The Style Files: That's Alright, I Found a Martyr in my Bed Tonight

As you probably know by now, I'm obsessed with Fun. Their album, "Some Nights," is literally life-changing. I actually haven't listened to other music all week. Anyway,  one of my favorite songs from this album is "Some Nights." It's essentially an alternative version of The Lion King soundtrack. Yes, it's that intense.

Style Spiration: The Oscars 

In honor of the Oscars- can you believe they're today- I'm dedicating this edition of  Style Spiration to some of my favorite Oscar looks. 

Natalie Portman at the 2009 Oscar Awards (Rodarte):  I can't even deal with how stunning this is. Not only is this dress perfectly executed, the quasi beaded bodice is gorgeous. What makes this look for me is the fabulous makeup. It's not overbearing by any means; however, it's so innovative. Pink lip and purple eyeliner? Fantastic. (Photo Cred)

Mila Kunis at the 2011 Academy Awards (Elie Saab):  This was definitely one of my favorite dresses from last year: the light purple works so well with the delicate lace. The minimal jewels keeps the focus on the dress' gorgeous detailing. Some people had issues with the light lace over her chest, but I think it makes lace look sexy. Translation? It makes the impossible possible. The glamourous hair and the feminine makeup finish this look perfectly. (Photo Cred)

Charlize Theron at the 2005 Academy Awards (John Galliano for Dior):  I'm going crazy over this detailing as well as the color. Nobody ever wears a color like this to the Oscars. This look is so successful because there's a fun play between smooth pieces and textured pieces. Her simple clutch acts as a neutral and balances the dress' ruffles and her super-intense hair. (Photo Cred)

 Michelle Williams at the 2006 Oscars (Vera Wang): Her stylist aced this look from head to toe, William's ensemble is daring and Oscar-appropriate. First of all, I love the yellow because it's so bold. And mixed with that red lip? Forget about it! The detailled neckline, the draped waist, and that fantastic train add so much style to a simple silhouette. Though I think this look would be perfectly fine without the necklace, it adds that dash of personal style. Also the low side bun? To die for.(Photo Cred) 

Nicole Kidman at the 2007 Oscars (Balenciaga): This is the definition of red carpet glamour. The simple silhouette plus that avant garde bow? Stunning. Also, that red is such show-stopper. To add an extra dash of glamour, Kidman piles on the sparkly jewels. Though that may seem like a fashion faux pas, her straight hair neutralizes the flashy bracelets.(Photo Cred)

Cate Blanchett at the 2011 Oscars (Givenchy): Serious question: can Cate Blanchett do any wrong? This dress isn't just stylish, it's a piece of art. I'm still going crazy over all of the intricate detailing. And that random dash of yellow? To die for. Thankfully, Blanchett's stylist knew to keep the rest of this look minimal. Her sleek hair, natural makeup, and dainty jewels make this look heaven on the red carpet. (Photo Cred)

All of Anne Hathaway's Looks from the 2011 Academy Awards: As always, Rachel Zoe managed to hit this red carpet round-up out of the park. From her adorable Lanvin suit during the ceremony to her uber luxe Valentino number on the red carpet, each of Anne's look are chic, extremely innovative, and super glamourous.  (Photo Cred)

Marilyn Monroe at the 1951 Oscars: Classic beauty that speaks for itself. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Emma Stone at the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon (Elie Saab): This look is so classic and youthful at the same time. The silhouette screams girly and the detailing is beyond fabulous. To keep this look cohesive, Stone's wavy hair and pink lip adds even more femininity. The nude shoes elongate the leg and keeps the focus on the gorgeous dress. 
• Michelle Williams at the Mulberry Dinner (Mulberry): Sultry versus sweet! I love the play between the leather and lace. And the silhouette? Fantastic.  Keeping this look monochromatic allows us to focus on the fabulous details. The pretty pink lip gives an appropriate splash of color. 
• Kate Beckinsale at the Costume Designer's Guild Awards (Vivienne Westwood): Only Kate Beckinsale can make a Vivienne Westwood dress mainstream and super glamourous. The draping plus the dramatic neckline is too good to be true. I also am obsessed with this light grey because it's both versatile and innovative. The statement earrings and the super glam hair keeps the focus on that fabulous neckline. J'adore.

xx

The Style Files: 'Cause You Moved to West LA, New York, or Santa Fe

I really do love Train. This band's music is always really epic or just super fun. Their latest song, Drive By, is really upbeat and always makes me want to bop.

Style Spiration: The Olsen Twins

Ever since my beyond amazing New York Fashion Week experience this season- more on in an upcoming blog post- I've become obsessed with the Olsen Twins. They exude innovation and style, which I admire so much. Also, they've really transformed from boho chic into sharp dressers; yet, they still maintain their own personal style. It's a very complex formula, but they always perfect it. I find it incredible that they've evolved from being those cute kids on Full House to true staples in the industry. 

At the debut of their Hollywood Star: Although they're notorious for dressing "granny chic" (who isn't every now and then?), I think that both Mary Kate and  Ashley have a knack for dressing age appropriate whilst looking undeniably chic. Let's look at Ashley's outfit (is that Ashley? I couldn't tell you) as an example, shall we? That purple haltered dress screams fun-loving. Pairing the dress with the uber luxe dangling earrings? So fabulous and dresses this look up. This already awesome look is finished up with that navy heel. So fashion forward.(Photo Cred)

At Spring 2012 RTW in New York: Usually, wearing sunglasses during a show is so silly...unless you're Anna Wintour. Even still, it's a little silly. Regardless,  this dolled up duo pulled off this look in a way that didn't bother me. The monochromatic look is still fun because they both mix strong separates that stay true to their personal style.  The light lip and wavy hair makes this look fresh and not snobby. (Photo Cred)

In Chanel: What I love about Mary Kate and Ashley's style is how they both dress as individuals; however, their looks are always cohesive with the other's. These two ensembles are so different, but they complement each other instead of clash. The disheveled hair ties the two looks together. I should also take this time to mention that I'm mildly obsessed with that black Chanel dress.   (Photo Cred)

Mary Kate in Christian Lacroix(Photo Cred)

Ashley in The Row(Photo Cred)

Their looks from the 2009 Met Ball perfectly portrays their fashion success. They both know to have fun with fashion and pick beautiful pieces. The simplicity of Ashley's white dress complements all of the fripperies in Mary Kate's Lacroix dress. Also, Ashley's earrings as well as the silver back chain works well with the silver Lacroix. Perfection.

The Weekly

• Dakokta Fanning at Proenza Schouler AW 2012 (Proenza Schouler): This look is revolutionary for Dakota Fanning: it really shows us that she's a woman and a force to be reckoned with. The sharp construction of this sheath dress is super powerful, while the bright florals makes it not as threatening. The chunky black shoes work so well with the solid black sleeves. But the slightly undone hair shows us that she's still willing to have fun with her fashion choices.
• Jennifer Aniston at the Wanderlust premiere in LA (Tom Ford): This is such a crucial fashion moment for Jennifer Aniston. She always wears the same sexy, short dress so this was a huge change. Leather trim? Peplum?  Chevron? Incredible. She keeps this standout piece simple by rocking black shoes and straight hair. A major improvement.
• Blake Lively at the Noon by Noor Presentation (Noor): Blake Lively's been all about clean and fashion-forward silhouettes lately. I kind of love it. The innovation of a tuxedo dress works perfectly with the crisp black and white color combination. The pink lip gives an appropriate amount of color, while the metallic shoe makes this look funky and shows off her personal style.
• Lea Seydoux at the Berlin Film Festival (Elie Saab): I think sometimes people don't take me seriously when I say that a look took my breath away. But I am serious, for the record. Exhibit A? This dress. Everything about this look is so reminiscent about the 1970's and Cher. The long hair? The long sleeves? The dramatic, yet ethereal lace? The gold hoops? Perfectly simple and beautifully styled. 

xx

The 2012 Grammys

I just have one thing to say in regards to the 2012 Grammy Awards:

ADELE

I'm so incredibly happy that she won SIX- count 'em ,SIX- awards. She's such a musical gem and I couldn't be happier. But Bruno Mars' performance was also super cute: 

Surprisingly enough, I was so please with most of the looks from this red carpet. Sure, there were some mishaps; however, most starlets were looking chic and funky.

THE WORST 

• Nicki Minaj (Versace): You know  you crossed the line when Lady Gaga's dressed more sane that you are. Nicki, my dear: what were you thinking? This is so offensive and her skit was really disturbing. Usually, I like twisted things- like my  crime dramas-but this went a little too far. Calm Roman down, Sweetheart! 
• Katy Perry (Elie Saab): I'm so disappointed. Elie Saab's couture collection was so phenomenal; however, this dress was ruined by Katy Perry's makeup. Maybe I'm crazy, but blue hair,  a magenta lip, and orange skin just doesn't work with Elie Saab. This is dreadful.
• Anne Vyalitsyna (Undetermined): Can we say trashy? It looks like her dress was caught in the limo door. Seriously, I don't care how fabulous  your body is: this is just inappropriate. That's all. 
• Fergie (Jean Paul Gaultier): I love the concept of this Jean Paul  Gaultier couture dress; however, black undies? Wrong. Black undergarments may have been okay for the runway, that's just wrong on the red carpet. She should've either worn nude undergarments or lined the dress. This is just trashy.

THE BEST 

• Adele (Armani): If you haven't realized how much I love Adele, there's an issue. I cannot get over how adorable she is and this outfit is to die for. I love a long sleeve and this three quarters length is both sophisticated and sexy, especially with the length of the dress. The simplistic silhouette is super flattering and I love the dose of sparkle. Also, the shorter hair and red lip? Not getting over this anytime soon. 
• Carrie Underwood (Gomez-Garcia): My favorite Carrie Underwood look ever, hands down. Not only is this dress super detailled, but the sexy back? Forget about it! The crisp white is phenomenal with the super glam hair. Also, the minimal jewels is perfect for this: all she needs is a stunning pair of earrings. 
• Paris Hilton (Basil Soda): Okay, the days of "That's Hot" may be long gone; however, this is definitely Paris Hilton's fashion peak. This Basil Soda dress is incredible on her and makes her look- dare I say it- chic. I love the gold and white combination and the print is strategically placed.  Although the belt is arbitrarily placed -lower done would've been better- I love how it makes this dress funkier. Her understated hair and makeup is the perfect way to finish this outfit. 
• Bruno Mars (Thom Browne): I go crazy for Bruno's retro style. From his pants' hem, to his funky hair, to his amazing sunglasses, Bruno always makes me swoon. What's so awesome about his style is that he has his own vision and always sticks to it. 
• John Legend and Chrissy Teigen (Undetermined): Can we say best looking couple of the night (although my roommate and him would be a much better couple, just saying)?  He looks incredible with that skinny tie and Chrissy's dress is too amazing for words.  Long sleeves and a high slit? The perfect mix of sexuality and sophistication. 
• Jessie J (Julien Macdonald): Honestly, this is the perfect dress for the Grammys. The mirrored effect? The killer silhouette?  The strong ponytail? Rocker chic done so right. The black jewels are so perfect: they make this look complete without crossing the line and making her look too metallic. I don't even like Jessie J that much; however, this look is so divine. 
• Rihanna (Armani): I found fashion love in a hopeless place a.k.a. the Grammys. This Rihanna-Armani collaboration is so sexy. The plunging neck is perfectly paired with the dainty necklaces. And that high silt? Out of this world. What makes this dress sophisticated is her minimal makeup and fun hair. Just because Chris Brown performed at the Grammys doesn't mean Rihanna has to play victim; instead, she showed him that she's the best thing he never had.
• Taylor Swift (Zuhair Murad):Okay, Taylor Swift fans, don't get too excited: this is probably the only time that I'll compliment her. I'm sorry, but she really bothers me and her performance was too awkward. Aywho, this Zuhair Murad dress is STUNNING.  She is tall and lanky enough to make this dress look sophisticated. The golds do work lovely with her blonde hair. Also, that high bun is the perfect way to make this look clean and sophisticated. Now her performance look? That's a different story...
• Alicia Keys (Alexandre Vauthier): Two words: perfectly styled. Keys truly knows how to turn a LBD into something spectacular. Those mary jane-inspired shoes plus that beyond fierce necklace plus that super edgy hair? AMAZING. If she had worn a more complex dress, all of that would've been too much; however, all of these elements purely spice up the look. Fabulous.
• Corinne Bailey Rae (Christian Siriano): Is it weird that I kind of like this look? The dress is so quirky and Christian Siriano-esque. While it may be a little too pouffy, isn't the Grammys the perfect time for quirky pieces? Her hair is so sick and I love that lip. Fabulous. 
• Kelly Osbourne (Tony Ward): Take note: this is how to do the awkward gray hair trend correctly. This Tony Ward dress is super edgy and youthful, which counteracts her matronly hair. Overall, I love the way this dress looks on her: the silhouette is very flattering  and I love the draping. Sometimes, sequined dresses can appear rather...stiff. This dress, on the other hand, has so much movement. 
• Adam Levine (Undetermined): I love how Adam spiced the typical suit up with color and stripes. Also, he's so sexy, how could I not include him?

xx

The Style Files: Because We are, We are the Shining Stars

Without a doubt, Fun is one of my favorite bands of the moment. I'm so excited for their new album, Some Nights, which comes out in a couple of weeks. They recently released this song on You Tube and I love it.  Oh and another thing, Glee has nothing on Fun. Absolutely nothing.

STYLE SPIRATION: Whitney Houston 

By now, everyone's heard of Whitney Houston's tragic death. While I wasn't alive during her musical height, her legacy and talent is undeniable. Yes, Whitney wasn't famous for her fashion; however, I wanted to open up this section to honoring the great icon. 

How phenomenal does Whitney look?  The flowing A-line skirt plus the big bow screams 1980's.. .and I kind of love it.The tight curls keeps this look refreshing and youthful.  (Photo Cred)

Okay, so this look may be a little bit...outdated; however,  I'm drawn to this like a mouth to a flame. The combination of a saloon-inspired skirt and a diva-licious, sequined top is so divine.  This look could've been terrible, but Whitney's effortless approach to outfit made this incredible. (Photo Cred)

Even in her later years, Whitney could still rock a phenomenal sequined frock. The use of minimal jewels as well as the super glam hair and makeup is inspiring. (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY 

• Olivia Palermo at the Carlo Pazolini Party (Not Determined): Can we even talk about the edginess of this outfit? Love.  The two-toned trousers are absolutely out-of-this-world amazing. I love how Olivia mixed the leather blazer with that metallic sweater. Such a stellar combination. Even though there's a huge array of tones and colors, it's not abrasive. On the contrary, the yellow clutch provides a splash of color. Perfection.
• Solange Knowles at the Runway to Win Launch Party (Vera Wang): Oh my fashion gods, I'm literally so obsessed with this look. It's not even funny. The feminine print plus the use of peplum? Fashgasm. The perfect blend of sexiness and style.And that red lip? Beyond stellar.
• Rose Byrne at Sandro's NYC Boutique Launch (Sandro): Gorgeous. Rose is such a stylish superstar and I love this play with black and nude. The whole look is really subtle and focuses on the craftsmanship of each piece. I  also don't love her bob, so I'm liking this alternative. Fantastic.

xx

It's the Little Things That Count

Don't let the glitz and glamour fool you: being a fashion girl is a trying lifestyle. The constant pressure to look and act fabulous can make you feel like you're sitting at rock bottom. And don't even get me started about fashion week. Pure craziness.  All of these pressures makes it incredibly easy to freak out all of the time about everything.  Sometimes, a fashion girl needs something effortlessly amazing to appreciate. Enter ornate accessories. In my opinion, detailled accessories will never go out of style. The richness and innovation can look super luxe or really edgy, with some hardcore pieces. Lately, I've been snagging some gorgeously detailled pieces that need to be put in the spotlight.

This new bracelet is currently the love of my life. Too far? No. Surprisingly enough, I got this gem from a small store in North Conway. It's super delicate, which means it's perfect for stacking on with other bracelets. On the other hand, the horses are loud enough that they can stand on their own. Versatile and interesting: just what I like! 

Are you dying over this Alexander McQueen scarf? I definitely am! My mom, sister, and I spotted this one at Harrod's and I literally could not resist it. Like a moth to a flame, like a moth to a flame. The print is very different from Alexander McQueen's later work. You know, the one with the skulls? I love how this is different than a lot of the McQueen pieecs I've seen in my day. 

 A loafer's effortless mix of masculinity and versatility has been intriguing me lately. When I went to Topshop and saw these tan loafers,  I felt like I was in shoe heaven. The gold sparks? The perfect way to finish off a loafer. Wearing these with an all-black ensemble is perfection in an outfit. Obsessed. 

Um... are there words to describe these pieces?

I know that dainty pieces can seem a little "matronly" at times, but they don't have to be! . For a youthful look, it's all about dark colors and edgy textures. In a slew of tough apparel, these little trinkets can really make you stop and appreciate the little things in life.
xx

Couture is Haute Again!

I'm literally beaming: this is the first time in a while that  I've been unbelievably pleased with couture. Most of the collections are innovative and the looks are breath-taking. Literally, breath-taking..Consequently,  it makes picking my absolute favorite collections that more difficult.

Christian Dior 

(Photo Cred)

It's official: I now have faith in Bill Gaytten. His previous couture collection almost made me sick to my stomach. While I'm a strong proponent for removing John Galliano after his scandal,  Dior's Couture Fall 2011 left me confused and genuinely upset. Spring 2012, on the other hand, is brilliant. The looks are less..volumized. Even though the silhouettes were not as "in your face" as before, the detailing, structure, and execution of each piece is definitely worth talking about. While these looks are definitely more wearable than your typical avant garde creations,the details really make this collection "couture worthy." The sheer looks bring out old school glamour  with  a hint of sex appeal. And those extravagant evening gowns? They definitely pay homage to Christian Dior himself while adding a modern twist. This collection actually makes me excited to see what else Gaytten has up his sleeve.

Givenchy

(Photo Cred)

I've been a little tired of Givenchy couture lately: for the past few collections, I felt as if  Riccardo Tisci gave us the same beautiful, white, and ethereal dresses. Sure, each dress is gorgeous; however, I was feeling a major case of deja vu.  As a skeptical New Yorker, I love me some black, so the white was a lot for me to take in.  This collection was just what I was looking for: dark colors and edgy detailing to-boot! One thing that I love about Tisci is that he really cares how a couture look appears from any and every angle: he puts just as much- if not, more- effort in the the backs of his creations . In addition to playing with color, Tisci also toyed with different necklines, materials, and silhouettes. The amount of variety Tisci put into this collection is absolutely inspring. Also, I really want Rooney Mara to wear this one.

Elie Saab

(Photo Cred)

Honestly, there's not much Elie Saab does that I hate. I know  I talk a lot about edgy attire; however, I am and will always be a girly girl. With every collection, Saab brings us beautiful silhouettes, feminine colors, and red carpet hits. Couture Spring 2012 strays away from his latest RTW collection by brining us gorgeous pastels. Although some of the colors and concepts are eerily reminiscent of Marc Jacobs' Resort 2012 collection, I don't mind. Mint is all the rage lately, so Saab is right on trend.  One thing that I love about Saab is his ability to perfectly pair details and silhouettes together. For example, he usually designs either a detailled, column dress or a volumized dress that's simpler. Ladies and gent, this is a collection to watch out for: we're going to see a lot of these looks again.

Valentino 

(Photo Cred)

By now, you should know how I feel about long sleeves. If you're new to my oh-so fabulous blog, let me break it down for you: I would wear sleeves all of the time if I could.  So obviously, I loved Valentino's latest couture collection. In this collection, Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri utilize the use of sleeves- thank the fashion gods- and make them stylish. I love the patterns and out-of-this world detailing that accompany the sleeves. This collection radiates delicacy and femininity, which I love. 

Giambattista Valli

(Photo Cred)

I have a borderline inappropriate obsession with Giambattista Valli.  In my humble opinion, couture should be all about wearable art.  Every couture collection, Giambattista goes above and beyond to give us the most beautiful wearable art.  For example, how brilliant is the pink evening gown with that full train? What a fabulous mix between Audrey Hepburn and a modern-day fashionista.  Can we talk about the ruffles on that minimalist jacket?  I don't think so: it's simply too good for words. All of these fantastic details make fashion what it should be: fun. Also, I love how prominent the contrast between black and white is in this collection: it makes the detailing more chic.   Giambattista Valli juxtaposes these phenomenal looks with simplistic silhouettes. I'm casually in love with Giambattista. 

xx

The Style Files: Now and Then I Think of all the Times You Screwed Me Over

When it comes to music, I have a very addictive personality: I'll literally listen to one song for days and mentally direct a really sick music video. This week? Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know." I'm always up for new music, so I was obviously so thrilled when one of my most fabulous friends recommended it to me. This song is a mix of sadness and angst, which I secretly love. Listen to this song and answer me this: does it make you want to cause a scene?

STYLE-SPIRATION: Cry Baby

This week, I decided to do something a little different with my Style Spiration section. Instead of focusing on a celebrity, I'm mixing it up and focusing on a movie. Yesterday afternoon, I watched Cry Baby for the first time and really enjoyed it for three reasons: 1) Johnny Depp is precious. 2) I'm a sucker for musical movies. 3) The clothes were surprisingly inspirational. I loved the mix of edgy biker chic and dainty dresses.  While both styles are stellar on their own, how cool would they look together? Think about it.

Talk about good girl gone bad! I'm obsessed with this dress and how it's styled. Red plus sequins? Out of control. I love the big hair and that red lip? Though some people may disagree , I think a red lip with a red dress is definitely a style do: uber glam. (Photo Cred)

This outfit is everything. I love the corset- inspired top and the leather skirt together. What I really love, which you can't see that well in this picture, is the makeup. Cat eye plus red lip? I'm dying of happiness. (Photo Cred)

Okay, so nix the lollipop and awkward neck scarf.  I love the whole combination of an oversized leather jacket and a pencil skirt. The perfect  mix of polished and edgy. What's cool about this look is that you can totally rock something like this now. Fashion has no time constraints. (Photo Cred)

THE WEEKLY

• Keira Knightley at the Dangerous Method Gala Premiere (Burberry): I'm going crazy over this dress. The subtle key hole is so seductive, especially with that fabulous back. I'm just a sucker for dramatic backs and this one definitely did not disappoint. This maroon is stunning her skin tone and I cannot complain about the beauty. The dark eye plus the light lip? She looks so vampy, but in the best way possible. Amazing.
• Rachel McAdams (Andrew Gn): Rachel McAdams always knows how to do high fashion in the most casual way. That silhouette is phenomenal. Although white's a little unexpected for winter, I love it: breaking rules is what fashion's all about. This look sans jewels is perfection: bracelets or even a necklace would've distracted everyone from the amazing craftsmanship. By now, all of you should know how I feel about a bold lip. So I don't even need to say it. 
• Lana Del Rey at Late Night with David Letterman:I'm obsessed with this look. As you know, I'm such a sucker for a long-sleeved mini and this silhouette gives this look such a feminine twist. Love. And those clunky shoes? Forget about it! Her makeup is a little plain for this look; however, I love her simple hair. Simple, feminine, and chic. 
• Blake Lively at a Godiva Event (Valentino): Literally, can she do any wrong? No, I really don't think she can. I love all of the texture in this outfit!  Keeping the colors light and feminine makes this look so aesthetically pleasing. The lack of jewels in this look is perfect: clean but still super fashion-forward and not boring! Also, the hair and makeup is the perfect thing to finish off this girly look. 

xx