13 Best Red Carpet Looks from 2013

Besides the highly-anticipated fashion months, awards season is arguably the most exciting time of the year for any fashion expert. What will the nominees wear? How will the dresses differ from the original runway look? And how will this slew of award-worthy gowns differ from those from last year? Before time runs out for 2013, and we are then bombarded with a new group of evening dresses, let's take a sartorial walk down memory lane. In no particular order, check out the best red carpet looks of
the year. 

Zoe Saldana at the Out of the Furnance Premiere (Calvin Klein): Combining crop tops and skirts is one of the coolest ways to shake up red carpet glamour. My favorite example of this emerging trend? Zoe Saldana in Calvin Klein, naturally.The actress can do no wrong, period. I love this blue-grey hue with her complexion as well as those tan shoes. This outfit reigns superior because she shows just enough skin and the pleated skirt keeps it classy. Brava, Miss Saldana. (Photo)

Anne Hathaway at the 2013 BAFTAs (Burberry Prorsum): This year, all eyes were on Hathaway. Sure, word broke that she's one of the more annoying actresses in the industry; however, fashion fanatics were keen to know what the soon-to-be Academy Award winner would wear to each award show. Though Hathaway mostly stuck to pastels in the United States, the starlet opted for a darker hue across the pond. Don't get me wrong- I love a frilly evening gown; however, that's the only thing Hathaway would wear until 2013. A departure from her glamazon past, this ensemble is ultra chic, modern, and portrays her as a serious actress. Plus, the pixie cut looks incredible with
this silhouette. (Photo)

Chrissy Teigen at the 2013 Grammy Awards (Joy Cioci): There are many reason to be jealous of Chrissy Teigen: her husband, cooking skills, and stellar style, just to name a few.Though this ensemble is overtly sexy, Teigen keeps it classy with minimal jewels. Plus, the lace detailing gives this look a girly twist. Thankfully, Chrissy knows how to spice up an all noir outfit-- with a punchy lip! A quintessential Grammys ensemble, and femme fatale never looked
so good! (Photo)

Kerry Washington at the 2013 Screen Actors Guild Awards (Rodarte): Legend, or Vanity Fair, has it that Miss Washington was the best dressed celebrity of the year. Though her on-screen persona, Olivia Pope, opts for high-brow brands such as Giorgio Armani and Prada, Washington has a penchant for newer labels like Stella McCartney, Miu Miu, and Rodarte. As one of the first major red carpet events of the year, this Rodarte number put Washington on the sartorial map. The angelic white is amazing with her complexion. The fitted bodice and slick ponytail perfectly juxtapose the slightly ruffled skirt. Though the Scandal star has wowed at least a dozen more times this year, this look exemplifies her versatility and on-the-pulse perspective. Can't wait to see more fabulous looks in 2014!  (Photo)

Lea Michele at the 2013 Golden Globe Awards (Elie Saab): The pint-sized starlet knows how to make a scene. Whether she's belting a touching ballad or sporting extravagant evening wear, the Glee star isn't afraid to getting some  attention. Though this Elie Saab brings a lot of sparkle to such a petite figure, Michele opts for a nonchalant look and ultimately rocks this look. The breezy waves makes this look appropriately more casual,which is ideal because the Golden Globes and Academy Awards are two very different events. The minimal jewels complement the dress without pushing the envelope. (Photo)

Emma Watson at the 2013 Met Ball (Prabal Gurung): After years of red carpets and press junkets, it's still amazing to see how aware Watson is of the line that separates sultry and slutty. Even though this Prabal Gurung dress shows a lot of skin, it is anything but trashy. Instead, Watson is a mature starlet who doesn't need a tabloid scandal or fashion faux pas to get attention. Additionally, I love the attention to detail: the asymmetrical lines from the dress are replicated in Watson's strappy heels. (Photo)

Jennifer Lawrence at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival (Christian Dior): It's no secret that the Academy Award winner is essentially a walking advertisement for the esteemed fashion house. Out of all the Dior dresses she sported in 2013, this white number perfectly captures Raf's forward-thinking aesthetic while maintaing Lawrence's spot as an "It Girl." While the bright pumps perfectly match the dress's details, Lawrence's choppy lob (a.k.a. long bob) keep this look fresh and relevant.  (Photo)

Selena Gomez at the 2013 Teen Choice Awards (Cushnie et Ochs): Over the past few years, Selena Gomez has transformed from a Disney Channel star to a bonafide starlet. Though she's sported every designer from Atelier Versace to Dolce and Gabbana, this Cushnie et Ochs dress puts the singer on the sartorial map. The traditional shape is revived with sultry slits and a yummy emerald green hue. With minimal accessories, nude pumps, and slick hair, Gomez looks extremely sophisticated without compromising her age. (Photo)

Sarah Jessica Parker at the 2013 Met Gala (Giles): Sarah Jessica Parker is never afraid of a fashion challenge. Between sporting avant garde hats and wearing countless colors, fabrics, and silhouettes, she's done it all. It takes a very fearless fashion to sport something so "hit or miss" to the ultra chic Met Ball. But with courage comes confidence, and the Sex and the City star's look was flawless. Instead of wearing studded threads like other superstars, SJP gave the punk theme a classic twist. That ornate headpiece? To die for. There is something so new age royalty about this look, which is extremely inspiring and reminds us that fashion should be funs and requires taking risks. An ensemble could be risky; however, the right occasion and loads of confidence can make the world's difference. (Photo)

Cate Blanchett at the New York Blue Jasmine Premiere (Balenciaga Edition): Not to sound dramatic, but Cate Blanchett could wear a burlap sack and look effortlessly fabulous. However, this Balenciaga number is indisputably the greatest dress she's worn all year.  Most actresses succumb to a column silhouette dress; however, this innovative shape makes evening wear exciting again. Though monochromatic outfits are nothing new, the appliqued details revitalizes this trend without looking too extravagant. (Photo)

Kiernan Shipka at the 2013 Screen Actors Guild Awards (Oscar de la Renta): It's a little sad that the Mad Men actress probably has better taste than some people who are twice her age. Though it's easy to be jealous of such a chic tot, it's imperative to applaud her style. Instead of piling on the gems, Shipka smartly nixed the accessories in order to let her pale pink Oscar de la Renta number take center stage. Major.  (Photo)

Rose Byrne at the 2013 Emmy Awards (Calvin Klein): Leave it to Clavin Klein to create an unconventionally sleek ensemble, and leave it to Rose Byrne to wear it perfectly. Unlike most minimalist looks, The Internship actress juxtaposed the dress's clean shape with voluminous hair. Feminine and minimalist at the same time, Byrne proves that she's a versatile fashionista. (Photo)

Emily Blunt at the 2013 Critics Choice Movie Awards (Miu Miu): Whether she's wearing muted pastels or vibrant brights, the Looper starlet never ceases to impress me. Unlike some of her other cutting-edge looks, this ensemble is unapologetically chic and sophisticated. Though the silhouette is very traditional, the embellished collar and alternative hemline makes this outfit effortlessly chic. Blunt spices up this classic dress with pearl-adorned accessories and a punchy pout. Don't you think this is something Audrey Hepburn would wear? (Photo)

Which red carpet looks did you love? Sound off below! 

xx

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

xx

The 2013 Academy Awards

Another year, another Oscar...or so it seemed. Though I unfortunately couldn't watch the televised event, this year's ceremony caused quite a stir. A falling Academy Award winner, a controversial tweet from The Onion and oh-so-cute Joseph Gordon Levitt dancing? Good or bad, this year definitely will not be forgotten. Same goes for the red carpet. While some starlets brought their A-game to the prestigious event, many should've thought twice before leaving their stretch limos. Shall we take a look at the best and worst looks from the night?

The Worst

Anne Hathaway (Prada): A far cry from Hathaway's award-worthy gowns, this Prada frock is less-than-impressive. Even if you have enough tolerance to look past the Miuccia- made "nipple exposure" and the unnecessary necklace (really, Rachel Zoe), this dress just doesn't compare to the high octane ensembles she's sported before-- let's not forget her eight epic ensembles from the 2011 Academy Awards. Winning the award for Best Supporting Actress was undeniably the biggest moment of her career thus far, yet she chose something so unremarkable (and quite boring). I personally dreamed a dream she wore something amazing to this red carpet. Unfortunately, I was left disappointed.

Jennifer Lawrence (Dior): I'm going to be honest: the dress is lovely albeit the fact that it's too editorial for the Academy Awards. With that in mind, the Oscar winning actress is on my worst dressed list because this look lacks practicality. In fact, all her outfits this season have resulted in some type of wardrobe malfunction. "This dress is really avant garde, will she have yet another mishap?" asked nobody on Lawrence's glam squad. Unlike Hathaway's minimalist nightmare, this ensemble is Oscar-approved; however, the Silver Linings Playbook star needs to learn how to wear dresses-- not the other way around.

Chris Tucker: The funnyman's tuxedo is looking a little clownish. However, nobody is laughing. Instead, this is just uncomfortable. While the suit's fit is fantastic, Tucker needs to learn that wide lapels and droopy bow ties are never okay.

Fan Bingbing (Marchesa): Though Georgina Chapman's craftsmanship is always inspiring, the styling is horrific.  The Marchesa number, plus the sparkling pink bracelets, plus the shocking lip plus the jeweled clutch equals a major fashion faux pas. A more minimalist approach to this dress would've been much better.

Kristen Stewart (Reem Acra): Considering this probably one of the very few times Kristen Stewart will be asked to attend the Academy Awards, this ensemble is beyond tragic. The starlet has the capacity to wow style elitists with her edgy aesthetic; however, this look is a tad sloppy. Personally, I don't love the tulle fripperies with the slender silhouette--the combination is too forced. And what's up with her hair and makeup? It seems as if the Twilight actress needs a good shower and a better makeup artist.

Halle Berry (Versace): Without a doubt, Berry is one of the most gorgeous ladies to grace this sacred red carpet. But she chose something so tacky, it's a little embarrassing. Though she's never a sartorial wallflower, this Versace number merits some unwanted attention. Actually, it's a little hypnotizing (and that's not a compliment). At 46 years-old, Berry looks fantastic; however, she's not getting any younger. I don't know about you, but I think it's time Berry starts making mature fashion decisions. Also, what is going on with this hair? I'm so over this chop.

Salma Hayek (Alexander McQueen): That hair.

Reese Witherspoon (Louis Vuitton): Once upon a time, Reese Witherspoon was a red carpet gem: she donned vintage Chanel and rocked Nina Ricci. But unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. Though I love how this electric blue looks with her sunny blonde hair, this dress is an absolute disaster. Is it just me or is this dress very unflattering? Also, this ensemble lacks a standout accessory. Where's the major cocktail ring or fantastic earrings?  Call me crazy, but it seems as if her style is at a standstill.

Helena Bonham Carter (Vivienne Westwood): Nobody should expect the Les Miserables star to wear a conventional dress--she's quirky! However, I cannot stand this ensemble. She just looks a little too sloppy for comfort. Note to all fashionistas: you just can't rock messy hair with an equally messy dress. Luckily, I have reason to believe that the actress threw on a pair of matching shoes.

Helen Hunt (H&M): No, Helen Hunt actually wore H&M.While I obviously believe that you can dress stylish on a budget, Hunt's defiant choice was just wrong. The color and silhouette are fine; however, can we talk about the wrinkles for a hot second? Seriously, who would go to the most glamorous televised event in a wrinkled dress? Cleanliness is key, Helen, cleanliness is key.

Samantha Barks (Valentino): Yet another sartorial strikeout for the Les Miserables cast. Barks clearly is obsessed with black, cleavage-baring  dresses; however, this is not appropriate for the Academy Awards. Honestly, it's all too basic. Between the simplistic silhouette and the messy hair, it looks as if Barks doesn't even care to be at the Academy Awards. And let's not ignore that necklace. If you're seeking to show off your...goodies, don't add a necklace! It's not sexy--it's just juvenile.

Nicole Kidman (L'Wren Scott): Though the Aussie plays a vixen in The Paperboy , this shimmering number is anything but sexy. On the contrary, Kidman is clearly trying a little too hard to return to her fashion glory days (a.k.a. when she was Mrs. Tom Cruise). While style is eternal, everyone will reach a certain age when wearing a sequined dress is a little sad. However, I am glad she ditched the middle part.

The Best

Adele (Jenny Packham): We all know that Adele could own any karaoke contest that comes her way; however,  the songstress is additionally turning into a style maven. Thankfully, the award winning musician resorted back to her trusty black dresses; however, she hasn't ditched her newfound impulsive for drama. First of all, the jeweled details are to die for. Also, the cropped sleeves reveal just the right amount of skin. And that retro half-up hair? J'adore.

Daniel Day Lewis (Domenico Vacca): Rarely does a male actor decide to have a red carpet moment at the Academy Awards. Usually, men don the traditional penguin suit as their leading ladies take center stage. But awards night was Daniel Day Lewis's night, and nobody puts Daniel Day Lewis in the corner. daring to be different, the Lincoln star opted for a blue suit. Though it sounds weird in theory, the high-voltage color is perfectly juxtaposed with the actor's poise and British charm.

Joseph Gordon Levitt: I may be a bit biased (since Joseph and I are clearly soulmates), but the  Lincoln star looked absolutely adorable at the Oscars. At his very first Academy Awards, the actor wore a standard tux. For a "Joseph Gordon Levitt" twist, he paired this typical suit with a long bow tie and his trusty "Hit Record" pin. I'm smitten.

Amanda Seyfried (Alexander McQueen): No stranger to show-stopping ensembles, the Les Miserables starlet was once again a sight for sore eyes. Sartorially speaking, that is. The embroidered dress is insanely classic, yet the keyhole offers the tiniest dash of sultry vixen. Not to mention Seyfried also nailed this look on the beauty front-- the dainty makeup and polished updo is everything. 

Octavia Spencer (Tadashi Shoji): The Help actress is absolutely radiant. The angelic  hue is perfectly combined with the heavenly asymmetrical shoulder. Perfectly paired with a feminine pink lip and uber glam earrings, Spencer was a sartorial force to be reckoned with.

Zoe Saldana (Alexis Mabille): Seriously, can this style savant do any wrong?  Though the dress lacks  cohesiveness-- the appliqued bodice is unconventionally paired with the multicolored hemline-- Saldana polishes this look with standard dangling earrings, fresh makeup and "fuss-free" locks. What I love about The Words star is that she always tries something new. A new texture, color or silhouette--we're never bored!

Amy Adams (Oscar de la Renta): The magic of Oscar claims yet another starlet-- Oscar de la Renta, that is.  From the innocent color palette to brilliantly executed tulle skirt, this look is nothing short of heavenly.While a darker hue would create a stunning contrast with Adams's light skin, I kind of love how the pale dress looks on the actress. Fabulous.  Thankfully, Adams paired the extravagant ensemble with a sleek updo and minimal jewels.

Eddie Redmayne (Alexander McQueen): Fashion girls everywhere are probably wishing that their future husband is Eddie Redmayne (or some sort of variation of the Les Miserables actor). While his good looks are sure to make anyone with a pulse swoon, it's his keen eye for style that has me imaging our very chic lives together (sorry Joseph Gordon Levitt, it's nothing personal). Not only is his tuxedo perfectly fitted, he is also wearing smoking loafers. Smoking loafers to the Oscars? It's crazy, but it totally works.  Be still my heart.

Charlize Theron (Dior): Though we all tend to roll our eyes at Theron's "J'adore Dior" commercial, I must say that the red carpet fixture and the fashion powerhouse create an unstoppable duo. The angelic hue and the sleek silhouette screams minimalism, but the peplum adds the perfect amount of glamour. Speaking of glamour, how much do you adore those glistening cuffs? Amaze. Though I wish her makeup was more dramatic, I must say that she's rocking the boyish haircut.

xx

The Style Files: Boy You Never Had Much Game

As much as I love teeny pop beats, I really do hate this song. Also, those grunts are pretty scary. However, I must admit this jam is trendy. Do me a favor: listen to this song and let me know if you can get it of your head. I personally cannot. Give me  a week and I'll probably be addicted.

Style Spiration: Jackie O

This weekend, I fostered a mild obsession for the Kennedy family. Not only was Jackie O a strong individual, but everyone is enamored with her style. To put it bluntly, she paved the way for 60's style. It's about time I give her the praise she deserves, don't you think? 

I'm obsessed with the monochromatic jacket and pants. So chic and still relevant! (Photo Cred)

Our girl knew how to accessorize. The camel wrap jacket acts as the perfect base for all these wonderful add-ons. Logistically, she's sporting a lot of accessories; however, they are not over-whelming because she keeps it all in the same color family. Ergo, the jewel-tone earrings are the perfect burst of color. (Photo Cred)

Perfection. The tailoring is genius, the gloves and pearls exude a regal touch, and that bow gives this ensemble a dash of femininity without looking like a doll. (Photo Cred)

I love when people wear leopard. This goes beyond the fact that I too enjoy a nice ferocious print. In my mind, people wear leopard to get noticed: they're confident and aren't afraid of criticism. Sometimes leopard can look a little...trashy. But leave it to Jackie to give us something fiercely polished.(Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Dakota Fanning at the American Film Institute (Gucci): Remember when Dakota Fanning was only 8 years old? You know, when she starred alongside Brittany Murphy in Uptown Girls. It's crazy to think that this former child star is just as relevant, not to mention super stylish, today. Everything about coral number is perfect: the subtle two-tone combination, the classic silhouette, the punchy black belt, and the modest V-neck work to create a cohesive look. This ensemble marks a perfect transition from Fanning's childhood style to a mature future. The simple accessories, hair, and makeup subdue the shocking coral.
• Zoe Saldana at the CFDA Awards (Prabal Gurung): Let's be honest: anything that brings Zoe Saldana and Prabal Gurung together is automatically deemed brilliant. The super sleek hair as well as the "notice me" sheer accents create a sultry chic ensemble. Additionally, I can never resist a long-sleeved dress!
• Fergie at the amFAR Inspiration Gala (Calvin Klein Collection): Do you remember that last time we saw Fergie look this classy? I sure don't! From her old Hollywood ringlets to the way her stylist assembled the black, proliferated dress, Fergie looks like a class act. Fergie finishes off this look with demure pumps and effortless makeup. Though she's dressing for the event, Fergie is looking more modest than usual. I must say it works for her! 

xx