Thursday, 18 February 2016

Trending: Alekka, Your Virtual Dose of Wanderlust

The winter weather is all fun and games until you slip on some black ice and tumble face first into a massive pile of yellow-tinged snow. Gross. Understandably, the next thought that crosses your mind is, "When can I take a vacation?" While jet setting of to Mykonos or the Maldives would be ideal, there are so many things holding you back: fares, your shrinking number of PTO days and that less-than-perfect bikini bod.  But instead of spending the chilly season completely miserable, why not invest in a few stylish, travel-inspired pieces? Not only is retail therapy the answer to (almost) every life woe, picking up a few pieces is cheaper than a roundtrip hotel. Enter Alekka, the travel-inspired e-commerce site that boasts emerging brands, industry favorites and unique pieces crafted by worldly artisans. Regardless of their origins, the carefully curated batch is geared to satisfy your wanderlust.

Alekka by Nico Guilis

And, for your viewing pleasure, Alekka recently teamed up with photographer Nico Guilis of Find Your California for a lookbook that promotes new pieces available on the site and captures both titles' aesthetic: the cool, ethereal (yet slightly edgy) jetsetter everyone secretly wants to be. If you're not already sold on shopping Alekka, feast your eyes on these four Trendologist-approved picks.

Looking for an extra pretty set of earrings to cure your winter blues? These stamped brass and hand enamel ones, which are from Spain, will look stunning with a navy tea-length dress or jeans and a T-shirt. Barcelona Enamel Earrings, $80, alekka.com.

Handmade and painted in Crete, Greece, this printed tray is the perfect catch-all tray for your vanity table or desk. Plus, it'll give your home an offbeat, bazaar vibe. Medium Grecian Jewelry Bowl, $48, alekka.com.


Whether you pair it with a neutral ensemble or power-clash with other vibrant prints, this airy scarf -- which was made in India but found in Ibiza -- is bound to make a statement. Vintage Scarf, $125, alekka.com.


If prints aren't your style jam, the website offers sleek edgy options, too. For example, this 14K gold ring was made in New York and offers an urban, cool girl flair. Mirlo Thorn Ring, $495, alekka.com.

Like what you see? Enjoy 15 percent off any order with the code 15foryou.

xx

Tuesday, 16 February 2016

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
xx

Friday, 12 February 2016

A Fashion Girl's Guide to Dressing for Valentine's Day

Once upon a time, sometime when you were in elementary school, Valentine's Day used to include distributing kitschy cards to everyone in your class and overloading on pink and red garb. If you were really lucky, Sweetheart candies were thrown into the mix. Now, it's a little different. The only person you receive a Valentine from is your mother, significant other or bitter single best friend. And unless you're starring in a Hallmark Channel movie, you wouldn't be caught dead wearing those standard hues on the big day. But rest assured, dear reader: there is a way to look festive and deniably fashion-forward. Regardless of your relationship status, check out these pieces that will up the ante of your Valentine's Day ensemble.


Event #1 : Sexy Date Night

Although a romantic dinner wtih your partner may sound cliché, consider February 14 the perfect excuse to go to that swanky restaurant you've been dying to try. But just because your plans veer towards basic territory doesn't mean your outfit needs to. Stay far away from that crimson bodycon dress and update your date night look with an airy silhouette that still shows just the right amount of skin. This lace-trimmed pick from Vetements teeters between edgy and romantic, plus your partner is going to love that plunging neckline. A strappy sandal would be a perfect addition, but let's not forget it's February. And in February -- especially this weekend for those Northeasterners -- it's going to be epcially cold. So, as a pretty great plan B, opt for a pair of thigh-high boots and a duster coat: the mix of clashing lengths will add an extra oomph to this outfit. A funky crossbody -- like this one from Rochas -- and a sweep of a smokey eye will have your beau totally smitten.


Vetements Dress, $1,215, matchesfashion.com

Rochas Bag, $879.50, farfetch.com


Gianvito Rossi Over-the-Knee Boots, $1,675, net-a-porter.com
Takashi Duster Coat, $330, topshop.com
Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette, $54, sephora.com

Event #2: Single Ladies Dinner

Who needs a man when you have your squad of fabulous single ladies? Exactly. A girl's night out is the perfect way to stop sulking about that Tinder date gone so, so wrong, not to mention you can wear exactly what you what without fearing that a guy won't find your crazy clothes sexy. So why not completely push the envelope almost to the point of no return? Who knows -- you may very well be in a relationship next year and your risky threads will not fly. COS's silky jumpsuit screams "independent woman" (without looking too flashy) and will look great with a pair of ladylike pumps. Sure, a onesies and BB pumps are fun, but why don't you really make a statement with a fun (faux) fur coat? A neutral pick is always classic, but a colorful one from British brand Shrimps is cheeky enough for your ladies' night. In order to tie in the classic with the zany, opt for a neutral-hued clutch that's a little bit of both (just like this one from Charlotte Olympia) On the beauty front, add a red lip: it'll give your ensemble a subtly festive kick and, since you're most likley in a smooch-free zone, you won't have to worry about getting it all over your dinner guests.

Silk Jumpsuit, on sale for $90, cosstores.com
Manolo Blahnik Suede BB Pumps, $595, barneys.com

Kylie Coat, approximately $826, shrimps.co.uk
Charlottle Olympia Clutch, $1,165, net-a-porter.com


Matte Revolution Lipstick in 'Walk of Shame,' $32, charlottetilbury.com


Event #3: Cozy Night in with Your Beau

Hitting up the hottest restaurants and bars is tempting; however, there's nothing quite like "Netflix and chilling" with your significant other. But let's not forget that it's still Valentine's Day, which means that styling an outfit from your expansive collection of sweats is a no-go. The key to sporting an ensemble that's casual enough for your man (but fashion-forward enough for you) is adding jeans. Paired with culottes, this subtle tie-neck blouse from Mango  (which is a light enough shade of pink to look style saavy than festive) would is man-averse. But with a pair of relaxed boyfriend jeans? It's cool, unassuming and definitely boy toy-approved. And these vintage Levi's are especially great because they offer that "borrowed from the boys" flair without adding an imaginary bulk to your frame. Since you'll most likely be strolling around in a pair of socks -- or even barefoot -- be sure to accessorize with a few stacked rings to keep this look fashion girl-friendly. And let's not forget that it's Valentine's Day. If you're hanging around the house with your partner, a seductive pair of bra and panties is a necessity. This mesh set from Cosabella is the cool girl's take on lacy lingerie, plus it will slip nicely under your ensemble.


http://shop.mango.com/US/p0/women/clothing/shirts/tie-neck-blouse/?id=51039065_84&n=1&s=prendas.blusas&ident=0__0_1455298270396&ts=1455298270396&p=76&page=5
Tie-Neck Blouse, on sale for $29.99, mango.com
Vintage Levi Boyfriend Jeans, $150, theline.com


http://www.catbirdnyc.com/collections/stacking-rings/mignon-memory-ring-yellow-gold.html
Mignon Memory Ring, $48 each, catbirdnyc.com


Cosabella Soire Mesh Underwired Bra, $65 (matching briefs for $25), net-a-porter.com

Event #4: Cozy Night in with Yourself

Regardless of your relationship status, we can all agree that Valentine's Day tends to pack on unnecessary pressure. Some people love it, others hate it. If you find yourself rolling your eyes with each bouquet of roses you see on February 14, it wouldn't be that shocking if your plans were chilling in your jammies and catching up on The People v. OJ Simpson. Because, after all, your priorities are clearly in check. Instead of throwing on your ratty college sweats, try your luck with some luxe loungewear. Trust us, you'll need something to enjoy when you're scrolling through dozens of nauseatingly romantic Instagrams. Between the ladylike pattern and silk-satin blend, this pair of jammies from Olivia von Halle has glamour written all over it. Sticker shock aside, be honest: you've been longing for a pretty pair of hostess pajamas. Paired with some slick metallic slippers? Sartorial bliss.  Hiding from the sappiness parade that is Valentine's Day doesn't require fancy gems or a killer purse, but you may find it useful to invest in some beauty extras. This Origins charcoal mask enchances your complexion, plus it's the perfect sidekick for some much-needed "me time." And, when you're ready to hit the hay, a silky eye mask will ensure you end Valentine's Day in style.

Olivia von Halle Silk-Satin Pajamas, $525, net-a-porter.com
Patricia Green Coco Slippers, $109.95, nordstrom.com

Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask, $25, birchbox.com

Slip Silk Eye Mask, $40, net-a-porter.com


What will you be wearing on Valentine's Day? Sound off below.
xx

Tuesday, 2 February 2016

Red Carpet Review: 5 Best Looks from the 2016 SAG Awards

With only 20-something years under its belt, the Screen Actor Guild (or SAG) Awards have a reputation for being the most ho-hum awards show of them all. The ceremony doesn't even begin to discuss the behind the scenes efforts of each highly-acclaimed movie, plus it's on TBS -- and this year, it aired on a Saturday night. While the event itself was one merry after school special -- cheers, Queen Latifah and Uzo Aduba for you motivational acceptance speeches -- the red carpet was far from flat. From jumpsuits, to sultry beadwork to even a frock from Alessandro Michele's reinvented Gucci,  there was a decent dosage of fashion moments. Here, we break down the five best looks from Saturday's 2016 SAG Awards.


Brie Larson in Atelier Versace: Can we say "shipwrecked chic?" While the sailor knots, high slit and tied waistline on this gown easily resemble deteriorating Greek goddess garb, the look was actually cool and event-appropriate. As a major frontrunner in this year's Oscar race, it would be too frilly to sport a full-skirted gown. Instead, this look was youthful, fun and solidifies her position as the season's resident fashion girl. And for that obviously necessary cool girl flair that bright orange back strap -- not pictured-- adds a jolt of energy to her look. Paired with a neatly parted bun and drop earrings, the final results looked more Hollywood starlet than Kylie Jenner territory. 
Kiernan Shipka in Erdem: What were you doing when you were 16 years-old? Studying up for your driver's test? Or maybe you were going ga-ga for that senior... you know, the all-star lacrosse golden boy who wasn't even aware of your existence? But regardless, you most likely weren't already a red carpet darling like this Mad Men star. In award seasons of yore, Shipka has been noted for wearing girly tea-length frocks; however, the stylish teen upped the ante on Saturday with this gown by British designer Erdem. Between the floor-length hemline and the gloomy color palette, this was more adult than her previous looks without sacrificing her youthful aesthetic. Plus, a thin chain shoulder bag instead of a clutch? That has cool girl written all over it. 
Kristen Wiig in Roland Mouret: Once upon a time, the red carpet was strictly filled with debutante-worthy, full-skirted gowns in girly pastels. But now? We are (on occasion) graced with slimmer silhouettes or, if we're really lucky, an offbeat pantsuit. Rejoice, dear reader: the evening's jumpsuit kudos belonged to this former Saturday Night Live star. Without sounding completely stereotypical, and suggesting that funny woman can't be stylish, it's rare to see many of them drift away from the confines of a column dress. A quirky asymmetrical design, this partially embellished outfit fits the Bridesmaid star like a glove: it covered Wiig in all the right places and those pants were cropped to perfection. And, for a finishing touch, the ensemble was accessorized with chunky, rock-n-roll gems.
Rooney Mara in Valentino: In the world of red carpet glamour, consider Rooney Mara the quiet, goth girl that everyone (not-so) secretly wants to be. This plush Valentino dress completely embraces that high school-esque stereotype. "What's so great about this?" you're probably thinking right about now. "Haven't we all seen a black dress with a plunging neck?" You're right. In theory, this isn't anything special; however, this number fits Mara's almost ballerina-like stature perfectly and though minimal accessories with such a plain dress can be risky, it actually works here. And, on the beauty front, that slick ponytail is perfect for such a sexy silhouette.

Claire Danes in Stella McCartney: During her reign in Homeland, the award winning actress has made fashion risks a plenty: army-inspired Marc Jacobs, tactile Valentino and Miuccia Prada's paillette overload. In a turn of events, Danes opted for a simple, blue number from Stella McCartney on Saturday. Is anything about this look that's reinventing the wheel? Not particularly; however, the two-toned element creates an illusion of a trim (yet athletic) frame. Though a less costumey bracelet would've modernized this number, the long waves breathed some life into her otherwise unassumingly stylish getup.
 

Which looks from the 2016 Screen Actors Guild Awards did you love? Sound off below

Photos courtesy of Glamour.com and UsMagazine.com

xx

Monday, 18 January 2016

5 Best Dressed from the 2016 Critics Choice Awards

With the Golden Globes, SAGs, Grammys and Academy Awards in a one and a half month span, it's easy for the Critics Choice Awards to fall under the radar. But, between Jacob Tremblay's adorable acceptance speech for his "Best Young Actor" win to T.J. Miller's opening monologue with dancing critic puppets, last night's ceremony was not to be missed. And in an unforeseen turn of events, the fashion wasn't half bad either -- or at least better than this year's Golden Globes. Read on for the five best looks from the 2016 Critics Choice Awards.

Alicia Vikander in Mary Katrantzou: With several magazine covers, award nominations and best dressed nods, it's no secret that Vikander is Hollywood's new it girl. Fortunately, the Ex-Machina and The Danish Girl star did not disappoint. This look is equal parts sophisticated and spunky: the modest silhouette and high neckline is juxtaposed with a very quirky pattern that has London designer Mary Katrantzou's name all over it. The minimal accessories and coiffed updo allowed this dress to be celebrated instead of turning into an inevitable victim of over-styling. And, as an ideal finishing touch, a soft rose pout subtly picks up the red in the pattern.
Kirsten Dunst in Chanel Haute Couture: Whether you're an Amazonian model or a mere mortal, tiered dresses tend to be dicey: simply one extra tier or superfluous fabric can have anyone looking like a '90s Barbie birthday cake or cartoon princess. But here, dressed in Chanel Haute Couture, Dunst found a happy medium. Not only are the sparse tiers thick enough to fall into an overtly frilly stereotype, they are positioned just right to flatter her figure. Truth be told, if the middle tier were placed any lower, she would've looked especially hippy instead of blessed with a subtle pear-shape. And with that much sparkle, this ivory dress was smartly accessorized with a dainty bracelet and ladylike satin shoes. Plus, the red lip paired with the dress's neutral shade gave this cool look a classic, old Hollywood twist.
Rachel McAdams in Elie Saab: As talented as the French designer is, it's easy to think that he's a bit of a one note. After all, how many sparkly, full-skirt frocks can you see by the same designer before it becomes redundant? This slim, see-through number is singing a completely different tune. And who better to wear such an edgy, youthful, yet still polished, getup than McAdams? From the lack of accessories, to the wavy lob to the striking berry lip, the whole look was executed immaculately. Just a week ago, McAdams was cascading down the Golden Globes red carpet in a ho-hum, floral frock by Lanvin, that suggested she's way older than 37 years-old. Both age and event appropriate, the former Regina George makes us all idolize her once again.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Saint Laurent by Hedi Slimane: She's one of those people who could wear a burlap sack -- or bed sheet as she seemingly did in Mad Max: Fury Road -- and have all onlookers green with envy. But, in such a cool dress as this Saint Laurent number, she's an automatic best dressed. What makes this look so cool is the unconventional neckline. Sure, everyone ooohs and aaahs at a symmetrical, plunging v-neck, but there's something so refreshing about this uneven dip. And combined with the high-slit, spaghetti straps and bare back, this dress totally pays homage to the '90s supers. Obsessed.
Krysten Ritter in Zuhair Murad: Breaking Bad, Don't Trust the B**** in Apartment 23, and Jessica Jones. Let's face it: Ritter is more known for her ability to transform into a slew of different characters than her red carpet style. But a vision in a maroon Zuhair Murad gown, this instance is definitely worth mentioning. It's easy for any awards show getup to have some major sparkle overload, but this dress only boasts sparkles right around the torso, making the eye go directly to Ritter's narrow waist. Not to mention the proper, pleated skirt was balanced with a sultry deep block neckline, providing an ideal mix of sultry and sophisticated.  To keep the outfit cohesive, the silver earrings and clutch highlighted the dress' sparkle.
Which looks did you love from last night's event? Sound of below
Photos courtesy of Huffington Post and Lainey Gossip

xx

Thursday, 14 January 2016

Red Carpet Review: 2016 Golden Globes

The Golden Globes mean a lot of different things for different people. For the awards-obsessed, it's kicking off the most wonderful time of the year. Those who scour through TMZ on an hourly basis light up whenever they see a winner or presenter who has had a few too many drinks before hitting the podium. And for the fashion flock? The dawn of countless water cooler chats and keeping score of some seriously chic red carpet moments. Overall, this year's slew of looks fell flat. While it's easy to blame the lack of options -- Spring Couture 2016 and Autumn Ready-to-Wear 2016 are weeks away -- we can't  help but think of the mindblowing Golden Globe getups from Lupita Nyong'o and Emma Stone of years past. As always, however, there a healthy mixture of the good, the bad, and Cate Blanchett's borderline-costumey Givenchy dress. Missed the red carpet? Read on for all the best (and worst) moments from the 2016 Golden Globes.

The Worst

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy"She can do no wrong," any avid fashion follower has probably told themself (and anyone else who would listen) about Cate Blanchett's forever exciting sartorial choices. On Sunday, we were proven wrong. Sure, budoir is a macrotrend for the impending spring season. Sure, nobody captures the trend better than Givenchy's Ricardo Tisci. But something about this look instigated more cringes than coos for Team Trendologist. Not only did the color read cheap on camera, the heavy dose of fringe veered into costume territory, which is a big no especially for an event as mainstream as the Globes. Perhaps it would've been more event-appropriate in a sultry black or even a better match for the CFDA Awards of Met Gala this summer, but it was a miss here. 
Malin Akerman in Reem Acra: In the runway world, peplum (like any trend) has its series of ups and downs. But on the red carpet? It's a timeless way to give any basic column dress a jolt of energy. And thanks to the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Michelle Williams, the unofficial guide to wearing peplums to an awards show was born. Rule number one? No floppy fabric. Malin Akerman, we're looking at you. While a completely sturdy peplum has the power to create an illusion of a thinner waist -- and land she who sports it on the best dressed list -- a more malleable iteration does the exact opposite. Not only did it look like a sloppy last-minute addition to an otherwise beautifully boring dress, it also looked like she was hiding some extra, unwanted holiday pounds. On the bright side, the soft hue and embroidery work were gorgeous.
America Ferrera in Jenny Packham: While her bit with Telenova star Eva Longoria during the ceremony arguably stole the show, her look wasn't something to applaud. The good news is that the funnywoman looks wonderful in yellow, not to mention that silhouette is extremely flattering on her. The bad news? The rows and rows of crystals. Yes, award shows are supposed to be fun, glitzy and glamorous, but the embellishments felt more reminsicent of a theater kid's dance recital costume circa 1993 or some toned down BeDazzler work. With her slicked-back do, a pair of statement earrings (and no crystals on the dress) would've been a better choice for the Superstore actress.
Jennifer Lawrence in Dior: Another year, another Dior moment brought to you by Team J.Law. But unlike her other partnerships with the French fashion house, this ensemble felt extremely contrived. Alone, and with sweeping beachy waves, this Dior gown could've looked modern and sexy on Hollywood's resident sweetheart. But instead, Lawrence looked like a middle-aged pageant mom. It's easy to blame a lot of things for this fail -- the matronly hair and the loud necklace are just two solid examples -- but at the end of the day, it all comes down to over styling. Media outlets of all varieties convince us that the Hunger Games star is the coolest woman in entertainment, so her coolness should shine through with youthful locks and minimal accessories, especially when wearing such a structural gown.
Jane Fonda in Yves Saint Laurent Couture: Ethereal ruffles are having a moment right now, but there's nothing chic about a ruffle overload. From the waist down, the dress fits the 78-year-old actress perfectly. But on top? It looked more like she threw on her grandchild's costume petticoat for fun, because clearly all grandchildren have a teeny petticoats lying around for fun. Not only does it feel extremely clownish, but the look as a whole is unbalanced: so much focus on one half of the body doesn't allow a full, cohesive look. Not that anyone should touch Yves Saint Laurent couture, but even cutting off a layer would make the world's difference.

Regina King in Krikor Jabotian: Where to begin? Shall we talk about the slew of super-sized paillettes that were basically swallowing the American Crime actress whole? Or what about the sheer train that made onlookers wonder if King rushed to the red carpet from a Cirque du Soleil performance? The outdated, 40's-inspired hair? Perhaps we should point out that those shoes, especially combined with the extravagance of this dress, are completely mis-matched. Are you trying to give a thumbs up, Regina? Because the entire look is a major thumbs down.

The Best

Kate Bosworth in Dolce & Gabbana: Attention all future award show presenters: wear something like this. It's an unspoken red carpet rule a presenter should never upstage a nominee, and this glitzy number definitely fit the bill. The column silhouette is extremely frills-free; however, the sequins add a jolt of energy to an otherwise ho-hum shape. And luckily, this Dolce & Gabbana dress set itself apart from the rest of those sheeny column dresses with this fun pink hue. To keep this look polished and mature, Bosworth sported a ladylike chignon and a soft pink pout. 

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton: As the face of Louis Vuitton, it's no surprise that the twice-nominated actress would sport the famed French house to her big night. But instead of donning something straight from the runway, creative director Nicolas Ghesquière created this custom gown that's equal parts feminine and modern. The pinafore-esque bodice and slight pleats pay some serious homage to her role in The Danish Girl, which she scored a nomination for Best Leading Actress, not to mention this is an ideal amount of ruffles, Jane Fonda. But from the subtle sequins to the edgy criss-crossed back, Vikander served up some ultimate cool girl style here.
Kirsten Dunst in Valentino Haute Couture: As a nominee for her role in Fargo, Dunst wowed with a black gown. Wowed with a black gown? "Is that even possible?" you're probably asking yourself. The answer is yes. With a plush texture and boxy, plunging neckline, this dress gave all the other LBDs a run for their money. Not only did this dress fit Dunst like a glove,  it's also perfectly accessorized: the minimal jewels complete the look without competing with the dress's eye-catching bodice. And on the beauty front, the nude lip and updo were both youthful and sophisticated.
Olivia Wilde in Michael Kors Collection: Unlike some of Sunday's other attendees -- here's to you, Alicia Vikander and Cate Blanchett -- Wilde is not your bonafide fashion girl: she always looks good and that's all there is to it. But in this sequined Michael Kors Collection? She was a true vision. First of all the color is amazing: it's more exciting than black, less summery than Amy Adam's tomato red hue and wintry enough without looking drab.  Paired with a matching choker necklace, the plunging neckline created an illusion of an obtuse keyhole, which has "chic" written all over it. And, as for her beauty regime, the sleek middle part added a very cool sense of symmetry.


Which looks did you love from the 2016 Golden Globes? Sound off below!
Images courtesy of Huffington Post
xx

Thursday, 24 December 2015

The Trendologist 2015 Gift Guide: The Foodie

Finding gifts for your nearest and dearest (let alone those frenemies you drew from a Secret Santa picking) is hard. Securing actually stylish presents? Even harder. Welcome to the annual Trendologist Gift Guide, the chicest guide to finding presents for those super niche people in your life.

You may like trying new restaurants and dishes, but the foodie in your life is borderline obsessed with food. She knows the difference between taragon and cayenne, plus she's tried the most abstract cuisine before you've even read about it. Sure, it may be annoying to pause after each bite and analyze all the ingredients in each dish ("I wonder which olive grove these were grown in," she contemplates when you -- and most people-- couldn't care less), but the fact of the matter is that you always eat well with your cuisine connoisseur. Show your gastronome just how much your appreciate her quirky food habits with gifts that will tug at her heart strings -- and taste buds.

The French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook by Mireille Guiliano, about $15: Giving a foodie a cookbook for Christmas isn't very groundbreaking; however, when it comes to tasty tomes, it doesn't get chicer than Mireille Guiliano's "The French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook." From fashion to food, most people aspire to have a typical French woman's je ne nais quoi, and this book allows your recipient to eat like her dream woman (all without gaining some additional pounds). And don't think of this pick as Weight Watchers with a couple ouis  thrown into the mix: this book perfectly blends enjoying food with  keeping that willowy frame. And with everything from chocolate mousse to carbonara inside, this is a book that any foodie will readily support.
Sperlari Italian Gianduja Zanzibar, $6: Forget those Godiva chocolates. Anyone with a sweet tooth will appreciate any mall bought-- or, for that matter, pharmacy-bought chocolates--  but what they really want? A milky dessert that will leave them begging for more. Created in Italy, Gianduja mixes a little bit of chocolate with hazelnuts from the Langhe hills south of Turin. But in non-epicure terms, think of this bar as a more luxurious, solidified version of Nutella, which will instantly be a crowd-pleaser this holiday season. As an added bonus, this will make an excellent stocking stuffing for even the most novice foodies in your life. 
Atom Art Serving Bowl, $24: For any munchie maniac, decorative bowls are the art books for museum rats: there's no such thing as too many, plus they make for an expressive (and extensive) collection. Dishwasher and microwave safe, this feminine bowl from Anthropologie is perfect for both reheating last night's take out order and stowing popcorn for your latest Netflix binge. The silhouette is simple; however, the girly mint green pattern and marigold trim are sure to add some fun to any stodgy shelf, not to mention it's porcelain material will last your recipient may years to come.
Denim Cross-Back Apron, $109: Anyone who is obsessed with all courses from appetizer to desserts is most likely to dabble in the kitchen. If you hear your favorite foodie lament about her cooking woes, gift her this super sleek apron. Inspired by Dutch iterations and hand-sewn in New York, the urban denim take on the apron is perfect for your frills-free giftee, plus its sleekness is way more Michelin Star than Magnolia Cupcakes. And with a criss-cross back, two pockets and a loop for a dish rag, this pick is equal parts practical and stylish.
Tom Dixon Plum Ice Bucket, $209: Some say that food can be art; however, there's no reason why the things you store your most important ingredients in can't also be art. Take this ice bucket from Tom Dixon, for example. Made of mouth-blown glass,  this is a far cry from those dinky ones you find at an all-inclusive resort. Whether in use or capped with the hand-painted copper lid, this piece will become a standout accessory on any bar cart, and double as a piece of unique art when idle. And that, ladies and gents, is a gifting win-win. 


Rifle Paper Co Citrus Recipe Box, $34:   A tell-tale sign of being a major gourmand? Compulsively swapping recipes with fellow foodies. While erasing that "Recipes" note on her smartphone is just one false tap away, giving your recipient a cutesy recipe box is a no brainer. This one from Rifle Paper Co., for example, comes with its own set of recipe cards, which will make it that easier for your giftee to transfer her digital notes to paper. Plus, the funky, retro print and tin exterior offers a vintage vibe to any counter.
A.J Oil Drizzler, $78: This season, tell your favorite foodie to say goodbye to those plastic olive oil containers and hello to a sleeker model. Just like salt and pepper, oil is something your giftee will have in her kitchen at all times. But instead of hiding that generic bottle in the depths of her pantry, this cool pick from A.J will make her want to showcase her oil for all to see.  This minimalist glass shape is frills-free, but the cheery yellow hue will add some much-needed energy to a cooking staple.


Olympia Provisions Salami of the Month Club, $145: The best part about being a self-declared foodie? Having an expert opinion of different types of cuisines and essential foods. While you may be inclined to roll your eyes at those cliched "Fruit of the Month" or "Wine of the Month" clubs, you have to admit that they do help any inspiring foodie become more knowledgable. However, spice it up this holiday season with Olympia Provision's Salami o the Month Club. Each month, members will receive about 4.5 oz of the prized meat along with some tasting notes. As Joey Tribbiani once said, "Here come the meat sweats."

Laguiole en Aubrac Ebony Salad Servers, $398The secret to a chic kitchen isn't just filling your refrigerator and party with the most decadent-- and Instagram-worthy -- ingredients: using stylish wares is another must. A combination of  a stainless steel fork and spoon combination as well as ebony handles, this set from Laguiole en Aubrac requires over 100 steps to manufacture. Translation? You know you're gifting your foodie long-lasting tools. And lucky for you, this set is definitely versatile to blend in nicely with any kitchen. 



What are you getting your favorite foodie this season? Sound off below.

xx