Red Carpet Review: 2014 Video Music Awards

The VMAs never fail to secure some of the most historic music performances. Britney? Miley? Naturally, Queen B's performance, and Blue Ivy's very special appearance, was nothing short of fantastic. But the red carpet fashion? Always a hit or miss. Memorable? Yes. Stylish? Debatable. In case you missed the red carpet, check out which looks hit a sartorial high note and which ones you'll be dying to forget.

The Best.

Chanel Iman in Balmain: From Kim Kardashian to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Olivier Rousteing has been getting some major star-power. And let's just add megawatt model Chanel Iman to the list, shall we? Needless to stay, this ensemble is pure bliss on her. The modest midi length gives an otherwise sexy texture a sophisticated twist. The natural makeup and minimal accessories allows the dress to be the focal point of this look. Fortunately, Iman's powerful stance prevents this look from wearing her.

Solange Knowles: Perfection on so many levels. Knowles is never one to stray away from a fashion challenge, and this is a risk that absolutely paid off. In total, this look is the perfect blend between Diana Ross's seventies reign and le smoking. The embellished suit offers a feminine touch to a masculine silhouette.  The outrageously glamorous look is carefully balanced with a fresh face and no jewels. Flawless.

Kylie Jenner: Not convinced that the Kardashian/Jenner clan is killing it on the red carpet? Please take a look at the youngest of the pack's ensemble and reconsider. Dressed well beyond her years, this silky dress is ideal for the end of summer. Though the high-slit and deep neckline offer a VMA-approved sex appeal, the long sleeves and floor-sweeping hem prevent an classic case of inappropriate teen. For once, Jenner nixed the gothic lip and opted for something a little more conventional. Obsessed.

Rita Ora: The songstress didn't leave much to the imagination; however, this red silky gown perfectly walks the line between sultry and too sexy. However, leave it to Ora to be insanely fearless enough to sport this look. The matching lip is spot on and that bling-ed out choker brings the ultimate feminine touch.

Sarah Hyland in Kaufmanfranco: The Modern Family star is always a joy to spot on the red carpet for one particular reason: she always deeply considers the full look. Case in point? This outfit. The asymmetrical getup is perfectly counteracted with Hyland's uniformed middle part. The multiple arm bracelets keep this outfit extremely fashion forward. As for the berry lip-- isn't it the best contrast to that gorgeous blue?

The Worst.

Taylor Swift in Mary Katrantzou: While Taylor's increasingly fearless taste is commendable, this printed bodysuit is simply trying a little too hard. It's one of those outfits that you can tell was styled with the intention of being an iconic VMAs look; however, Swift's ensemble during her VMA's performance would've been more fitting for the occasion. And let's be honest, Queen B's bodysuit reigns superior.  On the accessories front, the bordeaux booties do not complement the bodysuit- the pairing is random. A for effort, but didn't we all know Taylor's outfit was trouble when she walked in? Bad music pun?

Amber Rose in Laura Dewitt: The red carpet regular has never been known for her stylish ensembles; however, this look is truly on another level of awkward. While a very Josephine Baker-inspired ensemble is almost expected at any music-related awards show, this is just too much skin! Cover up!

Victoria Justice in Alice + Olivia and Lublu Kira Plastinina: A few weeks ago, the starlet nailed a flawlessly ethereal ensemble at the Teen Choice Awards. What went wrong? While the strip of exposed skin is perfect for this occasion, the textured mullet skirt is a tad outdated and immature. And to make matters worse, the usually tongue in chic Edie Parker bag and ultra-polished shoe look cheesy with this unsophisticated look. Better luck next time.

Rita Volk: What happened to the rest of her dress? Paired with the red shoes, this outfit looks a little trampy.

Which looks did you love? Sound off below!

All images courtesy of The Huffington Post Canada

xx

5 Best Looks from the 2014 Grammys

Is it just me, or was the red carpet a little bare this year? Where was Gaga? Where was Rihanna? And I would ask where Beyoncé was, but it's pretty clear that she was prepping for her beyond major opening performance. Forget the rock and roll-friendly threads, there were barely any looks to cringe over. As much as I would love to share a standard red carpet round, there's not enough looks to go around for each list. So let's focus on what's important: the looks that hit a sartorial high note at the 2014 Grammy Awards. Check out the ensembles that truly sang. 

Rita Ora in Lanvin: This Brit is never afraid of a fashion challenge, and she never fails to own whatever look she is sporting. She reported that a shorter hemline is new for her, and I hope she repeats this sartorial risk. The golden hue looks incredible with her complexion and blonde locks, and the overall shape plays down the high-octane metallic. Though I'm not a fan of the kitschy nail art, her golden age ringlets perfectly complement the dress's ladylike silhouette. 

Taylor Swift in Gucci: After years of the songstress wearing what seems like the same neutral colored, column dress by Elie Saab (or J.Mendel), it's hard to be super excited about something Taylor Swift wears. In her defense, she's been trying lately! That poppy-colored Carolina Herrera dress she wore to this year's Golden Globes was both feminine and experimental for the musician; however, this chain metal Gucci number is perfection.  Literally, perfection. Though the silhouette is nothing knew for Swift, the funky fabric and short sleeves revitalizes this streamlined shape. In true A-Lister fashion, Swift smartly opted for minimal accessories in a matching hue. On the beauty front, the artist excels with a smokey eye, girly pout, and flirty ponytail. Not to sound dramatic, but this is the best Swift has ever looked on the red carpet. That's right, ever. 

Giuliana Rancic in Alex Perry: As many Grammy attendees (or faithful viewers) know, this awards show is the perfect time to take a risk and rock some metallics, cut outs, sequins, and anything else the hottest musicians could possibly desire. However, the Fashion Police star stepped away from Grammys conventional with this tangerine number. Needless to say, it was the perfect way to make a statement. Though the silhouette is simple and the lace details are extremely sophisticated, the halter neckline and sheer bodice gives this shape a Grammys-approved twist. Subtle bling and a slick updo complete this look. 

Chrissy Teigen in Johanna Johnson: Tell me you don't have a girl crush on Mrs. John Legend, and I'll say you're lying. The model is painfully perfect, and that sequined number is flawless. Though a deep neckline and high slit may sound a little salacious, Teigen's beachy waves tame down this wild. With so much dress, and consequently so many sequins, it only natural that the part-time blogger stuck to a simple pair of earrings. Brava!

Sarah Hyland in Emilio Pucci: Though the Grammys tend to be filled to the brim with musicians galore, there's always a super cool actress lurking behind the song and dance. To prevent a "Modern Family actress stole MY thunder" comment, Hyland chose a classic black and white number. While this dress isn't as extravagant as something she'd wear to a television-related awards show, her look is event-appropriate. This time around, Hyland ditched the thick brow and opted a berry lip. As a finishing touch, the funny girl aded a pair of ultra strappy sandals to her look. Love her ensembles or not, you must admit that you respect her beauty choices. 

Which outfits did you love? Sound off below! 

xx

The Style Files: So Say Hello to Falsetto in Three, Two...

I'm not sure if I'm having a quarter-life crisis or if I'm just nostalgic, but I cannot stop listening to these tween sensations.  Justin Bieber's "Boyfriend" is my everything right now: it's the perfect blend of poppy and swag. Also, how much do you love Justin's falsetto?

Style-Spiration: Fearne Cotton

I had the pleasure of viewing this English sensation's style on Who, What, Wear earlier this week- she truly did rock that pair of mirrored sunnies. Anywho, I'm obsessed with her style. Cotton is the quintessential part quirky, part rocker fashionista that dominates the UK. As you should know by now, I'm literally obsessed with all things British so this week's edition of "Style-Spiration" is rather predictable.

It's pretty simple: I really want that hat. I love how she pairs that hat with the funky, graphic top. So London. (Photo Cred)

I'm all about mixing crazy patterns lately. Cotton aces this trend by sticking to a similar, dark color palette. Consequently, the houndstooth and plaid act as neutrals. Ergo, the fierce blue bag is a "fun pop of color." The straight hair and refined makeup gives this look a polished vibe. Perfection. (Photo Cred)

I'm obsessed with how she mixes fabrics. The chunky sweater mixed with the liquid-inspired leggings are beyond. The wavy hair makes this ensemble so jojo. (Photo Cred)

Funky fur? Mirrored sunnies? Sign me up! (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Krysten Ritter at the Life Happens Premiere (Jenni Kayne): This dress offers a fun play between sophisticated and sensual. The black caps sleeves, paired with Ritter's shoulder length do, scream demure while the super sexy central slit shows us that there's more than meets the bodice. The black and white print is whimsical, while the column cut and black belt offer a minimalist twist. 
• Taylor Swift at the ACM Awards (J. Mendel): By now, everyone should understand my eternal hatred for Taylor Swift; however, even I am admitting that this look is phenomenal. The cutouts offer a look that's sexier than Swift's typical wardrobe. The bedhead and smokey eye are the perfect finishing touches.  For a moment, I thought she was Jennifer Lawrence. Though I wish Jennifer Lawrence rocked this dress, I'm glad that Swift is finally starting to grow up. 
• Lily Collins at the Mirror Mirror Premiere (Zac Posen): Collins ditched her Snow White aesthetic at this Parisian premiere and channels her inner temptress. The trumpet skirt plus the sweetheart neckline turns Collins into a smoldering seductress. The red lip plus the full, wavy hair? Forget about it! 

xx

The 2011 American Music Awards

I have a bone to pick with the American Music Awards. I didn't watch the show; however,  I know that something very, very wrong happened:

ADELE DID NOT WIN "ARTIST OF THE YEAR."

Clearly, they made a HUGE mistake . If you haven't heard Adele's album, 21, you may live underneath a rock. In my opinion, it's the best album of the year and Adele is the best artist...ever: she is so honest and the album is  beautiful. I could literally go on a day-long rant about Taylor Swift: I hate her.  I think she's annoying and why does she always act so surprised when she wins? The AMAs is obviously an exception to that complaint because she shouldn't have won. TayTay, you're so 2009. Now that I typed out my feelings, let's talk about the fashion. 

THE WORST

• Kimberly Perry of "The Band Perry" (Bottega Veneta): Remember when Emma Stone rocked this look better than Kimberly Perry? I do. 'Twas the 2011 MTV Movie Awards. Yeah, it's a cool dress; however, fashion repeats make me uncomfortable. Also, I don't think this flatters her body very well: a longer hemline would've accentuated her pear-shape. Also, those shoes are weird.
• Cheryl Hines (Lorena Sarbu); Awkward city. The bodice is really pretty; however, it's too boxy and makes her look large. The hair and makeup is stunning, but it'd be more appropriate on a- dare I utter the name- Taylor  Swift. That hemline makes me feel uncomfortable- it's too cheesy- and I don't like those shoes with this dress. Awkward city. 
• Jennifer Hudson (Jenny Packham): In my humble opinion, she's too old to wear such a short dress. General rule to follow: if you have kids, don't  go higher than a mid-thigh hem. It makes me feel uncomfortable. Clearly, the theme of the 2011 American Music Awards is rage and uncomfortableness. Anywho, the draping of the dress doesn't do anything for her enviable figure.  The hair is super sleek, which I love, but I'm not a fan of that fuchsia lip. Usually, I love a fuchsia lip; however, this isn't doing anything for me. It's a shame because Jennifer Hudson has been doing such a great job dressing herself! 
• Jennifer Morrison (Temperley London): Ladies and gent, NEVER EVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF A PAIR OF SHOES. I loved the hair, especially with such an ethereal dress, but those shoes ruined the look. Ruined it, I tell yah! I think a killer pair of pumps would've made this incredible. Whoopsies.
• Mary J. Blige (Roberto Cavalli): I really don't like this: the large animal print isn't very flattering. I like the idea of a one-shouldered dress, but what's that awkward fabric situation on her left arm? Also, those earrings look awkward with such a fierce dress. Not a fan.
• Phoebe Price (I Don't Want to Know): There are so many things wrong with this. I actually think this is my all-time favorite "Worst Dressed" look because it's that bad. Here goes a random enumeration: the hat is weird, that makeup looks like those creepy old ladies on Rugrats, the dress is super unflattering, and what's up with that fur? THE WORST OF THE WORST. 

THE BEST 

• Katherine Heigel (Roberto Cavalli): She looks so awesome: I love it! That plunging neckline and high slit are so sultry; however, she classes it up with a sleek updo and that stunning red lip. On anyone else, I think this dress could be a bit much: I mean, did you see that back? Instead, Katherine looks like a glamourous superstar! Also, I really want those earrings.
• Selena Gomez (Giorgio Armani): I think it's really ironic when such a young person rocks the "Old Hollywood Glamour" look, but Selena looks absolutely stunning. The draping on the dress is so luxe and I love the hint of fringe! The glossy pewter acts as a neutral; however, the color doesn't wash Selena out. Such a classic hairdo is new for her, but it's so classic. To keep this look young, Selena opted for a peach lip instead of the typical red lip. Fabulous! 
• Taylor Swift (Reem Acra): Even though I really despise her with almost every fiber of my being, I have to admit that this look is good. For her. It's pretty typical Taylor Swift- apparel: a sparkly, neutral dress with a simple silhouette. However, I do like how she mixed up the hairL the ponytail makes her look younger. The jade-colored earrings are also a nice surprise. Maybe one day, she'll actually do something to surprise us.
• Hillary Scott (Rani Zakhem): This is absolutely stunning. The column silhouette plus the the Swarovski embellishments equals perfection. Hillary takes the LBD to the next level, which I love. Her casual hair and dark eye slash light lip combination is a perfect final touch. Gorgeous!  
• Nicki Minaj (Oscar de la Renta): This is actually stunning. Sure, her hair is typical Nicki; however, the dress is gorgeous. I love the mix between the delicate bodice and the dramatic skirt. Also, the contrast of black and green is strikingc, but not overwhelming. And the styling is superb: I love how well the Alexander McQueen shoes complement the dress' bodice. Minimal jewels is also good for this look, or else it would've been too much. Phenomenal.

xx

The Weekly: Ma Nature's Lyrical, With Her Yearly Miracle

I CONFESS: 

The title to this blog was heavily inspired by my childhood obsessed with the musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

I AM CRAVING SPRING AND SUMMER SO SO SO MUCH.

It was a great film so please don't hate on it. ANYWHO, Beantown is getting more and more beautiful each and everyday, which makes me extremely happy and excited to develop a 2011 spring/summer look of my own. While it's always fun to stick to the trends, it's extremely important to make a look special to your own sense of style.

Some really big trends we're seeing are fun colors, prints galore, and lace.  What I want to do this spring is incorporate these three emerging trends, while creating a bohemian/edgy blend.  So here's what I got so far:

Love. So so so much (Photo Cred).

Fun Fact: I got those green LACE LEGGINGS just today! I'm too excited to wear them! 

(Photo Cred)

(Photo Cred)

I bought this headband almost a year ago and I'm a little afraid I'll look like a trailer park mama (not trying to offend them), but this season, I'm breaking it out! 

                                          

I don't really want to wear too much black this spring and summer, but I want  to frequently incorporate edgy accessories (Photo Cred).

(Photo Cred)

                                            

From my own closet, I'm so excited to wear these pieces!

And now, onto the weekly! 

• Amanda Seyfried at the London Little Red Riding Hood Premiere (Karen Caldwell): VA VA VOOM.  I'm so loving this look on Amanda Seyfried. The black mini, paired with the blonde and wavy hair, creates an easygoing and youthful look. The bright red lip, however, gives us a sense of sophistication and class. And let's talk about how fabulous this Tom Binns necklace is? So chic!  Amanda Seyfried always knows how to dress her age, but in tasteful manner.
• Taylor Swift at the Kids Choice Awards (Elie Saab): This is one of the first times, I actually loved her outfit. The silhouette isn't anything new in Taylor Swift's wardrobe. This light yellow, in evening dress form, is so refreshing and fun.  I'm glad she got rid of the red lip and had relaxed hair with spring makeup. The detailing, like in any Elie Saab dress, is stunning and the train is so sick! I love how it's note entirely yellow, but white and sheer as well. Incredible.
• Selena Gomez at the Kids Choice Awards (Christian Costa): Ugh she always looks incredible. It kills me a little bit inside. I love this white and turquoise moment she's having: that beautiful color is the perfect pop but, since it's a sandal and not a pump, it's not overwhelming. I love her she's wearing SHORTS. Finally! Ladies and gents, chic exists after dresses!  The floral undertones in the shirt is also pretty awesome and adds depth to the outfit. She's such a budding fashionista.
• Miley Cyrus at the Kids Choice Awards- who would've thought? (Dolce& Gabbana): This look makes me so nostalgic for the summer, which is a mental trend I'm having. Casual and floral maxi dresses are so effortlessly chic and it is perfectly styled with the long necklaces and soft waves.  Also, Miley is dressed perfectly for this event: she is looks refreshed and youthful, which is totalyl appropriate. She's just being Miley...and I kind of love it. 
• Emmy Rossum at Elie Tahari (Elie Tahari): First of all, where did you go, Emmy Rossum? You sort of fell off the face of the world, but I'm pleased to know you are dressing fabulously. As you know, I'm such a fan of gold. Obviously, I love this pleated skirt and the necklace.  The minimal accessories, plain pumps, and relatively simple hair and makeup counteracted the flashy gold. Love love love!