Red Carpet Review: 2016 Grammy Awards

Jennifer Lopez's plunging Versace number. Lady Gaga's egg-tastic entrance.  Lil' Kim's purple pasties. Let's be honest: the looks that flock the Grammys red carpet tend to be more kitschy than chic. However, instead of LED-lined gowns, this year's crop of dresses played it a little safe.  But that doesn't mean that the whole night was a total snooze-fest. Adele's silky voice made viewers everywhere sob -- don't deny it, you totally wept -- and Lady Gaga performed a heartwarming tribute in honor of the late David Bowie. And on the red carpet, there were some looks that were completely swoon-worthy. Too busy watching The Bachelor last night to keep up with the Grammys? Read on for the best looks from the music event of the year.

Florence Welch in Gucci: Quirky, embellished and colorful. A better description of Florence Welch's red carpet style or Alessandro Michele's reign at Gucci? In this case, it's both. There are so many incredible brand-celebrity partnerships out there -- Alicia Vikander with Louis Vuitton and Jennifer Lawrence with Christian Dior, to name a few -- but there hasn't been one more perfect than the union of the Florence and the Machine front-woman and Gucci. This whimsical, long-sleeved look wouldn't look good on everyone. In fact, it would probably merit a place on the "worst dressed list" for most celebrities. However, this dress perfectly captures Welch's free spirit and adds a feminine touch to her bohemian aesthetic. Here, the pretty pink hue complements her fiery red locks while the subtle v-neck offers a slight sex appeal to a borderline matronly ensemble. Chunky rings and a wavy half-up do perfectly finish this look. 

Selena Gomez in Calvin Klein Collection: As of late, the pop singer has sung about her inability to keep her hands to herself. But in this midnight blue number from Calvin Klein Collection, we can't imagine why she'd want to put her hands anywhere else. Gomez always looks great on the red carpet, and her style has recently become more sophisticated,  but there's no denying that she looked particularly sultry at last night's affair. The metallic blue hue offers something different to the red carpet while the cut-outs and plunging neckline flatter her figure. And any red carpet moment that involves the use of extra large hoop earrings is Trendologist-approved. The two things we'd change? Lifting those straps up just a smidge and switching her locks form big curls to a sleek ponytail. Regardless, brava. 

Adele in Givenchy: While it's a sad day to see that Adele has graduated from cat-eye liner and a perfectly coiffed bee-hive, her new look isn't half bad. Okay -- understatement of the year -- it's amazing. The dress itself isn't anything special, though the silhouette is particularly flattering on the songstress's slimmed frame and the subtle peekaboos right below the shoulder acts as a small way to jazz up a simple LBD. Here, the wow-factor is solely the hair and makeup. Not only is the slightly tousled lob totally on trend, it also suggests an older, more mature version of Adele. Instead of the full face we've become so accustomed to for the Brit, he natural pout and soft liner perfectly juxtapose her bold brow. But somethings never change, like her claw-like nails and ability to make listeners burst out into tears after a heart-melting appearance singing "All I Ask."

Ellie Goulding in Stella McCartney: Think of the singer's pretty in pink number as a gown mohawk. Though shown in a gorgeous color, the front is pretty minimalist and quite dull for such a notoriously crazy red carpet. The back, however, boasts a racerback that is dripping in gem embellishments and completely ups the sartorial ante. Given the extravagance, the diamond choker could've been a bit much for the look. But it's the Grammys! If not, when? On the contrary, the necklace offers a cool '90s attitude and makes this an ensemble something we would expect on the supermodel likes of Naomi Campbell or Kate Moss way back when. When it comes to the beauty regime, Goulding did not disappoint either. The nonchalantly swept hair is a breath of fresh air on a carpet filled with perfectly-maintained updos and beachy waves. Plus, that pink lip is the perfect mix between girly and barely there. 

Bella Hadid in Alexandre Vauthier Haute Couture: Luckily, this year's red carpet boasted very few black gowns. But when a LBD or two did make an appearance, you can bet that they were far from boring. Take Bella Hadid, for example, who rocked a covetable number from Alexandre Vauthier's haute couture collection. While the high slit, cut-outs and plunging neckline veer into a more sultry territory, the long-sleeves creates a more modest element that makes this more of a fashion girl hit versus what a typical 20-something would wear. With very few Bulgari gems and a simple strappy sandal, Hadid kept the focus on the dress (and rightfully so). On the beauty front, the model opted for a subtly vampy aesthetic: dark nails, slicked back hair and a subtly smokey eye. Morticia Addams would be so proud. 

Which looks did you love from the 2016 Grammy Awards? Sounds off below.

Photo courtesy of  The Huffington Post and MTV

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The 2013 Video Music Awards

Sunday night's Video Music Awards was both good and bad. There was Justin Timberlake's beyond epic performance and Miley Cyrus's musical train wreck. Sartorially speaking, there were definitely some highs and lows. Check out my nominees for  best and worst dressed at the 2013 VMAs.

The Worst.

DJ Cassidy: Gatsby meets old time gangster, this ensemble is not that terrible; however, it's just terrifying. Pastels and sketchy scruff? No thank you.

Sarah Hyland in Marchesa: Though the Modern Family starlet is usually one of my favorite actresses on the red carpet, this look is a major disappointment. The atypical ruffles are sloppy, not to mention they create a silhouette that is anything but flattering. The curls locks add to the flamenco-inspired outfit, which makes this outfit feel more like a costume.

Deborah Norville: Though fashionista is not on the power woman's growing resume, this number is a little too "soccer mom" for the red carpet. Also, what's up with all the accessories? Everyone should really adhere to Coco Chanel's rule about taking one thing off before leaving the house.

Miley Cyrus in Dolce & Gabbana:  This look is a lot better than the get-up she sported during her raunchy performance, but that doesn't mean this Dolce & Gabbana number is good. Instead, she looks like a slutty member of a mariachi band. Without the jeweled embellishments, this ensemble would've been effortlessly chic.  And what's with that hair? Gwen can rock a futuristic 'do (well, barely); Miley cannot.

Rita Ora in Alexandre Vauthier Couture: I always love a dramatic dress; however, this is just too much. The icy blue is too much, the feathered train is too much--make it stop! Rita Ora has always been a trendsetter, but this is a classic example of "having a dress wear you." A shorter hemline would've made the world's difference.

Lil' Kim: We're never going to see Lil' Kim in something stylish or tasteful, but this is especially horrendous. Bumble bee gone bad? I think so! And what's up with that baby pink lip? How is it supposed to work into this otherwise vampy ensemble? I'm open to any and all explanations.

Willow and Jaden Smith in Gant and Alexander Wang, Respectively: How adorable: Will Smith's kids are sporting his old Fresh Prince of Bel Air threads. Wait, they're not? Awkward. I'm always for creating a fashion statement, but this is just confusing and sloppy.

Erin Wasson in Alexandre Vauthier: I love an editorial look as much as the next fashionista, yet this is just way too much for the red carpet. It doesn't matter how fabulously fit you may be because wearing tulle and only tulle is never a good idea.  As for the headband, it's simply not award show-approved.

The Best.

Mary Lambert: Not only does she has the voice of an angel, Lambert is an expert at dressing for her body. Let's be honest: wearing a completely sequined dress is hard. With a cinched waist and modest v-neck, Lambert looks absolutely beautiful. The swept back hair is an effortless way to complete this look while the super-long pendant gives this look a dash of sex appeal.

Selena Gomez in Atelier Versace: Say what you will about this look-- the dress is too older for Gomez,  the hair isn't right, etc-- but I think this look is perfect as is. First of all, this couture dress is ideal for the VMAs: it's classy yet funky enough to wear to musical event. If the Spring Breakers star confined her hair to a sleek ponytail, this whole look would've been to severe. A relaxed down do' is a lovely alternative, plus the emerald earrings gorgeously blend into the whole outfit.

Naya Rivera in Vintage Paco Rabanne: Unlike her flop at the Teen Choice Awards, this is how to show off some skin with class.Here, the Glee star is a seductive Morticia Addams-- in the best way possible. The drama the long locks and defined liner create is inspired. J'adore.

Holland Roden in Naeem Khan: Dramatic in the most unexpected way. this regal ensemble is funky enough for the Video Music Awards. Instead of sporting leather or sexy cut-outs, Roden pumped up the volume in this high-octane number. Though I'm not a fan of the pants-skirt duo, the VMAs is the place is don this crazy trend. The berry lip is the perfect way to make a fierce (yet feminine) statement.

Allison Williams in Valentino: This outfit didn't turn heads on Sunday night; however, I love it. Since the Girls actress was only presenting, a subtly chic dress is an appropriate decision. Williams's messy updo complements the gorgeous details on this Valentino frock. Brava!

Ciara in Givenchy Couture: It's the couture collection that keeps on giving. Beyonce rocked an alternative to this dress at the 2012 Met Gala  while Florence Welch adores very similar Givenchy numbers. But on Ciara? This is pure heaven. Dresses from this Givenchy collection can look very ethereal; however, Ciara has this certain attitude that makes the whole ensemble undeniably glamorous. Not only is this gown a perfect fit, Ciara cleverly finishes this look with beachy waves and a fresh, summery face.

Lady Gaga in Prabal Gurung: Cue the sigh of relief: Lady Gaga doesn't have to wear a meat dress to steal the sartorial spotlight. Sure, this Prabal Gurung number is quirky; however, it proves that Gaga can sport mainstream clothes while boasting her avant garde aesthetic. As for the star's beauty regime, her jet-black hair adds an extra dash of drama.

Joan Smalls in the Viktor+ Rolf: Smalls looks more like a gladiator than a model, but in a good way.The shapeless Viktor + Rolf is a blank canvas, which is wonderful  for boasting the gold statement jacket and tall gladiator heels. Same goes for the beauty front: the sleek mane contrasts that sophisticated berry lip. Love!


Which looks did you love? Which ones did you hate?
I'm dying to know!
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The 2013 Teen Choice Awards

When it comes to the Teen Choice Awards, age is just a number. No matter how old you are, you're kind of dying to see which celebrities take home the coveted surf board. Additionally, the youthful red carpet is also bombarded with refreshing, high-octane looks. However, that's not to say each ensemble is sartorially superior. Check out my best and worst dressed picks. As always, no attendee is safe.

The Worst

Naya Rivera in Alice + Olivia: I'm sorry, did the Glee star think she was headed to the Sunset Strip? This ensemble is anything but sexy-- it's trashy! As popular as crop tops and bralets are at the moment, pairing this trend with low-rise jeans is a major faux pas. 

One Direction: Welcome to 2013, when dressing up as a pop group has its own set of rules: look similar,not identical. The British boys did a good job at appearing in sync; however, the faux pas run rampant. Liam, why so many layers? It's summer. Why are they all wearing hiking boots? And Harry, dating Taylor Swift doesn't mean you magically turn into John Mayer.

Abigail Breslin: Once upon a time, the Little Miss Sunshine star was one of America's brightest young stars, Though she hasn't done much since her younger years, this ensemble is a twist mix between "Old Abigail Breslin" and "New Abigail Breslin." A modest jacket paired with that super sultry neckline? Is it just me or do you also feel extremely uncomfortable?

Miley Cyrus in Saint Laurent: Quite frankly, the singer "Can't Be Tamed." Though anyone can applaud Cyrus's trim figure, this outfit isn't right for the occasion. A saucy editorial? Absolutely! But a teen award show is a whole other realm. To make matters worse, those white pumps make this outfit look even more trashy. A black pump would've at least added some consistency! 

Hana Mae Lee: I love hats as much as the next fashonista; however, the quirky attendee takes this love too far. If you're trying to great a statement A) Pick a better event such as the Met Gala and B) Choose a better hat. 

The Best

Skyler Astin: The Pitch Perfect star hit the right style notes at Sunday's red carpet. Astin looks casual in a pair of khakis and a simple tee; however, the black jacket is a surefire way to make this outfit sophisticated. Plus, those colorful shoes give this ensemble some much-needed flare.

Kerry Washington in Stella McCartney: Though the leading lady always excels in choosing stunning, event-appropriate ensembles, she especially hit the sartorial nail on the head at this year's Teen Choice Awards. the sophisticated silhouette is perfectly juxtaposed by Stella McCartney's punky print. But should we've expected anything less than spectacular? Both Washington and McCartney are superstars in their respective industries.

Selena Gomez in Cushnie et Ochs: A red carpet goddess, the "Come and Get It" singer has successfully made the transition from "teeny bopper" to a sleek tastemaker. This Cushnie et Ochs number is flattering, but comfortable. Those slits weren't made for a sartorial wallflower-- they are sexy and classy at the same time. On the beauty front, the clean hair gives this look a refined edge. Obsessed! 

The Jonas Brothers: Luckily, this set of singers have red carpet style down to a science. With masculine jackets, black jeans and some sexy scruff, these boys have aced the "look similar, not idea" principle.

Lily Collins in Fausto Puglisi: Though this fashionista's look may not be loved by all-- let's be honest, it's truly a fashion moment-- I'm addicted to this ensemble's drama. The zany Fausto Puglisi skirt is perfectly balanced by a streamlined black tee. As for that subtle headpiece, it's kind of genius-- the perfect way to make a statement without going overboard (a la Hana Mae Lee).

Lucy Hale: Whether she's Aria Montgomery or an aspiring songstress, the pint-sized fashionista is known for her whimsical taste. Lucky for us, Sunday's red carpet was no exception. Not only is the playful fabric combination absolutely heavenly, the bralet and high-waisted skirt leave her baring the appropriate amount of skin-- that was a stab at you, Naya Rivera. Last but not least, her wavy mane adds a dash of glamour to this edgy ensemble.

Shay Mitchell in Jenni Kayne: Take note, Nina Dobrev, this is how to rock a sexy playsuit. The simple color palette takes a back seat, allowing the plunging neckline to stand out. The funky yellow heels and beachy waves are the perfect finishing touches.

Chelsea Kane in Laura Basci: How darling is this monochromatic number? Though crop tops are usually associated with frat-hopping girls, Kane smartly pairs her revealing top with a conservative pencil skirt. Additionally, the contrast between her blonde hair and bright teal is incredibly stunning.

Crystal Reed in Carolina Herrera: What's black, white and chic all over? This ensemble. With cropped pants and defiant hair, Reed is clearly channeling her inner Megan Draper-- and it works! Instead of looking like she's at a themed party, Reed pairs this look with sleek accessories and a red-orange lip. Brava!

Bella Thorne in Fausto Puglisi: It seems as if matching prints were a hot trend! Though Hawaiian printed anything is certifiably tacky, Fausto Puglisi's palm patterns make this fashion don't a do. Surprisingly, it's the variety of colors and the flirty hem that make this ensemble coveted, not too much to handle.

What do you think of these looks? I'm dying to know! 

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The 2013 MTV Movie Awards

 From the hilarious Rebel Wilson's hosting gig to the highly anticipated Catching Fire trailer, this year's show was more than a reminder that summer is just around the corner. As always, the looks that paraded down the red carpet boasted the good and bad (scratch that, mostly bad) of spring fashion.  So let's take a quick break from recounting the latest spring trends and check out the best and worst looks from last week's red carpet.

The Worst.

Kylie Minouge Paco Rabanne: Compared to other award shows, the MTV Movie Awards are more youthful. In addition to the young audience, the show has a heavy emphasis on young Hollywood. While this must've been inconvenient for Minogue, wearing a sultry dress is not the way to combat the age gap. Though the pop sensation never shies away from an attention-grabbing ensemble, this officially cross the line. Cover up!

Amanda Seyfried in Three Floor: The color palette and hypnotic graphic are refreshing; however, the lackluster styling puts this look on the worst dress list. Though Seyfried's hair and makeup are very pretty, the lack of accessories and a bold lip enables the dress to wear the actress. A bright red lip and a dark, chunky sandal would easily turn this miss into a hit.

Chloe Grace Moretz in Louis Vuitton: Though I love the denim-on-denim trend as much (if not more) than the average fashion girl, this look is too casual for the red carpet. In short, this ensemble makes no sense. The patchwork denim plus the girly T-strap heel equals trailer park chic. Also, the minimal makeup washes Moretz out! This dress would be great for a casual lunch, but not for the red carpet!

Kerry Washington in Michael Kors:  Though Washington consistently nailed each red carpet look during awards season, nothing last forever. Not only is this high-low skirt too high, the overall concept is just too much for the MTV Movie Awards. If I were to style Washington, I would've put her in this Jason Wu number: the dainty texture and edgy leather accents define Washington's classic, yet though-provoking, aesthetic. 

Ke$ha: It seems as if Ke$ha is trying to be Rachel Zoe's latest minion, but she failed...miserably. Overall, this ensemble is just confusing. The sheer Gypsy Junkies pants clash with the casual top-- the floral undertone on each piece is not enough to creative a cohesive ensemble. And what's with that fringe vest and the wide brim hat? This isn't Coachella, sweetie.  To make matters even worse, the deep lip is scary. I want to forget this ever happened, but I can't.

Selena Gomez in Julien Macdonald: Usually a red carpet darling,  the songstress looks more like a Vegas showgirl.  The defiant hairdo and glitzy dress are too much. Though the Spring Breakers star rightfully paired the dramatic ensemble with nude shoes and simple makeup, I still think she went a little overboard.

Macklemore: Instead of spending his 20 dollars at a thrift shop, Macklemore apparently buys his threads at a costume store. Seriously, what is this? If he forwent the extravagant cape, the electric blue suit would've been enough to make a semi-respectable fashion statement (especially with those super cool smoking loafers).

Hana Mae Lee in Marco Marco: I can only imagine that this Pitch Perfect star sported the cigarette headpiece for comedic purposes; however, the rest of the ensemble is dreadful. If you can look past that atrocious hat, which I barely can, the strappy pumps do not work with the dress's dominatrix-inspired neckline. Instead of creating a cohesive ensemble,  she just looks sloppy. This dress would look a million times better with a nude platform heel and sleek ponytail.

The Best.

Emma Watson in Maxime Simoens: Always dressed to impress, Watson continues to shine in this blue crush dress. The geometric neckline and chunky pair of heels balance the otherwise dainty silhouette. Together, the natural makeup and polished hair create the ultimate blank canvas. Though the actress experiments with different shapes and fabrics, Watson always dresses to please both mass media outlets and fashion snobs.  

Beau Mirchoff: Though I'm more of a Jake Rosati type of girl,  this Awkward  star can make any girl swoon. Matty McKibben, Mirchoff's onscreen persona, dress like your average jock; however, the actor brought his sartorial A-game to the red carpet. Not only does the blue jacket offer a casual take on the traditional suit, the fetching hue makes his eyes pop. The grid button-down adds a thoughtful amount of detail to this ensemble. Between his good looks and impressive style, I can't wait to see him on the red carpet more! 

Skylar Astin: The Pitch Perfect star won our hearts with his  soulful voice; luckily, he continues  to wow us on the red carpet. Though a standard suit is too formal for this occasion,  nixing the tie instantly relaxes this look. That boyish smile and subtle stubble are the perfect finishing touches. 

Zoe Saldana in Givenchy:  To be perfectly honest, I love most of Saldana's outfits. Thankfully, this Givenchy number is no exception. Though this attire  isn't a standard MTV Movie Award outfit, Saldana is never one to stick to the sartorial status quo. In my opinion, this look is all about balance. With voluminous curls, a poppy lip and strappy heels, Saldana made this potentially drab uniform a red carpet hit. Additionally, the floral skirt gives this gothic silhouette a necessary dash of energy. Brava. 

Kylie Jenner: Youthful and sophisticated, Jenner is perhaps the most stylish member of the Kardashian Klan.  The essentially monochromatic ensemble and light pink lip makes this ensemble feminine without being too girly. To give this number a youthful twist, the shred of skin injects a dash of sex appeal. Can all teenagers dress like this?

Photos from Elle UK and The Huffington Post

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The Style Files: Something Unknown to Me Makes You What You Are

It's fair to say that I'm not taking the passing of Davy Jones vey well. No, this isn't me being sarcastic: I'm legitimately upset. When I was little, I was obsessed with retro TV shows. Obviously, the Brady Bunch was my number one.  From the afternoons after pre-school to the nights where I was plauged with chicken pox, Davy Jones' Girl was my jam. I would dance myself silly- also known as doing the Marsha- to that song and still do (especially to the Very Brady Movie's version). So this week's song had to be Girl because, let's be honest, I probably would've had a crush on him if I was a teen during the 1970s.

Style Spiration: Gwyneth Platrow

Are you still going crazy over Gwyneth Paltrow's sleek, superstar, scene-stealing, spectacular Tom Ford moment from last week's Academy Awards? Well, I am. The more that I think about it, the  more that I realize how much of a trendsetter Gwyneth truly is. During her career, she's had so many red carpet moments that we will always remember. What's so interesting about all of these looks is that they're all progressive and sleek. They all make a statement without crossing the line. How does a trip down memory lane sound to all of you? Let's spend this Sunday remembering (and drooling) over all of Gwyneth's looks.

 At the 1999 Academy Awards (Ralph Lauren): There's no better way to start of this review. Whether you tuned into the 1999 Oscars or not, you know this dress if you're the least bit interested in red carpet glamour. From the color to the silhouette to the jewels, everything about this look is so feminine. I find this so ironic because nowadays, Gwyneth dresses super sleek and modern. Even though this dress is undeniably feminine, the overall simplicity is timeless. (Photo Cred)

Being fabulous in 1996 (Gucci): I think Gwyneth has a knack for picking out super powerful Tom Ford designs.Perfectly executed, velvet, and in a luscious red? Hold me back: it's almost too much to handle. To prevent a Chuck Bass moment- though I do love Chuck Bass and everything he wears- she kept the rest of this look simple: the makeup, the hair, the accessories and even the blouse underneath the suit. In short: Gwyneth did menswear before it was cool.(Photo Cred)

At the 2008 Cannes Film Festival (Chanel): How breathtaking is this look? Whoever styled this did a fantastic job of giving this ensemble some movement and excitement from top to bottom. The arrangement of the glamour-packed sparkles made this look glamourous and not overbearing. Her updo and feminine makeup allows us to focus on that beyond neckline without completely ignoring Gwyneth. (Photo Cred)

At the 2007 Academy Awards (Zac Posen):  I usually don't love peach, but this is fantastic. The high-hugging silhouette and the sheer components of this dress are to die for: this dress commands attention without it being overly aggressive. The non-matching bracelets on each arm give this look a healthy dash of quirky symmetry, which I love. The long locks keep this look refreshing and fun. Oh, and that red lip? No words.(Photo Cred)http://images.teamsugar.com/files/usr/1/12981/paltrow.jpg

• Mila Kunis at Dior 2012 Fall RTW (Dior): I know, I know: I still need to cover London, Milan, and Paris fashion week. But how amazing is this look? Mila destroys the stereotypical European look by wearing something light and overtly feminine. I love how she plays with pastels and whites as well as texture. The straight hair and black belt give this look a very Parisian feel. 
• Claire Danes at Vanity Fair's Academy Awards After Party (Valentino): Yes, my jaw actually dropped when I saw this. The dress is so extravagant and timeless. The minimal jewels allow us to focus on the dress, which deserves as much attention as humanly possible. The glamourous updo and the matching pink lip brings this whole look together.
• Rosie Huntington- Whiteley at Heathrow (Vanessa Bruno, Burberry): I love love LOVE this take on personal style. Navy is such an unappreciated color so I love how she incorporates that Vanessa Bruno blazer into her ensemble. Don't be fooled: navy and black look fabulous together. Rosie finishes this look off with a leopard scarf: my kind of fashionista! 
• Olivia Palermo at Dior 2012 Fall RTW: This look gives me goosebumps. Olivia Palermo always knows how to create a look that is clean, eclectic, and fashion-forward. I'm obsessed with the mix of that printed dress and her cage heels. The cardigan gives this look some Parisian chicness and that side fish tail braid? Too good to be true! 
• Selena Gomez at Vanity Fair's Academy Awards After Party (Dolce & Gabbana): This look is heaven. This form fitting Dolce & Gabbana really shows off her feminine figure in the classiest way possible.  love that soft grey with her complexion and the light lip. Should we talk about that beading? To die for. I love her shorter do with those drop earrings. Overall how sophisticated does Selena look? Now that her boy toy is legal, I suppose she's allowed to dress like a woman.  

xx