SAG Awards Worst and Best Dressed Pick

The Screen Actor’s Guild have come and gone, and we couldn’t care less about who won what award. Here, the only thing we noticed at the SAG Awards was what people were wearing and how well they pulled it off. As you can expect, I’ve been looking obsessively over the pictures before passing verdict, and here’s mine.

Those who pulled it off…

Emily Blunt – She sure did Oscar dela Renta proud the way she carried this piece of bright green dress. It’s not the craziest outfit out there, but on Emily Blunt it is perfect and sure did turn a lot of heads.

Kelly Osbourne – This girl cleans up really well. No stranger to fashion boo boos, this year at the SAG Awards she proves that she can make the seemingly simplest white outfit look stunning.

Stacey Keibler – There’s no doubt that she looked absolutely gorgeous in her black ensemble. Not only was her dress and hair perfect, but she also had the perfect accessory to boot – George Clooney.

Those who should have pulled off their clothes and changed before heading out…

Amber Riley – I love your voice. I love your confidence. I love your outfit in last year’s SAG, but this year is a step back for you. What were you thinking with that bow?! I know some people loved the look, and it would have worked too if not for the bow.

Rose Byrne – At least you couldn’t accuse her of being boring. Still, not all risks are worth taking and this sure was one that’ll be haunting her in fashion history.

Images via MillionLooks, PopSugar, Divas&Dorks, CollegeFashion

Who Ruled the Red Carpet: The Oscars 2011

The results of the recent Academy Awards were arguably predictable, with “The King’s Speech” bagging Best Picture and Colin Firth and Natalie Portman walking away with the Best Actor and Best Actress trophies, respectively. One of the new things spectators watched out for was the hosting stint of Anne Hathaway and James Franco, who, many claim, was not all that stellar.

As in any awards event as big as this, there are winners and there are losers. While fans eagerly waited to know how their favorite films, actors, directors, and writers fared, there were awards of a different sort being given out, albeit unofficially. After all, what is the Oscars without its famed red carpet and the gowns that sweep across it? Let’s take a look at the lovely ladies who emerged as winners on the walkway, as they succeeded in capturing the attention and admiration of both fans and fashionistas all over the world.

Captivating Cygnets

Both Black Swan ladies made an entrance worthy of an encore. Natalie Portman, with her lovely baby bump, didn’t walk — she glided along in her purple off-shoulder Rodarte gown and Jimmy Choo heels. Truly a picture of understated elegance, she emerged as a winner on all fronts. What a memorable night for her and her little one!

Mila Kunis came in a lighter hue but was just as stunning. She wore a lavender Ellie Saab Couture gown with just enough lace detail to make her look every bit the ethereal yet striking beauty that she is. The gown did not look quite the same as it did while it was being modelled on the runway. I daresay though, that it looked much better on her. It was the perfect choice.

Timeless Elegance

For many actresses, their time on the red carpet is an excellent opportunity to make a statement about their personal style, as well as secure a spot in the international imagination. An image of perfect dress on the right body and with the right face can be stamped in the minds of both the media and fans worldwide. As such, a lot of thought goes into picking out the dress, shoes, and accessories. Unfortunately, some celebrities fall prey to trends and tend to overdo things. Others seem to forget their age and go for overly revealing or outlandish outfits, which often makes for an unnatural and even ridiculous appearance.

There are, however, others who get it right. Newcomer Hailee Steinfeld, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in True Grit, showed teenage actresses how it’s done with her lovely crystal-studded Marchesa gown. The sweet 14-year old was such a refreshing sight with her barely made-up face. She hardly wore accessories, aside from a cute jeweled headband that didn’t come across as juvenile at all. It didn’t hurt that she was wearing a pair of champagne Ferragamo pumps with her outfit, either. Perhaps other young actresses should take their cue from her. She may be new, but she certainly knows how to shine!

On the other hand, Helen Mirren could give us all a lesson or two on ageing gracefully. Completely natural, with no signs of Botox or anything similar, she looked ageless in a dark yet subdued Vivienne Westwood creation. In her case, both wisdom and beauty do come with age. Very classy.

Hollywood Staples

While many of the usual red carpet queens were a bit underwhelming this year, there were a few who did not disappoint. Reese Witherspoon, for instance, looked like a life-sized Barbie doll in her minimalist, black and white Giorgio Armani Privé dress. She appeared both clean and regal, which made her a definite red carpet head-turner.

Michelle Williams awed us a few years ago with her canary yellow Vera Wang gown. This year, she chose a much more subdued color, and she looked both lovely and fresh in a jeweled Chanel Haute Couture dress. Cap sleeves are not very easy to pull off, but on her, they were quite elegant. Understated chic, indeed.

Amy Adams, on the other hand, brought a rich burst of color onto the walkway in a deep blue-violet L’Wren Scott gown and Cartier emerald jewelry. She may not have shown a lot of skin, but she did come across as elegantly bold.

One of the most consistent of the stars when it comes to being absolutely stunning on the red carpet, Halle Berry came in a nude yet crystal-studded Marchesa gown. It flowed along her curves perfectly as her Neil Lane jewels provided a subtle accent to her look. When it comes to dressing for awards ceremonies, it seems as though this woman can do no wrong.

Stellar Songbirds

It wasn’t just the actors and actresses who made an effort to look amazing. Some of the loveliest attendees were the performers of the night. Celine Dion’s Armani Privé gown was the perfect combination of structure and style. Now Celine has always been an impeccable dresser, but this particular look was distinctly classy as her streamlined metallic gown was accented with jewelry from Bulgari.  An added bonus is that she’s been able to get back in to shape quite quickly, so it was pretty difficult to imagine that she had just given birth to twins a few months ago.

Another beautiful sight to behold was Mandy Moore, in a glittering Monique Lhuillier creation. With her hair swept up elegantly and her chic red lipstick, she was quite an apparition on the red carpet. Many media personalities and fans had to do a double (and even triple) take, scarcely believing that this former teeny-bopper songstress could transform into a perfect model of elegance. Mandy Moore certainly proved herself to be one of the top contenders for the best-dressed award, even though she was only there to perform.

While the Academy Awards for this year proved to be a bit predictable, the red carpet remained as interesting and lovely as ever. This is just the beginning, though. Here’s to more fabulous red carpet moments in 2011!

Photos via harpersbazaar.com and msn.com

Victoria Beckham’s Inspiration: The Brit School Teacher (From the Archives)

I suppose it makes sense when you think about it, with those pencil skirts, high-heeled stilettos and trademark tight-lipped facial expression.  Posh Spice once claimed that she never even owned a pair of flats, but was busted this summer when she was caught in flip-flops at Disneyland. Far from dressing like a relaxed Californian since her move to the States, Victoria has gone the other way, dressing more un-laid back like ever before in tailored, tight pieces that scream “uncomfortable”.

When asked about this change in style,  the Essex-born Victoria told Company Magazine in an article out this week:

“It hasn’t, not at all. I am very British in my style. Think school teacher…..I love pencil skirts and fitted blouses, classic cut dresses and well fitted jeans mixed with classic tailoring.”

Hmmm. Having lived in the UK, I can honestly say that most British girls are actually some of the most relaxed dressers I know, bordering on the scruffy, especially if they spend a lot of time in the Country. Victoria, I believe has a style of her own, purely made for the pages of the tabloids.  Why the woman sold 400,000 copies of her book on fashion, The Extra Half an Inch is completely beyond me. The Guardian newspaper sums it up rather perfectly.  Here’s a bit of it:

I have no qualifications to write this book; that’s why I’ve got someone else to do it for me. But let me share my insights anyway. First I’d like to knock something on the head. The idea that, once you have a bit of money, you start wearing couture and stilettos all day and live on caviar and champagne is just nonsense. They’ve both got far too many calories.

My own inspirations come from Grace Kelly, Jackie Onassis and Giacometti sculpture, but this book is not my attempt to tell you what or what not to do. It’s my last chance to cash in on what remains of my fame before David retires.

I am grateful for the possibility of being close to Victoria’s credit card” – Roberto Cavalli.

Lace Corsets: The Latest in Tennis Fashion?

Venus Williams sure made a lot of eyebrows raise with the tennis outfit she already wore two times (last Sunday and Wednesday) during the French Open. The black lace corset with red trimmings did not look at all like it belonged on the court. Seriously, I’m all for fashion and looking sexy when you want to but I have to agree that her outfit just looks inappropriate. When I watch her tennis matches I want to see her play and not have to wonder what in the world she was thinking!

Apparently though what she was thinking is that lace should be a staple in tennis fashion. According to Venus, “Lace has never been done before in tennis, and I’ve been wanting to do it for a long time.” Ok. I have nothing against lace but don’t she shouldn’t be surprised if they rip as she dives for the ball. Furthermore it wasn’t just that it was lace but it was a corset and looking at her picture it is no wonder she won the match because Arantxa Parra Santonja would have been totally distracted by what looked like her butt. As for that all Venus actually did decide to go for that effect. In her press conference she also said, “”It’s really all about the illusion. What’s the point of wearing lace when there’s just black under? The illusion of just having bare skin is definitely, for me, a lot more beautiful.”

Oh Venus. You are indeed beautiful like the goddess that shares your name and I can only wish my muscles were as toned as yours, but please you can be beautiful, fashionable and appropriate at the same time. Let’s just hope for her competitions’ sake that she dresses better next time. At least we know that as a strategy, it works!

LG Says I’m 83% Eva Longoria

Eva Longoria and Victoria Beckham are the newest faces of LG’s mobile phones. Being fans of the two fashion icons I was sucked into taking the “2 Phones 2 Personalities” quiz on LG’s facebook page. As the title of the post states the quiz revealed that I am 83% Eva Longoria, which is quite dead on in terms of personality. However, when it comes to fashion I do have to say I like Victoria Beckham better, maybe because I will never ever fit into the super tight jeans she loves to wear.

In support of LG’s fashion phones the two friends appeared in LG’s Fashion Touch event looking as pretty as only the two can be. The two looked like they were have lots of fun and were really game about being photographed together. As usual, I loved Victoria’s dress way better with Eva Longoria looking just a tad bit frumpy beside her. When it comes to make up though Eva Longoria wins hands down because Victoria looks like her eyeliner got smudged, which I’m sure wasn’t the case.

As for LG’s phone Eva Longoria’s pick, the Rumor Touch, wins hand down in terms of functionality but I do like squares so Victoria Beckham’s pick, the Lotus Elite, wins in terms of style. I do love squares so much that in fact I’m still attached to my fat iPod nano. Beat that! Now I’m thinking that the Lotus Elite might just be the perfect match for that…

Alice in Fashion Wonderland

Dressing up in Disney costumes is not just for Halloween. In fact Disney’s Alice in Wonderland has such intriguing costumes that it will be showcased at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) gallery in Losa Angeles from May 27 to June 1, 2010. No doubt the exhibit is a a publicity gimmick to get more people interested in buying a Blu-Ray and DVD copy of the movie, which will be out on June 1. As a publicity gimmick though this one sure is cool, interesting and totally captures the imagination.

The exhibit will have three sections with the first section showing the actual costumes used in the movie, the second one showing modernized version of Alice in Wonderland-inspired everyday clothing, and the third one showing Alice-inspired gowns created by FIDM designers. The costume that I would personally be most interested in seeing is Helena Bonham Carter’s Red Queen dress (will her hairpiece be there as well?). I know Alice’s gown must be divine in real-life but it just hold much less interest to mean in terms of detailing. The Madd Hatter’s hat will also be shown as well as his costumer, which means that movie fans will surely be thrilled with the exhibit since they can see the actual stuff used in the movie. In my opnion though fashionistas and designers will probably be even more thrilled to see the Alice-inspired creations. The modernized Wonderland clothes that will be exhibited were created by highly recognizable names like Avril Lavigne and Tom Binns. It will be a mish mash of established designers and amateur celebrity designers.

MET 2010 Costume Gala

Last Monday night saw the big stars flocking to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the 2010 Costume Gala as it does every single year. This year was no exception, and with the theme being “American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity” it sure looked like the A-listers focused pretty much on the keyword of the night “fashion”. I guess at least, if nothing else, American women can say that they are fashionable.

The exclusive event with 700 guests showed stars walking the red carpet with wearing big name designers like Marc Jacobs, Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Valentino, Diane Von Furstenberg, etc. Of course the gowns and suits were gorgeous though no one really bothers much to ask about the suits. WHat really stood out for me though was Gwen Stefani’s gown, which is actually her own design. It’s one thing to wear something great and quite another to have taste so great you can create something red carpet worthy. Props to Gwen!

Another stand out for the night, simply because of the label is Jessica Alba with her gown from GAP. You got that! GAP! Who knew GAP had something red carpet worthy? The gown was of designed for Sophie Theallet for GAP so don’t go sashaying in any GAP store and expect to get one RTW.

Some of the other stars that showed up dressed to kill included Sarah Jessica Parker, Emma Watson, Zoe Saldana, Blake Lively, Eva Longoria, Giselle Bundchen, Sienna Miller and Kristen Stewart.

Oh and lets not forget Katy Perry since no one can miss her with her (literally) glowing white gown with LED lights inserted all around. Now that makes for a shining star.

Grace Kelly Fashion Honored In London

Grace Kelly stands for a lot of things for different people. There is one thing that we can all agree on, though, and that is Grace Kelly as the ultimate representation of fashion. She had her own sense of fashion, which was admired and envied by countless people from all over the world.

Today, she is being honored at an exhibit in London, which showcases her astounding wardrobe. The exhibit is being held at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Tonic tells us more:

With 40 of her iconic dresses on display and cabinets of shoes, bags, sunglasses and jewelry, the exhibit opened to rave reviews this weekend in the capital.

Paying tribute to her life as an Oscar-winning actress, highlights include the grey and pink silk chiffon dress embroidered with roses, which she wore in the famous dancing scene with Frank Sinatra in High Society (MGM later gave the dress to her and she wore it several times to various events) as well as outfits from the many Hitchcock films she starred in.

Indeed, Grace Kelly’s life is more than a fairy tale come true. From a Hollywood actress to a princess to a philanthropist – she has shown the world that dreams can become reality. And, she showed it with such grace (no pun intended). Not many people can be compared to Grace Kelly, as she continues to be admired – even revered – decades after her prime.

If you are in the vicinity, this is one exhibit that you absolutely cannot miss!

Celebrating 25 Years of Dolce & Gabbana

Anyone with the slightest bit of fashion sense will recognize that name: Dolce & Gabbana. I suppose that even those who are not interested in fashion at all will at least have heard the label at least once in their lives. And, why not? After all, this year marks the 25th year that the label has been in existence. While that may only be a quarter of a century, there is no denying that Dolce & Gabbana has gone a long long way.

Countless BIG names have carried Dolce & Gabbana over the years. Think about Victoria Beckham, Isabella Rossellini, Monica Bellucci, and Madonna. Newcomers like Katy Perry and Scarlett Johansson have also been poster girls for the brand. That leaves no doubt as to just how esteemed this brand is!

How are they celebrating their quarter of a century mark? Shopaholics, hang on to your seats.

The formula is simple: they will never rest on their laurels and keep supplying us with the latest in fashion! In May, for example, Dolce & Gabbana is launching a new line of sunglasses. Dubbed MDG, this line is being produced in cooperation with La Ciccone. With summer almost here, the launch of the line is certain to be a success!

Of course, there will be more than sunglasses coming out in the next few months. I suggest that you set aside some spending money as this year is definitely going to be a great one for the brand – and your collection!

Emma Watson: Fashion Entrepreneur

Emma Watson is no stranger to fashion. Indeed, one look at her and you’d know that she has her own fashion sense, which actually appeals to a lot of people. This young actress is not sitting idle, though. Instead of being a mere consumer, she has crossed to the other side and has launched a clothing line. Yeah, she also models for Burberry and Chanel by the way.

That isn’t her biggest achievement in the fashion world, though. Going back to the clothing line I just mentioned, Emma has partnered up with People Tree, a clothing brand that prides itself in being ethical. People Tree has a very good reputation in terms of excellent fashion sense and dealing only with fair trade products.

Emma has lent her artistic talents to People Tree, coming up with her own artwork. The people from the company praise her dedication to the clothing line and say that she is really serious about the project. It looks like the young star is paying more than lip service to the line. More than being involved in the design process, she has also enlisted the help of friends and family members to pose as models for the clothes.

From her end, Emma says that she has no aspirations to become a fashion designer. Her only motive in getting involved, she says, is her passion for the cause. She says that she really cares for trendy fashion as well as fair trade. Big words from a young girl, but hey, it looks like she means it!