The Style FIles: You Can Have it All But Not Til You Prove It

If you're in the market for a "song of the summer," look no further! My friend showed me this one and I'm so obsessed. It's perky, inspiring, and so catchy. Tell me this song doesn't want to make you accomplish great things, I dare you.

Style Spiration: Victoria Beckham

In honor of the Queen's Jubilee, I thought I should dedicate this week's Style Spiration to a fashion-forward Brit. Honestly, who's a better choice than Posh Spice herself?  What fashionista doesn't adore this pop sensation turned style maven? Not only is her style clean and chic, but her diva-esque attitude is to die for.

Is it just me, or is Victoria Beckham having such a Holly Golightly moment? Between the oversized sunnies and the short, leather gloves, Beckham gives the LBD a modern twist. The sleek bob and neutral makeup enhance this crisp and jojo ensemble. I wonder if this was the lil' Gucci dress.  (Photo Cred)                                                                                                                                               

Not only does Posh rock the chicest hue of them all, black, she also knows a thing or two about wearing color. For starters, she knows that the best way to finish off a bright dress is with a pair of flattering, nude platforms. Genius. I'm such a sucker for a long-sleeved mini so I'm obviously obsessed with this look. Though I would've styled it with a standout bag or tough jewels, the simplicity of this look is tres Beckham!  (Photo Cred)

Though Beckham tends to sport a slew of fitted dresses, she knows that a body-con-esque dress isn't the only way to make onlookers swoon. This boxy, trench-inspired dress is office-approved; however, the v-neck is uber sultry. Her monochromatic take on this ensemble is on trend and super sleek. J'adore! (Photo Cred)

Mrs. David Beckham knows a thing or two about self promotion. For example, she rocked her very own Victoria Beckham gown to the 2012 Vanity Fair Party. What I love about Victoria's self-promotion tactic is that she wears pieces that work for her. Though that may sound like a given, you'd be surprised as to how many people don't know the cardinal rule of self promotion. Any who, Victoria and the Mister are perfectly styled at this party. The simplicity of Posh's ensemble is perfectly counteracted by her dramatic eye makeup. She just gets me every time. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Miranda Kerr at the Sydney Airport:  How feminine! Kerr rocks a dual-tone trenchcoat with leather accessories and a poppy lip. The supermodel's lack of jewels is perfect for this crisp and proper ensemble.  Not only is this ensemble styled beautifully, but I love that she wore this to the airport. So smitten.
• Alexa Chung at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition (Moschino): Chung channels her inner Twiggy with this contrastingly feminine ensemble. While the lace detailing, as well as the buttons, infer an exuberantly feminine aesthetic, Chung gives it her own quirky twist with messy hair and a juxtaposed clutch. To top it all off, the black Mary Jane-inspired pumps and the flirty cat eye bring this look back to it's groovy roots.
• Kate Moss at the Mango Fashion Awards: Quintessential Kate Moss, no? I'm obsessed with her effortless style and this look ties that together with a polish, business-approved twist. If you're hoping to copy this look, it's all about mixing and matching different textures.

xx

The Style Files: Come and Take a Walk on the Wild Side

I may be a little behind, but I cannot get enough of this song. Lana Del Rey's "Born to Die" just makes me want to roll on a furry carpet and drown my thoughts in a bottle of wine. Weird? Get used to it.

Style Spiration: Jennifer Lawrence 

For me, this week was all about The Hunger Games. In true "me" form, I devoured the book just before the movie adaptation hits theaters this Friday. Needless to say, I'm extremely excited. Not to mention that the movie's superstar, Jennifer Lawrence has WOWED us at each Hunger Games premiere (more on that later). It really made me think about Jennifer Lawrence as a fashionista: this girl has ability to impress us at every single event. The girl on fire is literally on fire right now!

At the 2011 Academy Awards (Calvin Klein Collection): Though I'm not crazy for minimalism, Lawrence takes this simple dress and gives it a sultry twist. From the minimal jewels to the Farah-inspired hair, Lawrence makes this dress sexy and forces us to focus on how well her bod looks in this dress. But not in a creepy, slutty way.(Photo Cred)

At the 2011 Spirit Awards (Dolce and Gabbana): I'm obsessed with how ethereal this whole look is. The dainty lace works perfectly with her relaxed waves and that soft, pink lip. The Lorraine Schwartz bracelets not only give this look a pop of color, they also give a sense of personal style. And personal style is always in trend. (Photo Cred)

At the 2012 People's Choice Awards (Viktor & Rolf): Though I understand why some people may not love this dress, I'm obsessed with how the whimsical waves work the the mesh background. Since this dress is an artistic piece, minimal jewels and simple, black shoes are the perfect way to accessorize this outfit. The sleek ponytail and fierce eye makeup gives this look a hint of fashion forwardness.(Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Jennifer Lawrence at The Hunger Games LA Premiere (Prabal Gurung): One of my all-time favorite looks, hands down. I love how the glamourous gold is juxtaposed with the sexy cutouts of this dress. The Jimmy Choo heels work really well with the geometric cutouts. I love when people pair an ultra light lip with a bold,sexy eye: to die for! The braided hair gives this look an unexpected  punch of natural femininity.
• Charlize Theron at the Hollywood Reporter's 25 Most Powerful Stylists party (Boy by Band of Outsiders): Although I usually associate Band of Outsiders with younger starlets and fashion fanatics, I love how this pleated dress looks on Theron. The deep V and pleats make this dress more exciting than your average LBD. Thankfully, the strappy sandals rationalize the lack of jewels. The sporty ponytail makes this look refreshing.
• Jennifer Lawrence at the The Hunger Games Paris Premiere (Tom Ford): As you can see, the Jennifer Lawrence girl crush continues. She successfully pulls off a backless dress: the gapping around her back is flattering, but it doesn't look ill-fitted. I love how the gold piping of the dress matches her gold sandals. Fashion forward, yet cohesive. The sleek, straight hair plus a red lip? No words. 
• Miranda Kerr in Manhattan (Marni, Nobody jeans, Louis Vuitton, Tabitha Simmons): As much as I love red carpet glamour, I'm such a sucker for unique street style. The mostly black ensemble makes the Marni coat and Louis Vutitton work together  to create a feminine dose of edge, not compete against each other. For a model "off duty" vibe, Kerr keeps her hair super straight and adds a casual pair of aviators.
• Michelle Williams promoting My Week with Marilyn in Tokyo (Alexander McQueen): Yes, this look is rather plain; however, it's Williams' aesthetic. The draping and silhouette of this white dress is angelic and the bold lip give us a much needed dose of glamour. Although it's understated, I kind of like it: the simplicity of this look allows Williams' true beauty to shine through. You must admit that she's channeling her inner Marilyn.

xx

The Style Files: Just Like the Clouds, My Eyes Will Do the Same if You Walk Away

It's pretty simple: I love Bruno Mars. Sometimes, I wish my life was a Bruno Mars music video. Not too much to ask, right?  Anyways, I love this song. It's so precious and beautiful. Also, can anyone really resist Bruno's casual wear?

Style-Spiration: Jessica Alba 

I thought it was about time to give Jessica Alba- a.k.a Brad Goreski-  some fashion kudos: Alba looked heavenly at last week's Golden Globes and can we even talk about her fab ensemble at Karl Lagerfeld's latest Chanel event in Vegas? I love how she's always versatile, yet is never too daring. That sounds kind of paradoxal, doesn't it? Well deal, because it's true. 

At the White House Correspondent's Dinner (Marios Schwab): Okay, this is my favorite Jessica Alba look: hands down. The subtle peplum and the jeweled neckline are so effortlessly chic. She kept the rest of this look pretty simple. On the beauty  front, Alba  aced this look: the simple makeup, sleek hair, and, oh, the pink nail polish? Incredible. (Photo Cred)

At the Chanel Event in Vegas (Chanel): This look is the epitome of old-school Chanel. Though the black and white color combination may seem a bit primitive at first, I love how she- or Brad Goreski- accessorizes the geometric dress with funky jewels. The long hair gives this look a splash of youthfulness while that cranberry lip screams glamour.(Photo Cred)

Out and About (Unknown): You know a celebrity is a true fashion fanatic when he or she dresses to impress on their days off. I love how Alba plays with colors, patterns, and textures. That yellow trench is a perfect spin on such a timeless piece. To keep this look quirky, Alba added the pastel scarf.  Gorgeous. (Photo Cred)

At the Armani Hotel Opening (Armani Prive): I'm kind of obsessed with this subtle sexy look. The hemline is so demure; however, that side silt give off such a "come hither" vibe. The floral print at the bottom of the dress is so retro, which works beautifully with her glamourous up-do. Her style is the gift that keeps on giving. (Photo Cred)

Ladies and gent, it's about time for a fabulous...

Anti-Weekly

• Miranda Kerr at the G'Day USA Gala (Michael Kors): Um, Miranda Kerr is gorgeous and everything, but this look is way too much. The cutouts are anything but flattering and paired with the high-slit? Trashy, not classy. The geometric clutch is pretty random: the curves aren't cohesive with the geometric lines of the dress. Also, it's winter time a.k.a no strappy sandals.  Definitely not appropriate.
• Shailene Woodley (Christopher Kane): Not only is this dress absolutely hideous- I hate the fabric and print- with a burning passion, but the styling is so boring. Besides the horrific strappy shoes- I'm literally going crazy over this faux pas- there's no jewels, no fun makeup, and no terrific clutch. It's just...basic. Over it. 

xx

The Style Files: Perfection of Your Face Slows Me Down

So this week, my friends- especially my roommie- and I have been going CRAZY over Maroon 5. Specifically, "Never Gonna Leave This Bed." I'm borderline obsessed with the music video for three reasons:

1. Adam Levine is gorgeous.
2. The concept is adorable.
3. I love Wayfrarers on guys...yes that is one of my reasons.

You're welcome.

STYLE-SPIRATION: JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

Recently, I've developed this theory that Justin Timberlake is the most perfect person...ever. Don't believe me? Well let's look at the facts: he's beautiful, 6'1 (according to my findings), can sing, can dance, can act, is extremely funny and successful. Did I mention he also has a killer sense of style. Yes ladies and gent, I'm continuing this boy crazy extravaganza with J.T. as this week's style-spiration. 

J.T. at the WilliamRast Spring 2007 RTW Show. Call me old fashion, but I cannot resist a guy in a sweater vest. Unless it's an old man who looks like he's up to no good.  I love how J.T. used the sweater vest a neutral and experiment with different patterns, as seen in the tie and button-down. While I'm not loving the vans, I love how Justin is never afraid to experiment with clothes. He is my dream man. (Photo Cred)

J.T at Cartier's 100th Anniversary. He looks...SO GOOD. I love this three piece suit: it's so classic, but edgy with his subtle scruff. The combination of grey and black makes this look funky and sophisticated. Ugh. Why can't I marry him? (Photo Cred)

 J.T. at the 2009 Met Ball in WilliamRast. HE EVEN DOES A FORMAL TUX BETTER THAN ANY GUY. SERIOUSLY, WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE?! The bow tie- lapel proportions are spot on and he looks uberchic. Those glasses make him look intellectual and trendy. Only man who reads this blog, listen up: THICK RIMMED GLASSES ARE A STYLE DO. I'm so glad he broke up with Jessica Biel. (Photo Cred)

...Need I say more?

Like...I love you too, Justin.

That was fun, now onto the weekly!

THE WEEKLY

• Rachel Zoe at the Christian Dior show (I'm assuming Dior):  This look is perfect for Paris Fashion Week. The black and white is so flawlessly chic. While the white dress is pretty plain; however, the maxi factor, as well as the belt, gives the look some drama. And those sunglasses? Amazing. Haters gon' hate, but I idolize her.
• Lady Gaga at iHeartRadio (I want to know): I'm literally obsessed with this look, even though it's not very Gaga-esque. The costume jewels as well as the silhouette of this outfit make the look creative enough for Lady Gaga to wear. She looks so glamourous and chic. 
• Leighton Meester at Dior also (I'm assuming Dior as well): LOVE LOVE LOVE this LWD. The tiers on the dress make this look really girly; however, the pumps gave this look some edge. Her hair and makeup? So feminine and beautiful. I love this look.
• Miranda Kerr chilling in Paris (I don't have ay designers for this blog post): This is perfect Parisian street style. The toughness of the leather skirt and the softness of the shirt is the PERFECT juxtaposition. Her makeup is clean and feminine. This look is simple and all around glam.

xx

The Style Files: Your Silence in a Crowded Room, Louder than the Loudest Tune

Well if this blog post doesn't show you how random my life is, I don't know what will. One of the many perks of living in New York's suburbia is the GREAT commercials for Broadway shows. Lately, I've been overwhelmed with Spiderman: Turn off the Dark and one of the songs has been stuck in my head for weeks. So I bought it on iTunes and can't stop listening to it now. Since the music's by Bono and the Edge, you won't be listening to typical "kick-ball-change" music. So here it is:

Style-Spiration: Diane Kruger 

Diane Kruger is one of those celebrities that I love buuut know absolutely nothing about. This week, she rocked a bow-tie and that's when I knew she had to be my Style-Spiration for this Sunday Edition. I just love how she takes so many risks and never backs down from a challenging trend. She's the definition of a celebrity fashionista.

Just hiding from the stalkerazzi. If Diane Kruger wasn't wearing this, I would say this is a horrible outfit. Preppy pastel+preppy neon+hip fedora+ S&M shoes= disaster. But there's something about the way Kruger put this together. It's a very, "I don't give a s**t  (trying to keep it PG, you know)" or, "Oh I'm so busy. Let me just throw this on anything and everything I could find." Regardless of her true intentions, this look is very thrown together; however, the juxtaposition is ironic and tres chic. I just don't know how she does it and I surely do not think you should try this at home. It can get dangerous (Photo Cred).

At the 82nd Academy Awards in Chanel Haute Couture: I forget what my final verdict on this dress was at the time, but I remember that I condoned her for stepping out of the "full-skirted evening gown" trend.  I imagine this selection of this dress to go a little something like this: while most people said no because it was "too much," Diane Kruger gives the dress one look and says, "Simple, but it'll do." I love the light peach and black combination: very vintage and Parisian. While the different fabric techniques might not work on everyone, Kruger is fearless enough to make this work. Pairing this dress with minimal jewels, and an updo was a great move. I do wish, however, she had a strong lip (Photo Cred).

At the 2008 MET Ball (Alberta Ferretti):  I always get really taken a'back when people wear short dresses to the MET Ball. Where's glamourous avant garde evening gowns? In this scenario, Kruger took a risk by wearing a rather simple dress to such a lavish event. Silly Diane! While I don't love this dress for this occasion, or the shoes for that matter, there goes Ms. Kruger takin' some risks. (Photo Cred)

I've said it before and I'll say it again, fashion is all about risks! So before you take some risks, it's onto the weekly! 

THE WEEKLY! 

I'm very happy because I have a theory about why this looks were so great this week. In the summer time, so many people abandon their style. But Fall is so close so everyone's excited! 

• Miranda Kerr frolicking around L.A (unknown designers): After you have a mild heart attack over how skinny she is, I hope you'll appreciate how easy, yet chic this look is. In my humble opinion, maxi dresses are insta-chic: you don't need much else and you instantly look rather dressy. The long sleeves and fun print of this maxi makes it low-maintenance but a successful look. I do wish, however, she had her hair up in a messy bun. Or a pony tail. Or a braid! 
• Ginnifer Goodwin at the ABC Summer Press Release Shindig (3.1 Phillip Lim): Lookie here, my trendy friends, this is how you rock mixed fabrics: keep it all in one color. This is prime styling right here: I love the lace, combined with the silk body of the dress, and those furry sleeves. I'm going ga-ga over them. If this look was even broken up into black and white, it'd be a fail. SO KEEP IT MONOCHROMATIC! Also, if you plan on mixing fabrics, keep the rest of the look simple: minimal jewels, clean hair, and natural makeup. Go, Ginnifer, Go!
• Kelly Rowland at an X-Factor Press Conference (Versace with Giuseppe Zanotti heels): While I really don't like Kelly Rowland- I don't really think she has any reason to be such a fashion icon and she took my girl Cheryl Cole's position on The X Factor- she honestly looks lovely. I love the lines in this outfit: the teal waves are so sick. And those booties? Fabulous. The wavy hair is totally vixen and youthful. Solid job, Kelly.
• Julianne Moore at the  Blu-Ray release of The Big Lebowski (Jason Wu): I'm so in love with this look. Do you remember the short-lived show, Cashmere Mafia? Well, this outfit looks like it could be straight out of that show, and I like it! The silhouette is simple, allowing the oversize- yet proportionate- bow to take center stage. And here's a major fashion DO: tortoise accessoires with black. How amazing do those shoes look with this ensemble? Keeping the hair sleek is perfect for making this bow truly stand out. Gorgeous, overall.

Stay tuned for more personal style and trend posts!

xx