. Anyone can put on a pair of pants and top, but most trendsetters do not want to be compared to everyone else. So we become sartorial savages: we feverishly re-pin, create look boards by  tearing out pages from our favorite glossies and watch just about every retro film we can get our hands on. And then one day, usually when you least expect it, you put together an outfit that you are genuinely proud of. 

"Hooray," you silently cheer to yourself, "Heads are turning! Thoughts are being provoked! Where is Bill Cunningham to photograph my latest success?" 

Alas, the fame photographer is nowhere in sight (not to mention he may not be as smitten with your outfit as you may be, but let's just ignore that tiny detail because you look awesome). Consequently, you have to resort to the next best thing: forcing someone to take a picture of you. Self-centered? Of course. However, it's important to document your favorite ensembles-- it keeps the motivation to create that stellar ensemble alive. 

Top: Topshop. Necklace: Zara. Skirt: Tibi. Flatforms: Calvin Klein.

A few days ago, I sported this very eclectic look to the office. With the help of my amazing friend Erica, I was able to take some pictures.  Honestly, the silhouette is nothing new. A button-up and a miniskirt? Groundbreaking. However, I love this outfit because the details join forces and create something that feels innovative: the two-toned flatform, the skirt's fierce print and the scarce pearls that blend into the gold collared necklace, just to name a few. Even though it's important to dress professionally at work, I think it's imperative to never sacrifice your style. Whether you add funky accessories or opt for a jacket with a subtle peplum, feeling good in what your wear to your job will instantly turn you into a power woman.

Okay... I don't have the science to back that up just yet, but stay tuned!

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

I Fancy: Shoes

It should come as no surprise that I love to shop. Scratch that, I'm obsessed. Between devouring my favorite glossies to my time in London, I've been suffocated with inspiration. Consequently, the need to shop and style has become borderline unbearable. But why just keep my fashion fantasies between me and my wallet? Enter my latest blog series, "I Fancy." Check out what I'm craving each week.

As impressive as Big Ben and Kensington Palace are, I can't help but look down... at the local's shoes, obviously. The fearlessness that London's chic elite embrace every single day as they plan their ensembles is inspiring, especially when it comes to their choice of shoes. Gone are the days when simple ballet flats will do. Now, it's all about being an individual, head to toe.

I Fancy: Shoes by kmulvey featuring flat boots

Nicholas Kirkwood platform heels / rag & bone lace up wedge boots, $320 / rag & bone leather shoes / Prada shoes, $620 / Frye / Loeffler Randall / Dr. Martens flat boots, $195 / River Island studded shoes, $48 / AX Paris flat boots, $47


1. Lace-Up Espadrilles: Who needs a pop of color when this funky print offers a similar sartorial punch? Though espadrilles usually scream summer, I couldn't gush about these shoes soon enough. Casual and stylish, these kicks are the ideal transition piece.
2. Doc Martens: Rest assured, these shoes can be chic. Whether paired with skinnies and a cozy beanie or juxtaposed with an ethereal lace dress, Doc Martens are surprisingly versatile. In a versatile color, of course-- bright pink Docs are obviously a "stand out" piece.
3. A Serious Heel: I really mean a serious heel. The daring height plus the juvenile Mary Jane silhouette is genius. Whether you pair them with a classic LBD or rock the nerdy look with a pair of ruffled socks, these shoes are sure to be a hit.
4. Penny Loafers: The middle-aged woman in me is so in love with this anti-trend. Though these shoes are probably as retro as your grandmother's plastic couch, spice them up with a cutting-edge look and allow them to act as a versatile staple.
5. Wedge Booties: Even stiletto-stomping trendsetters have to admit that wedges are the best way to score some much-needed height. Can we say comfortable?  I'm absolutely obsessed with this woodsy approach to the widely popular shape. It's very "Katniss Everdeen hits the catwalk." So smitten.
6. Low Chelsea Boot: Can it get more British than this? the length suggests edgy while the sleek silhouette screams minimalism. Amazing. Plus, these kicks are the perfect going out shoe if you don't want the achy arches in the morning.
7. Desert Boot: Forgo your cowgirl boots and put your best foot forward with the hottest western-inspired shoe. While this may not be your funkiest pair of kicks, they offer the perfect dose of effortless chic.
8. Fun Smoking Loafers: If I had to pick two male style icons to emulate, I'd have to say Liberace (naturally) and Chuck Bass. These masculine loafers? Totally Chuck Bass. The sleek silhouette paired with the canary yellow and braided detailing offers a really cool take on a classic shoe. Basic enough to complete a zany look and crazy enough to be the standout accessory? I'll take a pair!
9. Traditional Slingbacks: Crazy kicks are all the rage; however, it's imperative to go back to the basics every now and then. Unlike my other picks, these offer a sophisticated twist to any ensemble. And deep down, doesn't everyone want to channel their inner Audrey Hepburn? Exactly.

xx

Born in the USA: Madison Maxey's Kickstarter Campaign

The ball has dropped and the halls were decked, but the season of giving is not over yet. Starting today, you can open your hearts (as well your Yves Saint Laurent wallets) to help out a very stylish cause. If you are completely in love with Madison Maxey's custom-made blazers, you'd be a fool to not to help out her KickStarter campaign.

This campaign is about more than daring blazers. It shines light on an American dream: producing items in the land of the free. The goal is to manufacture Madison Maxey blazers in the United States. And though having pieces that were made in some foreign land sounds glamorous,  patriotism never goes out of style.

But it doesn't stop there, style savants: answer a trivia question on Maxey's Kickstarter page and you're eligible to win a free blazer. The season of giving goes both ways!
xx

The Worst of 2012

They say that when it seems too good to be true, it probably is. This year prompted some pivotal fashion moments, but it also produced a slew of cringeworthy looks. Whip out the tissues, ladies and gents: here comes the worst of the worst. To ease the pain, I've decided to express my feelings through superlatives.

Most Ironic

Lena Dunham at the Emmy Awards:  I jut think it's really funny how she's so naked on Girls, yet she decides to borrow her grandmother's frock for the Emmys. Wait...that's Prada? Now I'm confused.(Photo)

Worst Pregnancy Outfit

Claire Danes at the Emmy Awards: Usually an angel on the red carpet, Danes' sunny number was a big disappointment. First of all, the silhouette is not flaunting her pregnancy curves. On the contrary, it looks like she ate an extra helping of pasta (and not in a good way). Not to mention the dress' blousing is as sloppy as Carrie Matheson's mental state. Maybe next year. (Photo)

Cheesiest Pageant Ensemble

Ashley Judd at the Emmy Awards: "This look is so awesome," said no one ever. I would love to meet the geniuses behind this piece of work and give them a nice talking to. (Photo)

Best Halloween Costume

Kirsten Dunst at the Met Gala: It's awkward because nobody told Fraulein Kirsten that this year's Met Ball Gala was not a Halloween party. (Photo)

Least Flattering

Anna Faris at the Academy Awards: We rarely see this funny lady on the red carpet. After this ensemble, I think we've been spared this whole time. Though completely sequined gowns sound lovely in theory, they're a nightmare in real life. Not to mention unflattering. Perhaps this look would've worked if Faris wasn't sporting a creepy bob. (Photo)

Most Confused

Hayden Panettiere at the Emmy Awards: Who knew that Marchesa could look so wrong? It's just way too much to handle. And painful.  (Photo)

Best Dressed... at a Middle School Dance

Kristen Wiig at the Emmy Awards: Well, this whole ensemble is awkward. The haltered top, the hunched shoulders...I need a paper bag to breathe into! The funny lady isn't a style guru, but it seems like her stylists went AWOL after she left Saturday Night Live. 'Tis a shame. (Photo)

Most Scandalous

Fergie at the Grammy Awards: There's a fine line between thought-provoking and trashy. Fergie crossed that line. And then some. Though Jean Paul Gaultier paired black underwear with this dress for the runway, it's an uncomfortable combination in real life. But the pain doesn't stop there: Fergie thinks it's a great idea to overdose on chunky jewelry. Please, make it stop! (Photo)

Worst Copycat 

Emma Stone at the Academy Awards: Remember how I said that Stone can pull off several different looks? Well this is not one of them. First of all, this is just too much red to handle. Secondly, Stone is clearly trying too hard. Instead of reliving Nicole Kidman's red carpet fame, this A-Lister should just be herself! (Photo)

Worst Use of Sparkly Jeans Since Limited Too

Brad Goreski at the American Music Awards:  Consider my respect for him as a fashion stylist gone. While I appreciate Goreski's love for going outside the sartorial boss, this is just horrific. (Photo)

The Worst Ever

Cyndi Lauper at the American Music Awards: It's been a few months, and I still have no idea how to properly react to this ensemble. While I understand  that Lauper has "rockstar" status, I don't think that gives her an excuse to forgo a nice pair of pants. Especially when she's that old. And what's with plaid sash-- is it even a sash? All I know is that this outfit makes me sad. (Photo)

Caused the Most Angst

Kim Kardashian at Cannes Film Festival: This ensemble made me so angry, I dedicated a whole blog post to this sartorial tragedy.  Don't make me rehash the ugly details.(Photo)

The Most Tropical (in the Worst Way)

Shailene Woodley at the SAG Awards: I'm still wondering why this happened. Anyone want to take a guess? Nope? Let's chalk it up to "taking a role too seriously." (Photo)

Perhaps all these victims can learn a thing from their mistakes. Here's to hoping! 

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