2013 Cannes Film Festival

Welcome to Cannes, where glamorous movie premieres, swanky after parties and apparently jewelry thieves dominate. As expected, the film festival is more like a fashion show in disguise: the industry's fiercest stars cascade down the red carpet in threads that command attention. While some ensembles made style mavens coo in adoration, others were cringe-worthy.  Ready for another red carpet review? I sure am!

The Worst

Julianne Moore in Christian Dior: Even the chicest celebrities succumb to a tragic wardrobe malfunction; however, Moore's fashion emergency was especially disgusting. Unless you've been living under a rock, you've probably heard of the disaster that is "toe-mageddon." It's a shame because otherwise, Moore looked flawless. I love the picture-perfect blowout with the feminine silhouette and dainty jewels. Though I appreciate her sense of humor, I hope she learns a lesson and never wears strappy sandals again.

Janet Jackson in Armani Prive: Sleek menswear with a hip hop twist? No thank you. Overall, this look is just confused. The slouchy pants and pulling blazer create a major fashion faux pas. Additionally, the dainty necklace and chunky platform heels are just too much. Instead, Jackson should've opted for a fitted suit with closed toe,pointed heels.

Rooney Mara: Ever since her breakout role in Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Mara has been applauded for her glamorous and gothic aesthetic. At the Catching Fire party, the actress sported a look that was neither glamorous nor gothic. Personally, this look gives me the heebie jeebies. I'm all for spicing up your sartorial choices, but it's important to know draw the line. For starters, the hat needs to go.

Li Yuchun: There's too much fringe, and then there's too much ombre fringe. While both are quite terrible, the latter is a surefire way to get my starmp of disapproval. Moral of the story: it's not okay for Cannes, it's not okay for the Grammys--it's not okay for any type of fesitivies.

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior: Though I completely adore the cool girl's allegiance to the fashion house, it seems as if Jennifer Lawrence needs a crash course in styling. The berry lip and classic Dior silhouette are deliciously feminine, but the hair is sloppy. Translation? It's simply too edgy for this look. Additionally, this ensemble lacks a dainty choker necklace or dangling earring.

Florence Welch: Once upon a time, the Florence and the Machine songstress was the queen of the ethereal style (to a point where it was annoying). While it's great to see Welch in a new uniform, a pink gown with an embarrassing amount of polka dots is a big no. Not only does the pink look off with her coloring, this feels more like a costume than couture. Better luck next time?

Emmanuelle Seigner in Alexandre Vauthier: The deep v may have (somewhat) worked for Jennifer Lopez  way back when, but Seigner is simply too old to wear this sexual  number. If that neckline wasn't traumatic enough, I don't like how she matched her lip and dress color-- too much! 

Jessica Chastain in Versace: Perhaps Seigner should've opted for this dress instead. Though Chastain is always a vision, this Versace number looks very matronly on her. Plus, the long pendant feels a little random.

Zhang Ziyi in Giambattista Valli: What's black, white and absolutely dreadful? This Giambattista Valli ensemble. The zebra-esque pattern clashes with the film festival's elegance. And what's with that tulle trail? A ballerina costume gone wrong!

Jessica Hart in Valentino: Textured mini dresses are hard to wear. Though Hart probably believed her red sandals would make a statement, they actually prompted this outfit's downfall. So what's the take away lesson here? When wearing a frivolous dress, keep the rest of your ensemble simple with shoes that are either nude or match your dress's hue.

Audrey Tautou in Lanvin: Tautou's styling was on-point, she balanced this shimmery mini with minimal accessories and nude heels, but this dress is way too young. Chic? I say "sweet sixteen."

The Best

Jennifer Lawrence in Christian Dior: Unlike her black and white fiasco, this ensemble works a million times better with her beachy locks. The pink shoes and neon details may initially seem matchy-matchy; however, the unconventional hemline makes this look fabulously offbeat. The "girl on fire" is back!

Fredia Pinto in Sanchita Ajjampur: Thanks to Pinto, old school glamour made a roaring comeback at Cannes. A shimmery number and a deep red lip may be too much in any other scenario, but this is Cannes. The lack of accessories give this ensemble a sense of control.

Tanya Dziahileva  in Georges Hobeika Haute Couture: A vixen in white! I love how Dziahileva juxtaposed femininity and funk.The white appliqued gown screams girly while the harsh red lip is beyond edgy. J'adore! 

Sonam Kapor in Dolce and Gabbana: Extravagant, yet Kapor's floral number is perfect for Cannes. Unlike most of the soiree's attendees, this style maven choose to have a princess moment in a full-skirted gown. Kapor completed this regal moment outfit with perfectly curled hair and a dainty necklace.

Nicole Kidman in Valentino: After a slew of "too-young-for-comfort" ensembles, Kidman finally rocks a gown that is both glamorous and age-appropriate. The high neck and intricate details offer the perfect Grace Kelly-inspired  image. Brava! 

Kirsten Dunst in Michael van der Hamm: Fortunately, the starlet has broken away from her string of awful ensembles and looks absolutely flawless doing so. The multiple patterns are perfectly balanced by the frock's modest silhouette. Though the polished hair allows the dress to take center stage, the bright red lip proves that Dunst is still wearing this dress (as opposed to the other way around).

Emma Watson in Chanel: For the Bling Ring actress, simplicity is key. Similar to her Met Ball look, Watson donned yet another classic silhouette. Luckily, the glitzy bodice spices up this lackluster shape. To prevent a Liberace moment, the starlet paired this dress with edgy jewels.

Carey Mulligan in Vionnet: Black and white strikes Cannes once again. Though the color palette is overplayed, the sultry cutout brings something new to the sartorial table. The fresh makeup and lack of accessories allow onlookers to focus on the dress's beautiful execution. So smitten.

Sara Forestier in Giambattista Valli: Take note, Zhang Ziyi: this is how someone wears Giambattista Valli. The innovative black and white print spices up the ever-so-popular mullet silhouette. While red shoes with a black and white number tends to look tasteless, the updated t-strap shape and coordinating red lip gives this ensemble a dash of updated Hollywood glamour.

Olivia Palermo in Roberto Cavalli: The east coast fashion icon spiced up the elegant celebration with this Cavalli number. The short hem and clashing textures are super sexy; however, in true Palermo fashion, the tastemaker carefully plans her hair, makeup and accessories. The final result? A fun and sophisticated summery outfit.

What looks are you loving from Cannes? I'm dying to know! 

Photos courtesy of Vogue.and Telegraph.

 xx

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

No, the most wonderful time of the year is not Christmas. Silly fashionistas and stylish suaves, the most wonderful time of the year is award season. Hooray, it's finally here! While some people have been super stoked for the big football weekend, I've been counting down the hours until the Golden Globes' red carpet. If you live under a rock, let me make this easy for you: I love the Golden Globes and will always love the Golden Globes most. Well, besides the Met Ball. Anywho, I love the creativity and the collaboration between film and television. This year, I went really hard-core and had my own fashion predictions. For some, I was spot on. Others, well...nobody's perfect.

My Predictions:

• Fabulous silhouettes and barely any column dresses: On the spring runways, we saw so many gorgeous silhouettes a la old school Balenciaga: Alexander McQueen, Oscar de la Renta, etc.
• Color, color, color: If you saw the Elie Saab spring runway, you'll understand this prediction. 
• Sparkle and art-deco: Gucci had some absolutely fabulous sparkled numbers as well as de la Renta's pre-fall show.

What Really Happened...

• Neutrals: This took me by surprise, but black, white, and nude stole the show.  Actresses like Mila Kunis, Charlize Theron, Kate Beckinsale, and Julianne Moore all strutted down the carpet in these hues.
• Sparkles: Spot on, yes? Thank you Salma Hayek and Evan Rachel Wood for helping me out here.
• Volume galore: So much volume it made me so happy! Stars like Sarah Michelle Gellar,  Julianne Moore, and Elle Macpherson ditched the column silhouette.

Now that the trend report is in, it's all about the best and worst dressed.  And leave it to me to give you my honest opinion. All in all, it was a fabulous red carpet and there were so many looks that I loved. 

THE WORST 

• Lea Michele (Marchesa): Well the impossible happened: a Marchesa dress looking horrific. I love Georgia Chapman and everything she does at Marchesa, but this truly looked terrible on Lea. I don't really think this was the right person or place to be wearing this dress. Also, I hate Lea Michele's diva-status: she needs to be tamed. She's not Beyonce and she cannot wear this. Beyonce could.
• Missi Pyle (Junko Yoskioka): Honestly, this looks like a dumb prom dress that's on clearance. I hate that bow and the tulle-esque layering. This is too cheesy I don't even want to blog about this anymore.  A waste of fabric. And it's not even styled right! 
• Kelly Osbourne (Zac Posen): I think my mom hit the nail on the head when she said that Kelly Osbourne was trying to look like Carolina Herrera. This dress would've look beautiful on Helen Miren, but Kelly Osbourne? She's purposely aging myself and I don't know why. Besides, what's up with that lavender-gray hair? Disgusting. 
• Kristen Wiig (Bill Blass): I love Kristen Wiig; however, I hate this look. While I love the nude with her chocolate brown locks, the jewels are way too bold.  It's just look like she's trying way too hard, which I don't like.
• Amanda Peet (Mac Jacobs): This is definitely not Globes-worthy. The ruffles are not chic in the slightest and the accessories are so primitive.  However, this would be great for a picnic! 
• Mary J.Blige (Michael Kors): Re-pul-sive. Yes, the halter looks fabulous on her, but what's with those feathers? Maybe this dress would look good on someone else- I'm thinking Zoe Saldana- but it's just not working with Mary J. What about jewels overload? Diaster. It's just too much of terrible things.
• Reese Witherspoon (Zac Posen): Don't get me wrong: I love Reese and I love love LOVE Zac, but this was not a good fit. The silhouette isn't too flattering and would look much better on a taller woman. Also, where is the styling? The makeup is barely there, and not in a good way.  Jewels? Where are they? I would love a killer bracelet or gorgeous earrings. Nothing! It could've been a million times better.
• Madonna (Reem Acra): No, just no. It was all so good until the skirt. The dress would've been fabulous if it was completely metallic or completed flapped fabric. But both? Not working. Also, the cross is way too big and looks a little cheesy. 
• Elle Macpherson (Zac Posen): She is so beautiful; however, Elle needs a new stylist. I'm actually confused as to how someone would think the chintzy jewels would look good with this dress. There's too much going on to even respect Zac Posen's creativity and construction.  She should've had minimal jewels- preferably a cocktail ring- and a soft updo.  Too much of everything, way too much. Major disappointment.
• Julie Bowen (Reem Acra): No, Julie Bowen, no. She literally kicked fashion-tushy at the Emmys; however, this is too much. The dress is alright, but it was styled completely wrong. I understand where her hair stylist was coming from, but the Lucy-inspired curls are awkward: a soft updo would have been a million times better. 
• Sarah Michelle Gellar (Monique Lhuillier): She told Ryan Seacrest that her daughter picked out this dress. Well, SMG, you should probably find a stylist.  I love her new show, Ringer, but this is the worst look of the night, by far. The tie-dye print was disgusting, especially with that extravagant silhouette. And what's up with that pony tail? You're not in junior high anymore. 

(Photo Cred)

THE BEST 

• Emma Stone (Lanvin): I was so excited to see Emma on the red carpet and she did not disappoint.  That silhouette works so well on her and that plum-raspberry duo is fantastic. The black clutch and shoes kept this look super clean. Also, the smokey eyes are incredible. My only problem with this look is that it's super similar to the Lanvin ensemble she wore to the Glamour event in November.  A different silhouette would've been preferred, but I'm not complaining! 
• Kate Beckinsale (Roberto Cavalli): There's nothing wrong about this look, I'm so impressed. It's unbelievably flattering and the jewels overload works with this dress because the dress is so simple. Plus the hair and makeup? I can't even deal with how perfect his is. 
• Jessica Biel (Elie Saab): Is it weird that I love this? Nope? Good. The high neck and long sleeves works so well with the high slit. The detailing on this dress is gorgeous. To prevent the dress from washing her out, the long hair and pink are perfect.
• Piper Perabo (Theyskens' Theory): This is one of those looks that you try so hard to hate, but secretly love. Well, it's no secret any more: I'm obsessed with this look. The updo is absolutely gorgeous and the volume of that dress? I'm literally going insane looking at it. The dress is so dramatic, yet super clean. The makeup is super feminine, making the dress standout without being abrasive.  
• Melissa McCarthy (Badgley Mischka): She looks absolutely beautiful! I love that green with her complexion and eye color. Also, this dress was really flattering on her. Adorable. 
• Sarah Hyland (Vintage Dolce& Gabbana): Definitely Sarah Hyland's best look ever. She is the epitome of old-school Hollywood glam here. The dress is absolutely gorgeous on her and I love that mid-forearm bracelet. The feminine makeup and soft up-do is ideal. 
• Ariel Winter (Dolce &Gabbana): Um, how precious does she look? This girl is only thirteen; however, she's so glam. This funky skirt, especially in purple, is super chic on her. I'm borderline obsessed with those loafer-inspired pumps. The soft waves? Divine.  It's youthful, it's quirky, and I love it.
• Mila Kunis (Dior): The new face of Dior wore her label proud last night.  She played with color so much last year, so I'm really glad that she toned it down here. However, the asymmetrical strap and the quasi-sheer bodice gives this dress the spice that it needs.  The minimal jewels and sleek hair makes this look absolutely classic.
• Natalie Portman (Lanvin): Once upon a time, someone once said that Natalie Portman was our generation's Audrey Hepburn. After seeing this look, I have to agree. The first thing I thought of, besides how fabulous this is, was Audrey. To me, this Lanvin-especially on her- is such a mix of her Funny Face and Sabrina dresses. The hair and minimals jewels are phenomenal. So classic. 
• Jessica Alba (Gucci): Beyond gorgeous. I think this light lavender- or at least it looks like lavender- looks perfect with her bronzed skin. I'm obsessed with the glitz and gorgeous, simple train. The monochromatic accessories is right on. 
• Rooney Mara (Nina Ricci): Although I'm not too crazy about her hair from a side angle, I'm obsessed with this look. It's all about the small details that make this look phenomenal. The cutouts plus the back peplum? Do I even need to describe how effortlessly chic is this? The slicked back hair and minimal jewels make this look clean and simple. By the way, loving the subtle cat-eye! 
• Heidi Klum (Calvin Klein): Although this look is a little too summery, I'm obsessed. Heidi always does a very dramatic look and a crazy updo. On the contrary, this look is more simple, which I love. the peach plus the gorgeous blue equals amazing. Also, I love love LOVE casual, down hair. Easy, clean, and gorgeous! 
• Dianna Agron (Giles): Definitely a redemption from that Emmys- mess. The silhouette is outstanding and that detailing? Incredible.  The swans and the ruffles are so fabulous and the red lip is perfect. The minimal jewels and the sleek hair keeps the focus on this fantastic dress.
• Salma Hayek (Gucci) : I will describe this look as "movie-star Jenny from the Block." The sparkles and the column silhouette equals perfection, especially paired with the "movie-star Jenny from the Block" curls.  The earrings give this look the perfect amount of glamour without going overboard. The simple makeup brings this diva look back down to Earth.
• Charlize Theron (Dior): As  Charlize says in her commercial, "J'adore Dior." The plunging neckline, plus the high slit, plus the extra hip fabric? Perfection. On most people, I'd hate this. However, Charlize has this certain sophistication and glamour that makes this look seem effortlessly chic. While I hated Michelle Williams' headband, I loved the headband look on Charlize.  Because Charlize can pull off anything, obviously. 
• Zooey Deschanel (Custom Prada): This is definitely one of my favorite looks of the night. The colored bodice is perfectly coupled with the basic, black skirt. The 60's inspired hair cut is to die for, especially with the feminine makeup. Ugh, she's adorable. 
• Sofia Vergara (Vera Wang): Fabulous. Sofia definitely has a certain silhouette that works for her body; however, her styling is improving:  more sophisticated and clean. This navy color is phenomenal and I love  the bunched fabric on the dress' skirt: so flattering! On a side note, how much do you love how Sofia says "Vera Wang." I always know this hysterical lady will be sporting "Verda Wong." 
• Claire Danes (J. Mendel): This dress is number one in my mind.  I'm literally going crazy over this dress. This is the perfect mix of glamourous and edge. All of the different textures truly made this dress a show-stopper. The hair and perky pink lip gave this look a hint of femininity.  Like can we just look at how incredible this is:

(Photo Cred)

                             

What are your thoughts? Sound off below! 

xx

The Style Files: Baby I Paint the Sky Blue, My Favorite Creation is You

This week, a star was born. Her name? Blue Ivy. While there's a lot of talk about Bey and Jay's hospital take-over, I'm so glad the princess of hip-hop is here. And shall we talk about Jay-Z's latest song, "Glory"? All I can say is that I wish my dad wrote a rap when I was born.

THE STYLE FILES: Edie Campbell

I think that Edie Campbell truly perfects the whole "I just threw on this ensemble but I still look fabulous" look. From her perfectly oversized clothes to her casual, long locks, Campbell always looks perfectly imperfect. And let's face it: being perfect is only fun for a little while.

At the launch of LuLu&Co  (Lousie Gray): I'm going crazy about the striped maxi dress. Horizontal stripes are so hard to pull off; however, the fit of this dress makes it work. The fierce makeup adds an extra amount of glam to this casual outfit. Also, the subtle red shoe? Phenomenal. (Photo Cred)

At the Brit Fashion Awards (Kinder Aggugini): Speaking about maxi dresses, I'm obsessed with the styling of this one. The contrast between the silk printed dress and mohair jacket is to die for. Definitely a must for the winter!  (Photo Cred)

A more casual look: This definitely hits the fashion nail on the head. This look is so effortless;; however, she looks super chic. I love any  long-sleeved mini dresses, but the white is super dainty and ethereal. Mixed with her long locks? Forget about it.  (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY 

• Rooney Mara at the Dragon Tattoo premiere in Rome (Valentino): Breath-taking. Literally, I was so amazed by this look. My jaw dropped: too far? Well, it happened. The extravagant silhouette, especially in that Valentino red is phenomenal. As always, Mara keeps every look clean with  her short do. She's literally the perfect person to wear such amazing pieces.
• Emma Stone at the National Board of Review Awards Gala (J.Mendel): I love a clean-cut Emma Stone. This looks is so classic and I love how the criss-cross detailing gives this look the pop it needs. The shoes give this look some spice; however, they are not abrasive. The sleek updo and red lip makes this look timeless.
• Ginnifer Goodwin at the People's Choice Awards (Roksanda Ilinic): I was really disgusted by almost every look at the 2012 People's Choice Awards, which is why I decided not to blog about it, but I loved this look. I'm obsessed with the modern-day pagoda sleeve, especially in this beautiful hot pink. Stunning. The longer hemline screams mature while the studded Jimmy Choo is the epitome of young glamazon. 
• Kristen Dunst at the 2012 Critic's Choice Awards (Dior): Gorgeous. I love the deconstructed feel of this dress: so edgy, yet gorgeous. The beauty tactics work beautifully with the dress. The messy hair matches the dress to a T. Also, the bright pink lip is the perfect wow factor. Bravo!  

xx

The Style Files: I Won't Give Up Without a Fight

Ladies and gent, the Style Files are back in action. After a short hiatus- there's so much to do during the winter season- we're back to looking at our favorite weekly looks, gushing over a celebrity's  style, and jamming out to songs of my choice. So let's get this party re-started, shall we?

Whenever I head over to London, I always make sure to pick up a couple British CDs. I got to keep my musical variety, you know? Anyways, I'm currently obsessed with Olly Murs' "Dance with me Tonight." To me, Olly Murs is the British Bruno Mars. Too far? Judge for yourself!

STYLE-SPIRATION: Florence Welch 

Okay, I didn't love her in the Chanel cape; however, I think that Florence Welch is uber fashionable. Unlike many celebrities, you rarely find Florence wearing something sub-par that doesn't roll with her style aesthetic. Also, ethereal plus high glamor equal a major win in my book! So this week, let's take a look at Florence Welch's amazing style, shall we?

Performing at Chanel Spring RTW 2012 Show (Chanel): Not only was this such a major Fashion Week moment, but I love the outfit. The beading at the fabric paillette-esque detailing looks phenomenal with such a simplistic silhouette, Her soft wavy hair is such a stellar finishing touch.  (Photo Cred)

At the 2010 Brit Awards (Zuhair Murad): A sequined minidress? So sexy! It's not very Florence; however, she still tosses in that ethereal look with the hair. The fitted silhouette makes her look super curvy, which is awesome. The relatively simple shoes keep the focus on that stunning dress.  (Photo Cred)

At the Grammys (Givenchy):  Honestly, this is Florence Welch at her finest. She is the perfect person to pull off this Givenchy couture dress. I love how her red locks goes with the orange on the back of the dress. The natural makeup? Perfection. (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY 

• Rooney Mara at The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo premiere in Paris (Louis Vuitton): Not only did Rooney kick-butt as Dragon Tattoo's Lisbeth Salander, but she also knows how to wear statement pieces. The simple strappy sandals- though not too appropriate for winter- are perfectly paired with the extravagant dress. Rooney walks the red carpet sans jewels in order to keep this look clean. The slicked back hair plus the red lip? It's everything. Look, my predictions are already coming true! 
• Minka Kelly in Beverly Hills (Unknown designer): I'm obsessed with this look. That flowing dress is so reminiscent of effortless seventies fashion, while the structured clutch gives this look a good balance of ethereal and strength. The minimal silver jewels and soft waves are the perfect finishing touches. 

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