Red Carpet Review: 2014 Emmy Awards

Who doesn't love TV? With basic cable classics, HBO frontrunners, and those attention-grabbing Netflix shows, everyone had something to root for during this year's Emmy Awards. On the red carpet, it was anyone's games as traditional neutrals mingled with ultra bright hues. But that's not to say the night was filled with exclusively radiant looks. Did the Emmys Awards's Monday night time slot ruin your chances at watching the red carpet? Take a look at the best and worst looks of the night.

The Best.

Heidi Klum in Zac Posen: The Project Runway host tends to have more sartorial misses than hits; however, this breezy dress is perfection. The comfortable silhouette is refreshing in a world of skin-tight corset bodices, and the sleeves offer a dramatic, yet subtle, flair that makes this dress interesting. And how excited are you to see a relatively new Zac Posen silhouette on the red carpet? Weren't you getting sick of his traditional evening gowns?  Klum's beauty tactics for this look are on point: the soft waves play up the semi-ruffled sleeves, not to mention the natural makeup is stunning.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus in Carolina Herrera: Always age appropriate and ultra-chic, it's no surprise last night's winner made it onto the best dressed list. The halter neckline and poppy pink is youthful; however, the Veep star never reveals too much skin. As per usual, the funny lady is smartly dressed; however, she never fails to shine on the red carpet. And how much are you loving her shorter locks? 

Julianne Hough in DSquared: A true vision in white. Overall, the whole look perfectly juxtaposes feminine style and tomboy chic. The starlet's short, side-swept chop is counteracted by a voluminous, ultra-feminine frock. To prevent looking like an ice queen, Hough smartly paired her crisp ensemble with some dark gems.Want to rock a monochromatic like Hough? Show a little bit of skin with a sexy slit, and opt for those white pumps.

Lizzy Caplan in Donna Karan Atelier: Did you stop breathing when you saw this look? Because it is pure perfection. The silhouette and high-contrast color combination is reminiscent of an old Hollywood movie start, but the side cut-outs and halter neckline offer a contemporary twist. Similar on the beauty front, the slicked back bun is very conventional while the star's kohl-lined eyes bring back Caplan's alter ego, Janis Ian. The bold accessories are the perfect finishing touches for this ensemble. Ladies and gents, this is what red carpet dreams are made of. 

Sofia Vergara in Roberto Cavalli: An oldie but a goodie. Though the Modern Family star wears the same silhouette to every awards show, it's never a dull moment with vibrant colors or intriguing details. This time, the metallic strips offer a futuristic flair to Vergara's traditional dress. And isn't that contract between her bright red pout and white dress major? 

Michelle Dockery in Rosie Assoulin: Leave it to the Downton Abbey star to bring something refreshing to the red carpet. The regal silhouette is given an offbeat twist with high-octane stripes. Ladies on the worst dress list: this is a perfect example of how to take a worthwhile risk on the red carpet. Whether it's color or silhouette, keep one part of your outfit classic. The dainty jewels and sleek hair make this something Audrey Hepburn would wear today.

Michelle Monaghan in Giambattista Valli: Though this look is nothing extraordinary, there's something very refreshing about the simplicity of this dress. Compared to all the outrageously flashy ensembles, this ensemble is relatable and likable. Also, the modest slit offers a dash of sex appeal to an otherwise matronly silhouette. Plus, the gold and white combination definitely gives this look regal undertones. 

The Worst.

Kerry Washington in Prada: Once upon a time, Kerry Washington was Vanity Fair's best dressed woman. Oh, how times have changed. The too-tight-for-comfort orange column dress paired with an excessive use of sparkles was simply not up to the Scandal star's sartorial standards. Try saying that five times fast. And what's up with that black sequined slip? Awful. Though the emerald green eyeshadow brightened her face, the beachy waves and middle part looked sloppy instead of ethereal. 

Keke Palmer in Rubin Singer: Why yes, Keke Palmer, there is such as thing as too much dress and too much cleavage. Though the cobalt blue is absolutely striking against her complexion, a deep v-neck should be paired with a sleek column shape, not a outrageous mermaid tail. It's all about editing, Keke! 

Mayim Bialik in Oliver Tolentino: Yes, this dress is beautiful; however, it's too matronly for The Big Bang Theory star. While the funny lady doesn't have to wear a look that resembles Amber Rose's VMAs ensemble, the color, sleeves and lace were too Southern Belle for the Emmys. Nixing the sleeves or opting for a smooth fabric would've made the world's difference.

Lena Dunham in Giambattista Valli: Giambattista Valli's latest couture collection was perfectly concocted of floral prints, retro silhouettes, and a textured finale. While collection received positive reviews, Lena Dunham's interpretation scored her less-than-glowing feedback. This year, her place on the worst dress list seems almost intentional. Before you blame her curvy figure, the actual problem is that-- surprisingly, after all these years-- she still doesn't know how to carry herself on the red carpet. Nothing begs for a place on the worst dressed list like  poor posture and a pissed off face. As "the voice of our generation," shouldn't she be sporting her ensembles with some confidence? 

Laura Prepon in Gustavo Cadile: To be blunt, Prepon's look screams gothic mermaid. Not only does that reverse color situation look a little tacky, the half collar is definitely unnecessary. Honestly, does anyone ever want that much draping and excessive fabric on the red carpet? No. 

Amanda Peet in Giambattista Valli: Yet another strikeout for the French couturier. Yes, Amanda Peet is pregnant; however, that's not an excuse to dress like she's on an episode of Little House on the Prairie. The bodice ruffles and the florals? No thank you. And what is up with that hairstyle? Are the 80's back? Someone, please advise.

What did you think of these looks? Sound off below!

Photos courtesy of E! Online.

xx

Red Carpet Review: 2014 Golden Globes

Awards season is finally here. Rejoice, style savants! After weeks of fashion predictions, Amy Poehler and Tina Fey's hysterical hosting gig almost seems like an added bonus.  And Jacqueline Bisset's acceptance speech was an unexpected gift. Who needs small talk when there are so many looks to discuss? On with the best and worst dressed lists.

The Best

Kerry Washington in Balenciaga

 It's no surprise that Kerry Washington once again tops this year's best dressed list. The dreamy neutral hue is absolutely spectacular with her complexion, not to mention that silhouette is perfect for a mother-to-be. Leave it to the Scandal star to accessorize appropriately. Everything from the brooch, to the bracelet, to the earrings gives this matte look enough sparkle.

Amy Poehler in Stella McCartney

 It's always refreshing when a starlet wears a relatively contemporary brand to a megawatt awards show. It's even better when it's Stella McCartney. To say I'm obsessed with this look is a slight understatement.  Not only is this outfit age-appropriate for the Parks and Recreation comedian, that subtle cutout is the perfect way to say, "Your loss, Will Arnett."  As for the perfect finishing touch, that blowout and fresh face is pure bliss.

Naomi Watts in Tom Ford

 One word: chic. Can Naomi Watts do any wrong? Though this is very close to being a typical metallic column dress, the embellished halter neck and sheer panels spice up this traditional shape. And the gold and silver combination creates the perfect way to accessorize muted metallics. To prevent an outfit nightmare, the actress went easy on the makeup. Brava!

Lupita Nyong'o  in Ralph Lauren

 Every awards show has a look that is so fashion-forward, style savant become obsessed with it. This year? The 12 Years a Slave  star in Ralph Lauren, naturally. Though the silhouette is very reminiscent of Gwyneth Paltrow and the Tom Ford cape,  red looks stunning against the fashion plate's complexion. With simple jewels, Nyong'o puts the intense shape front and center.

Michelle Dockery in Oscar de la Renta

 The perfect princess moment. An embellished full-skirted frock gets a modern makeover with a mullet hem. If the gilded accessories aren't enough to make your heart beat a little faster,  the poppy lip definitely will.
Ugh, amazing.

Leslie Mann in Dolce and Gabbana

 This funny woman knows how to spice up the traditional LBD.  Not only is the lace detailing to die for, the bold peplum is so divine.  Mann smartly ditched the necklace and opted for gilded bracelets and a clutch-- the perfect way to make a subtle statement without competing against the luxe gown. On the beauty front, Mann keeps it simple with sleek locks and a pink pout.

Cate Blanchett in Armani Privé 

Since the Blue Jasmine star can wear anything and still look stunning, it's only expected that she wears this couture number. What more can I say? It's stunning. The architectural neckline is beautifully juxtaposed by the flared skirt. The dress? Flawless. The gems? Flawless. The makeup? Flawless. Like Beyoncé, she probably woke up like this. 

Emilia Clarke in Proenza Schouler

No matter who you are, it's so easy to look a little matronly on the red carpet. With the wrong gown and updo, many starlets tend to look ten years older at award shows. Thankfully, Emilia Clarke's collaboration with Proenza Schouler gives us a look that is very stylish, yet youthful. Not only is the print a funky take on winter white, the accessories are pure perfection. That strong gold bracelet and blush clutch? Amen!

Emma Watson in Christian Dior

Emma Watson is wearing pants to the Golden Globes, and I kind of love it. Sure, it's not conventional; however, isn't it about time Watson shocks us? Her makeup is absolutely flawless and she completely owns this look. The coral and blue heels are incredibly forward-thinking  and the layered look changes the red carpet game. This risk is definitely a "fashion person" kind of look, but let's admire her style guts, shall we?

Zosia Mamet in Reem Acra

There's nothing more I appreciate than when actresses learn from their red carpet mistakes. It's no surprise that the Girls star's Honor dress at the Emmy Awards received some mixed reviews. However, it's safe to say that Mamet completely redeemed herself with this Reem Acra number. The floral print is whimsical enough for the real-life Shoshanna, but it doesn't overwhelm the sleek silhouette.  Let's not forget how stellar that blunt bob is. Pretty stellar, in the event it wasn't clear enough.

The Worst

Amy Adams in Valentino

One word: boring. If you're a nominee, it's your unofficial duty to step it up. The color scheme and halter neck are eerily similar to Michelle Dockery's Prada dress from the 2013 Emmys. And what's with the back straps? Are they that loose on purpose? I'm very confused. And the micro braided updo is just a bit random with this dress-- it would've looked super luxe with a soft ethereal frock.

Sarah Hyland in George Hobeika

 The problem with this look is that the fashion and beauty are completely conflicting. While the dress screams minimalist (not a fan of the belt and bedazzled back, by the way), the  thick brow and Valentino-inspired braids are too runway for the red carpet. Though the brows looks fantastic from afar, the mascara-less lashes are not okay for awards season. I love a good juxtaposition as much as the next fashionista, but the two inspirations are not meshed together.

Lena Dunham in Zac Posen

 Though the Zac-approved awkward stance makes this outfit look better,, this ensemble is terrible.  Blinding hue aside, it's bothersome that someone would push an extremely uncomfortable dress on an actress. What's worse? That said actress would wear it. I'm all for the "beauty is pain" mentality; however,  she doesn't look comfortable. It's just unacceptable to wear something you can't properly stand in.  Also, the breast cups are insanely off-centered. Overall, this was a major fail.

Paula Patton in Stephanie Rolland Couture

No.

Julia Roberts in Dolce and Gabbana

As one actress once said, "Big mistake. Big. Huge." That's right, Julia, your iconic onscreen one liner came back and bit you. The dress would've been pretty on its own, but the white button down? Really? She's not Carolina Herrera or Tilda Swinton, so why is this necessary?  Though the actress's hair and makeup is fantastic, the look is equal parts confusing and trying too hard.

Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior

Though Raf has done wonders for the French fashion house, this dress looks like a white sheet with some black duct tape.  Not only is this look quite unflattering, it doesn't work with her new pixie cut. Instead of choosing a very familiar shape, Lawrence should've opted for a more streamlined silhouette. Not to mention the makeup was too heavy for a winter white look. A goth lip and  a smokey eye? Way too much! 

Mila Kunis in Emilio Pucci

Not only does the actress look absolutely miserable to be at the Golden Globes, the bodice is way too heavy for such a small frame. There's nothing wrong with adding some glitz to an ensemble, but it's important to know what woks for your body. In this case, a metal plated halter neck is a no-go.

Heidi Klum in Marchesa

The dress says ethereal nighty while the choker necklace says dominatrix.  Needless to say, there's nothing I like about this look.  After a dozen red carpet misses, I think it's about time the model finds herself a new stylist.

Taylor Schilling in Thakoon

Is lingerie-inspired dresses turning into a red carpet trend? Please no. In terms of street style, I will welcome this trend with open arms; however, this is too lazy for awards season. It's such a shame! Schilling hit it out of the sartorial ballpark at the Emmys with her luxe white Thakoon number--what went wrong? Everything about this look is sloppy: the dress, the hair, the makeup.  Just make it stop! 

What did you think of this year's red carpet? Sound off below! 

All photos courtesy of The Huffington Post.

xx

Predictions for the 2014 Golden Globes: What Should The Hottest Stars Wear?

Style savants, we are hours away from the first megawatt awards show of the year: the Golden Globes. Sure, it's exciting to see whether 12 Years a Slave will beat The Wolf of Wall Street, but aren't you just a tad excited for the phenomenal fashion? A little too excited? It's okay, you're not alone. We fashion nerds take the red carpet very seriously. Will Lena Dunham turn heads in Miuccia's zany Prada prints again or opt for a classic dress? Yes, this is one of the many sartorial questions we lose sleep over. Before we face reality on the red carpet, guessing what each superstar will wear is sort of a hobby. Check out my Golden Globe fashion predictions.

Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior Couture Fall 2013

Let's be honest, will anyone be surprised if Jennifer Lawrence wears Christian Dior to the Golden Globes? Exactly. Instead of throwing on a princess dress (as she did last year to approximately every awards show), why not opt for a punky number? The column silhouette is relatively tame while the sequined fripperies is worthy of any A-Lister's stamp of approval. Wouldn't this fun dress look major with Jennifer's pixie cut? Exactly.

Amy Adams in Badgley Mischka Pre-Fall 2014

If you've seen American Hustle, you know Amy Adams was pretty major as the  manipulative Sydney Prosser, and you also know that the costumes were pretty fabulous. How amazing would it be if Amy Adams paid homage to her groovy character in this sapphire creation? The deep v-neck is so reminiscent of a Diane Von Furstenberg wrap  dress and the color will look gorgeous with her strawberry blonde locks. I don't know about you,but I'm feeling a best dressed contender.

Allison Williams in Nina Ricci Pre-Fall 2014

Based on her previous dress choices, there's one thing the Girls starlet isn't afraid of: color.  As a quick reminder, she sported forest green to the 2012 Emmys and cobalt blue to the same award show the following year. Translation? Predicting she'll wear yet another bold color is rational. Though the ruffled details are more girly than her usual aesthetic,  it's a necessary risk she should take. After all, isn't she a hop, skip, and jump way from being a sartorially boring celebrity? Exactly. Plus, the otherwise dull shape will complement her
 lean frame. 

Julia Louis Dreyfus in Monique Lhuillier Pre-Fall 2014

It's a big day for Julia Louis Dreyfus: she has nominations for both "Best Actress in a Musical or  Comedy"  and  "Best Actress in a TV Comedy." Normally, this calls for a major fashion moment; however, the funny lady always plays it smart wit her style choices. More times than not,  she'll sport a column dress in a neutral or metallic. Boring? Definitely. But, as an established comedian, she has a right to play it safe. In short, this dress is right up her alley. The black sequins are gorgeous, not to mention the sweetheart neckline will subtly spice up her standard ensemble.

Lupita Nyong'o in J.Mendel Pre-Fall 2014

The 12 Years a Slave starlet is a must-watch, both on and off the screen. In addition to her critically-acclaimed portrayal of Patsey, her killer style has been admired by glossies such as Vogue.  Not only would this draped number work perfectly with her relaxed, yet high-impact, M.O., this light pink will look amazing with her complexion. Obsessed.

Julia Roberts in Vionnet Pre-Fall 2014

If you take a walk down memory lane, you'll notice that Julia Roberts usually opts for a classic dress with a twist. She resists color, and that's okay. With a sleek chignon, this Vionnet creation would be perfect. The silhouette and sleeves are extremely age appropriate while that open back offers a true red carpet moment.

Kerry Washington in Ralph Lauren Pre-Fal 2014

Whether she's in a kitschy Stella McCartney frock or modern Rodarte number, the Scandal star is always ready to try a new  something new. Not only will this delicious grey look absolutely stunning with her complexion, the languid silhouette and detailed bodice would be something completely different for the actress. Ideally, she would complement this dress minimal accessories and a messy updo.

Lena Dunham in Erdem Pre-Fall 2014

Months later, I still hate her Emmys dress choice. The parachute-esque Prada with the stringy hair and raccoon eyes was a bonafide mess. So please, Lena, take my advice this year? The structured silhouette will bring the GIrls mastermind back to her glory days of Wes Gordon and regal Prada. The print may seem a little intimidating at first, but it's about time the funny woman has a lady in red moment.  With minimal jewels and slicked back hair, this look will have fashion critics' jaws dropping.

All photos courtesy of Style.com

What do you think your favorite A-Listers will wear tonight? Sound off below! 

xx

Red Carpet Review: 2013 Emmy Awards

Okay, so maybe nobody took my style advice--thanks a lot, ladies. Le sigh, maybe next time. Though Heidi Klum sported that structural Versace Atelier instead of Emilia Clarke, I must say that this red carpet was well-stocked with jaw-dropping ensembles. But for every amazing outfit was a cringe-worthy dress. Behold, my best and worst dressed lists.

The Worst

Cat Deeley in Armani: Well, this is just tragic. Though it's difficult to sport an entirely sequined dress, the thought-provoking silhouette and sexual cutouts made this ensemble horrid.  By the looks of this, Deeley also isn't happy about this. I rest my case.

Claire Danes in Armani Prive: As much as I adore this collection, this couture frock is simply not Emmys appropriate. It looks like Danes A) is extremely malnourished, B) is a five year-old playing in her mother's clothes, C) had one too many cocktails, or D) all the above. As sexy as deep v-necks can be, this just looks sloppy! All in all, this dress just looks too big on her.

January Jones in Givenchy: Is this some sort of joke? While there isn't anything necessarily wrong with this dress, the whole getup is so dreadfully plain. Where are all the accessories? Why is this something I feel like a grandmother should wear? I'm so confused.

Julianne Hough in Jenny Packham: Though I love the beachy waves, this dress is just atrocious. The dropped shoulders is so Grecian chic, but I think someone forgot to line Hough's dress. As much as I love the real runway looks, it's imperative to make alterations for the red carpet. Or perhaps she was trying to make Ryan Seacrest jealous...

Sarah Silverman in [insert weird response to Ryan Seacrest here]: I'm sorry, are we going to a cocktail party? Though this ensemble would be perfect for happy hour, it's not event-appropriate. And that hot pink lip? This is just too much.

Lily Rabe in Vionnet: As much as I love sartorial drama,  this ensemble has left me cringing. First of all, I just can't stand ruching. Period. Also, there's something extremely tasteless about the dual-toned color scheme--it looks like they had to add extra fabric.  Last but not least, the dark lip and nails are just way too shocking. Make it stop!

Amanda Peet in Erdem: As much as I love Erdem, this look...there are no words. I mean, she just looks sad, confused, and a little tasteless. I simply can't.

Lena Heady in Alessandra Rich: This look would've been great if the Game of Thrones star chose a different pair of shoes. I adore the sexy slit and the sheer is more elegant than Peet's Erdem disaster; however, I can't look past those shoes.

Aubrey Plaza in Marios Schwab: Is funeral chic a thing now? The tan dress with black lace overlay is quite terrible, plus I don't know what to think of the sequin embellishments. Perhaps this frock would've looked better on someone else; however, it's just too much dress for her petite frame.

Lena Dunham in Prada: This is just upsetting. Horrid floral print aside, this gown is simply not flattering on the Girls genius. The long hemline plus full skirt is a recipe for disaster. In fact, it adds a couple pounds. Hopefully, Dunham will hire a new stylist-- ahem, my Lanvin idea would've been perfect!

The Best

Julia Louis Dreyfus in Monique Lhuillier: Perfection on the red carpet, the Veep star shined. The neutral hue works lovely with her dark, luxurious locks. Since this dress's beading is so intricate, Louis Dreyfus smartly opted for minimal accessories. Age-appropriate and sophisticated, the Emmy winner may be my favorite look.

Michelle Dockery in Prada: Without a doubt, this is the best use of red on the red carpet--yes, this includes the carpet itself. Dramatic in the most minimal way possible, the gown resurrects the feminine aesthetic. I just adore the dramatic skirt and fabulous halter tie, not to mention the dual tone is pure genius. Dockery finishes this supreme look with an embellished clutch. So maj!

Allison Williams in Ralph Lauren: Though I still stand by my Valentino couture pick, the Girls star looks absolutely radiant in this cobalt blue number. For a finishing touch , the traditional shape is juxtaposed with thick, minimalist jewels. The result? A perfectly clean getup.

Julie Bowen in Zac Posen: Leave it to Zac Posen to create something so structured, gorgeous, and glamorous that  the Modern Family actress could not resist. Since the design is a little over-the-top, Bowen oped for simple jewels and a girly clutch. The modern updo allows this amazing dress to take center stage; however, Bowen's confidence prevents a classic "the dress is wearing her" moment.

Kerry Washington in Marchesa: She may not have won the Emmy, but she definitely beat Claire Danes on the red carpet. Never afraid to take a risk, Washington tried her luck with flower power. Luckily, it paid off. A far cry from her other structured looks, Washington looks absolutely gorgeous. The nude color palette is absolutely beautiful on her and I love the soft curls. Brava!

Rose Byrne in Calvin Klein Collection: Sweet Francisco Costa, this is pure perfection. The summery coral offers the ideal dash of feminine flare to this otherwise modern ensemble.Take note, everyone: this is how you show some skin. Byrne finished this look with simple jewels and totally retro locks. This tasteful number only reestablishes my love for the actress's style.

Morgan Saylor in Honor: Black, white, and chic all over, the Homeland star absolutely nailed it. The geometric color-blocking, as well as Saylor's long locks, gives this gown a youthful twist. To make a lasting impact, the red lip and sleek clutch do the trick!

Kiernan Shipka in Delpozo: Can we just take a moment to reflect on how glorious this look is? I mean, leave it to the Mad Men star to sport a dress from the hottest brand of the moment. The floral applique is unapologetically girly while the graphic top is super eye-catching. Since Shipka is the sartorial "Queen Bee," she knows to keep this look clean with minimal jewels, simple heels, and a sleek ponytail. Why is she so perfect?

Taylor Schilling in Thakoon: Orange, white-- the starlet looks great in every color. Though a column dress with a halter neckline is nothing new, the silt and side cutouts make this dress sartorially superior. And the gold gems? How elegant! Can't wait to see what Schilling wears when Orange is the New Black wins every awards next year...too far?

Which outfits did you love? Which ones did you hate? Sound off below!

All photos courtesy of The Huffington Post.

xx