Category: Red Carpet

Met Gala 2018 | Best and Worst Dressed

5/10/2018

I always struggle analyzing and reviewing the Met Costume Gala; it's the ultimate red carpet fashion parade, and there are no real standards of what is or isn't "good" because everything is so over-the-top.

This year's exhibit theme was "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination," which added a level of controversy to the gala. Frustrated Catholics called the fashion parade heretical and claimed the Met was appropriating their culture. This is a hard point to argue, as the Met had support from the Sistine Chapel sacristy and the exhibit was a partnership with The Vatican. The goal of the exhibit was to "examine fashion's ongoing engagement with the devotional practices and traditions of Catholicism," which feels pretty respectful to me.

It also might be mildly hypocritical to complain about a Catholic exhibit being cultural appropriation if you didn't also complain about the "China: Through the Looking Glass" exhibit a few years back.

And it's one thing to be confused or frustrated by the stars attending the gala, but it's another to criticize the exhibit itself, which is STUNNING.

But anyway. You're not here for my analysis of people's objections to the gala, you're here for PRETTY DRESSES. That's what it's all about.

Best Dressed

Blake Lively in Atelier Versace

Wow. Wow. Wow. I just can't stop looking at this. From the headpiece to her hair and makeup to the bodice detail to the sheer panels to the embroidery to the MILE LONG TRAIN. She looks decadent, opulent, and completely on-theme without being obnoxiously over-the-top. This is everything that Met Gala fashion should be.

Rihanna in Maison Margiela

Okay, this might be what the staunch Catholics are questioning, and the hat might be a tad on-the-nose. But one simply can't argue with the craftsmanship that went into this look - the beading is incredible, and if Rihanna had shown up in anything less than this, I think we would have all been disappointed.

Ariana Grande in Vera Wang

This is the best Ariana has ever looked, and you truly can't get any more on-theme than putting the Sistine Chapel on your dress.

Amanda Seyfried in Prada

A lot of influences went into this look - some said it resembled a Renaissance-era Juliet, others said it had notes of Greco-Roman art. Whatever the intentions, the result was effortlessly romantic.

Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton

Emma has partnered with Louis Vuitton many times before and the results are always impeccable. Some thought it leaned a little too far into Michael Jackson territory, but whatever the inspiration Emma looks her best when she pulls out a good menswear look, and this was no exception.

Chadwick Boseman in Versace

Men often struggle with Met Gala fashion - they either just wear a basic tux or they swing too far into left field (i.e. Jared Leto dressing up like Jesus this year.) Chadwick hit all the right marks and is quickly becoming a red carpet favorite.

Lena Waithe in Carolina Herrera

Leave it to Lena to think 'Oh, the theme is Catholicism? I'll wear an LGBT flag as a superhero cape.' I appreciate the fact that she made a strong statement without disparaging anyone else. That's how you do politics on the red carpet.

Who Wore it Better?

Angel Wings
Evan Rachel Wood in Altuzarra and Katy Perry in Versace
Katy's look is fine for the stage, but at the end of the day she looks like a pop star trying to be cool at the Met. Evan's longtime partnership with Altuzarra really shines, and her wings are far more effortless (can we just picture Katy trying to walk through a door with those cumbersome things?)

Armor
Lili Reinhart in H&M and Zendaya in Versace
This is a tie in my book. Zendaya was the perfect Joan of Arc, but Lili's dress portrayed romance and femininity within its strength. Both were styled to perfection and were a unique departure from a sea of gold gowns.

Gold with a Slit
Gabrielle Union in Prabal Gurung and Jasmine Sanders in H&M
Supposedly Gabrielle wore yellow because it's the color of the Vatican flag, but unfortunately she looked like an out-of-place highlighter. Because she added the matchy-matchy shoe and the oddly contrasting silver jewelry, everything about the look was just off. Jasmine's gown, on the other hand, looked like molten metal and the draping was perfection.

Burgundy
Priyanka Chopra in Ralph Lauren and Scarlett Johansson in Marchesa
Scarlett wore Marchesa to stand up for Georgina Chapman in the wake of the Harvey Weinstein scandal, and to make the point that the sins of a man should not effect the career of a woman. I completely agree, and it's a gorgeous dress...for the Oscars. The Met Gala is all about bold statements, and this gown is so pretty and soft that it falls flat. Priyanka's dress is simple but daring, and the color couldn't be any better for her.

Headpieces and Trains
Sarah Jessica Parker in Dolce & Gabanna and Cardi B in Moschino
Sarah Jessica Parker is the queen of the Met Gala and often takes the theme VERY seriously. This year she went so far as to wear a nativity scene on her head. Even so, because of the shape of her gown, the look wasn't overwhelming and the styling was spot on. Cardi B's look was way too much of a good thing. I like the headpiece, but without the necklace. I like the sleeves, but without the gloves. I like the dress, but without the duvet-cover train. If she was trying to knock off Beyonce's maternity Grammy's look, it just wasn't successful.

Worst Dressed

Liza Koshy

I'm more than supportive of new media entering the high-fashion world, but this just gives YouTubers a bad name. Liza may have only been there as a correspondent, but her outfit looks like she picked it up at the last minute from Forever 21. Definitely not Met Gala worthy.

Frances McDormand

Frances has become everyone's favorite wack-a-do this year. Outlandish is par for the course at the Met Gala, but I simply can't get behind wearing a salad on your head.

Kim Kardashian-West

There were a lot of gold sequins at the gala this year, and they all just felt like a cop-out. Shiny gold doesn't equate to being on-theme, and the the crosses on Kim's gown look like she got iron-on patches from Urban Outfitters and slapped them on as a last-ditch effort.

Doutzen Kroes

This might work for Met Gala Barbie, but pink and purple ombre in real-life doesn't have the same effect.

Selena Gomez

Okay - but is she pregnant?!? If you're trying to hide a pregnancy, putting on a blatantly obvious maternity dress doesn't help much. If you're not pregnant, putting on a blatantly obvious maternity dress doesn't help much.

Tracee Ellis Ross

This look was supposedly "inspired by the robes Catholic priests wear on Laetare (Rejoice) Sunday to mark the joyous half-way point to Easter." That may be true, but it's a loose interpretation at best. They're both pink, but there are no other similarities, and Tracee's look is more Hairspray-esque than anything else.

Jaden Smith

His date is his album. His DATE. Is his ALBUM. And he's wearing sneakers to the Met Gala. NO. Everything about this is very, very wrong.

Photos Courtesy of EOnline and Fashionista.

1 Comment

Oscars 2018 | Best and Worst Dressed

3/5/2018

0 Comments

This year's Academy Awards was filled with powerful messages of standing up for human rights, celebrating our differences, and supporting marginalized groups. The #TimesUp movement promoted wearing bright colors on the red carpet to display the wide array of people affected by injustice. Symbolism aside, there were also a lot of pretty dresses. And really...that's what this is about.

Best Dressed

Greta Gerwig in Rodarte

The second I saw Greta walk out in this, I exclaimed "YELLOW!" There's something about a good yellow dress that just gets me every time. This felt like a throwback to Michelle Williams' 2006 Oscar look, right down to the red lip and the wavy hair. Complete perfection.

Margot Robbie in Chanel

Margot always looks great on the carpet, but this ice-white look was particularly appropriate for her I, Tonya nomination. While I always prefer a nominee's hair to look a little more "done," the rest of her styling brought the ensemble together, and the delicate detail of the top combined with the soft femininity of the skirt was dreamy.

Jennifer Garner in Atelier Versace

Jennifer Garner looks phenomenal in bold colors (remember her orange Valentino in 2004?) and this dress is no exception. Versace gowns can be a little fussy and overdone, but the solid color and flow of the fabric makes this one work. A good asymmetrical neckline never hurt anyone, and I ADORE that she added a pop with a sapphire earring.

Allison Janney in Reem Acra

Normally a sleeve like this would be a massive no-no, but somehow the simplicity of the rest of this gown makes it work. I could hardly believe it was Allison's first time at the Oscars because she carried herself so well throughout the night. A wonderful look and a well-deserved win!

Nicole Kidman in Armani Privé

Nicole Kidman is always a hit-or-miss on the red carpet for me, and this one was a MASSIVE HIT! It takes someone with Nicole's stature to pull off this type of dramatic gown, and everything from her hair to her jewelry was sleek and stunning.

Best Men

Chadwick Boseman

I am rarely okay with non-traditional suits at the Oscars, but this completely changed my mind about them. This is now the ONLY style I want to see from men on the red carpet. I want well-tailored, embellished suits all day, every day. I want everyone to be able to look this cool. #WakandaForever FOR REAL.

Common

Common has always been the best at the "classic with a twist." The charcoal grey suit was one I hadn't seen from him before, and he accessorized well with the lapel pin. He just always looks like a tall glass of water everywhere he goes.

Best Couples

Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon

To start, if you haven't seen The Big Sick you really, really need to. It's a great film, they're a great couple, and while writers often look underwhelming on the red carpet in comparison to the actors, Emily and Kumail really turned it out. Kumail's suit was impeccably tailored, and Emily's dress was whimsical and flirty. They make a great team.

Mira Sorvino in Ramona Keveža and Ashley Judd in Badgley Mischka

While not technically a "couple," Mira and Ashley showing up together was a significant move, as the two were among the first to speak out against Harvey Weinstein this past year and have been at the forefront of the #TimesUp movement. I loved that Mira's gown had subtle purple undertones that complimented the violet of Ashley's dress, and while their gowns were extremely different, they were both feminine and classic.

Who Wore it Better?

Metallic Beading
Gal Godot in Givenchy vs. Jennifer Lawrence in Dior

Both of these ladies were presenters, but one of them looked like, well, a presenter, and the other looked like she was nominated for every award in the book. Gal's beaded fringe Givenchy was one of the best looks of the night, and her glamazon jewelry is worthy of Daisy Gatsby. JLaw's gown looks like a cheap prom dress in comparison, and her hair and makeup was just wrong for the overall look.

Cranberry Suits
Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton vs. Armie Hammer in Armani

We all know I'm not a fan of non-traditional suits on men during the Oscars, and we all know I am a fan of Emma Stone playing with menswear, but in this case the tables are turned for me. Emma's look is way, way too casual for the Oscars, and she has pulled out more formal pants and jumpsuits in previous years that would have suited the event better. I'm all for breaking the glass ceiling, but there is a certain level of decorum at the Oscars that just demands a gown. Armie's suit is luxe, sharp, and suits the formality of the event.

Black and Gold
Lupita Nyong’o in Atelier Versace vs. Sandra Bullock in Louis Vuitton

Sandra's dress isn't terrible, but her styling killed it; wearing her hair down and piling on the eyeshadow makes her look heavy-handed and dark. Lupita, on the other hand, looks like a light, bright, golden goddess. She's a flawless Wakandan queen, and she can do no wrong on the red carpet.

Modest Sleeves
Sally Hawkins in Armani Privé vs. Laurie Metcalf in Christian Siriano

I have grown up watching these two fantastic actresses on the screen, and I was thrilled to see them both nominated. The Shape of Water may have taken the awards, but Laurie was a clear winner on the carpet. Her Siriano gown fit beautifully and her styling was clean and polished. Sally's gown is frumpy and unflattering on her petite frame, and whoever did her hair should be immediately fired.

Pink
Soirse Ronan in Calvin Klein by Appointment vs. Viola Davis in Michael Kors

Viola Davis is hit-or-miss on the carpet, and this was a very, very definite miss. If Barbie was making a doll of Viola, maybe this would be an appropriate look to model, but it was all wrong for the Oscars. The neon color was terribly unflattering, and the cheap jewelry and matchy-matchy bag just made things worse. And her hair. HER HAIR. I'm all for letting your natural hair do what natural hair does, but slicking back the top was a terrible choice. Soirse's look was simple, sweet, and reminded me of Gwynneth Paltrow's infamous 1999 Oscar dress.

Worst Dressed

Adam Rippon

I have followed Adam's skating career since he made is Senior debut. I have loved every minute of his rise to fame and his pinnacle Olympic triumph. But I have two questions:
1. What are you doing at the Oscars?
2. What are you doing at the Oscars wearing a kinky leather harness?
Some fashion accessories are better left in the bedroom, boo.

Timothée Chalamet

I'm not against a white suit in theory. What I'm against is an ivory suit with a white shirt and tie, paired with clunky black boots. I don't care if you're young - do something like this at an event that isn't the Oscars. Or better yet, just don't do something like this.

Rita Moreno

While I give Rita props for still being able to fit into her old Oscar dress (pictured below,) I wish she had kept the top the same. Strapless gowns aren't quite so flattering in your 80s, and throwing on a necklace and above-the-elbow gloves to compensate doesn't quite work. I can throw her a bone for nostalgia, but that's about it.

Salma Hayek

Oh...no. This Gucci gown makes me itchy just looking at it. From the Grecian beaded top to the 80s prom fabric and ruffle-tiered bottom, there isn't a single good thing I can say about this dress. The color isn't even flattering on Salma, and I thought she looked good in every color in the book. Just...no.

Tiffany Haddish

I've been loving all the people of color rocking Wakanda-inspired fashion lately, but there's a certain point where it crosses into bargain-basement costume territory. Tiffany unfortunately crossed that line. I adored that when she presented, she changed into "the dress" that she has worn at multiple award shows and wore to host SNL. She should have worn that dress all the way through instead of bothering with this weird number.

St. Vincent

I don't care if you're a musician and you're only there to perform. If you're invited to the Oscars, you show up in a dress and you work it because that's what the event demands. You do not arrive in a circus leotard. End of story.

Eiza Gonzalez

I'm not a huge fan of halter tops in any context, but in this particular case and in this particular color with these particular side cut-outs, the gown looks like it's trying to be a swimsuit.

Andra Day

Andra is a beautiful woman with a beautiful voice and I respect her talent and her body of work. I do not respect this dress. It looks like a grandmother's bedspread. I cannot. I CANNOT.

Photos courtesy of EOnline, Vogue, and DailyMailCeleb.

0 Comments

Oscars 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

3/4/2017

0 Comments

Best Dressed

Emma Stone in Givenchy

THIS is what you wear to win an Oscar. A vintage throwback look can be difficult to pull off, but this one was a total success. The bead-work throughout the bodice and in the fringe skirt is ridiculous, and the gold tone is just the right shade for Emma’s skin tone. It was the perfect look to match her movie that was all about jazz music, and paired with a soft wave in her hair, she’s set to swish her skirt at a jazz club.

Taraji P. Henson in Alberta Ferretti

This. Is. How. You. Dress. UMPH. From the hair to the necklace to the boobs to the VELVET, this look was flawless from head to toe. My mom would like you to know that she wishes Taraji had added a bracelet. I think she’s nit-picking.

Auli’I Cravalho in Rubin Singer

For a fresh-faced youth to make her debut as the voice actress in an animated film nominee, this was an impressive entrance. I’m all about art-deco inspiration, and this was a great gown both for the Oscars and for her age.

Kirsten Dunst in Dior Haute Couture

We haven’t seen Kirsten on the carpet in a while, and this was a beautiful Grace Kelly moment. She might as well be in Rear Window. And with POCKETS! Sometimes flawless simplicity is the best way to go.

Felicity Jones in Dior

I’m normally anti-short-dresses when it comes to the Oscars, but Felicity was just a presenter, and for a tea-length dress this was a feminine, sweet, and memorable look. She might as well have stepped out of a Degas ballerina painting. So pretty!

Viola Davis in Armani Privé

Wearing red on the red carpet can be difficult, and I’ll fully admit that it was difficult to find a good photo of this gown, but at the end of the day it was a great color on Viola and that’s probably all that matters. The draping and the fit was GORGEOUS, and I always say that when you’re going to win an Oscar, a dress that has a good neckline is key.

Emma Roberts in Vintage Armani Privé

Vintage gowns can be tricky, but this was perfect. 1. Only a woman with no boobs could wear this dress. 2. The vintage hairstyle, like Emma Stone’s, was a stunning throwback to Old Hollywood glamour. 3. She was representing sustainable fashion by wearing a vintage look and not using resources to create a new one, which I can always get behind. A triple threat.

Janelle Monae in Elie Saab

This look took a bit to grow on me, but now I’m fully on board. She’s spent the entire award season wearing super fussy looks and accessorizing WAY too much, and I was thrilled that she stripped it down a bit. I know what you’re thinking – this is stripped down? Yes. Look at her SAG and Globes looks. This was a crazy detailed dress that she styled with just a few rings, basic studs, and a short, simple hairstyle. It’s quintessentially Janelle, and it will probably go down in Oscar gown history.

Best Party Looks

Heidi Klum in Alberta Ferretti

Grace Helbig always says that Heidi is always there. It doesn’t matter if she’s not getting an award or presenting, she just always gets an invitation. She ended up going to a few after parties in several Alberta Ferretti looks, because of course she would. Whatever she decides to wear is always a love-it-or-hate-it situation, and she happened to look fabulous in both gowns! Two very different looks, but two hits in my book.

Kate Bosworth in J. Mendel

This is just so freaking classy. A lot of people use the Vanity Fair party as an excuse to dress in slinky, more casual dresses, but this was an Oscar-worthy gown and a stunning look on Kate.

Kate Bekinsale in Zuhair Murad

I love how extravagant this gown is. She wasn’t nominated. She wasn’t presenting. She didn’t walk the red carpet. But Kate showed up to the party in a dress that says “I’m going to show up and make an entrance with SLEEVES and you’re going to know I’m here and I’m going to look better than you. Boom.”

Best Couples

Justin Timberlake in Tom Ford and
Jessica Biel in Kaufman Franco

I get all the Jessica Biel Lion King references that circulated the internet, but I still love the uniqueness of her gown and the stand-out necklace. Long sleeves can skew matronly really easily, but the distressed sequins kept this one looking modern and cool.

Justin's tux was probably my favorite of the night because of the TAILORING. If you can afford the best tailoring in the world, there's no excuse to not show up in a perfect suit. Between that and his perfectly proportioned tie, he was one of the best in the house.

John Legend in Gucci and Chrissy Teigen in Zuhair Murad

This photo doesn't even do Chrissy Tiegen's dress justice, but let's be real, Chrissy looks amazing 100% of the time. It's getting kind of boring. Except it isn't, because she somehow manages to surprise me. I'm used to super-sexy looks from her, and this one kept the sex appeal with the slit, but the high neck and sleeves added a modernity while the beading kept it zippy and fun. And it has a cape! And a sheer sleeve! On anyone else this look could be everything but the kitchen sink, but on Chrissy it's just...cool.

John's tie bothers me enormously, but he always seems to know when he's with Chrissy that he's not really the star of the show, and I appreciate that.

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman in Armani Privé

A lot of people really hated Nicole's dress, and I don't understand why for the life of me. Only Nicole Kidman, with her tallest-glass-of-water body, could wear this dress. She looks like a porcelain statue. And really, given that the last time we saw her she was wearing sequined parrots on her shoulders, I think literally anything else should have been acceptable.

Keith Urban, while not really being a "Hollywood" guy, did a great job keeping it classic with his tux. Am I the only person who thinks it's time for a new hairstyle for him, though? I'm pretty over the banana-streaked highlights.

Jeff Bridges in Dolce & Gabbana and Susan Geston

Susan Geston needs to give a class to women-of-a-certain-age on how to dress. This. Is. SO. STUNNING. It's the right shade of red, the right type of satin, and just the right cut.

Jeff walked out on a limb and went for a 3-piece suit, and he gets my A+ tailoring award, too.

Best Men

Chris Evans in Salvatore Ferragamo

If you're going to step outside the classic norm for the Oscars, at least it's well-tailored and styled. Everything from the tie to the pocket square to the shoes is flawless.

The Moonlight Men (Trevante Rhodes, Alex R. Hibbert, and Ashton Sanders) in Calvin Klein

I loved that these three completely emulated the three phases in their movie with coordinating, but distinctly different looks. So perfect.

Lin Manuel Miranda's Face

Lin looked like a sweet, innocent, enthralled 10-year-old boy the entire night and it broke my poor heart in the best way possible. This man needs to be invited to every Oscars just so the human race can grab onto a shred of his infectious joy.

Honorary Man: Sunny Pawar

...just look at him. 'Nuff said.

They Should Have Changed...

Ruth Negga in Valentino and Oscar de la Renta
Red is a tough color to wear on the red carpet because the reds can easily clash, and Ruth's Valentino gown was one of the worst. The mass of red blew out on camera, and the full-coverage of the gown was overwhelming on her small frame. She looked like a Victorian vampire. The Oscar De la Renta, on the other hand, was the perfect note of formal and whimsical. It's a sculptural, unique work of art.

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton
Dressing Alicia Vikander can be difficult because of how tiny she is - bodice proportions don't always work for her, and the long waist of the weird Spanish flamenco gown she wore on the red carpet just wasn't flattering. I don't really know if that many lace ruffles would look good on anyone, really, and styled with a high bun and a glitzy diamond necklace, the whole look was just wrong. Her after-party look was elegant, mature, and styled to perfection.

Dakota Johnson in Gucci
I understand the concept of wearing two looks by the same designer, but I don't know how anyone could look at Dakota's first gown and be remotely okay with it. I'm not thrilled with the super-shiny satin in either look, but the red carpet gown looks like she pulled her grandmother's yellowed wedding gown out of the attic. The party look, at the very least, has a breath of skin and, well. Looks like it's from this century.

Naomie Harris in Calvin Klein
I can be lenient toward a tea-length gown at the Oscars, but a dress at the knee simply isn't appropriate, and paired with a weirdo miss-matched shoe, the whole look was off. It would have been a better move to wear the gown on the carpet and the short dress at the party.

Leslie Mann in Zac Posen and Carolina Herrera
I have a hard time believing that Zac Posen designed this yellow Beauty and the Beast monstrosity. It's rumpled and crunched and the draping looks like a bad prom dress. The nude Carolina Herrera is so much more elegant and airy.

Worst Dressed

David Oyelowo and Jessica Oyelowo

There's nothing wrong with these looks individually. But if she's wearing a creamy ivory, YOU CAN'T WEAR WHITE AND STAND NEXT TO EACH HER. This was just poor planning on every level.

Terrence Howard

Maybe the photo-op pose is throwing me off a bit, but this bathrobe-tux situation is way too Hugh Hefner for my liking. It's the Oscars. Put on a real jacket.

Casey Affleck's Hair

I don't care if it's for a role or if this is just your vibe - you don't go to the Oscars with a caveman beard and a man bun. Get it together.

Octavia Spencer in Marchesa

Octavia Spencer has worn some STUNNING red carpet gowns, but this one simply isn't flattering. The ruching in the bodice flattens her chest and the shoulder straps make her shoulders look broader than they are. Between that and the washed-out color, she simply blended into the backdrop.

Ginnifer Goodwin in Zuhair Murad

Much like Ruth Negga's gown, this was just a weird Victorian nightmare. This reminds me of what Rochester's murderous attic-wife would wear in Jane Eyre.

Charlize Theron in Dior Couture

This isn't the worst dress in history, but the fabric reminds me far too much of Halloween costumes I had as a child. Trying to dress up as a Grecian Gladiator isn't generally a great move for the Oscars.

Halle Berry in Versace

This was a classic tale of too many looks in one. The top half is great, the bottom half is great, but both put together just look bizarre. If it was all gold or all black it might have worked better, but the combination makes it feel like a cheap prom dress.

Salma Hayak in Alexander McQueen

I distinctly remember an episode of What Not to Wear in which Clinton described a contributor as wearing a top that looked like two watermelons being held up by dental floss. Whelp. Here we are. If that weren't enough, the fabrication is an oddly Moulin Rouge inspired, and combined with the modern straight-hair styling, the whole look is off.

Photos from EOnline, Harpers Bazaar, CNN, The New York Times, Vanity Fair, and PopSugar.

0 Comments

SAG Awards 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

2/19/2017

0 Comments

Best in Black and White

Kate Hudson in Dior

You all know I’ve been tired of Kate’s super sexy glam-a-zon thing for AGES, and it was SO nice to see something new from her! Some thought it was a little much with the Dior signature boxers underneath and the floral accent, but I thought it was cool and refreshing. I'd love to see this edgy look from her again!

Emma Stone in Alexander McQueen

Initially I didn't care for this dress because I was coming off the high of Emma's FLAWLESS Golden Globes look, but the more I look at it the more I like it. The lingerie-like structure is so flattering, and it's a great two-in-one style without looking overdone.

Octavia Spencer in Tadashi Shoji

Octavia Frequently wears Tadashi Shoji, and they should be a pair forever and always. Peplum on the red carpet doesn't always work well, but the lace keeps it sophisticated and the illusion neckline is super flattering. I can't wait to see if she pulls out another Shoji look at the Oscars!

Sofia Vergara in Zuhair Murad

This was a VERY different look for Sofia, and it was definitely a love-it-or-hate-it moment, but I thought it was so refreshing to see her in a different shape and a different length. Styling a short dress is always tricky, but she paired her jewelry and shoes perfectly with the dress. I'd love to see her take more risks like this!

Viola Davis in Vivienne Westwood

Sometimes all you need is a beautiful, white, satin gown and a sparkly statement necklace. One and done.

Kerry Washington in Roberto Cavalli

This is a groundbreaking moment. I actually enjoy something Kerry Washington is wearing. Kerry is definitely a "fashion risk-taker," but rarely do those risks actually pay off. On some people the bell sleeve and the sheer skirt could have been a little crazy, but in the beaded fabrication and with minimal accessories, she wowed the crowd.

Giuliana Rancic in Yousef Al-Jasmi

Giuliana is consistently the best dressed TV host on the red carpet, and this look was no exception. I love that she chooses up-and-coming designers, and this look made her a walking tall glass of water.

Natalie Portman in Dior

How is Natalie the most gorgeous pregnant woman EVER? She looks like she's floating on a cloud, and if she keeps up this Jackie-O, classic look for the Oscars she's sure to be a winner. (Now if only she'd actually win best actress, too - I'm crossing my fingers for her!)

Best in Color

Yara Shahidi in Naeem Kahn

I had no idea who Yara Shahidi was before this, and goodness, what a debut. Wearing stripes is hard enough, and wearing technicolor stripes is twice as hard, but the cut, angle, and beading shot her to the top of my best-dressed list real quick. Yara is definitely one to look out for in the future!

Millie Bobby Brown in Emporio Armani

This. Girl. I don't think I'll ever get over how stylish Millie is at such a young age. She strikes a perfect balance of maturity and youth. I only wish she was going to be at the Oscars...maybe someday soon!

Sophia Bush in Marchesa

When I was in elementary school, a local vintage fashion exhibit featured a dress in almost this exact shape, color, and fabric. I obsessed over that dress for years, and when I saw this on Sophia, I might have had a minor freak-out. I love when stars wear vintage-inspired ensembles well, and she styled it out with the perfect bag and shoes. The matchy-matchy pink eyeshadow normally wouldn't be my cup of tea, but it added a fresh twist on an old classic.

Taraji P. Henson in Reem Acra

This dress is everything I wanted Lily Collins’ dress to be at the Golden Globes. It was feminine, exquisite, and a very different look for Taraji. I desperately want to rip off the stupid little black bows, but that’s just me nit-picking.

Worst Dressed

Amy Landecker in St. John

I don't know who Amy Landecker is, and after seeing this suit, I don't care to find out. I'm all about menswear looks on the red carpet, but good grief. There is no context in which this animal print is appropriate. And those chunky I-could-murder-someone-with-these shoes? Absolutely not.

Janelle Monae in Chanel

I really, really want to say something positive about one of Janelle's looks this season, and I really do like the dress, but this is just too much look. The dress and the collar and the wristlets and the bag and the rings and the Minnie Mouse ears? I can't.

Gwendoline Christie in Vivienne Westwood

I know she plays Captain Phasma and all, but I don't know if Stormtrooper meets Michael Jackson is really the look we should be going for on the red carpet. Just saying.

Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton

There's a way to do stripes right (like Yara Shahidi) and I generally applaud Michelle for not choosing completely conventional looks, but this stripe is not only unflattering, it kind of resembles sequined venetian blinds. And that scarf...thing. That's never been stylish and it never will be.

Nicole Kidman in Gucci

I. Cannot. A lot of fashion critics liked this and seem to think Nicole can do no wrong because she’s a “fashion risktaker,” but I’m sorry. There are flipping parrots on her shoulders. Even if there weren’t parrots on her shoulders, there’s also Christmas tinsel and Hairspray-esque sequins and weird prom dress ruffles – it’s everything but the kitchen sink. Maybe it’s a fashion moment that I’m just not getting, and I suppose if anyone can pull this off its Nicole, but it just isn’t working for me.

Salma Hayak in Gucci

Yellow and pink? No mam. If she was 6-years-old, great. But the bow and the ruffle? It reminds me of something Scarlett O’Hara would have worn on a sweet summer picnic.

Mamrie Hart

I love Mamrie so much. I love YDAD so much. But this dress...it's like a cheap prom dress from Deb's. Mamrie wore better dresses on the road for Dirty 30, and I think if you have the opportunity as a new media star to hit the red carpet at the SAGs, you should take the opportunity to deck yourself out.

Meryl Streep in Valentino

Queen Meryl will always own my heart for her acting, but at the end of the day this is a potato sack with birds on it. Once you've been dressed to the nines in The Devil Wears Prada why would you want to wear anything else? It doesn't take much for her to look gorgeous, and it's a shame when she chooses not to.

All images from eonline.com, The Indian Express, and usmagazine.com.

0 Comments

Golden Globes 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

2/12/2017

1 Comment

Best Blues and Yellows

Mandy Moore in Naeem Khan

This is quite possibly the best Mandy Moore has ever looked. I'm obsessed with the navy. I'm obsessed with the plunge. I'm obsessed with the cape. She's just so dang SOPHISTICATED. More of this, please!

Chrissy Metz in Christian Siriano

Chrissy was another wonderful This is Us lady in blue. Velvet can either go really wrong or really right, and for Chrissy the risk was worth it. The draping and the embellishment on this dress is exceptional, and you can't go wrong with that rich, royal color.

Natalie Portman in Prada

Natalie clearly took her role in Jackie to heart with this 60's inspired dress. Not everyone could pull off this color, but I love the idea of a neon twist on a classic shape, and she couldn't look any better in her pregnancy.

Reese Witherspoon in Versace

We all know and love Reese for dressing in chic, classic shapes, and this was a perfect example of sticking with what works for you. The bodice is flattering as can be, and the unexpected yellow color keeps it fresh.

Best Metallics

Emma Stone in Valentino

Emma is always a hit-or-miss for me on the red carpet, but for her award season debut for the city of stars? COME. ON. This could not have been any more perfect, and I don't know how she could possibly top this in the weeks to come.

Millie Bobby Brown in Jenny Packham

This girl, I tell you. For a 12-year-old girl, Millie has mastered the art of dressing in a way that's not too grown up but not too "little girl," and I'm pretty sure she has more style than I will ever have in my entire life.

Naomie Harris in Armani Privé

This was one of my favorite looks of the night. Silver can look tacky and cheap really quickly, but this gown just looked rich. The beaded details were exquisite, and the cut couldn't be any more flattering. Naomie added just the right amount of accessories that didn't overwhelm the flashiness of the dress.

Chrissy Tiegen in Marchesa

Does this woman ever not look flawless? Good grief. The peplum adds a whimsical touch to a sophisticated shape, and the fabric looks like it's a gold-flecked piece of art. The red bag and lipstick was a luxe styling choice.

Best Brights

Hailee Steinfeld in Vera Wang

This shade of lavender can go Golden Girls really easily, especially when you add blousey sleeves, but the modern cut of the bodice kept things chic and romantic.

Olivia Culpo in Zuhair Murad

This dress was a little confusing to me initially, but the more i look at it the more I love it. It's like a Vincent van Gogh painting come to life in ballgown form - how much better can you get?

Best Menswear

Evan Rachel Wood in Altuzarra

Evan Rachel Wood has made a commitment to wear menswear this entire award season, and this may be one of the best menswear looks I've ever seen. Everything is so structured and clean and tailored within an inch of her life, and as a result she looks like the tallest glass of sophisticated water. I'm crazy about it, and I can't wait to see what else she has in store!

Octavia Spencer in Laura Basci

I've never seen Octavia try menswear before, and it's rare to see plus-sized women go for it, especially on the red carpet. OCTAVIA. ROCKED. IT. The navy was a great twist, and she looked so cool and confident.

Best Men

Tom Hiddleston in Gucci

Not every guy can pull of a double-breasted jacket, but on Tom it just works. I might be biased because it reminds me of his suit that he wore as F. Scott Fitzgerald in Midnight in Paris, but whatever. It's great. He's great. Everything is great.

Ryan Gosling in Gucci

I'm not normally into white jackets because it can skew a bit dated and isn't done well very often, but because Ryan is nominated for an old-Hollywood musical and his character is into jazz clubs, it works.

Justin Hartley in Dolce & Gabbana

More often than not at the Globes, especially among the men, there's a pretty clear distinction between the "movie" people and the "tv" people. The standard of taste and tailoring just isn't always there, but Justin proved that theory wrong. A classic 3-piece Dolce usually does the trick!

Worst Dressed

Nicole Kidman in Alexander McQueen

This might have been on my best dressed list if she had lost the sleeves and the necklace. With them, it was just...a lot. I know she's Nicole Kidman and she is known for taking bold fashion risks and you're not supposed to criticize that, but I'm sorry. There's no need to dress like Elsa from Frozen on the red carpet.

Kerry Washington in Dolce & Gabbana

I've made no secret of frequently disliking Kerry's fashion choices, and while I admit that this looked better in person than it does in photography, this is just a bad look. The length is weird. The fabric is weird. The embellishments are weird. And come on, Kerry - we can see your black Spanx through the dress. Not cute.

Lily Collins in Zuhair Murad

This is a beautiful dress, no question - maybe a little formal for the Globes, but still lovely. But with that up-do? She might as well be auditioning to be a Disney princess, and that pink is so saccharine sweet I'm getting a toothache.

Carrie Underwood in Iris Serban

If Carrie had worn her hair up this look might have balanced itself out, but as-is it's just way too much going on up top and it makes her look shorter. If the proportions weren't bad enough, there aren't enough vagina references in the world to explain the top of this dress. I just can't.

Zoe Saldana in Gucci

Zoe often wears dresses that are everything-but-the-kitchen-sink, and this one was no exception. Remember Cinderella's original dress that her step-sisters rip up? This is it.

Sarah Jessica Parker in Vera Wang

All I can assume is that Sarah heard there was going to be a tribute to the late Carrie Fisher and thought she needed to do a tribute herself, hair and all. Just...no.

Janelle Monae in Armani Privé

I really wanted Janelle to show up in something funky and fabulous, and this was...funky. Not so much on the fabulous. I could maybe get behind the dress without the fishnet layer on the top, but with the fishnet and the polka dots and the sequins and the bubble-hem and the matchy-matchy shoes, bag, and beehive hair, it's just too much.

Cuba Gooding Jr.

I'm all about making a statement with a printed jacket, but COME ON. Not only is this one of the ugliest plaids I've ever seen, but the jacket is straight-up too small. And a satin tie with a wool jacket? No. No. No. Whoever let him leave the house like this should be shot.

All photos from eonline, popsugar, and vogue.

1 Comment

Met Gala 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

5/9/2016

0 Comments

I'll be honest, the Met Costume Gala was just not on my radar this year, but thanks to my friend, Lydia, who requested a "best and worst dressed" review before I even knew the Gala was happening, I will gladly provide my feedback.

It’s always pretty difficult to determine the “best and the worst” in Met Gala fashion; ridiculousness is expected, and as I said last year, the line between what is good and what is bad is weird and blurry.

This year's Gala theme was "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology." It seemed like a lot of guests took that to mean:
1. "Oh, so I can dress like a robot and that will work fine."
2. "So I can just cover myself in sequins and beading? Cool."
3. "Yeah, I have no idea what this theme means so I'm going to wear a totally plain dress and call it a day."
4. "I can wear something off-theme as long as I mention that technology created my outfit," (*cough cough* SARAH JESSICA PARKER.)

Overall I thought there were a lot of missed opportunities when it came to the theme, but there were still some clear winners that stood out.

Best Tech Dresses

The dress was intertwined with fiber-optic threads, and in the darkness of the museum it epitomized a digital-age Cinderella.

Claire Danes in Zac Posen

When I first saw this dress on the carpet, I immediately knew it was a Posen dress but I was also immediately disappointed. "It's just a pretty white ballgown," I thought. "No good at all for this particular theme." But guys. I was wrong. The dress freaking GLOWS.

In partnership with IBM, Marchesa created a gown with LED floral appliques that lit up and changed color as viewers would react to the gown online. I have no words for such genius.

Karolina Kurkova in Marchesa

This was another gown that I didn't fully understand or appreciate without some post-Gala research. As I was yelling at my computer thinking that yet another star wore a dress unsuited for the theme, I discovered that her dress also included a light-up factor.

Kate Hudson in Atelier Versace

I'm always just happy to see Kate wear anything that isn't gold or midriff-baring (which, given how many interpreted the theme, she easily could have done,) but instead she arrived in a sculptural dress created primarily with 3D printed materials.

I've enjoyed seeing the use of 3D printing on Project Runway the past few seasons, and I'm looking forward to seeing it used more frequently by designers in the future.

Best Sustainable Looks

Emma Watson, Margot Robbie, and Luptia Nyong'o
in Calvin Klein Collection

Emma, Margot, and Lupita partnered with Eco-Age for their #GreenCarpetChallenge, which inspired stars to consider eco-friendliness when choosing their red carpet looks.

Emma's 5-piece outfit was woven from plastic bottles, organic cotton, and recycled zippers. Each piece can be separated and worn again.

Lupita's jade sequin gown was travel-emission conscious, created in entirety in Calvin Klein's New York atelier.

Margot's sleek sheath featured recycled zippers as well, and was pure organic silk.

Each look was entirely different, and they each represented how sustainable fashion can suit any style.

Best Black + Metal

Nicole Kidman in Alexander McQueen

Love it or hate it, Nicole has always known how to work the red carpet. I thought the top could have used a little more coverage, but let's be real, when a woman throws on a stunning cape and a crown, you give the queen credit where it's due.

Alexa Chung in Thakoon

I'm always a sucker for a great jumpsuit. This is one of the best red carpet jumpsuits I've ever seen, and it was reflective of the theme in both aesthetics and technicality. The detail is exquisite, and Alexa's styling is perfect. Bravo.

Taylor Swift in Louis Vuitton

I completely understand why this look got a lot of mixed reviews. This is definitely not the Taylor Swift we're used to seeing, and it did skew a little on the costume side.

That said, her overall vibe felt like a gorgeous alien in a Star Wars cantina, and I'm kind of down with that. I'll take a space princess pop star any day.

Best Silver and Gold

Kylie Jenner in Balmain

Kylie was one of many who joined the #BalmainArmy at the Met Gala, but I think she rocked it the best. The other Balmain looks were top-heavy and too literal in the armor motif. This one was delicate and deco while still showing strength.

Rachel McAdams in Valentino

Rachel's red carpet looks have been all over the road this season, but she hit this one out of the park.

I don't know what the skirt says, and I don't even care. Give me a dress with words on it and the writer in me geeks out.

Rita Ora in Vera Wang

I was pretty horrified when Tim Gunn said he thought this look was vulgar and inappropriate. For a fashion exhibit that showcased technical details in fashion, how can you not appreciate this?

It was futuristic and feminine all rolled into one, and I wish the carpet had been filled with more dramatic moments like this one.

Kate Bosworth in Dolce & Gabbana

Photographs don't do this dress justice at all. The beaded details in the bodice and the headpiece glittered in the light and Kate looked like a glowing elven queen. It was a perfect couture moment for the Gala.

Best for Last Year's Theme

Beyonce in Givenchy

To say that this look would have been better suited for last year is by no means a criticism. Beyonce looks (to no one's surprise) jaw-droppingly gorgeous. And as far as this year's theme goes, it is a technological feat to create a red carpet gown out of latex...weird as that concept might be.

The flowers just read a little "cherry blossom" to me, and if she had worn this gown to last year's "China: Through the Looking Glass" Gala, no one would have questioned its place.

Mia Wasikowska in Prada and
Blake Lively in Burberry

These gowns were gorgeous, but not only were they they representative of China in color and styling, they didn't fit the bill of "Fashion in the Age of Technology."

Worst Dressed

Dakota Johnson in Gucci

I think Dakota is finally out of her "Bella Swan at the Prom" phase, but when the theme is about technology, why would you wear a dress that looks like an elementary school craft project?

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton

This was Tim Gunn's favorite look of the night, and for the life of me I can't understand why. Everything but the kitchen sink is attached to this dress with no cohesiveness. And why is she wearing Avril Lavigne's hiking boots? It's simply ridiculous.

Zoe Kravitz in Valentino

Since when does "Fashion in the Age of Technology" means "Evil Witch Tinkerbell at the Masquerade Prom?" I know it's all up to interpretation, but I don't think the interpreter even knew the language.

Nicki Manaj in Moschino

If you're going to go with a bondage thing, throw on some leather and a corset and carry a whip. Nicki didn't even commit to her bad look. If you're going to go off-theme, at least go all the way.

Madonna in Givenchy

I think Madonna and Nicki thought they were going to the same party. Unbelievably, Madonna looks worse. I mean, come on. Absolutely freaking not.

Grimes in Louis Vuitton

This dress is literally being held together with safety pins. If that's what you call "Fashion in the Age of Technology," then I think you need an upgrade from the DOS system.

Lady Gaga in Atelier Versace

Of all the Met Gala themes, this one gave me extremely high expectations of Lady Gaga. I think we all assumed she would ride in on an LED unicorn and come dressed as a glittering disco ball.

To start, her hair and makeup was atrocious. It aged her tremendously and made the whole look skew 80s punk.

The fishnet tights added to the whole 80s vibe, and I just didn't get it. This look could have been great! I loved the circuit board-styled jacket and the corset, but the rest just fell flat and looked like a standard Gaga stage outfit. If she had shown up with the same top paired with a neon glowing ballgown skirt, I would have been all about it.

All that said, I do give her credit for hiking up the Met staircase in those shoes.

Sarah Jessica Parker in Monse

I have to take a few deep breaths for this one.

Sarah Jessica Parker is usually all about the Met Gala theme. Even if you hate what she's wearing, you can't ever fault her for being off-theme. EVER.

This year, she showed up as Hamilton. Then she got snarky and pissy when people said "Yo, the theme was technology and you're dressed like HAMILTON."

Then, as a defense, she said "perhaps you weren't aware of the technology used in the details and embellishments of the design."

Sorry, honey. I'm very well aware, and it's not an extraordinary feat of technological brilliance. You're off theme and your outfit is basic. Own up to it.

All photos from Eonline, Huffington Post, Vanity Fair, smashd.co, and Upworthy.

0 Comments

Oscars 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

3/8/2016

0 Comments

Between #OscarsSoWhite and #AskHerMore, this year's Oscars were full of controversial happy fun times. But Chris Rock made a great point in his monologue. Not everything is about racism or sexism. Sometimes, it's just about a pretty dress.

Best TV Hosts

Giuliana Rancic in Georges Chakra

This is such a gorgeous adaptation of a classic Jackie O dress. The illusion back is stunning and it fit her beautifully. Giuiana really never misses, and I always love to see her in white.

Maria Menounos in Christian Siriano

Christian should design dresses for charity more often! This gown was made to support water.org and and was created especially for Maria to wear, and she rocked it.

I’ve always been a fan of Christian’s looks and this is a truly special piece. He knows how to make a woman's body look phenomenal, and Maria knows how to BE phenomenal.

Best Couples

Chrissy Tiegen in Marchesa and John Legend in Paul Smith

Having seen Chrissy’s Marchesa dress on the runway, I wouldn’t have thought it would work in a maternity version, but WHOA. #pregnancygoals right there.

And let’s be real, is there a more flawless couple than these two? John’s tux is impeccably tailored, and they both know how to pose, and if I didn't adore them I'd totally hate them.

Hannah Bagshaw and Eddie Redmayne in Alexander McQueen

I’m crazy about the fact that Eddie wore a velvet suit jacket. He’s always been a unique red carpet dresser, and I love that he keeps us on our toes (literally, looking at his toes, because he wears weird loafers and somehow pulls them off.)

AND Hannah looks fantastic. Another #pregnancygoals moment. These celebrities, I tell you. Making the rest of us look bad.

Best Kid

Jacob Tremblay in Armani

There’s always a little one who steals our hearts at the Oscars, and this year it was my man Jacob. I want to adopt him ASAP.

And HE’S WEARING ARMANI LIKE A LITTLE MAN AND EEEEEEEE.

Best Dressed

Brie Larson in Gucci

I was holding my breath to see what Brie wore because I haven’t been a huge fan of what she’s worn throughout the award season, and I’m SO THRILLED she pulled out this gown. That’s what you do when you know you’re winning an Oscar, after all.

She couldn’t have picked a better color, and the shape and style is completely unique to anything we’ve ever seen on the carpet. She looks young and fresh and beautiful, and I’m thrilled for her win!

Cate Blanchett in Armani

Wow wow wow wow wow. I don’t remember the last time we saw such a dramatic work of art at the Oscars, and only Cate could pull it off. The color is perfect. The shape is perfect. Her styling and her pose is perfect. This is what I watch the Oscars to see.

Lady Gaga in Brandon Maxwell

I can’t believe this is the same woman who one wore a dress made of meat. I thought Gaga looked pretty good at last year’s Oscars, but this look is even better. It’s simple but dramatic, classic but modern. And IT'S A JUMPSUIT! This is one we’ll remember for a long time.

Charlize Theron in Dior

Charlize never looks bad at red carpet events, and this was no exception. This is a "I'm not nominated for anything and I'm going to look better than everyone who was" look.

This is a great example of how to showcase showstopper jewelry: simple dress, bold color, canvas of skin, sleek hair and makeup.

BOOM.

Naomi Watts in Armani Prive

No one really talked about this look in their best and worst dressed features and it made me a little sad. Naomi always looks SO great, and this look is no exception. I’m crazy about the color combination, and the cohesive pop of color in the lips makes it modern and fresh. She always manages to combine elegance with ease in the best way.

Sofia Vergara in Marchesa

This was another look no one was really raving about, and I’m obsessed with it. Anytime Sophia Vergara goes outside her mermaid-gown box is a great moment to me, and she looked like pure royalty in this gown.

Worst Dressed

Kerry Washington in Atelier Versace

Some called this “fashion forward and unexpected.” I call it ridiculous and inappropriate for the Oscars. She looks like a gladiator that’s into S&M.

I'm honestly stunned that Versace would even want their name on this. If this were a Project Runway look, the designer would be going home.

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton

I really want to like this. I really, really do. It’s a pretty dress! The beading is lovely! But at the end of the day, she looks like Ariana Grande meets Belle from Beauty and the Beast, and I just can’t.

Alicia has worn so many better things, and I’m sorry this is what she won her Oscar in.

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Haute Couture

I’m all about JLaw trying out a sexier look, but good grief. She looks like the feather duster from Beauty and the Beast... maybe she and Alicia were going for a theme.

Olivia Wilde in Valentino

This just looks uncomfortable. Who wants to look (or feel) like your boobs are duct-taped down? And the choker is too much to add to an already bad look. The waistline cuts her off in the middle, and she’s far too beautiful to wear a dress this stupid.

Heidi Klum in Marchesa

Well, there goes my theory that you can never go wrong with a Marchesa gown.

Heidi, unfortunately, has a habit of wearing “fashion forward” dresses purely for the sake of them being fashion forward, and she ends up looking ridiculous.

You’d think that she’s so beautiful so she could wear anything. Nope. An 80s prom dress doesn’t work for the Oscars.

Rachel McAdams in August Getty Atelier

I liked this look when Rachel was presenting under the darker lights of the auditorium, but on the carpet it just looks like a long, flat pane of nothing. If she had worn Charlize Theron’s necklace I might have felt differently about it, but as it is it’s just too much of not enough.

After her gorgeous look at the SAGs, I was underwhelmed.

Kate Winslet in Ralph Lauren

While I appreciate Kate stepping out of her usual sleek and simple box, this wasn’t a great choice. The fabric looked like a weird vinyl record, which I’m sure looked really cool in person, but it didn’t photograph well.

Kate is better than this.

All photos from eonline.com, popsugar.com, justjared.com, and vogue.com

0 Comments

SAG Awards 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

2/12/2016

0 Comments

Best Black and White

Giuliana Rancic in Gauri and Nainika

Tea-length dresses are notoriously difficult to pull off, and whether it is a hit or a miss all comes down to styling. Giuliana kept her hair sleek and simple, and her shoes clean and plain; the dress was able to fully shine. The fabric choice is great for her, and it has just enough detail to be interesting without taking away from the stars she was interviewing.

I thought her Golden Globes look was alright, but this blew it out of the water. I can't wait to see what she wears next!

Queen Latifah in Michael Costello

The Queen hasn't missed yet this award season! It's hard to be completely covered without looking matronly, but the form-fitting shape of this dress and the detail in the beading keeps the look sexy. Pull the hair up, throw on a few black accessories, and call it a day. So much ease!

Rachel McAdams in Elie Saab

SO MUCH BETTER than her look at the Globes! I am utterly obsessed with this dress. The shape is so flattering and the detail is stunning. I'd kill to see it in white as a wedding dress.

While I would have preferred Rachel's hair to be a little sleeker, the contrast of the formal dress with the mussy hair kind of works. It can't be worse than her hair at the Globes, so I'll take what I can get.

Julianna Margulies in Berardi

If you know me at all, you know I adore The Good Wife. You know I'm super upset about the series ending. You know I will always root for anyone in TGW's cast forever and always.

Juliana has always been hit-or-miss on the carpet, but last year was a turning point for her and I think she's carrying on her winning streak this year. White is a great color for her, and the gown is a great mix of modern and traditional.

Kristin Wiig in Roland Mouret

This takes me back to Emma Stone's wonderful jumpsuit look from last year. Kristin is more of a Hollywood outsider, and it doesn't always make sense for someone in comedy to wear a ballgown. Go for the jumpsuit!

I love that she coordinated her bag and shoes to the metallic detail in the top. It made the look cohesive, and overall it was well-tailored and modern.

Best Brights

Tina Fey in Prabal Gurung

I am not usually a fan of Tina's red carpet looks, but this one was a winner for me. Totally simple. Totally classic. Tailored within an inch of your life. You can't go wrong!

Anna Faris in Naeem Khan

I love conservative dresses with sexy details. LOVE THEM.

I'm not crazy about the platform shoe or the matchy-matchy red bag, but they don't ruin the overall look.
The high slit and the V-back show just enough skin, and the mock-neck and a-line skirt keeps the look sweet and feminine.

It reminds me of something Taylor Swift would wear, and who doesn't want to look like Taylor?

Uzo Aduba in Zac Posen

Green is such a hard red-carpet color, an green SEQUINS can look especially tacky, but Uzo managed to pull off a fantastic look!

It's a little Gatsby referential while still being modern, and her styling is everything. I want that clutch ASAP.

Claire Danes in Stella McCartney

Blondes in blue will always be my favorite, and this is a fantastic look for Claire. The silhouette is perfect for her body type and her hair and makeup just makes the look easy and fresh.

Viola Davis in Zac Posen

This very well could be the best Viola Davis has ever looked. I was a little disappointed at Zac's tailoring through her midsection, because usually a Zac Posen dress is completely flawless and she was looking a tiny bit rumpled, but that is my only complaint.

The color is RICH. The silhouette is RICH. Her hair and makeup is RICH. If you can step out on the red carpet and look like an elegant queen, you know you've won.

Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton

This is definitely a "love it or hate it" look, and I don't think photos do it justice. When Alicia stepped onto the carpet in front of all the flashing lights, it was a major wham-bam moment.

Her styling really completed this look, and I love that she took a fashion risk and really pulled it off.

Worst Dressed

Sola Bamis

This is wrong in so many ways. The top simply isn't cut right, it's higher in the armpit on her left side than her right, and the bow. THAT BOW. It's like a weird orange Tinkerbell dress.

Not a win.

Carol Burnett in Bob Mackie

I hate saying anything bad about Carol Burnett because...she's Carol Burnett. It's also hard to say anything bad about the winner of the lifetime achievement award. Also hard to say anything bad about Bob Mackie.

But, ugh. Just because you're older doesn't mean you have to resign yourself to a bad mother of the bride outfit. Age is no excuse for bad style - ask Helen Mirren!

Julianne Moore in Givenchy

I love Julianne in Givenchy, and I love Julianne in green. But this green Givenchy is not the right fit.

The halter neckline and bandeau top isn't flattering at all, and the shade of green in the sequined fabric is just plain jarring.

SHE CAN DO BETTER!!

Gaby Hoffman in Rachel Comey

This fabric was used in a red carpet challenge for Season 14 of Project Runway. It's a double-sided sequin so the color changes when you touch it, and at the time I really liked it! But the PR judges said it probably wouldn't work on the carpet because anytime you brushed up against anything, it would end up looking weird and sloppy and bad for photos.

They were right. It looks like the dress got snaggled up in something, and you can't tell if it's supposed to look like that or if it's a mistake.

Also, who decided a green shoe was a good idea??

Brie Larson in Versace

There's a lot happening in this look. The dress color and her styling? Flawless. But the rest? Eh.

Brie is way to pretty to be throwing a twisted asymmetrical bodice with a metallic side clasp with a high slit with a platform shoe. It's just too much and distracts from HER. She did the same thing at the Globes, and I'm really hoping she doesn't screw up at the Oscars (especially since she's favored to win.)

I get that this is her first big red carpet run, but that doesn't mean she has to throw on everything but the kitchen sink in order to get noticed.

Nicole Kidman in Gucci

I really wanted to like this, but I just can't.

The dress is unique and I understand the appeal, but the overall look just didn't work. With her hair down and the long sloppy necklaces and the random black bracelet, it just ended up being a bad Lana Del Rey moment.

Lori Petty

I don't think there's really much to say about this. I don't even know what context this outfit would be appropriate for. But hey. To each their own?

All photos from eonline.com

0 Comments

Golden Globes 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

1/18/2016

0 Comments

Best Red, White, and Blue

Jennifer Lawrence in Dior

I feel like JLaw's red carpet looks are either completely flawless or they completely fall flat. This was without a doubt one of her flawless moments.

It's stupidly perfect. The shade of red with her skin tone is perfect. The cutouts on the side and in the back are perfect. The addition of the Chopard necklace is perfect. Her hair and makeup is perfect. The fact that she isn't carrying a bag that would take away from the dress is perfect.

I think we'll be looking at this 20 years from now and still be obsessed with it.

Emmy Rossum in Armani Prive

I always love when Emmy wears red. She wore it at her debut Oscars, and this feels like a modern, updated version of that look.

Obviously the necklace is the standout piece here, and I loved that she paired it with a sleek, simple, fitted dress so all the attention was from the neck up.

This should be in the dictionary under STYLING.

Zendaya in Marchesa

I don't often care for Zendaya's red carpet looks, but this was definitely a winner for me.

She is so petite and the volume in the skirt could have easily swallowed her, but being fitted in the top kept the proportions right, and breaking up the skirt into layers gave it poof without being overwhelming.

The color and texture was perfect for her skin tone, and it was one of my favorites of the night.

Gina Rodriguez in Zac Posen

The second Gina walked up for interviews, I thought "that's a Zac Posen dress." Sure enough, I was right! What a way to feed my ego.

I initially had mixed feelings about this dress on Gina because I thought the volume in the skirt was a little too much for her frame, but as I've had more of a chance to look at it, it photographs beautifully and is a true showstopper. Zac sure knows how to tailor a dress, and the added touch of the pockets was really special.

Kate Winslet in Ralph Lauren

This is a style that we've definitely seen on Kate before, and it definitely works for her. She looks fantastic in this shade of blue. It's tailored to perfection. The simplicity suits her personality.

It's just easy and elegant. What more can you ask for?

Viola Davis in Marchesa

I have torn down Viola Davis' red carpet choices many times before, and she didn't give me the satisfaction of doing it again. Why? She chose a Marchesa gown. You can NEVER go wrong in Marchesa.

Photographs really don't even do this dress justice. It moved beautifully on the carpet, the neckline and the capelet flattered Viola beautifully, and it was simply a winner.

Laverne Cox in Elizabeth Kennedy

This is, hands down, the best that I've ever seen Laverne Cox look on the red carpet. SUCH a far cry from her disastrous shiny nightmare at last year's SAG Awards.

I'm obsessed with the fact that she chose bold emerald jewels. Such a simple gown is a perfect showcase for extravagant jewelry, and combined with her hair and makeup, Laverne just looked like a stunning tall glass of water.

Best Black

Sophia Bush in Narciso Rodriguez

Sophia was one of the first women I saw arrive on the carpet, and she's never looked better. A look like this could skew on the boring side, but when it's fitted to perfection and styled in a sleek and modern way, it just works.

Lady Gaga in Versace

I'll admit, I'm not a huge fan of this look from the neck up. Her hair is a little yellow and her makeup is a little aging.

THAT SAID, the dress is completely fabulous. I have loved the new direction Gaga has been going on the carpet this past year, and she looks like a modern Marilyn Monroe.

Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka

I don't think I've ever disliked anything Helen Mirren has ever worn, and who could blame me? She's just so flipping classy. I can't stand it. Except I totally can.

Keep it coming, Helen. The entire population of women can only hope we age like you.

Best Brights

Jennifer Lopez in Giambattista Valli

Can we just take a moment to marvel over the fact that JLo is appearing on the carpet with the totties COVERED?!? It's a modern miracle.

I was getting really tired of the overtly sexy look from JLo, and I'm thrilled that she pulled out a cool, modern (but STILL SEXY) alternative. She's the only person who could wear this color, and she styled the look beautifully.

More of this, please!

Amy Adams in Atelier Versace

I have said many times that I believe that Amy Adams can do no wrong on the carpet, and she just keeps on proving me right.

Orange is a tricky color for red-heads, but when you go super bright it manages to work. The cut of the dress is perfectly suited to her figure, and it's overall a great look.

Queen Latifah in Badgley Mischka

I feel like we haven't seen Queen Latifah on the carpet in forever, and after seeing this look I'm realizing what a shame that is.

The color is SPECTACULAR. The detail at the neck draws all the attention up to her face. It's just sleek and beautiful. What's not to like?

Best Men

Eddie Redmayne in Gucci

Like everyone else, I'm a little bit in love with our beautiful, pure, cinnamon roll. And then he comes to the Globes in a POLKA DOT JACKET.

Totally genius, can't get enough.

Orlando Bloom

After seeing far too many men on the carpet with sloppy breaks in their pants, looking at Orlando Bloom's sleek, classic look was so refreshing.

But, let's be real, when isn't looking at Orlando Bloom refreshing?

David Oyelowo in Dolce Gabbana

I know that you're thinking I've gone completely nuts by putting this on my best dressed list, and maybe I have. But when a suit is flawlessly tailored, you can get away with a pattern! And when the pattern is subtle and in a darker, calming color, it works even better.

What can I say? I think he pulled it off.

Worst Dressed

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy

Cate has always been a fashion risk taker, willing to wear just about anything to make a statement. I myself have never been sure whether to love her looks or hate them. Is it bad? Is it art? Did she make it work? Is it a total miss?

I'm still walking that line today. The color of this gown is beautiful, and I'm sure walking on a runway the fringe looked fabulous. As fashion, it's a stunning piece. As a red carpet look? I'm not so sure.

It's just...weird. The fringe reads My Little Pony to me, and the sheer beaded details are oddly placed. Her hair was super strange from the back, and I just think Cate can do better.

Regina King in Kriskor Jabotian

I'm all about Wonder Woman, don't get me wrong, but she probably shouldn't serve as red carpet inspiration.

The cape on a different dress might have worked, and the gilded dress without the cape might have worked, but together? Not so much.

Jane Fonda in Saint Laurent Couture

Let's play a game where we figure out who we can blame here.

Did Jane really look at this dress and say "That's the one!!" Did her stylist pick it for her? Did Andre Leon Talley demand she wear it to screw her over like he did Jennifer Hudson?

Who. Did. This. Who can we kill.

Rachel McAdams in Lanvin

This isn't the worst look by any means, but Rachel can do so much better. The style is a little prom-y. The print is a little Christmas-y.

What really killed this for me was her hair. Good freaking grief. I can get away with not doing my roots for 8 weeks because I'm not invited to the Golden Globes. If you're invited to the Golden Globes, MAKE A HAIR APPOINTMENT.

Even if she couldn't dye it for a role or something (which somehow I doubt,) then wear it in a way that doesn't leave you with such obvious stripes and streaks. That's Fake Blonde 101. Sheesh.

Kate Hudson in Michael Kors Collection

Ugh. I am SO OVER this look on Kate. So let's have a heart to heart:

Kate. You're gorgeous. We know this. We will always know it, because you live and breathe it. You don't need gold sequins and a bare midriff for us to know it.

Don't try so hard. We don't need another Jennifer Aniston on the carpet.

All photos from eonline.com, popsugar.com, and nytimes.com

0 Comments

Met Gala 2015 | Best and Worst Dressed

5/11/2015

1 Comment

Okay, friends. I seriously debated whether or not to post about the Met Gala, because the Met Gala is not like other award shows or red carpet events. It's an event for really wealthy people to flaunt fashion at a COSTUME institute. To a certain degree, ridiculousness is absolutely expected. In some cases, it's required...it's high fashion! It's avant-garde! Not everything is supposed to look pretty and neat and glamourous, and because of that, the line between "best and worst dressed" can be weird and blurry.

This year's Gala theme was "China: Through the Looking Glass," and you guys asked for my humble opinions. I'd hate to disappoint, so here we go:

Best in Red

Poppy Delevingne

While this dress was kind of an ironic homage to Poppy's name, I really loved the look as a whole. It was just the right shade of red for her skin tone, the floral detailing was exquisite, and I loved the flow of the skirt. Hair and makeup was completely flawless.

Sienna Miller in Thakoon

I fully admit that this is a bit "matador" and might have been more appropriate for a Spain themed Met Gala, but I'm willing to overlook that because I like it.

Basically, this is the kind of thing I wanted Emma Stone to wear to the Oscars a few months ago. And she didn't, so I'm settling for it on Sienna.

Amal Clooney in Maison Margiela

I was definitely glad to see George and Amal present at the Met Gala after their lack of appearance at the Oscars. And really, Amal couldn't have turned it out any better. She has the perfect skin tone for that shade of red, and this dress was a great representation of the level of couture that should be shown at the Met. LOVE.

Helen Mirren in Dolce & Gabbana

All I can say is if I look half as wonderful as Helen Mirren when I get to be her age, I'll be a very happy camper. Like, she's wearing a SEE THROUGH top and it isn't remotely slutty! How does she do these things?!?

Let's make her queen.

Best in Gold

Anne Hathaway in Ralph Lauren

I totally understand the internet's wealth of "Princess Leia" references, but...I actually didn't mind this. It's the Met Gala! Things are supposed to be a little weird. And of all the weird things that showed up on the red carpet, this was pretty tame. Also, if you're going to wear a Princess Leia dress, 2015 is the year to do it!

I just really liked the gold on Anne's skin tone - it looked RICH. And her makeup couldn't have looked any better.

Lizzy Caplan in Donna Karan Atelier

Let's all take a moment and remember that this woman played Janis Ian in Mean Girls. I have no idea how or when she became so glamourous and refined, but I'll take it any day of the week.

Rihanna in Guo Pei

This was another look that got slammed with internet memes, but I think that's a tad unfair.

THIS is the kind of thing that the Met Gala lives for. This is the kind of thing we EXPECT Rihanna to wear on the daily. Plus the theme was "China Through the Looking Glass." Given that theme, Rihanna wouldn't show up in anything less than this, and if she did we'd all be bored.

The gold tone looks fantastic on her skin. She looks like semi-ridiculous opulent royalty. I can't complain!

Best in Black

Cara Delevingne in Stella McCartney

I would like to share with you the conversation I had with my mother about this look:

Mom: Ew, there's this girl, Cara...Del...vin..gen..
Me: Cara Delevingne?
Mom: Yeah. She's covered in these awful tattoos!
Me: Those aren't real, mom. They're temporary for the event to go with the China theme.
Mom: Oh. Good. Because they're awful.

I don't have strong feelings either way about the tats. But I LOVE the jumpsuit.

And now, in addition to having Cara Delevingne eyebrow goals, I have Cara Delevingne boob goals. Am I right or am I right?

Julianne Moore in Givency
Haute Couture

Julianne wore Givency Couture to the SAG awards (remember that green dress?) and she looked completely fabulous then and now.

I move that Givency dresses Julianne forever. Does anyone second that motion? All in favor?

Carey Mulligan in Balenciaga

This look is almost a little too chic for the Met Gala, but I felt the need to include it BECAUSE of how chic it is. Carey Mulligan wins my heart every time, for serious. This is the kind of dress I would kill to have in my closet, and she is always styled to absolute perfection.

P.S. to those who are thinking of wearing a high-low dress to the carpet in the future: these are the kinds of shoes you wear!

Best in White

Dianna Agron

Because this dress is a subtle nod to the China theme and it's not too over the top, it might cross into "too simple for the Met Gala" territory, but it's just...so freaking pretty. And that's all I have to say.

Zhang Ziyi in Carolina Herrera

This look really couldn't be any more perfect. It has the qualities of Chinese traditionalism with a modern, funky twist. Carolina Herrera is the queen of dressing women in white, and I think it was an excellent choice for this event.

Amanda Seyfried in Givenchy
Haute Couture

This is the best Amanda Seyfried has looked in a very long time. I loved how her dress was somewhat structured on top, but also very ethereal and soft. It's a good juxtaposition for her. She also looks phenomenal in white, and the berry lip is a great look.

Diane Kruger in Chanel Haute Couture

This look reminds me of things I've seen in vintage photos of 1920s movie stars walking the carpet at a premiere. You (generally) can never go wrong with Chanel, and this look captured the essence of the theme without taking itself too seriously.

Oh yeah, and her man looks pretty great too.

Worst Dressed

Sarah Jessica Parker

Okay, I'm not going to rip into this one as much as the rest of the internet. It's a Phillip Treacy hat, and if you are given the opportunity to EVER wear a Phillip Treacy hat, you do it. And to Treacy's credit, the hat fit the theme incredibly well.

My problem is the dress, WITH the hat. Sarah could have worn the dress without the hat, or the hat with a plain black dress. But all together? It's way too much of the wrong thing.

Dakota Johnson in
Chanel Haute Couture

I *really* wish this girl would stop getting invited to red carpet events so she can stop looking like Bella Swan at the prom EVERY TIME.

This dress is TOO SMALL and TOO SHORT. Her shoulders are up to her EARS, probably because she's trying to HOLD THE DRESS UP.

Just staaahhhppp.

Grace Coddington

I realize that Grace Coddington is Grace Coddington and she can do and wear whatever she wants, but really? Pajamas and slippers to the Met Gala? I night dedicated to celebrating high fashion and costume design? Nuh uh.

Oh the bright side, I did enjoy that she left the gala and got straight on a plane in the same outfit. In that way, she was kind of a genius.

FKA Twigs

There is a penis on her dress.

I don't think I need to say anything else.

Beyonce

Come on, Queen B. We all know you're hot. You don't have to do things like this! Don't become like J-Lo!!!!!!!

Being outlandish and avant-garde is one thing, but being NAKED on the carpet is another. I don't really need to be seeing all that...all that.

Ugh. So much disappoint.

All photos courtesy of Vogue and Mashable.

1 Comment

<<Previous

fashion

Met Gala 2018 | Best and Worst Dressed

Oscars 2018 | Best and Worst Dressed

Oscars 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

SAG Awards 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

Golden Globes 2017 | Best and Worst Dressed

Met Gala 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

Oscars 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

SAG Awards 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

Golden Globes 2016 | Best and Worst Dressed

Met Gala 2015 | Best and Worst Dressed

Best in Red

Best in Gold

Best in Black

Best in White

Worst Dressed

categories

archives