March Fabness 2011 continues! Get caught up on voting in the other brackets, and let the most fabulous woman win!
March Fabness 2011, Round 1: Gucci Bracket
Posts tagged:jason wu
The Best of New York Fashion Week
Without further ado: The Diva’s Guide to New York Fashion Week.
The Week in Celebrity Fashion: Stars at Fashion Week and More!
Best of Pre-Fall 2011
Best Separates: Diane von Furstenberg
Not every great look needs to be one dramatic, complex gown. Sometimes a perfect combination of beautiful, simple, classic pieces is all you need. Every item on the model is something that belongs in every woman’s closet, and most importantly, all the pieces can be worn separately. The colors are so 1970s meets Thanksgiving Day (that’s a compliment, I swear). All the cranberries and burgandies and oranges are just perfect for fall.
Most Likely to Dance on Ice: Jason Wu
Jason Wu Pre-Fall 2011. Model: Ming Xi
Is ice skater chic a thing? Because, I never thought I’d say this, but it totally should be – as long as Jason Wu is at the helm. I’m loving the slightly rouched bustline, the cinched waist, and the short but flowy skirt. The color-blocking is perfection: the ivory, iced baby pink, and almost metallic, dusty red are to die for.
Most Fabulous Print: Oscar de la Renta
Oscar de la Renta Pre-Fall 2011. Model: Viktoriya Sasonkina
A perfect fit, fabulous accessories, and beautiful silhouette enhance this totally gorgeous fall print. It’s not easy to rock an orange-and-black dress without being Halloween-ish, but on the runway, it’s phenom.
Coat of My Dreams: Burberry Prorsum
Burberry Prorsum Pre-Fall 2011. Model: Lisanne De Jong
No words. I’m too busy drooling.
Best Mix of Old and New: Reem Acra
Reem Acra Pre-Fall 2011. Model: Sacha Blue
That mauve lace, the high neck, and the general ornateness of this look make it feel totally vintage and antique. But the length of the sleeves and the embellishments on them feel completely modern, even futuristic, and absolutely unique. A definite home-run of a cocktail dress.
Cate Blanchett’s Academy Awards Gown: Jason Wu
Jason Wu Pre-Fall 2011. Model: Julia Saner
We all love a good red carpet prediction, and I can’t think of a style diva more fit for this glamorous gown than Cate Blanchett. She’s got the flair for the dramatic that this gown demands. Add a black underlay to hide those nips, and Cate will have Oscar gold.
Christina Hendricks’s Emmy Awards Gown: Monique Lhuillier
Monique Lhuillier Pre-Fall 2011
Strapless, voluminous, and assymetrical? Check. A color that would look brilliant on the red-headed Mad Men star? Check. A thick fabric and tight bodice to rein in a huge pair of titties? Check. Here’s your dress on a silver platter, Christina Hendricks. Act accordingly.
Best Bridal: Naeem Khan
Naeem Khan Pre-Fall 2011
Elegant, delicate, and breathtaking. The perfect gown for a bride who wants her wedding to have that romantic, vintage feel.
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© Democracy Diva, 2010.
The 2010 Best Dressed List
Honorable Mention: Carey Mulligan, Florence Welch, & Ashley Olsen
Who: Carey Mulligan
What: Vionnet Pre-Fall 2010
Where & When: BAFTA Awards in London, February
Why: England’s favorite pixie proved her status as a style maven this year. Elegant and original, this gown was a serious step forward for this A-lister in the making.
Who: Florence Welch
What: Givenchy Fall 2010 couture
Where & When: MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, September
Why: The front-woman of Florence + the Machine showed she’s more than just a rock goddess – she’s a couture queen. You can’t help but admire the drama of this gold gown and accessories paired with Flo’s shockingly red hair and lips.
Who: Ashley Olsen
What: Erdem Fall 2009
Where & When: In Style/Warner Brothers Golden Globe Awards after-party in Los Angeles, January
Why: The bubble hem, the elbow-length sleeves, the cascading flowers, and that stunning blue color made Ashley a knock-out at the biggest of the Golden Globes after-parties.
Who: Ashley Olsen
What: Alexander McQueen Fall 2006
Where: Art of Elysium charity ball in Los Angeles, January
Why: Just weeks before McQueen’s untimely death, Ashley Olsen reminded us of why we love the luxurious and dramatic looks of the famed designer.
The Label Loyalists: Alexa Chung, Diane Kruger, and Marion Cotillard
Who: Alexa Chung
What: Chanel Spring 2010
Where & When: Elle Style Awards in London, February
Why: Alexa showed off her hipster-chic style with her devotion to all things Chanel.
Who: Alexa Chung
What: Chanel Resort 2011
Where & When: Chanel boutique re-opening in Soho, September
Why: Alexa wisely minimized the accessories with this funky multi-print dress by her favorite designer.
Who: Diane Kruger
What: Jason Wu
Where & When: Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or Closing Ceremony, May
Why: For the Cannes closing ceremony, classic beauty is a must-have. Diane showed that a little bling and a lot of color can go a long way on the red carpet.
Who: Diane Kruger
What: Jason Wu
Where & When: Screen Actors Guild Awards in Hollywood, January
Why: This beautifully draped, one-shouldered mustard yellow gown shows off Diane’s effortless old Hollywood glamour.
Who: Marion Cotillard
What: Christian Dior Resort 2011
Where & When: Paris premiere of Inception, July
Why: You can’t beat a French woman at French fashion, especially in Paris! The black lace, stunning neckline, and voluminous silhouette are proof that sometimes, the French just do it best.
Who: Marion Cotillard
What: Christian Dior Spring 2010
Where & When: Golden Globe Awards in Hollywood, January
Why: Showing a little leg and a lot of style, Marion again represents her home country in an asymmetrical metallic and lace gown by Dior.
The Trend Setters: Kristen Stewart and Keira Knightley
Who: Kristen Stewart
What: Herve Leger by Max Azria Fall 2010
Where & When: Late Show with David Letterman in New York, June
Why: In a victory for grumpy pale girls everywhere, Kristen shows off her porcelain skin and never-ending legs in this one-sleeved modern LBD.
Who: Keira Knightley
What: Chanel Fall 2010 couture
Where & When: Opening night of the BFI London Film Festival, October
Why: Keira’s Chanel dress is revealing – note the sheerness of the neckline, waist, back and sleeves – but still incredibly classy. Proof that a dress strategically cut in all the right places can do wonders, especially on an already beautiful woman.
Best Variety: Cate Blanchett and Emma Watson
Who: Cate Blanchett
What: Alexander McQueen Pre-Fall 2010
Where & When: Opening night of Cannes Film Festival, May
Why: It’s rumored that Cate hand-selected this dramatic gown from the late designer, and she couldn’t have chosen a more unique look. It’s a rare woman who can pull off a black wedding gown with a giant eagle on it, but of course Cate makes it look chic.
Who: Cate Blanchett
What: Armani Prive Spring 2010 Couture
Where & When: Tony Awards in New York, June
Why: Some mocked this so-called Tin Man look, but Cate again proved that she dares to strut outside the box in her sexy silver suit.
Who: Cate Blanchett
What: vintage Christian Lacroix
Where & When: Gala in Beijing, September
Why: The dress speaks for itself. This work of art is one of the most extraordinary gowns I’ve ever seen.
Who: Emma Watson
What: Christopher Kane Fall 2010
Where & When: LONDON showROOMS closing party in New York, March
Why: Pre-pixie cut, Emma shows off her trendy style with this lace and floral dress by the Scottish designer.
Who: Emma Watson
What: Karl Lagerfeld Spring 2010
Where & When: National Movie Awards in London, May
Why: A dress is only as chic as the shoes you pair it with, and those Louboutins are chic as all hell. This sexy dress is just as stylish – notice the peek-a-boo keyhole and the super-short skirt!
Who: Emma Watson
What: custom Burberry
Where & When: Met Costume Institute Gala Benefit in New York, May
Why: At the biggest red carpet fashion event of the year, all eyes were on Emma, in the gown Burberry designer Christopher Bailey made just for her. The chunky black accessories helped keep this look less bridal and more youthful.
Who: Emma Watson
What: custom Calvin Klein
Where & When: New York premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I, November
Why: Shedding Hermione’s longer locks, Emma shows off her fabulous pixie cut and her minimalist style in yet another dress custom-made for her.
The Risk-Taker: Lady Gaga
Who: Lady Gaga
What: custom Armani Prive couture
Where & When: Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, January
Why: There was no bigger fashion risk-taker this year than the artist formerly known as Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, better known to us all as Lady Gaga.
Who: Lady Gaga
What: Alexander McQueen
Where & When: MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, September
Why: One word: SHOES.
Who: Lady Gaga
What: Franc Fernandez
Where & When: MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, September
Why: Was there a more talked-about fashion statement this year – or possibly even this decade – than Lady Gaga’s infamous meat dress? More importantly, this outfit led to my favorite Gaga quote of all time: “I never thought I’d be asking Cher to hold my meat purse.”
Super Starlets: Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, and Rachel Bilson
Who: Blake Lively
What: Marchesa Resort 2011
Where & When: Fashion’s Night Out in New York, September
Why: If you’ve got perfect tits and legs for days, all you need is a funky cocktail dress and a ponytail and you’re ready for the biggest event of New York Fashion Week.
Who: Blake Lively
What: Elie Saab Fall 2010
Where & When: Tiffany & Co. event in New York, September
Why: Blake has her finger on the pulse of 2010’s hottest trends: lace, elbow-length sleeves, and flapper-style fringe.
Who: Blake Lively
What: Chanel Fall 2010 Couture
Where & When: Toronto Film Festival, September
Why: This is my idea of a perfect cocktail dress. I love the flower embellishments around her hips, and the ruby-red color of the dress really pops with that red cocktail ring and matching red lipstick.
Who: Leighton Meester
What: Marc Jacobs Resort 2011
Where & When: V Magazine’s New York Issue Party, September
Why: The pink blush on her cheeks matches the pink in the dress – what a genius move by Leighton’s stylist! Blake’s Gossip Girl co-star looks more beautiful than ever in this fabulous springtime number. (Although, is it a trick of the light, or can you see her nipples?)
Who: Rachel Bilson
What: Christian Dior Spring 2010
Where & When: Spike TV Video Game Awards in Los Angeles, December
Why: Nobody does effortless, youthful style quite like Rachel Bilson. Her stylist’s decision to do an ivory underlay was genius – even better than the runway version. And the little bows on those heels? Perfection.
Who: Rachel Bilson
What: Roberto Cavalli Pre-Fall 2010
Where & When: Roberto Cavalli’s 40th Anniversary Party during Paris Fashion Week, September
Why: A sexy, flowing leopard-print gown is a lot of look, but the red purse as the sole accessory is phenomenal. I love Rachel’s street style and casual wear, but with this look she proved that she’s a formal red carpet force to be reckoned with.
The A-Listers: Michelle Obama, Anne Hathaway, Natalie Portman, and Lea Michele
Who: First Lady Michelle Obama
What: Peter Sorensen
Where & When: State Dinner at the White House, May
Why: Who says the FLOTUS can’t be sexy? Hot Mama Obama shows off the famous First Guns in this glamorous gown.
Who: First Lady Michelle Obama
What: Michael Kors
Where & When: Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Phoenix Awards in DC, September
Why: All politics aside, no one can deny that the Obamas are one stylish couple. The First Lady is absolutely glowing in her red halter gown.
Who: First Lady Michelle Obama
What: Naeem Khan
Where & When: Kennedy Center Honors in DC, December
Why: She’s the Jackie O of the 21st century.
Who: Anne Hathaway
What: Antonio Berardi
Where & When: Hollywood premiere of Love & Other Drugs, November
Why: You can always depend on Anne for a classic, beautiful red carpet look. Flawless hair and makeup and the world’s best smile take this chic little dress to a whole new level.
Who: Anne Hathaway
What: Valentino Pre-Fall 2010
Where & When: Met Costume Institute Gala Benefit in New York, May
Why: This photo is the definition of Hollywood glitz and glamour.
Who: Anne Hathaway
What: Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011
Where & When: Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Norway, December
Why: The unique print and silhouette of this one-shouldered gown are stunning. From head to toe, this look is clean, classic, and incredibly beautiful.
Who: Natalie Portman
What: Rodarte
Where & When: Venice Film Festival screening of Black Swan, September
Why: Rodarte designers Laura and Kate Mulleavy created the ballet costumes in Black Swan, so this red carpet shout-out to the label was particularly lovely. As if the film wasn’t garnering enough buzz on its own, Natalie got the world talking about her once again in this jaw-dropping red gown.
Who: Natalie Portman
What: Lanvin
Where & When: Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences Governor’s Awards in Hollywood, November
Why: Natalie’s stylist has been working overtime lately as Natalie promotes Black Swan on every red carpet in the universe. But clearly she’s not losing her touch, because this purple asymmetrical draped gown is simply fabulous. And we all know that best-dressed list without Lanvin is no best-dressed list at all.
Who: Lea Michele
What: Oscar de la Renta Fall 2005
Where & When: Golden Globe Awards in Hollywood, January
Why: The Glee star started the year off with a bang. This gown announced Lea’s status as New Diva on the Block and proved that this pint-sized star is chock full of fabulous.
Who: Lea Michele
What: Catherine Malandrino Spring 2010
Where & When: Screen Actors Guild Awards in Hollywood, January
Why: This gown single-handedly created Lea Michele’s image as a sex symbol. The long, wavy locks, the dramatic makeup, the plunging neckline, the cinched waist, that intriguing green color – every element of this look is perfection.
Who: Lea Michele
What: custom Zac Posen
Where & When: Tony Awards in New York, June
Why: Donning another daring, brilliant color, this Broadway vet absolutely stunned on the Tonys red carpet. Lea’s dress flatters her teensy little figure so beautifully.
Who: Lea Michele
What: Oscar de la Renta Resort 2011
Where & When: Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, August
Why: If ever there was a look that said, “Worship me, bitches! I have ARRIVED!” – it’s this one.
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© Democracy Diva, 2010.
The Week(s) in Celebrity Fashion: Halloween Edition!
The eve of bitchery is upon us! This Diva is bringing you all the hottest fashion on the red carpet and the big screen, with just a bit of Halloween flavor. I know it’s been well over a week since the last so-called weekly fashion recap, but I’m a busy little future lawyer, so forgive me, dear readers, and enjoy a LOT of fabulous.
Tina Fey in Andy & Debb at the Megamind premiere
Hello, Liz Lemon! The straight hair is a bit severe for Tina’s features, but the dress is pretty fierce and flatters her figure beautifully. Love the dramatic cocktail ring, but I wouldn’t have chosen black tights.
Left:Fleur's wedding gown in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I. Right: Alexander McQueen Fall 2008
What’s the biggest drama bringing together the worlds of couture and magic? As my fellow nerds are well aware, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part I premieres this month (omfg so excited). So what’s the controversy? There’s Gossip Girl‘s Clemence Poesy in the role that made her not famous, Fleur Delacour, marrying Bill Weasley (the eldest son of our favorite magical red-headed family) in a dress that looks uncannily similar to an Alexander McQueen gown from Fall 2008. Does Team Potter owe an explanation to Team McQueen? I love the idea of a hot witch in high fashion, but Fleur Delacour-Weasley definitely did not get that gown from Madam Malkin’s Robes shop. (Oh, yeah. I know the name of the robes shop in Diagon Alley.)
Jennifer Lopez in Zuhair Murad at the Carousel of Hope Gala
She wore this to a gala? Perhaps if it were ten years ago and she was running around a stage lip-synching “Waiting for Tonight,” this would be an appropriate costume, but you can’t expect me to believe she wore this as a dress. As eveningwear, no less. Johnny Weir called; he wants his queertastic skating outfit back.
Yes, Selena Gomez, I’m talking to you as well:
Selena Gomez performing at a Las Vegas benefit
Who are you, Katy Perry at a Christmas party? But at least she has the Vegas excuse, where anything goes. She looks downright demure next to some of the get-ups you find in those parts.
Mila Kunis in Monique Lhuillier at the 14th Annual Hollywood Awards Gala
Simple and fierce; proof that minimalism can be more fabulous than all the accessories in the world.
Carey Mulligan in Giles at the 14th Annual Hollywood Awards Gala
And then, a reminder of how ugly minimalism can be. I don’t know what’s worse: the hair, the makeup, the choice of accessories, or the sad, droopy draping on that dress. This looks like Gretchen Jones and Michael Costello teamed up for an eveningwear challenge, and that’s about as big an insult as I can think of.
But Carey mostly made up for it with this look…
Carey Mulligan in Preen at the BAFTA Los Angeles 2010 Britannia Awards
But lord, do I hate those shoes. They look like the shoes Drew Barrymore wore to like, ten different events in two weeks, just in a way tackier color. However, the hair has seriously improved. Tom & Lorenzo have blogged about this very problem, in which cute starlets get adorable pixie cuts that look perfect until they start to grow out. And then we all have to endure months of their hair looking like shit. But some extra-hold gel took care of that, and the dress is gorgeous.
Snooki, Queen of the Pickles
No words. Just amazing.
Leighton Meester in Elie Saab at the 14th Annual Hollywood Awards Gala
Leighton should know by now that when it comes to hair and makeup, less is more. I think she’s always more beautiful when she doesn’t let the makeup artist go so heavy-handed. I also want to slap the moron who approved those shoes with that dress, and this is also ice skating costume territory (seriously, starlets, what’s going on with that?). But at a minimum, I love the top half of the dress.
What else does Leighton have to say?
Leighton Meester in Giambattista Valli at FGI's Annual Night of Stars
BOOM. Fabulous. I remember this Spring 2011 dress well; I had it in my original Red Carpet Predictions post, but couldn’t find the starlet to pair it to. Ms. Meester is rocking this adorable little color-blocked cocktail dress, although the fit around the bust is a little odd. The accessories are simple and chic, and the hair and makeup is still dramatic, but more natural and youthful.
Janet Jackson at the New York City premiere of For Colored Girls
I’m sorry, Ms. Jackson. Are you for real?
Eva Mendes in Gucci at the Rome Film Festival
Boring, but beautiful. It could use a better hemline, though.
Tara Reid as Train Wreck Barbie?
This was Tara Reid’s Halloween costume, though I’m not sure how we’re supposed to differentiate it from Tara Reid on a Tuesday.
Padma Lakshmi in New York
On the Finale: Part I of Project Runway Season 8, Heidi criticized Gretchen for a dress with this same strange design element in back, arguing that no woman would wear it. I don’t usually come to Gretchen’s defense, but this is proof that someone wears that. Boom. Lawyered.
Kate Mara at the Beverly Hills premiere of 127 Hours
It took me days of staring at this picture to figure out why this girl looked so familiar: she played Heath Ledger’s daughter in Brokeback Mountain. Apparently she’s in 127 Hours, which a movie I can’t wait to see even though I’ll probably vomit during it. Anyway, she officially has the right to exist according to this Diva, because this little dress is too cute. The necklace is fierce, the Louboutins are fab, and she’s a gorgeous woman. Keep it up, newbie.
And across the country, but at the same film premiere:
Jennifer Missoni at the New York premiere of 127 Hours
She’s related to, though not the creator of, the Missoni brand, she’s model-gorgeous, and this dress is funky and adorable.
Rosario Dawson in Stella McCartney at the Los Angeles premiere of Unstoppable
Ooof, Rosario. That hem? Seriously? And that color? And that shoulder? And those shoes? I can’t handle any of it. Please redeem yourself as soon as possible.
Rosario Dawson in Christian Siriano at the BAFTA Los Angeles 2010 Britannia Awards
Well, she reedemed herself. It’s not perfect, but it’s further proof of the beauty of simplicity. Love the accessories.
Christian Siriano as the Feather Duster from Beauty and the Beast at Heidi Klum's 11th annual Halloween party
Yes, that is Christian Siriano. As that slutty French feather dusty from Beauty and the Beast. One of the best Halloween costumes I’ve ever seen.
Christina Ricci in Marchesa at the 26th annual Artios Awards
I blogged about this dress during Fall 2010 Fashion Week, but I’m not sure I love it as much in the real world as I did on the runway. I think the black tights are too much; they bring it down into a young ballerina place. But otherwise, she looks pretty damn beautiful.
Reese Witherspoon in Jason Wu at the Avon Foundation for Women Gala
Fabulous, fabulous, fabulous. Definitely one of my favorite random red carpet looks of the past few months.
Michelle Monaghan in Versace at the Due Date premiere
Simple and sexy as hell. The nude shoe trend on the red carpet might be played out by now, but I absolutely adore the way the shoes match her skin tone – except for the Louboutin red stiletto, which matches the dress. Dramatic, statement-making, but minimalist. I love it.
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And in case you were curious, the Project Runway finale poll results were even more pro-Mondo than I anticipated:
An astonishing 96% of you wanted Mondo for the win. Let’s just forget this season ever happened, dear readers.
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© Democracy Diva, 2010.
Red Carpet Predictions: Spring 2011
Get ready, dear readers, because it’s time to play stylist to the stars! I’m taking the most glitzy-glamorous, red carpet-worthy gowns from ALL the Spring 2011 runway collections – NEW YORK to LONDON to MILAN to PARIS – and I’ll be deciding which of your favorite celebs will be wearing them out on the town. Let’s have some fun!
ANGELINA JOLIE will wear…
Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011
ANNA KENDRICK will wear…
Commuun Spring 2011
ANNE HATHAWAY will wear…
Elie Saab Spring 2011
BLAKE LIVELY will wear…
Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011
CAREY MULLIGAN will wear…
Carmen Marc Valvo Spring 2011
CHLOE SEVIGNY will wear…
Viktor & Rolf Spring 2011
CHRISTINA HENDRICKS will wear…
Christian Siriano Spring 2011
DAKOTA FANNING will wear…
Julien MacDonald Spring 2011
DIANE KRUGER will wear…
Wes Gordon Spring 2011
ELIZABETH BANKS will wear…
Elie Saab Spring 2011
EMMA WATSON will wear…
Versace Spring 2011
FREIDA PINTO will wear…
Gucci Spring 2011
HEIDI KLUM will wear…
Dolce & Gabbana Spring 2011
JANUARY JONES will wear…
Valetin Yudashkin Spring 2011
JENNIFER ANISTON will wear…
A. F. Vandevorst Spring 2011
JESSICA BIEL will wear…
Emanuel Ungaro Spring 2011
KATY PERRY will wear…
Manish Arora Spring 2011
KIM KARDASHIAN will wear…
Gianfranco Ferré Spring 2011
KRISTEN STEWART will wear…
Matthew Williamson Spring 2011
KRISTIN CHENOWETH will wear…
Collette Dinnigan Spring 2011
LADY GAGA will wear…
Manish Arora Spring 2011
and GAGA will wear…
Maison Martin Margiela Spring 2011
and of course, GAGA will wear…
Viktor & Rolf Spring 2011
Vikto & Rolf Spring 2011
LEA MICHELE will wear…
Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011
LEIGHTON MEESTER will wear…
Chapurin Spring 2011
MADONNA will wear…
Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011
MARION COTILLARD will wear…
Carlos Miele Spring 2011
MICHELLE WILLIAMS will wear…
Alexis Mabille Spring 2011
MILEY CYRUS will wear…
Vivienne Westwood Spring 2011
RACHEL BILSON will wear…
Cacharel Spring 2011
RIHANNA will wear…
Gareth Pugh Spring 2011
SARAH JESSICA PARKER will wear…
Jason Wu Spring 2011
SCARLETT JOHANSSON will wear…
Chloé Spring 2011
SELENA GOMEZ will wear…
Victoria Beckham Spring 2011
TAYLOR MOMSEN will wear…
Chanel Spring 2011
TAYLOR SWIFT will wear…
Tibi Spring 2011
ZOE SALDANA will wear…
Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011
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And with that, your Spring 2011 posts are complete!
New York Fashion Week’s 10 Best Looks
10. The Retro Swimsuit
Vintage-style swimwear is one of my favorite fashion trends. Bandeau tops, high-waisted bottoms – I’ll take that over a barely-there string bikini any day of the week. And in this gorgeous color, with the matching sweater and shoes? Who could possibly say no to this?
9. Lady in Red
From the way Project Runway is going, I’m not sure Valerie will actually make it to the top three, but her collection said otherwise. Architectural and feminine, like season 2 winner Chloe Dao. I hate the fake-looking wigs she used on every damn model, but this dress is truly stunning. It’s got complexity and intrigue but still feels classic.
8. Mad Men Meets Babydoll
The fabric choice is mod-chic, but the babydoll length is totally 90s. I love the sleeves and the way it flares out, flattering her teensy waist. A classically beautiful shape and print.
7. Architectural Chic
Totally modern, totally gorgeous. All those lines would be overwhelming if the dress wasn’t broken up by the clean white stripes in the middle. And that white sheer underlay? Delicious.
6. A Skirt for the Ages
Well, looks like I’ve found my new lawyer-chic ensemble. A crisp button down and a skirt with serious attitude is all a professional woman needs. That draping is so meticulous and it completely modernizes a classic outfit. I love the black bow at the waist, and I like that the skirt has some volume without making her look hippy.
5. Color Me Fabulous
Marc wins the award for best use of color. He didn’t hide behind taupes and whites – Mr. Jacobs went all out with gorgeous, rich, unique colors (and it happens to match my Ted Baker purse perfectly). Say what you will about the prairie-girl silhouettes – those colors are the only ones I want to wear this spring.
4. A New Silhouette
I’m just obsessed with the shapes of these pieces. Totally fresh and totally Vera. And that hair is so perfect for a Vera show – a pumped-up, volumized classic.
3. Hervé Strikes Again
Hervé Léger Spring 2011
Hervé Léger is beloved by celebrities for making skin-tight, incredibly body-conscious dresses. His infamous “bandage dresses” have been worn by the likes of Elisabeth Moss, L, Kim Kardashian, Anne Hathaway, Victoria Beckham, Blake Lively, and countless more starlets. He also nailed the number three spot in my post last season about the ten best looks from Fall 2010 (for a dress later worn by Lea Michele). And he’s back with a vengeance this season, with more awe-inspiring designs that show off a woman’s body like never before. Gorgeous, architectural, and above all, totally smokin’.
2. The Perfect Print
Fabulous silhouette and fit, but it’s the print that makes this truly unique. Those colors are beyond incredible. I hope this print shows up all over the runway this spring.
1. The Modern Classic
That fade from nude into navy is gorgeous. Such a dramatic effect in such a simple and timeless dress. Voluminous on the body, angelic on the top – a beautiful dress for any woman.
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Need more NYFW? Check out the worst looks, the hottest trends, and the best collections from New York Fashion Week. And for all your overseas fashion needs, don’t miss out on the best of London Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week!
The Week in Fashion
It’s New York Fashion Week! And although I’m not blogging about the collections quite yet, there’s still a lot of fabulous happening on the red carpet, in the front rows of the fashion shows, and in the magazines this week. So let’s get started!
Editorials: Divas in the News
Lea Michele in Magaschoni top & Michael Kors leggings for Glamour
I am fully in love with this picture. Glamour should have chosen it for the cover, but of course they went with one where she’s not wearing pants. Sigh. Regardless, there’s something so fabulously A Chorus Line about this outfit. Totally what you’d expect a Broadway star to be lounging around in on her day off. And the bangs, the eyes, the lips – she’s looking totally gorgeous.
Marc Jacobs and Lady Gaga in Louis Vuitton for V Magazine
Lady Gaga as the Statue of Liberty, half naked, in front of a shopping cart, with Marc Jacobs sitting on a television next to her. I can’t say I get it, but I certainly like it.
Lady Gaga for Vogue Hommes Japan
I am loving this cover. Perfect pose, perfect make-up, fabulous nails, and her smokin’ body is covered in raw meat. Gaga knows how to get people to pay attention, and this is a perfect example of that quality. And if anybody can rock a raw meat ensemble, it’s Lady Gaga. She makes it look like fashion.
The Venice Film Festival
Natalie Portman in custom Rodarte
I don’t like the hair and I probably wouldn’t have chosen white shoes, but everything else about this look is simply gorgeous. The dress is sexy as hell but not revealing; it feels like classic red carpet Hollywood but has all sorts of tricks and complexities to it. The straps and shoulders and the bodice are just stunning, and as usual, Natalie looks like an Israeli goddess.
Jessica Alba in Valentino
Why, Jessica? Why is your skirt so much longer in the back than in the front? Is this a white trash themed costume party and your dress is a coy reference to the mullet? There is just nothing attractive about a mullet skirt, honey.
Michelle Williams in Jason Wu
That right-to-the-elbow sleeve length keeps popping up and I’m fully obsessed with it. And although this is a blah color, Michelle is absolutely rocking this. I’m a little over the neck bow trend – Kate Beckinsale and Carey Mulligan wore them all over Cannes – but I still think this is just precious and classy and it still maintains Michelle’s hipster-chic aesthetic.
Michelle Williams
Perfection. I’d wear that dress in a heartbeat, and those shoes are killer. She could not be cuter.
Clemence Poesy in Louis Vuitton
Parisian chic at its best, our very own Fleur Delacour is rocking a look that always looks better on French girls. A silk shirt with a giant bow tucked into a blue skirt, plus sex hair and barely-there makeup? Simply beautiful.
Fashion Elite at New York Fashion Week
Diane Kruger in Chanel at the Chanel Boutique opening party
Oy. Well, at least the shoes are cute. The rest is just too much. Sloppy hair and all that fabric? Plus a belt over it? She looks like she’s in a slutty chicken suit.
Blake Lively in Chanel at the Chanel Boutique opening party
I’m pretty sure I’ve never before seen Blake in an outfit that didn’t expose her boobs and/or legs. So I respect the attempt to cover up, and the Mary Jane shoes are awesome, but this dress is beyond tacky. And blow dry your fucking hair before you go to a Chanel fashion week party. Show some respect.
Blake Lively in Marchesa at Fashion’s Night Out: The Show
Okay, you win. I’m obsessed with this. Showing a lot of leg and a bit of boob, like Lively always should. That print is beyond gorgeous, the bracelets are kickass, the shoes are fierce, and I like the makeup. I think she’s always absurdly lazy about her hair, which is why she’s rocking a pony, but at least it works.
Leighton Meester in Versus at Fashion’s Night Out: The Show
Well, this is fugly. Like, so fugly I wouldn’t even wear it as a Halloween costume. It’s glorified underwear, and worse than that, it just looks cheap and tacky. If you want to go out on the town half-naked, so be it, but your outfit still has to be chic and fabulous, and this is NOT.
Maggie Grace in Christian Siriano at his Spring 2011 fashion show
Another epic print and adorable silhouette by the lovely and talented Christian Siriano. (Although the blogosphere is saying his collection this week was underwhelming… but we’ll get to that in a few posts.) I love this dress because it’s effortless – it does all the work for Maggie. Just throw on heels and eyeliner and you’re ready to go.
Miscellaneous Fabulous and Fugly
Hello, teeny little waist! America Ferrera looks completely amazing in this dress. I’m obsessed with the sleeves and collar, the skinny belt is perfect, the length is super-flattering, and the accessories are simple and perfect. I think every professional woman should have this dress hanging in their closet.
Jessica Simpson in a design from her own denim collection
Jessica is modeling her own design, so there is no one to blame for this atrocity except for Jessica herself. I am getting physically ill at the sight of that cheap denim with the tacky gold zippers and buttons. This is denim at its worst.
Katrina Bowden in Theia
It’s pretty easy to always look great when you’re blonde and blue-eyed and approximately eleven pounds, like 30 Rock‘s Cerie. But Katrina keeps cropping up on best-dressed lists, and this dress proves she deserves it. Another adorable and unique print, which is always nice to see. She could use a necklace, bracelet, or purse – just something to make her look less naked. But this is a fabulous little number.
Kim Kardashian
Dear Kim:
What, what, what are you doing? Look at those leggings. Look at your choices.
Love,
The Democracy Diva
Lea Michele in Erdem
I’ve blogged about dresses nearly identical to this twice so far – Chloe Sevigny rocked one at the Met Gala, and Eva Mendes wore it in July 2010. So I’m a little bit over this, but I still think a long-sleeved cocktail dress is a wonderful thing. And even though it’s overdone, the color and print are beautiful. But can we please talk about Lea’s hair? This better be for Glee, because if Lea is actually choosing to wear those horribly distracting highlights/extensions, this may be the end of my love affair with her. (Just kidding. I’ll always love you, Lea.)
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The Weekly Fashion Recap
Fabulous FLOTUS
First Lady Michelle Obama in Jason Wu Resort 2009
Classic Americana worn by classy Americans. MObama looks gorgeous in blue Jason Wu. The bows around her waist are cute, and I love the way the dress accentuates her fabulous figure, as if to say I’ve got hips and I love it! Those famous arms (Tom & Lorenzo hilariously referred to them as the “First Guns”) are looking toned as ever, and of course the chunky bracelets are super-trendy. I could do without the shoes, but at least they show that she’s making the effort to have fun with her wardrobe, and isn’t that the point of fashion?
Also, can I just say that I love how often the Obamas are photographed holding hands? As a child raised in the Clinton years, it’s so refreshing to see a First Couple that’s actually in love.
Another Disaster from Rihanna
Are dresses that require a generator becoming a trend? Because I refuse to get behind that. First it was Katy Perry at the Met Gala, now it’s Rihanna. All my least favorite celebrities are donning light-up costumes – next thing you know, Kristen Stewart will mope around the red carpet in a light bulb dress with her hair looking like shit. I’m not sure what concerns me more – the light-up dress, or the fact that her hair color is brighter than the light bulbs. Ladies, reduce your carbon footprint and your fashion faux pas, and nix the light-up dresses, please.
Floral and Fierce
This Diva is fully obsessed with this dress. The sleeve hitting right above the elbow is super-trendy right now, and it always looks great. I love the print and the shape, and that little rainbow belt is just the perfect touch of whimsy (plus it accentuates her teensy little waist). Also, was this photo taken through a time machine? Because SJP is looking suspiciously fresh-faced and beautiful. Keep it up, girl.
The Best and Worst of Lady Gaga
Nope. Words can’t do this one justice. All I can say is Where the Wild Things Are meets car wash meets Cousin It.
Lady Gaga at Lollapalooza
This, on the other hand, is why I love Gaga. The crazy wild hair, the signature sunglasses (a Lady never shows her eyes, I suppose), and a purple, seemingly plastic leopard print leotard! It’s weird, sure, but it’s fabulous and fashion-forward. And I’m a huge supporter of nude fishnets to add subtle sex to any outfit. This is a fabulous reminder that though sometimes Gaga’s performance art goes totally off the wall, she’s capable of bringing crazy fashion to a more accessible place.
How to Travel in Style
It helps to be the most beautiful woman alive, but Freida Pinto nails some essential fashion tricks: mixing black, brown, and blue; and looking chic while traveling comfortably. Let’s start with how insanely beautiful she looks even though she hardly looks like she’s wearing makeup. This woman is a goddess. And she’s a master at airport chic – a comfortable yet chic tank and sweater, a loose but fashionable skirt, tights to stay warm on the plane, and flats that are easily removable at security or while napping in first class. Her suitcase is beyond gorgeous, and I love the smoky greyish blue color of that skirt. Effortless and travel-friendly, but still beyond fabulous.
Haute Hermione
Emma Watson in Alice by Temperley
By now we all know that Emma Watson (better known as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films) has cut her hair and looks incredible. She’s rocking the pixie cut harder than anyone since Mia Farrow, and after ten years of being our favorite bushy-haired, brilliant witch, she deserves the freedom to cut it all off and do something new. She’s certainly got the perfect facial features to pull it off, and she looks so much older and more sophisticated, but still youthful and modern. And although this may actually be a romper, she looks fierce as hell promoting Deathly Hallows in this long-sleeved lace ensemble.
My only concern with her haircut is that this kind of cut tends to look very awkward in the growing-out stage. And since Part 1 of Deathly Hallows will hit theaters in November (::squeals with excitement::), Ms. Watson will have an ass-load of red carpets to hit, first to promote the film, and then the premieres in LA, New York, London, and every other city on earth. So I’m just hoping her events planner and her hair stylist sit down together and ensure that this fabulous bitch’s hair will look fierce all over the world this fall.
The Material Girl
Madonna celebrated her 52nd birthday the way all of us should – by looking half her age. I think Madonna has never looked better. The hair is curly, wild, and fabulous (though I’d touch up the roots), and the makeup/Botox/face lifts are really working, because her skin looks flawless. The dress is simultaneously mega-hot and totally classy, which is a difficult line to walk. Again, the sleeve hitting right above the elbow is totally adorable (and it covers up her crazy arms). Her figure is as petite and perfect as ever, she’s rocking fishnets and a badass fishnetty glove, and she’s still rocking a cross like it’s 1986. I don’t know if she sold her soul to the devil for a fountain of youth or just has the best plastic surgeon on the planet, but whatever her secret is, I want it.
Worst of the Week: Paris Does Marilyn
Where do I start? How about the bandage dress, which is designed to suck in every part of your body, but somehow makes Paris look like she’s in her second trimester. And the clown makeup? Paris may be a sex icon, but she does not have a beautiful face. Her squinty-eyed, long-nosed face just can’t handle makeup like this (actually, I’m not sure anyone’s face can). Her fake tan is disturbingly orange, she’s wearing a fur coat in AUGUST, and why is she playing dress-up to the launch of her perfume? Is she that desperate for attention? (Well, duh. She’s Paris Hilton.) Also, can we talk about the fact that her perfume is called ‘Tease’? Paris, darling, you’re not a tease. You are the star of one of the world’s most infamous celebrity sex tapes. You’re easy like Sunday morning. You don’t entice men and then leave them wanting more – honey, you give it all away! Perhaps your fragrance should be called “filthy tramp” instead, just for the sake of accuracy.
Best of the Week
WOW. Dianna Agron (better known to Glee fans as pregnant ex-Cheerio Quinn Fabray) has always been beautiful, but she’s never really popped on the red carpet until now. This dress is original, whimsical, and innovative – not to mention it fits her like a dream. It’s not what the average twenty-something starlet wears, and that’s what makes it look so damn good. The shoes are Manolo Blahniks, and they are beautiful. And even though she might be rocking a Bump-It, I think she looks absolutely flawless.
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The Democracy Diva 
