Red Carpet Review: 2014 Academy Awards

The Oscars are a big deal. Whether you're a complete movie buff, a self-described fashion nerd, or both, this is our Super Bowl Sunday with an ultra glam, feminine twist. With remarkable movies from Dallas Buyers Club to 12 Years a Slave and A-Lister nominees, such as Leoandro DiCaprio and Cate Blanchett, this year's soiree was destined to be pretty amazing. But with some awkward accessories and man capris, there was definitely a fair share of good and bad looks. Want a second look at all memorable fashion? Living under a rock? Check out this year's hits and misses.

The Best

Cate Blanchett in Armani Privè: Everyone knows that the Blue Jasmine starlet can do no wrong; however, this Armani Privè gown is seriously major. The relatively bare neckline is refreshing after a season of lace collars and halter necklines. Blanchett's cutting-edge sartorial reputation is beautifully mixed with a feminine aesthetic. The thoughtful embellishments, pastel earrings, and soft curls are both cohesive and elegant. Even though the nude hue may blend into the actress's skin tone, the mesmerizing texture is a game changer.

Julia Roberts in Givenchy: Though the August: Osage County star has never been known for her ultra chic fashion choices (except for the Valentino), this is quite incredible. Not only is this lace number age appropriate, and far from matronly, it's a classic example that black can be show-stopping in a sea of sequins, jewel tones, and neutrals. The lively peplum is perfect for hiding any potential problem areas, and the plunging (but modest) neckline revitalizes the little black dress. Oh, and let's not to forget to swoon over her beauty regime. California blonde locks and a smokey eye are absolutely ideal with this look. 

Kate Hudson in Versace: Behold: the flower child's version of Gwyneth Paltrow's famous cape dress.  It's been a few years since Hudson has graced the glamorous carpet, and her award show comeback was a major success! Though the plunging neckline, which was a major trend on this red carpet, the cape gives this ensemble a sophisticated twist. On the beauty front, Hudson sizzled with the Jessica Rabbit-approved locks. J'adore.

Naomi Watts in Calvin Klein: The Impossible star is not one to sport a vibrant colored dress; however, she always looks great in metallics and neutrals. Luckily, this ceremony was no exception. The textured fabric energizes the otherwise minimalist ensemble. Undeniably, what makes this outfit truly something spectacular is the use of geometric accessories. The art deco statement necklace is perfectly paired with an edgy, semi-quilted silver clutch. Not to mention the straight locks and berry lip make her look insanely chic. But then again, when isn't Naomi Watts the epitome of chic?

Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior Couture: Finally. With the exception of her SAG Awards ensemble, Lawrence's awards season style was a bit, erm, lacking. Who can forget that tragic Golden Globes fiasco? However, this look screamed one thing: she's back. Since she tends to wear many princess silhouettes, it's refreshing to experience a transition to clean, sophisticated shapes. The vibrant red hue and defiant hair are very "power woman" while the peplum keeps this look fun and feminine. For a finishing touch, the American Hustle sports a matching lip and fierce necklace. Brava! 

Kerry Washington in Jason Wu: Well, the Scandal star definitely redeemed herself from the Golden Globes. This whole look perfectly meshes gothic glam and ethereal beauty. Washington rarely wears dark hues, especially purple, so this color choice was a pleasant surprise. Paired with the vampy lip, this look is risk; however, it works! The airy silhouette is the perfect way to show off her beauty. And that hair? Brings the whole look together. Welcome back, Kerry, I've missed you. 

Lupita Nyong'o in Prada: Move over, Beyoncè: there's a new flawless chick in town. Just out of curiosity, can the Academy Award winner do any wrong? She's completely killed it the entire awards season, and gave us the perfect princess moment at the Academy Awards. First of all, this Nairobi blue looks phenomenal with the actress's skin complexion, and the fluttery silhouette is something completely different for the budding fashionista. Though a plunging neckline is normally scandalous, she has a certain body type that makes this neckline look 100 percent fashion. Nyong'o smartly accessories with delicate jewels and a girly headband.

Sandra Bullock in Alexander McQueen: A vision in midnight blue, it seems as if Sandra Bullock masters every red carpet she steps on lately. Not only is this gorgeous hue extremely refreshing, the soft draping in the front is absolutely impeccable. As for accessories, the Gravity actress proved that less is more with a simple bangle and ear cuff. 

The Worst

Emma Watson in Vera Wang: Doesn't this look a bit mumsy? The starlet is known for sporting cutting-edge ensembles; however, this dress falls flat. Not only is this color palette extremely dull, the hair is messy, and not even a stylish messy. And where are the accessories? A dress that plain deserves a statement necklace or an amazing ear cuff.As a young, bonafide fashionista, this is too safe. Show some skin! Play with textures! Do something to amuse us! Anything!

Margot Robbie in Saint Laurent: There's gothic chic, and then there's gothic creep. The dark hair, noir dress, and vampy lip--it's just way too much for the pale skinned actress. And to top it all off, this dress is so basic! A strapless black dress? Groundbreaking. How did this go so wrong? Robbie aced the Golden Globes! A note for the future, Margot, opt for a lighter dress when darkening your hair! She would've looked amazing in a blush Elie Saab number.

Liza Minelli: I don't care who you are: streaky hair and a matching cobalt blue top and pants situation is never okay. And I seriously mean never.

Pharrell Williams in Lanvin: I will be the first to admit that I love the "Happy" singer's style risks, but capris to the Academy Awards is just unacceptable. Actresses don't even flaunt that leg (with the obvious exception Angelina circa 2012). Save showing off your leg tattoo for the summer or next year's Grammys! A printed pant or metallic sports coat would've been the perfect way to take a style risk. That being said, I think I can speak for everyone when I say I'm relieved the hat made a comeback. 

Amy Adams in Gucci: A classic case of "right dress, wrong accessories." Though the American Hustle star looks absolutely radiant in this navy dress, the accessories are all wrong. Kitschy pink jewels mixed with a chunky gold cocktail ring? No thank you! This look would've been on my best dressed if she chose canary golden or emerald jewels. 

Angelina Jolie in Elie Saab: Well, this outfit just aged herself 12 years. Though Elie Saab couture gowns are usually a surefire way to score a spot on any coveted best dress list, this looks awfully matronly. It's like the Versace gown's old, serious mother. But naturally, the megawatt star's makeup is seriously perfection. 

Olivia Wilde in Valentino: As much as this pains me, it's yet another case of "right dress, wrong accessories." The silhouette and white detailing is undeniably chic on the very pregnant Wilde, but the clashing jewels are terrible. Layered bangles, statement earrings, and a chunky cocktail ring? Way too much! Let it be known that accessories make or break any outfit. Coco Chanel once declared that all classy women must take off one accessory before they leave the house. Olivia Wilde, you are no exception to this rule. 

Agree? Disagree? Sound off below!
Photos courtesy of Vogue.com

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

The Weekly: Head to Toe, Let Your Whole Body Talk

With eleven days until I  go home for the summer, there are so many things I need to get done: edit papers, study for finals, get into bikini shape, and start to pack. I have this massive (well, it's now widdled down to three) pile of magazines that I must read. One of those magazines, I wrote for? Whaaat?!

This is a really terrible scan/screen-shot job, but here it is nonetheless!

I was super excited to buy a copy and see my name in black and white! So in honor of this personal accomplishment, I decided to spend this weekly talk about some of the magazines I love and some of them I think I should love. 

1. Harper's Bazaar is a must have for me. I love the editorial shoots, especially the one with Rachel Zoe and various designers. I'm always interested in the article topics and it always seems to help me come up with ideas for my own personal style. I also love how they have the section about dressing age- appropriately, it's something VERY VERY important.
2. I feel like Vogue is one of those fashion magazines you have to love: it's the Bible. I think the part that distinguishes Vogue from other magazine, besides its elitist status, is the emphasize Vogue has on culture. I'm always surprised to see so many articles not about fashion, which sounds really dumb. Sometimes I feel like Vogue is not so much fashion magazine mecca, but a guide to becoming a member of the sophisticated elite. Regardless, it's essential.
3. Instyle was one of the first magazines- besides Us Weekly- that I consistently read. I remember  seeing various color logos and flipping through the thick publication when I was younger. I think Instyle really incorporates celebrities and style into one magazine. And I love reading about celebrities AND style. Even  now, I still love the feature in the very back that has all of the Celebrity Favorites.
4. To be perfectly honest, who doesn't love Cosmo? It's the quintessential magazine for young women.  The articles are interesting and I always feel so scandalous when I'm reading it!
5. I really think I should start reading W Magazine. It's the epitome of high fashion and glamour. 
6. In addition, I think I should also start reading Elle. It seems to be right up my alley! 

Well that was fun but now, onto the weekly!

• Naomi Watts at The Odeon for Chanel's Tribeca Film Festival (Chanel and Stella McCartney): Absolutely divine! Watts takes such a casual and youthful spin on the classic Chanel tweed. The yellow McCartney sandals makes this look edgy, fun, and also picks up the gold in the tweed. She kept a rather natural look for the hair and makeup which is good. All in all, she looks fab! 
• Katie Holmes at an Ann Taylor Party (Miu Miu, Ann Taylor, Holmes&Yang): I don't think we've seen this youthful side of Katie since she had baby Suri! But I love this look!  While this look mainly revolves around a neutral color palette, the tomato red Ann Taylor skirt adds a youthful spin.  Because there's so much going on with the Miu Miu shoes and the cross-body bag, I'm glad she didn't push the envelope too far and wear jewels. She looks refined, classy, but still a little funky. Bravo, Katie! 
• Liv Tyler at the Brooklyn Museum Ball (Stella McCartney): Though I notoriously despise minimalism, I think Tyler looks incredible in this blush pink and black ensemble. Although it is very minimal, I can't picture Liv Tyler wearing funky prints,  killer heels, and an overdose on jewels. To me, this is Liv Tyler. And she looks fabulous nonetheless. The oversized blazer is the perfect counteract to the fitted black mini she's sporting. I'm glad she didn't stick with a boring black and white combination; to me, the pink spices up this look MAJOR. I also think adding a pink lip made the entire look more exciting. But her hair is way too flat, I wish she did a messy updo or a pony tail.

Well that's all for now, but tomorrow is the MET Ball so expect a post about that! 

xx