Red Carpet Review: 5 Best Looks From the 2015 VMAs

So a lot happened at last night's MTV Video Music Awards. "Uptown Funk" won big, naturally. Nicki Minaj both settled a highly-reported feud with Taylor Swift and started one with host Miley Cyrus the same night (#ambitious). Justin Beiber sported a undeniably awful new hairstyle. And perhaps the biggest wild card was Kanye West's maybe-joking presidential announcement for 2020. But on the fashion front? A mixture for sleek and risky. And while you may have scrolled through a plethora of Instagrams of Miley Cyrus's barely-there Versace number -- and most likely hated it-- do not fear, dear reader: there were several looks worth swooning over. Read on for the best of this year's salacious red carpet.



FKA Twigs in Atelier Versace: At last night's awards show, the future Mrs. Robert Pattinson was anything but a fashion wallflower. The need to bare it all was the trend of the evening -- Britney Spears, Rita Ora and Miley Cyrus fell victim to an array of overkilled cut-outs -- but this look works on the song siren. There's no denying that the pint-sized It Girl is scantily-clad; however, the look is surprisingly modest compared to similiar looks. Her full-coverage bralet provides minimal cleavage and the corset lining (as well as the sheer draping) don't boast a set of toned abs. Sure, the skirt of her dress is sheer, but she also sports a pair of panties that look like it's half of a demure bikini. Consider this look understated sexy; a sultry for the fashion set who are neither familiar nor comfortable with showing off that much skin. When it came to accessories, Twigs's strappy sandals mimic the bold lines of her corset and the little jewelry keeps this dress looking convetable instead of a showgirl's costume. As for a dramatic finishing touch, the bright red lip and bed-head fit in with this look perfectly.

Chrissy Teigen in Marchesa: Sartorially speaking, dancing on the line between sexy and slutty is not easy. But in this show-stopping Marchesa, Lip Sync Battle co-host Chrissy Teigen makes it look easy. While the sheer paneling by her legs is undeniably naughty, the high-neckline gives this dress a sophisticated twist. Though the sparkly paneling may look a tad "Vegas" to some, it also adds a red-carpet ready factor that prevents this from looking too much like lingerie. To create a cohesive look, Teigen adds dainty, yet equally glitzy, drop earrings to the equation. Love. Not to mention her messy updo and natural face are the perfect juxtapostion for such vampy attire.

Vanessa Hudgens in Naeem Khan: If you listen closely, you can still hear all Free People fans rejoice over this outfit. Even with a resurgence of bohemia on the runway, it's rare to see a red carpet look that is unapologetically ethereal. Conversely, all you see is a delicately embroidered maxi dress with a strappy sandal. That's it. But luckily, Hudgens brought something so abnormal to the red carpet and reminded the audience that dressing up for flashy events should be fun. Instead of sticking with a minimalist dress in a neutral hue, like most of her cohorts, the actress pushes the envelope with this dimensional number that was both feminine and innovative. As for extras, Hudgens did not skimp on jewelry. According to Refinery29, the starlet incorporated over 28 pieces: hair gems, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, oh my!  Now that's maximalism.

Hailee Steinfeld in Stella McCartney: This awards show red carpet is obsessed with the unexpected: Gaga's meat dress, Lil' Kim's pasty-clad asymmetrical jumpsuit and even Katy Perry's denim dress, just to name a few. But perhaps the most daring, and ultimately the most unexpected, for this event is when a starlet doesn't push the style envelope with a flashy, raunchy or even costumey outfit. Instead, she wears something so refined, minimalist and chic. Hailee Steinfeld, fashion nerds everywhere tip their hats to you. At an event of this calibre, a jumpsuit with caplet sleeves and ultra-flared legs may stick out like a sore thumb, but the Pitch Perfect 2 prevents a mumsy moment with an edgy choker and gilded circle clutch. Plus, this unexpectedly refreshing silhouette immediately gives the look cool-girl kudos. Paired with a straight do and a Taylor Swift squad-approved cat-eye, Steinfeld's ensemble teaches onlookers that leaving a lot to the imagination can be a good thing.

Lily Aldridge in Alexandre Vauthier: Yes, sultry black dresses ran rampant on last night's carpet. And while most of them boasted sheer elements and glitzy paneling, model Lily Aldridge's minimalist approach to the trend was a sartorial breath of fresh air. A far cry from the black dresses of the over-embellished variety,  this look stands out for it's suggestive (but stylish) cut-outs and effortless simplicity. With the help of possibly yards of double-stick tape, the cut-outs perfectly lay on Alridge's runway-worthy frame without being over-exposed. Before you think it, you're right: a deep V-neck and oblique-baring slits will never translate to demure. However, the long, streamlined silhouette and the languid fishtail hemline dresses up this sultry fad. The perfectly sleek ensemble is coupled with a straight mane and wrists adorned with slim bracelets for the ultimate finishing touches.

 

Which looks did you love from last night's VMAs? Sound off below

Photos courtesy of PopSugar and Us Magazine

xx

A Chic New Year

New Year's Eve screams three things to me: reflection, redemption, and a fabulous outfit. While we should definitely reflection on 2011's fashion- the good, the bad, and absolutely dreadful- I'm all about looking forward. So ladies and gent, let's make 2012 the most fabulous year yet. To get things started, let's take a look at my six favorite fashion moments of 2011 and my six most-anticipated for 2012.

REWIND: 2011

1. Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress

Sure it's a little cliche, but how could you not love this wedding dress? Kate looked absolutely radiant and this just validated Sarah Burton as a designer. Yes, I went there.  (Photo Cred)

2. Tibi Fall RTW 2011

Not only was this show a Fashion Week first for me, but the collection is absolutely gorgeous. I love the mix between casual daywear and fantastic cocktail dresses.

3. The Savage Beauty Exhibit

I cried, what more can I say?  It was honestly the most beautiful exhibit I've ever seen.

4. Olivia Wilde at the 2011 Golden Globes (Oscar de la Renta)

My favorite red carpet look of the year, hands down. I loved the juxtaposition with the dress, hair, and spiked Louboutins. Could this get any better? Nope (Photo Cred).

 

5. Alexander McQueen RTW Spring 2012

My favorite collection of the whole year, I believe. All of the detail is hauntingly beautiful and Burton really upholds the McQueen aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

6. Hailee Steinfeld 

Hailee's definitely 2011's ultimate style icon. I love her ability to really take risks whilst embracing her youthfulness. (Photo Cred)

CAN'T WAIT: What's in Store for 2012 

1. New Dior Designer 

Ever since John Galiano's dramatic departure from Dior, the company has been looking for a new head designer. From Marc Jacobs to Ricardo Tisci, it seem as if the Dior potentials list is a "who's hot in fashion." The latest suspect is Raf Simons, which I'm not personally loving. As long as this next designer doesn't dress like a pirate, we'll all be okay. (Photo Cred)

2. Rooney Mara

I'm calling it now: Rooney Mara will be this year's style icon.  With her awesome portrayal of Lisbeth Salander, I'm so sure that we're going to be seeing a lot of Mara. Also, didn't she rock that Prabal Gurung at the Dragon Tattoo premiere? I say yes. (Photo Cred)

3. Jason Wu for Target 

 I died of happiness when I heard the news. Though this collection may not be as big as the Missoni for Target collection, but I'll be camping outside for this one! (Photo Cred)

4. Apocalyptic Chic

I'm not going to lie: I'm afraid of 2012. Is the world really going to end?  This year, let's laugh the apparent apocalypse in the face, shall we? (Photo Cred)

5. 2012 Golden Globes 

Award season is my favorite season and I cannot wait for the Golden Globes in less than two weeks. Ryan Gosling in a gorgeous tux and Charlize Theron wearing something stunning? This is what I live for! (Photo Cred)

6. More Trendologist Posts! 

A little self-centered, I know, but I can't wait to keep you all informed about fun fash-tivities all year long! 

xx

The Style Files: When I Was Young, I Took off Running

So last week, my friend and I went to see Matt Nathanson and Vanessa Carlton at the House of Blues. It was beyond amazing: Matt Nathanson is one of my absolute favorites and Vanessa Carlton's performance gave me a nice walk down memory lane. After the concert, I couldn't stop listening to "Drop to Hold You." I was never a big fan of this song until I heard it live. Now, I'm literally obsessed.

STYLE-SPIRATION: HAILEE STEINFELD

I've said it before and I've said it again, Hailee Steinfeld is the next style icon.  Her style is so edgy, chic, and youthful. At the same time!  Incredible. 

Hailee Steinfeld at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards (Prabal Gurung): It's just SO COOL. The crimped detailing of the Gurung dress is so hip, but the halter silhouette keeps it classy. I love how she has fun with her accessories: the clutch and bangles are super funky, which is so unusual for an awards show! (Photo Cred)

At the 26th Annual Santa Barbara Film Festival (Alberta Ferretti): I usually hate red accessories; however, I'm so smitten with this look. The lace on that Ferretti dress is GORGEOUS, yet the short hemline keeps it young. Besides the red shoes and clutch- phenomenal, by the way- she keeps the hair and makeup simple which is a STYLE DO. (Photo Cred)

At Miu Miu Fall RTW 2011 (Miu Miu): This look is so glamorous:  I just wish I was her. The dress is beautiful and classic. But, in true Hailee style, she spices this look up with awesome shoes and a super fierce clutch. That sleek ponytail? Incredible.(Photo Cred)

I kind of hate how she's younger than me, yet she still has the best style. Now, onto the weekly! 

THE WEEKLY

• Amber Heard at the premiere for The Rum Diary (Elie Saab): Well, this is the epitome of old school vixen. She looks absolutely incredible. The dress is outstanding and the high silt is sexy without crossing the line. The up-do keeps this look classy, which I love. I'm really glad she didn't accessorize this look very much: the lack of jewels keeps the focus on the amazing silhouette. 
• Rose Byrne at CAA's Young Hollywood Party (Manning Cartell): I'm obsessed with Byrne's bohemian vibe. The way her bob juxtaposes the tiered skirt and cross-body bag is genius! I do wish she had cooler shoes, since she didn't have funky jewels. Regardless, this look is lovely! 
• Charlize Theron at an Africa Outreach Project event (Dior): Unbelievable. This sheath is so classic; however, the detailing gives such a classic silhouette some funk. The accessories are intricate, yet they don't overpower this awesome dress. Keeping her hair and makeup simple is also a major STYLE DO. Fabulous! 

xx

The Style Files: Everyone Else in the Room Can See It

I think simply saying, "I love my friends," is the biggest understatement ever. Whether they're from home or  school, my friends always make me laugh and are the best support system. For example, my school friends and I had a lovely dance party to One Direction's "That's What Makes You Beautiful" earlier this week.  Haven't heard of them? Well you should. They're this British boy band and "That's What Makes You Beautiful" is the best motivational song ever.

STYLE-SPIRATION: 

So I'm watching 500 Days of Summer and, besides gushing over Joseph Gordon-Levitt, I can't help thinking that Zooey Deschanel is the coolest girl in Hollywood. A couple of days ago, my roommate asked, "Why can't I dress like Zooey Deschanel?" I knew exactly what she was getting at. Deschanel's style portrays her personality perfectly: SO cool. Sure, she's had some fashion faux pas in her past, but she's improving!

 At the BAFTA Brits to Watch Gala (Oscar de la Renta): I'm obsessed with this look in general, but Deschanel's "cool" quality makes it even better. This dress is phenomenal and I love the shortened hem. Since this is such a glitzy look, she kept it casual by nixing the jewels. And the beachy waves are the perfect finishing touch.(Photo Cred)

At the Designer Dinners for Gucci, Marchesa, and Celine. I love how she wears tights like it's her job. Most celebrity looks are anti-tights so this is refreshing. The blue is edgy and better than a LBD. The ruffled skirt is so girly and I like it. (Photo Cred)

At the MET Ball After Party (Marni): Okay, maybe this wouldn't be what I'd wear to the MET Ball; however, Deschanel looks so cool. The silhouette is so Audrey, but she makes this look her own by incorporating fun prints. Funky and chic at the same time? WOOHOO. (Photo Cred)


Who doesn't wish they were as cool as Zooey Deschanel?  Anywho...onto the weekly!

THE WEEKLY

• Emma Stone at The Help premiere in London (LucaLuca): This look is absolutely to die for. The sporadic dots on the dress make the pattern quasi-modern. And I love that silhouette! The sleeves? Ridiculous! The black and white is a beautiful contrast to her red hair and the red lips: I think it's really cool how she still wears red lips even though she's a redhead.  She looks so classic and I love it! 
• Salma Hayek Pinault at Alexander McQueen Spring RTW 2012 (I wish I knew): This look is supreme. I love the dainty salmon color mixed with the edgy black and gold combination. She piles on the accessories; however, this look is still clean and effortless. How does she do this? I couldn't tell you. 
• Hailee Steinfeld at Miu Miu Spring RTW 2012 (Miu Miu): Mark my words, Hailee Steinfeld WILL be a style icon.  Her outfits are always age-appropriate, but so ahead of the curve. This look, for example, is FLAWLESS. There's nothing I would change. The girly silhouette works wonderfully with her classic hair and gorgeous makeup. And the coral bodice and the blue clutch complement each other beautifully. She's so awesome.

xx

A Nice Slew of Events

I really do feel like a jerk for not having a weekly, but is it humanly possible to blog when you're in such a beautiful setting?

Needless to say, the Hamptons were beyond fabulous. Incredible food, fabulous friends, and the best memories. I did walk away from the elitist world as an owner of a vintage smoker's jacket, which will obviously be blogged about later. I'm not kidding. My not so glamorous return left me with many things to blog about. Resort collections and red carpet, just to name a few.

So for both your and my entertainment, I've decided to create a combo pack of red carpets into one blog. I know, pretty intense.

2011 MTV Movie Awards 

I'm extremely glad I didn't watch these awards because I probably would've started a riot since Kristen Stewart beat Natalie Portman. Did The Rapture come because that's just not right . Not in the slightest. In terms of red carpet looks, they were interesting...

THE WORST

• Selena Gomez (Giambattista Valli): Extremely disappointed. Selena always looks like such a rockstar and always gets on my Best list. Not this time, ladies and gents. Her hair and makeup looks great; however, her outfit isn't doing anything for me. No swooning. No nothing. I like the runway version better: the relaxed sandals and the white on white combination create a beachy and effortless look. The styling of Selena's adaptation was very confused, in my humble opinion. It seemed like she was trying to be a beach cutie, but then the heels made it too dressed up. I don't know, it just wasn't great.
• Ryan Reynolds (I don't want to know): Everyone loves Ryan Reynolds, it's essentially a fact of life. But what I hated was this outfit. I know the MTV Movie Awards don't require a Simon Spurr or Tom Ford tux, but this was way too casual. He kind of looked like an old man who was chilling in his log cabin. This may be quasi acceptable if this was a "chillin'-out-maxin'-out-relaxin'-all-cool" look, but I think he should have been a bit fancier than this. Like a blazer, jeans, and tee? Sexy.
• Blake Lively (Michael Kors): On the contrary, I hated Blake Lively's outfit because, besides the minimalism, it was way too serious for the MTV Movie Awards. Silk back hair and a simple dress. Chic? Yes. Appropriate? No. I also hated the purple Louboutins with the cobalt Kors dress. If you're going to add a pop of color, it should be a complementary color or something in a different color family. Or a simple cheetah print! Jeez. I think she would've looked stunning with beachy hair or even a maxi dress. 
• Nina Dobrev (Georges Chakra Couture): As much as I love jewel tones, I really did not like this dress. The hemline was too fancy and matronly for a young starlet, like her, to wear to these awards. At the same time, the bows are so...immature. Very confusing. Not a fan.
• Jessica Szhor (Alice&Olivia By:Stacey Bendent): This is the worst look I've seen in the longest time. SHE'S ON GOSSIP GIRL! ERIC DAMAN NEEDS TO STYLE HER. The worst. That is all. 
• Aimee Tegarden (Alice&Olivia By: Stacey Bendent); I think that Alice&Olivia needs to fire Stacey Bendent because this dress is also terrible. It seriously looks like she was tye-dying in her backyard, found out her original dress was ruined, and then threw on this. To make matters worse, she did not accessorize at all. That is one of my biggest fashion faux paus. Of course some outfits don't require many accessories, but a wearing clothes isn't fashion until you style it and make it your own. No jewels and not even a cute pair of shoes. SHAME!
• Amanda Bynes (Nobody knows because the designer is too embarrassed): There's a chance this could be worse than Jessica Szhor's look. This dress is disgusting and terribly unflattering and these shoes are not a good mix with this dress. The accessories are terrible. I don't even want to talk about this anymore. Now, I'm just getting mad.

THE BEST:

• Emma Watson (Marchesa): Two things I love in the fashion world; Emma Watson and Marchesa. And when they join forces, it's so lovely! As always, Emma looks like a goddess. I love how the top of the summer dress is so detailled; however, the rest of the white dress is so simple. The silver shoes tie the whole look together.  She always makes a statement by keeping it classy. And the hair and makeup is fabulous. It also looks like she's wearing an upper-arm bracelet. If so, I'm so smitten with it! Amazing all around! 
• Emma Stone (Bottega Veneta):  One word: gorgeous. Usually, it's really hard for redheads to rock warm oranges, yellows, and red. But evidently, Emma Stone is the exact opposite. This is amazing! I think the black lace that lays on top of the orange makes this an easier look for her to pull off. Maybe this look is a little textbook fashion- it's all very matchy matchy- but I love it. I'm glad she didn't accessorize too much, the lace with a plethora of jewels could be extremely overbearing! Her hair and makeup, as well as the whole look, is fresh and youthful. J'adore.
• Leighton Meester (Balmain): I wish that she wore a platform pump, but I'm literally obsessed with this dress. I've said it before and I'll say it again, Balmain is so dependable for uberchic minis. The details of this dress literally blows my mind and I think her hair and makeup look incredible. This is one of those situations where accessories would cheapen this look. She is literally wearing art and I'm so jealous.
• Reese Witherspoon (Zac Posen): What I love most about Reese Witherspoon is her ability to always dress her age, but a chic version of her age. Maybe she went a little too far by bashing the Kardashians and other young starlets, but you can't deny that she looks beyond fabulous. The asymmetry, not to mention the print, of this Posen dress was so refreshing; however, the hemline of her dress kept it classy. And I loved the shoes!  I really think everyone should invest in a good pair of nude pumps, they elongate the leg! 
• Hailee Steinfeld (Louis Vuitton): Although it may not be the most appropriate, weather-wise, I believe this is my favorite look of this red carpet. She's only 14 years-old and she dresses like a fashion icon! I wish I had her wardrobe when I was her age.  This look is the epitome of effortlessly chic. I'm so smitten with the sequined lapels and the wavy hair gives this look a "don't-take-this-too-seriously" vibe, which I'm such a fan of.  And the emerald clutch is the perfect pop of color! I think Amanda Bynes and Jessica Szhor could take a lesson from her.

THE 2011 CFDA Awards

If that wasn't an enormous amount of blogging, you get to read about yet another event. If you're still reading this, thanks for putting up with this post. I appreciate it! Im beyond happy that Prabal Gurung won the Swarovski Award for Womenswear, he's so talented. Oh and Gaga won Icon of the Year, being typically Gaga. But now, onto the looks! 

THE WORST:

• Chloe Sevigny (Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony): This isn't chic, this is just awkward.  The combination of the leather and cotton (is it cotton?) is not a chic juxtaposition, but really confusing. The hem of the dress is matronly and awkward. The ruffles around the sleeves are awkward. And those shoes just don't work with this outfit. That's basically all I can say: AWKWARD.
• Kirsten Dunst (Patrik Ervell):  This is a perfect example of menswear gone wrong. I like when women have soft waves and a feminine vibe to their menswear inspired looks. Between the makeup, the tight bun, and the hoops (who wears hoops anymore), I felt like Dunst looked a bit like a...hooker. In my mind, she cheapened such a luxe look. If she had nixed the hoops and had a soft bun or even a soft ponytail, this would have been awesome. 
• Sofia Coppola (Marc Jacobs): This is all I have to say about this look: if you're going to a Fashion event, wear something fashionable. No "Plain Janes" allowed.
• Jenna Lyons (JCrew): J.CREW? Seriously? This is so plain and ugly. The shirt is hideous and the shoes don't even work with this look. PLAIN JANES, GET OUT.
• Karolina Kurkova (Diane von Furstenburg): This would be a pretty sick playsuit; however, the hood is crazy. And not in a cute way. She looks beautfiul and I do condone her creativity, but she looks ridiculous.
• Kelly Bensimon (Don't-Want-To-Know): This is a trainwreck. Her hair looks insanely fake and I think...no, I know that her dress is completely see-through. Come on, rando, this is the CFDA not Hooters! Show some respect! 

THE BEST: 

• Miranda Kerr (Michael Kors): Remember that time Miranda Kerr had a baby?  Not only does she look incredible, but I'm obsessed with this look. The dress is sexy without being...see-through. The gold cuff is so bold and is the perfect statement piece, something dainty just would not do! I love how she had minimal accessories in order to show off the fabulous silhouette of this outfit. And the slicked back hair and traditional makeup makes this look complete. Brava! 
• Zuzanna Bijoch (Yigal Azrouel); Usually, as everyone knows, I despise minimalism; however, Bijoch styled this really well. The bright orange is super summer and the pink piping makes it a little more interesting that your typical minimalism dress. I'm obsessed with that spiky gold cuff (uber egdy) and you can't see it in the attached picture, but she's rocking an awesome pair of booties. And if you can take minimalism to a level I like, you're fine by me! 
• Amy Astley (I have no idea, unfortunately): This is the  CFDA equivalent to Leighton Meester's MTV Movie Award dress. I think it's pretty obvious that I'm addicted to things that are shiny. Her black and gold heels go perfectly with Astley's beautifully detailled dress. I just...love the details! So much! And her super sleek hair is the perfect juxtaposition to such an intense dress. And once again, this is a situation where you shouldn't really accessories. Good job, Ms. Astley! 
• Lucy Liu (Monique Lhuillier): I don't know when Lucy Liu became such a glamazon, but I'm in love with this dress. It may be a little too Oscars for the CFDA Awards, but you know a dress is remarkable when, especially in black, you can see the details from a picture. She looks like Cinderella at an extremely urban ball. The romantic bun and the pinks lips further this Cinderella inspiration. While I do wish it was edgier, she looks amazing and it's a sure-bet.
• Hana Soukupova (Marchesa): Now this is what I call an outfit. Anywhere else, this may be too much; however, this Marchesa is perfect for a CFDA event! The mullet-esque hemline is so entrancing and the asymmetrical shoulders is so right on. I love the mix between brocade and the sheared fabric, it keeps this look glamorous, girlie, and edgy at the same time. 
• L'Wren Scott ( L'Wren Scott): I'm obsessed. Usually, black and yellow looks like a bumble bee; however, it looks mega chic here. The long silhouette is rather simple, but the gorgeous floral gives us something to talk about and makes the look more complex. The long hair makes this look more laidback and sultry, which I love! I kind of wish that she changed her accessories, especially her earrings, but she looks like a rockstar. 
• Prabal Gurung (Once again, I do not know): This little winner is so adorable! A lot of guys stuck with a regular tie or some other casual look, but I love how he dressed in a full tuxedo. As creepy as it sounds, I just want to pinch his (face) cheeks! Overall, the look is very clean and spiffy.

Well now I'm exhausted. 

xx