The 2013 Met Ball

Though this post is a few weeks delayed, not blogging about this year's Met Gala would a major faux pas. On May 6th, the CFDA's punk exhibit opened and its rebellious aesthetic was splattered on the red carpet. From funky hair to "bad girl" threads, it seems as if our favorite tastemakers' ensembles were an extension of the exhibit. But that doesn't mean every look was spectacular. On the contrary, a handful of looks were reminiscent of a horror flick. Check out my best and worst dressed picks below! 

The Worst.

Elle Fanning in Rodarte: I know a punk exhibit calls for defiant makeup; however, this eye makeup gives me the heebie-jeebies, especially with the tie-dye dress. Instead of portraying punk, the potent dress and matching makeup creates a train-wreck.Fanning would've looked a million times better had she sported a sleek black dress and zany makeup.

Marion Cotillard in Dior: The French bombshell is known for her cutting-edge taste;however, this ensemble leaves fashion fanatics feeling unimpressed. Not only does this nude ensemble completely wash Cotillard out, it looks like something you'd find at Forever 21. And instead of adding a necessary burst of funk, the black and white shoes just don't make sense. Hopefully, the actress's "worst dressed" streak will end shortly. 

Cameron Diaz in Stella McCartney: Though the gold spiked belt is absolutely righteous, the rest of the look is too matronly for both the Met Ball and Diaz. The starlet is 40 years-old, yet this ensemble automatically adds another 20 years. And that slicked back hair? No thank you! 

Miley Cyrus in Marc Jacobs: Spiked hair? Mesh dress? Oh, she's just being Miley. In terms of Met Ball attire, this ensemble s perfectly aligned with the exhibit's punk theme. So why is it on my worst dressed list? Even though dressing for an event in crucial, a tastemaker should never compromise his or her level of sophistication. Yes, Cyrus is prone to sporting revealing ensembles; however, this dress is on another level. Additionally, the spiked hair and fire engine pout makes her look a little crazy.

Lily Collins in Vivienne Westwood: Silly Lily, rain ponchos are never chic. Though I appreciate the  use of diverse fabrics, this whole ensemble is just wrong. If  you weren't deterred by the full skirt,  Collins's stringy locks suggest that Mother Nature rained on her sartorial parade.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Valentino: Though this frock is an improvement from the actress's barely-there look at the Iron Man 3 premiere, it's just not right for this occasion. To be blunt, there is nothing about this ensemble that screams Met Ball. Even the infamous Tom Ford cape attire better captured Vogue's ultra-glam aesthetic (not to mentioned that hot pink hue would've been perfect for last year's gala). But above all things, Paltrow is on my worst dressed list for her sourpuss attitude towards the Met Ball.  If you think being at a soiree with fashion's biggest influencers is unfun, there is seriously no hope for you.

Kim Kardashian in Givenchy: There's not doubt that the reality star has received negative press for her inflatable pregnancy; however, her poor choice of ensembles doesn't help smother the criticism. Most of the time, Kanye's baby mama is dressing as if she weren't pregnant. The result? Her style choice are unflattering and look quite uncomfortable. Instead of wearing skintight threads and busy prints, Kardashian should focus on sporting pregnancy-friendly outfits: comfortable shoes, airy silhouettes and empire waists. Though this look is less-than-perfect, I will defend that infamous floral glove. Some think it's a style don't, but let's forget she's at the Met Ball. This wouldn't be appropriate for the MTV Movie Awards, yet the Met Ball demands crazy accessories and creativity.

Zooey Deschanel in Tommy Hilfiger: So now we know why The New Girl star has bangs. Not only does her new do destroy the quirky girl reputation she's worked so hard to secure, she looks matronly. Though this blue asymmetrical dress is darling, it's not right for this event. We're never going to see a punk Deschanel; however, her outfit from the 2012 Golden Globes is more appropriate.

Florence Welch in Givenchy: There's a fine line between being a fashion icon and being predictable. Whenever the Florence and the Machine frontwoman steps onto a red carpet, I'm expecting her to wearing an ethereal Givenchy number. And she did just that at this year's Met Ball.  She shouldn't diss her personal style; however, fashionistas and fashionistos everywhere are getting a case of déjà vu.

The Best.

Miranda Kerr in Michael Kors: As always, the model extraordinaire makes us a little self-loathing in this barely there  Michael Kors number. The dark berry lip and studded clutch offer a dash of vampy glam while the cutout dress keeps this look summery and fun. My only piece of criticism is that Kerr should've pulled her hair into a tight ponytail--the added drama would've made this look absolutely perfect.

Sarah Jessica Parker in Giles: Truly, this is what the Met Ball (and fashion) is all about.  From the clashing patterns to the ornate faux-hawk,  the fashionista embodied the funky theme without losing her style integrity. I'm so glad she makes unexpected sartorial choices after all these years because she continues to teach us that fashion should always be fun.

Rooney Mara in Givenchy: Though Mara's onscreen alterego, Lisbeth Salander, would've fit in perfectly at this year's gala, the emerging actress looked absolutely flawless. As my favorite Givenchy look of the night, Mara's feminine frock was perfectly juxtaposed by the gothic lip and slicked back hair. The result? Punk with class. Brava.

Sienna Miller in Burberry: Adhering to punk's literal interpretation, Miller's surplus of spikes is darling. Though this concept could be executed just about anywhere, this ensemble reminds us that the use of accessories can actually make a look go from drab to fab.

Emma Watson in Prabal Gurung: Seriously, can Emma Watson do any wrong? Though this dress is similar to Kerr's outfit, the Bling Ring gives this revealing silhouette a classic twist. Her look may not be very "punk-inspired," but I think she looks stunning.

What were you favorite and least favorite looks from the night? Sound off below!
All photos courtesy of Vogue.com.

xx

Met Ball 2012

The Oscars is always a very bittersweet occasion for me. While I love the dialogue between movies and fashion, it's the end of award season. In short, it's the end of award season fashion. Thankfully, May brings us something that's a million times better than the Oscars- The Met Ball. The greatest designers, hottest celebrities, and most fantastic designs? Fash-gasm. Though I've been writing this post at a glacial pace, I'm so thrilled to share with you my best and worst dressed lists!

The Worst

Mary Kate Olsen in The Row: Even if I could tolerate the ill-fitted, uber matronly frock, the rest is absolutely horrific. First of all, the dainty bag simply does not work with the stealth frock. Juxtaposition that is neither cohesive nor conservational? No thank you. The makeup makes her look way too chiseled, which ultimately screams "bad trip to the Botox doctor." Last, but certainly not least, the hair. I'm all for quirky hair but this went past disheveled chic and straight to electrocuted freak. I love the Olsen sisters- even Elizabeth- and cherish them as style icons. Except for this occasion. Very, very wrong.  (Photo Cred)

Bruno Mars in Burberry: The suit is fine. I actually love the textured bow tie with the animalistic shoes. What I have a problem with is the hair. Big fashion faux pas. (Photo Cred)

Beyonce in Givenchy: Though this dress is very appropriate for the Met Ball, I just don't like it on Beyonce. She could've worn something more sophisticated or sexy. The purple feathers and lace gloves are a little...cheesy. Whenever I think of this Givenchy collection, I immediately go back to Zoe Saldana's purple moment
at the 2010 Academy Awards. Something is clearly wrong is Beyonce receives less attention than Zoe Saldana (that's just the way it is).(Photo Cred)

Kirsten Dunst in Rodarte: Captain America chic? I'm not feeling it. Instead of embracing her risky, ethereal fashion sense, Dunst opted for a matronly skirt suit. While this might look fabulous on Meryl (but then again, what doesn't?), it's too old for Kirsten. And too plain. I feel like she just rushed to the Met Ball from her Broadway debut. (Photo Cred)

Rachel Zoe in Rachel Zoe: Trust me, I'm not happy about this either. Though I think the fringe dress is genius, I hate the jewels with it. Not only is the statement necklace too bohemian for the Met Ball, it also looks weird with the dropped sleeve. It seems as if Rachel Zoe is too busy promoting her own line than gushing over beautiful pieces and styling stunning looks. I miss the good 'ol days. (Photo Cred)

Kristen Stewart in Balenciaga: No, absolutely not. First of all, patchwork is so 1996 it's not even funny. The placement of each color, fabric, and pattern is not flattering. Instead, Stewart looks a bit chunky. And those shoes? the opposite of chic- weird, creepy, and a mistake all around. Her hair and makeup is way too casual. This is the Met Ball, not Coachella! And no accessories? I'm traumatized. Obviously, I never expect fashion gold when Stewart walks on the red carpet, but this is a disgrace to everyone involved.(Photo Cred)

Shailene Woodley in Christopher Kane: Oh, make it stop! She used to be so chic...what happened? Not only is the print absolutely hideous, but the leather straps around the waist are unflattering. And no jewels? Seriously, what's going on here? (Photo Cred)

The Best

Rihanna in Tom Ford: How major is this ensemble? The sleek silhouette plus the croc skin equals perfection. The drop back and slit gives this fashion-forward dress a dash of sex appeal. Though I usually critique the red carpet tributes (Hunger Games reference) for not doning enough jewels, I love the lack of jewels with this dress- clean, raw, and overtly sexy. J'adore! (Photo Cred)

 Rooney Mara in Givenchy: Ladies and gent, Miss Mara is back! I'm obsessed with this ensemble. The lace skirt is super romantic while the daring asymmetry, shameless sheerness, and deep lip pushes the envelope. The slicked back hair balances off the fripperies of this ensemble. Didn't I say that she was a style icon of 2012? (Photo Cred)

Marina Rust in Vera Wang: So classic. I love the combination of the ruffles and soft gray. The soft makeup and romantic hair? Perfection. (Photo Cred)

Jessica Pare in L'Wren Scott:  Favorite golden girl! The gold metallics have this woven effect that I'm obsessed with. The statement earrings adds a glimmer of edge and sophistication. Pare subdues this uber glam look with feminine makeup. She's phenomenal!  (Photo Cred)

Camilla Belle in Ralph Lauren Collection: Can we say gothic glam? Belle looks stunning in the plunging neckline and ornate details further this gothic vibe. She's sexy, sophisticated, and youthful at the same time. Plus, that dark lip is absolutely everything. (Photo Cred)

Candice Swaepoel in Rag & Bone: I dream of being David and Marcus'  muse. Not only am I completely jealous of Candice for attending the prestigious ball with the design geniuses, her ensemble is to die for. From the lace-embellished back, to the semi-masked slits, to the flattering dual tone design, this dress is flawless. To top it off, the braided ballerina knot exudes an edgy, feminine aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

Coco Rocha in Givenchy: Only Coco Rocha can rock this poppy Elizabeth Taylor original to the Met Ball. While most red carpet staples sport the typical ball gown, I love how Rocha stepped out from the pack and did something totally unexpected and original. The jeweled, paisley embellishments spice up this look so Rocha didn't look too casual. As for beauty, that pink hair is so funky and on-trend! (Photo Cred)

Gone are the day where Emma Roberts was only famous for being Julia Robert's niece...and star of the sub-par teen show, Unfabulous: she's officially a red carpet must. I love the sharp contrast between her pale skin and this bright mustard Escada. The relevant peplum and the thin belt gives this dress a contemporary twist. But don't write this look off as tween chic just yet- the old school hair is so regal and gives this look an elegant flare. (Photo Cred)

Amy Adams in Giambattista Valli; This is such a stellar red carpet moment. From the sleek silhouette to the juxtaposing black and white, this dress works perfectly with Adam's soft, orange waves and the bright red lip. The gilded bow belts dishes out a potent dose of avant garde chic. So major.(Photo Cred)

Renee Zellweger in Emilio Pucci: The Bridget Jones' Diary star said farewell to her typical Herrera gowns and surprised spectators with this fabulous Pucci dress. In my humble opinion, this is the best that Zellweger's looked in a long time. Between the sheer sleeves, sultry cutouts, and textured train Zellweger gets the Met Ball seal of approval. Fabulous!  The messy updo gives this dress some humility; however, the fantastic earrings perfect the transition from casual hair to a standout dress. (Photo Cred)

The SJP

There has been some...lively dialogue about Sarah Jessica Parker's Valentino ensemble. Some people love it, others hate it. People have even asked my opinion about this ensemble. Though I don't think this is her best, I do believe this ensemble upholds her style aesthetic as well as the Costume Institute's dress code. You're never going to see Sarah Jessica Parker in a typical starlet gown, which is something I adore about her. She's quirky, she takes risks, and always makes a statement. How could you not love that? (Photo Cred)

xx

The Style Files: I'll be Waiting for You Baby, 'Cause I'm Through

The weirdest thing is listening to a song's cover before the  original song. I don't know why I find it so weird, but I do. This recently happened with The Strokes' "You Only Live Once" : I loved a certain cover of it for a couple months, and then I finally listened to the original. It's weird that it took me so long since I love The Strokes, but  I'm please to say that the original did not disappoint. In my humble opinion, this song is addicting. But then again, it's not like you read this blog to hear about my musical preferences. This section is just for my personal enjoyment.

STYLE-SPIRATION: Ali MacGraw
When it comes to style inspirations, I always love playing "blast-from-the-past."  In my mind, these fashionistas are the ones who really paved the way for chic and progressive fashion. I love Ali MacGraw because I feel like I can relate to her style a lot. Every outfit, she's so glam but it almost feels like it's no big deal: it's just natural to her.

This look screams  60's and I like it. The silhouette and the bell-sleeve are perfection. The seemingly white boots are so edgy. Plus, I love a good long-sleeved mini. (Photo Cred)

Here she is at The Godfather premiere. I love all of her feathers  SO much! I like to call this look chic Black Swan. She wears them with such confidence, which is awesome. (Photo Cred)

I love when McGraw does boho-chic. The long sleeves, plus the long skirt, plus the super sleek hair equals perfection. (Photo Cred)

I love hats. Enough said. (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY

• Sarah Jessica Parker at the annual UNICEF Snowflake Ball (Louis Vuitton): Talk about a wintry wonderland: I'm obsessed with this look. Although these separates may make other people look boxy, I think the proportions are righteous on her. Sure, the silhouette isn't the most exciting; however, the detail of her ensemble is phenomenal. The monochromatic look is also perfect for all of that detail. Have you guys realized that I really like detail? The messiness of her hair complements the feathered skirt. Gorgeous.
• Kate Hudson at the Brit Fashion Awards (Stella McCartney): This look is so sultry, it's awesome. The cut-out is the perfect thing to complement the long,straight silhouette. Though I love my jewels, keeping this look clean and simple allows us to focus on the dress' detailing. Also, the high bun plus the winged liner equals supreme.
• Olivia Palermo at the Brit Fashion Awards (Matthew Williamson): Love. First of all, I'm obsessed with Olivia Palermo's style. Second, I love Matthew Williamson. Put them together and you get a fabulous look. I love this dress and keeping the color palette simple is such a smart choice: there's so much going on that color would've ruined this look. I also love how she mixed high- Matthew Williamson- with low, Topshop. STYLE DO!  The cutout of the shoes complements the feathers on the Williamson dress, making it an awesome look. Keeping the hair slicked back is smart too: if it was down, there would've been too much going on. Smart and fabulous look! 

Here comes a social plug for you. Tomorrow, I will be featured on Beantown Weekly at 6PM. You're able to listen online, which is pretty cool! I'm so excited to talk Bostonian Fashion and I hope you all like it! 

xx

The Style Files: Your Past Times Consisted of the Strange and Twisted and Derranged

Every now and then, for no particular reason, you just need a "get angry" song. No, I'm not angry; however, I do really like this song. "Crying Lightning " by The Arctic Monkeys is really catchy and makes me want to start a riot...what? Well, here it is. 

STYLE SPIRATION.

I cannot tell you how many trailers I've seen for I Don't Know How She Does It. It kind of scares me because I feel like this will become my life. But it's also made me think about Sarah Jessica Parker  not as Carrie Bradshaw but as her own person. And let me tell you, she's quite fashionable on her own. I think the reason I like her style is because she never dresses "on trend," she's her own person and she keeps fashion unique and sophisticated.

At a Screening Revolver. I think I like this because it's so weird and casual. The messy knot is the perfect counterpart to al of the leather and fur. She looks super glam, yet effortless. Layering is super chic and I love the all black ensemble. The bag could go, but I love the look! (Photo Cred)

At the 2004 Tony Awards in Dior. Ultimate princess moment. The dress is so regal, yet the mid-calf hemline makes this dress sophisticated instead of sweet sixteen-ish. The classic updo and the black shoes make this look vintage chic, which I'm obsessed with. (Photo Cred)

Rocking some Giambattista Valli at the 2006 National Board of Review of Motion Pictures Gala: This is the perfect example that you can be classy and chic. The silhouette of the red dress is versatile, yet timeless. What really gives this outfit the "wow" factor is that awesome bag. Multi-colored  AND printed? Perfection. This look is both attainable and enviable, which I love.  (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY.

• Keira Knightley at the premiere of A Dangerous Method (Valentino): First of all, this dress is incredible: I love it with a passion of a thousand suns. Anywho, I'm dying over this styling. The simple updo makes this look approachable and the beautiful berry lip? The perfect amount of drama. There's really not much explaining I can do: this look is just amazing.
• Lea Michele at Jason Wu Spring 2012 RTW (Jason Wu): Lea Michele really bothers me; however, this looks is phenomenal. She did retro chic super well: the black and white combination was flawless. Also, I love her TWO pops of color. The red lip, combined with the soft waves, was gorgeous and the green clutch was fantastic. STYLING DO: When accessorizing with green and red, place them far apart from each other so  the colors truly complement each other and it's not "cheesy Christmas."

This week is super exciting because I'm going BACK to New York for Tibi and a very special interview!

xx

Ayo I'm Tired of Using Technology

In the midst of frantically studying for midterms, I have been keeping up with my fashion news. Fashion week in Paris?! Loving it so far! But that needs its own post. But this one article made me so upset. If you don't want to read it all, basically technology is taking over fashion. IT'S NOT FAIR. I just think it's really upsetting how a video could even be the slightest alternative to a runway. Never...




I will admit that this gives the show a very artistic perspective and it is cool, but one of the most crucial aspects of a fashion show, in my personal opinion, is to see the clothes live and breathe. It's kind of like when you see a celebrity in a movie versus seeing a celebrity in person. For example, seeing Michael Buble's music videos is much different, and inferior, to seeing him in person...

versus

Get the picture? PUNNY

Not like I've ever been to fashion show (...), but seeing those pieces of art in person allow us to know that they're real. And also, the Gareth Pugh video seemed to place a lot of emphasis on the multiple models, and camera angles. While a fashion show has many other components, there's only one crucial aspect: the FASHION. 

I should be going to bed now, but I just thought I would make it clear that I'm NOT a fan of this new form. TOO MUCH MEDIA CONVERGENCE (there I go, applying what I learn in COM 101 to my blog).

I should also mention that my dorm had a fire drill at 12:45 AM a few nights ago...I was so upset, I wore my faux fur vest with my pajamas. I thought it was a fire drill must!

Photo Cred: http://img.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2007/10_03/sexcity4REX_1000x874.jpg

ONE OF MY FAVES FROM THE SEX AND THE CITY MOVIE! It's so eclectic and random but it just proves that fabulousity (and fur) is key AT ALL TIMES.

xx

The Weekly: Manolo and More

So this week was lovely. I kind of sort of met Manolo Blahnik...yeah..that's right...IT WAS AWESOME! When I was at the Copley Shopping Center last weekend, I saw a sign that changed my life: "Personal Appearance of Manolo Blahnik". I almost died. So yesterday, I hopped on the T and trekked all the way to Neiman Marcus. Women of all shapes, sizes, and styles, came to see the shoe genius.  I waited in line for maybe a little over an hour and then it happened. I met Manolo. It was the COOLEST THING IN THE WORLD. I got picz and an autograph and I was in heaven. There were these Manolo Blahnik books for sale, but they were sold out. I told Manolo this and he apologized to me. Single handedly best experience.

Love at first sight

Aren't we cute?!

ONTO THE WEEKLY! 

• Sarah Jessica Parker at Burberry: I loooove this. I think her monotone look for some reason works so well. So many textures!! And it's so appropriate for the Burberry Show: the military inspired jacket was so London. I think the edginess of the brown ensemble worked so well with such a soft pink handbag. It was much better than that ugly wardrobe on SATC 2.
• Cat Deeley at Burberry: Where to begin? She looks like the epitome of cool: I love the stealth black pants and the...MILITARY JACKET! Usually, I really don't like when people belt short shirts or jackets: it looks too weird to me. But this looks AWESOME. I think this works well because the belt hit right where the buttons stopped. And I love me some black booties! Her outfit looked so structure, yet her hair was so tousled and wild.  Perfect mix. I adore it.
• Reese Witherspoon at the Livestrong Benefit: So I know that this look isn't quite versatile, but I think that she looks amazing. The jacket and dress combination was very business, but the shoes are so sexy. She never ceases to fresh and youthful. I just looove her! 

xx

A Mistake

After spending a weekend in the glorious Montauk area, I finally got to see Sex and the City 2 (SATC 2) with two of my friends. Although many of my other friends have expressed their discontent with the sequel, we still wanted to see it...and almost wanted to leave. It was absolutely terrible: the plot was...well there was no plot, the characterization of our favorite four was completely off (since when does Charlotte get CRAZY obsessive and Miranda is the peppy one? WRONG),majority of it wasn't even in the City (Sex and ...the Desert?) it was all too cheesy and didn't have that sophisticated wit we all know and love. WHAT IS THIS?! But you would think that this terrible TERRIBLE movie would have AMAZING clothes that we aspiring fashionistas would toss and turn over...I mean... Pat Field is a genius when it comes to costuming Carrie, Charolette, Samantha, and Miranda, right? WRONG! WHAT HAPPENED, PATTY POO?! Everything was either TOO basic or just TOO ugly. Of course, Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, had the best fashionista opportunities - they were all really boring. And that stupid clover necklace she always wore pissed me off TOO MUCH. Usually, Pat Fields dresses the ladies up in sophisticated, unique, AND classy ways I saw NONE of this in the movie: everything was expected, boring, or ugly! I envied nothing. And that's what bothered me MOST about the movie. So instead of HATING Sex and the City ... let's remember the good times...or we can try.

xx