Drama Queen

Coco goes to work

2011-11-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

Ever since seeing her as guest judge on this season's America's Next Top Model, I am obsessed with Canadian supermodel Coco Rocha.

Being one of the best models of the moment, what else would she do inside a serious work space but pose?
...JUST kidding all you angry (but confused-looking) models!! You're smart too!!

Love to have ethereal-type models creep around my office space. Too hilarious. Watch.

Material Girls

2011-10-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

How great is Madonna's new video promoting her Material Girl Lucky Star search? It's like watching the uber cool teenage version of her as she tries (but fails) to be funny. Love Lourdes.

Very Very Versace

2011-10-20T04:22:00.000-07:00

Donatella Versace premiered her full collection (clothes, shoes & jewellery) for h&m this morning, a little under a month before it hits 300 stores worldwide on 17 November.

Obviously hoping for the same tremendous response from Lanvin's own collaboration this time last year, it seems Versace had the same aim for their affordable wear: create garments that look like their typical brand. We all love a little Versace vavavoom – the prints, the brights, the florals and the sparkles – but taken too literally, and it can look like a hot mess.

This collection is great: it's marketable, attractive and fun. But it's as if they sat down, brainstormed all the Versace stereotypes, and designed them. Nobody wants to look like Versace – they want to be Versace. Had this been more like their usual design process, it may have been more believable and true to the brand, instead of a replica.

And Donatella even admits it:

"The collection for H&M is the essence of Versace. For the collaboration we've brought back from the archives, as well as from more recent collections, some of the icons of Versace, such as the bright prints, the Greek key and daring cuts. I can't wait to see how H&M's wide audience will make these pieces their own."

Do these tropical leggings remind anyone else of Jlo's Grammy Versace gown in 2000?

Sunday to night

2011-10-04T02:08:00.000-07:00

These two looks seem to fit the perfect picture in my imagination of what would make the perfect day/night look. I adore Just Cavalli and gold and nude make the perfect dreamy combination, while the blushing sheer Dior gown is like a pink cloud that needs to get on my back. Although, I do have to doubt my arms will continually swing the train from side to side to create that wind machine effect. In any case, I'm ready-to-wear all of this.

DVForever♥

2011-09-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

Love Diane Von Furstenberg any day, any night, especially if it's one shouldered. And coral.
Sorry to leave my seat empty NYFW!

Diary of a model girl

2011-07-19T04:20:00.000-07:00

As 'fun' and 'amazing' and that Cape Town Fashion Week was for guests (see any Cape Town blog for details), let's not forget the main characters of this affair: the models. Think what you will about them, but Jess Hull kindly shared her fashion week diary with me and let me in on all the behind the scenes secrets.

Sunday 10 July

It's 8am and fittings start at Cape Town Convention Centre. It's a lot of waiting around but such a good chance to get to know all the girls and plus I get to try on many beautiful clothes.

Fittings go on until Tuesday and each day ends at about 4 or 6pm depending on which designers you do fittings for.

Wednesday 13^th

It's the Foschini Fasttrack shows. I have to be at the venue at 8.30am for rehearsals, and hair and make up call time is 2.30pm. Breakfast and lunch are provided– amazing food, pies, chips, salads, soups, desserts, all round amazing (which all the models actually eat– a lot). I am out of the venue at around 9pm-ish but am far too tired to go out. Doing the fasttrack show is really cool because it showcases young designers and it's good to see the potential and talent SA has.

Thursday 14^th

I am at the cticc again at 8am for more rehearsals, make up again at 2.30pm, then the first show kicks off with TART/Michelle Ludek, 2^nd show is Habits, 3^rd show Gavin Rajah and last Abigail Betz (definitely found my future wedding dress in her collection – such elegant and beautiful stuff). I'm especially nervous for the Rajah show because of the seriously high heels, but thank goodness it went fine. (I have a fear of falling off the runway – but if you do, just laugh it off, smile and carry on). This is one of the longest days as we literally have about 10-15 mins in between shows to change our looks completely for each designer. My hair and face take strain but it is well worth it, GHD and MAC are amazing! Am home at about 23:30.

Friday 15^th

Today is a little less hectic but it's still another early morning nonetheless (8am). We are off to rehearsals at the Land Bank in Queen Victoria road – the venue for the Dr Rey lingerie show. Very cool to meet the Doctor and his wife after seeing them on their reality show Dr 90210, and his lingerie and swimwear are beautiful. I am a bit nervous for his show because 1 of my outfits is a gstring and I've never worn one in public (eek!) but it was fine!

Next: back to the CTICC for Lalesso/Lisp/Nucleus rehearsals then makeup call at 2.30 again… The Dr Rey show ends around 23:30 and a few of us girls head to The Fez for a sneaky unwind but it has to be an early night as it's the David Tlale show the next day (which I am only informed about that day!!).

Dr Rey and me

Saturday 16^th

Another early rise (8am- blegh) for rehearsals and fittings (I'm a bit late) for David’s show at The Bromwell. This show is interesting as it's rather a showcase than a ramp walk of his designs in different rooms and the crowd moves from room to room.

Then it's on to the City Hall for a retrospective show at the Madiba event. That's my final show but I stay behind to watch Stefania Morland, also very beautiful. Afterwards I'm off to the after party with the girls which is held at the Land Bank – good to have fun after a week like ours.

I need my beauty sleep!

After getting about 6 hours sleep per night, it's safe to say I'm ready for my Sunday in bed.

After all the makeup and hair ironing, I definitely need some serious beauty care. When I get home I like to use the Roobois facial wash its t works really well for me. I also make sure to lather on the moisturisers so my skin doesn't dry out. The hair stylists from GHD gave each of us a bottle of an amazing treatment to help our hair get its moisture back after all the GHD-ing.

The horror...

The worst part of the whole week: they bleached all the models' eyebrows (even the dark girls) but thank goodness they dyed them back to normal at the end of the week – mine had turned orange!

Plans:

I had so much fun this last week and have made some amazing friends. Starting varsity again on the 25^th then I'm off the Joburg on the 27^th for the Elle Macpherson lingerie show for 2 days.

Thanks Jess for sharing your fashion week with us!

Dita & Blair

2011-07-08T03:39:00.000-07:00

Dita Von Teese decided to have her own Blair Waldorf moment at the haute couture ball at Versailles, Paris. Have to say they both look stunning in Alexis Mabille, but we have to give props to Leighton for wearing it first and dancing on chairs at a spontaneous Bar Mitzvah.

Britney wants to GO!

2011-06-22T00:29:00.000-07:00

Britney just released her third video from Femme Fatale and it is.... cute. With zero choreography, she mocks the press and acts as a victim pursued by the paparazzi villains. Same old same old. Except the pink hair and the flash. That's new.

A true femme fatale wears...

2011-06-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

If you're as obsessed with Britney's always-amazing stage costumes, this will blow your mind. Costume designer Zaldy Goco reveals all her themed-wear for her Femme Fatale tour that is set to start Friday. Bear in mind that these are for the stage and not the street, and my favourite is the gold bikini and crop jacket that she wore at the dress rehearsal so many lucky people like Perez Hilton got to attend. Love this sneak peak and close ups of what she will wear!

Love Last Friday Night

2011-06-12T11:57:00.001-07:00

The new Katy Perry video (that she promoted via geek vid) is I think one of her best ever, and I have a sneaky suspicion hubby Russell may have had something to do with the concept. Entertaining and hilarious, what more could we want?

Catherine in White (again)

2011-06-11T11:42:00.000-07:00

While I don't overlook Kate's white habit, that is the wedding, wedding party, the polo and now the Queen's 85th birthday celebrations, I cannot stop gaping at this amazing ivory jacket. But the ruffles just make me want to grab it and put it on my body, although I doubt anyone could look as beautiful and skinny graceful as Catherine.

Kate's been all at the top of the headlines this week as people first admired her white polo ensemble, and then that Jenny Packham dress at a gala dinner, which Gossip GIrl character Blair also wore at her own royal engagement.

Nicely played for her first Trooping the Colour ceremony.

Gossip Girls at Movie Awards

2011-06-06T03:56:00.000-07:00

Well if anyone knows when it's her moment to shine, it's Leighton Meester. For once that people are shaking their heads at her costar Blake Lively (deny! deny! deny!) at the MTV Movie Awards last night, it appears the brunette Gossip Girl snatched the flashes in this stunning blue and silver Balmain dress. There's nothing I love more than a long-sleeved mini and although the sandals are oh-kay they don't reaaaallllly bother me as Leighton glowed in her glory, while Blake attempted some rare covering up in Michael Kors.

Obamas at Buckingham

2011-05-24T06:41:00.000-07:00

Catherine's first official meeting was with the Obamas today, no biggie. The 2 famous pairs chatted informally for about 20 minutes in Buckingham Palace (where the Obamas will be spending 2 nights......in Will and Kate's wedding suite, mildly awkward sleep) about the wedding and the newlywed couple's trip to the US next month, and I'm thinking the First Lady had a few words of wisdom for the new princess.

I'm imagining a conversation along these lines:

Kate: " I feel so stressed since I got back from the Seychelles... no one understands how I feel!!"

Michelle: "trust me honey, whenever you feel overwhelmed, just eat as many french fries as you can"

Kate: "Hahahaha! French fries?? I haven't had a carbohydrate since Will proposed!"

Top of the Cannes

2011-05-15T05:39:00.000-07:00

The Cannes Film Festival is always glamour-filled (this is after all the French Riviera)and this year the ladies showed their inner fashionistas selecting straight off the catwalk looks. My number one, Penelope Cruz in an unforgettable lilac tulle and beaded Marchesa gown.

Aishwarya Rai in Armani Privé

Karolina Kurkova in Chanel (above) and Armani Privé (below)

Rachel McAdams in Monique Llhuillier (above) and Marchesa (below)

A belle Chanel weekend

2011-05-11T05:28:00.000-07:00

The recent BFF's- Lagerfeld and his mademoiselle

Karl Lagerfeld isn't one to go small when it comes to Chanel. So, when it came to launching the resort 2012 collection on Monday, what better way to do it:

1. At the start of the Cannes Film Festival in the neighbouring Cap d'Antibes
2. Host a dinner with the most beautiful actresses
3. Have the show at the Hotel Eden Roc the next day
4. And finally, preview Lagerfeld's short Chanel (risqué) fashion film

Yes, this recipe will ensure maximum glits, maximum press, and maximum fashion.

Maybe Rachel Bilson thought it looked like Orange County so she could totes rock the shorts and frilly top.

My absolute favourite of the night- Poppy Delevigne. That Chanel tweed (macro) suit looks impeccable.
Oddly enough I am not a fan of Blake's sequin look and black shorts- it screams, Hello Cannes! Instead of, I am a classy Chanel lady.

You can watch 'The Tale of a Fairy' - it's très sensual

Oh, and if you're wondering how your invitation got lost in the mail, here it is now:

Exclusive Plush interview

2011-05-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday I sat down with Plush in Grahamstown where they played a super successful gig the Union. Rory, Carl and Emelio told me what they really think of Grahamstown, how their brand new album sounds, primary school drinking habits and the good old days.

What a great group of guys who stand firm for an authentic Plush sound- thanks for giving me your lunch break!

Royal wedding blues

2011-05-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

So I was all excited about the royal wedding (probably more than most, it's unhealthy) until the post-wedding blues set in. And then there were the photographs and re-runs to remind me that it.was.over.
That's why I didn't do a major post- too sad.

But this, now this makes me proud to live in South Africa. Our own Charlene Wittstock and future princess of Monaco looked radiant in Akris. My personal best dressed. That dress is beyond adorable, her hat is glamorous and her hair and makeup is gorge. Seriously though, I want to take that dress off her body and wear it. Glad she decided to wear gloves, unlike many others. She must have the world's best stylist on speed dial, unlike Prince Albert, looking more penguin than Prince.

Oh.My.Gaga.

2011-04-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

Maybe I shouldn't have got so excited. Lady Gaga performed 'Judas' for the first time on the Ellen Degeneres show in a teen Britney leather blue costume, wore a darker-do wig, and tinted her eyebrows black. It's not every day Gaga bares her belly, and maybe she should have kept it that way. Not that it lacked any abs, but sure did look oddly tanned compared to her white painted face.

Other than that, the first half she was so focused on her dancing she forgot about her performance as a whole and then forgot about her singing even more. That last bit... ouch my ears hurt.

Jlo judges in Chakra (again)

2011-04-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

We all know Jlo is an avid pink, silver and sequin wearer and we also know that she would wear Georges Chakra in a second.

So it wasn't a hard guess when seeing her wear this Couture Summer 2010 dress on Wednesday's American Idol performance night that's almost identical to the one she (and Blake Lively aka Gossip Girl's Serena) wore last year. I like the old one better but since she (obvs) can't wear it twice, why not just stick some a bit ball of tulle on it?

I call this: Jlo opts for her inner ballerina. The tulle, the pink, and her baby's hair clip.

Britney's dancing til the world ends - literally

2011-04-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

Britney Spears revealed the apocalytic music video for 'Til the world ends' at midnight on Wednesday.

This was the first time Britney worked with Norwegian director Ray Kay, who seems to have watched 'Slave 4 u' one time too many. This video is good, don't get me wrong, but all it is is a more rocker version of the super sweaty, super sexy 'Slave' video....minus the great dance number choreographed by Wade Robson. The groping, the thrusting, the pulsing, the baby oil...it's obviously what Britney likes.
We can now all conclude that BritBrit's lost any dancing ability except her ability to jump. Choreographer Brian Friedman should start running.

As she admits in her 'I am the femme fatale' MTV documentary, Britney is no longer trying to top herself after the dozens of music videos she's shot by now, simply trying to have a good time. But it's kind of sad, isn't it? No more powerful Britney to destabilise the pop world and force it to look back on itself and reinvent itself.

Not just similar to the 'Slave' vid, it is also a lot like 'Overprotected'- her hair, her jacket, her attitude, (minus the dancing, obvs) and the warehouse-like venue.

The good news is that Spears is apparently set to release another, more choreography-oriented version of the video. Hopefully she got the message.

Steven Tyler goes country with Carrie Underwood

2011-04-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

Sunday night's Country Music Awards in Las Vegas were of the usual standard, apart from a glitzy and impressive performance by Carrie Underwood and Steven Tyler. The duet blasted Carrie's hit 'Undo it' followed by 'Walk this way', which were both huge hits in the room. Tyler still had his famous howl, but as to his singing, he was visibly struggling. His spontaneous style and her super controlled technique contrasted sharply but they managed to pull it off to create one starry, fabulous performance.
And how sweet of Underwood to tie a scarf onto her microphone as a tribute to Tyler, who tried to thank her by aiming for a kiss but was teasingly rejected with her quick miss. Ya can't mess with Carrie!

True Femme Fatale

2011-03-30T03:07:00.000-07:00

It's been 3 years since Britney's huge 'comeback' Circus album- and what could top it more her 7th album's 16 heavy-beat-house and oh-so-pop-melodic tunes produced by the pop factory's hit makers Max Martin and Dr Luke.

Despite negative gasps of how absolutely awful her first Femme Fatale single 'Hold it against me' was, her second seemed to redeem itself, although 'Til the world ends' is in no way the best song on the album.

As soon as you hit track 4, 'I wanna go' immediately gets you moving, while the proceeding track 5 'How I roll' has been causing quite a stir. The 22nd century beat, melody and groove is arguably one of Britney's best songs and while lyrics like 'you can be my f**k' tonight are, well, you decide. The song finally gets the album started.

Her voice, as per usual auto-tuned and making baby coo sounds that make you want to sing along, may be one of the most underrated instruments since the vuvuzela. Synthesisers, vocaloid, and the other hundred studio technologies that take any kind of natural sound out of her voice created a cooked genre of music that's been 'in' since Madonna's 2005 Confessions on a dancefloor. It's no Adele or Beyonce, but it's something that's undeniably addictive.

My personal favourites, 'Trip to your heart' and 'He about to lose me' seem to conjure some rare emotion out of Spears, which lacks in most other songs. Any sign of vibrato or passion in the latter is appreciated more than any of the other songs' infectious beats.

More than anything, as Jody Rosen puts it in Rolling Stone, the album is strange. 'A party record packed with sex and sadness', it's odd that it's at this time in Britney's life- the time of motherhood and a more settled down lifestyle than her post-Circus nervous-breakdown-times- that she would come out with this dance album. It's not like she missed out on any partying days, but why now? Maybe she dreams of moving to an island like Ibiza. Maybe. And her lazy dancing doesn't help the irony, either.

Slammed on her first single and praised on the whole album, Britney has once again shown just how great she is if not more than before. But her music is one thing and performance is another. On last weekend's Good Morning America performance the popstar lip synched through all the 3 numbers and barely did a dance move past a thrust. She's no 19 year old performer like she used to be and it shows. Since her knee-surgery back in the Onyx Hotel tour days, she hasn't danced once like her pre-pregnancy days.

So I hope that Britney's hidden songs will be discovered and appreciated and that her performances may improve. If not, she should stick to photo shoot promotions, try to improve the weak promotions through twitter and a once-off radio interview, and release this documentary asap.

Kate Moss en Vogue

2011-03-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

Seeing this Chanel dress on Kate Moss's Vogue Japan cover is the best thing I've seen in fashion all year. My favourite dress of 2011, glad that Anna Dello Russo (Vogue Japan editor at large and creative director) has embraced it!

Google Gaga

2011-03-23T01:30:00.000-07:00

My Flash Trash launches SA jewellery

2011-03-16T03:31:00.000-07:00

After dropping a few hints over twitter and facebook, the British online jewellery store My Flash Trash has today officially launched their first South African jewellery designers JOYA - designers who are putting South Africa on the map with internationally trend aware and locally produced jewellery.

My Flash Trash
The face behind the store- Amber Atherton, the model/entrepreneur/fashion college of london student/socialite and now turned reality tv personality- has grown her site to huge proportions, featuring jewellery in Elle, Vogue and Tatler to name just a few. And now, local jewellery JOYA too has a chance to be platformed internationally.

Designing with a difference

Amber was introduced to the the mother-daughter designer team by a South African friend and immediately fell in love with their pieces.

Daphne and Victoria Fenner are based in Cape Town and have Zimbabwean staff. The duo is all about making an impact, and not only on the bodies of their clients. They have made sure to create employment and support the talented Zimbabwean artisans who are trained in working with fine quality precious stones and rare fine silver. This silver is sourced from Zimbabwe and all the income from it is pumped back into the local community. The staff works very closely with Victoria who admits that "often the outcome is largely influenced by their input".

The journey
But it hasn't always been so glamorous for the duo.

"It has been a long road", Victoria tells me, "but it seems like we are finally getting some recognition and it feels great! My Flash Trash is exactly the kind of outlet we support, Amber takes designers who may not have the huge financial and corporate backgrounds behind them but shedloads of talent and individuality and gives them a platform from which to display their talent".

Influences

Influenced by historical jewellery such as from the Tudors and the Navajo Indians, JOYA puts their own spin on it using the highest quality stones and beads from all over the world. For Victoria, travelling is "a definite perk of the job!".

The jewellery
The team of designers and creators create completely unique pieces that are not only affordable (prices range from £75 to £302) but "irrestitibly stylish", says Amber, who had no hesitation in inviting JOYA to join www.myflashtrash.com, placing them amongst the top young jewellery designers in the world.

JOYA jewellery is, according to Amber, "for the free-spirited, fashion hedonist. A woman with an eye for edgy, beautiful design. To add a pop of exotic luxury to every outfit! Rough-edge sparkle for an after-dark event, an eye-catching accessory to wear to lunch with friends or just spice up a day a work. A wearable South-African Daydream".


"dreamy" Angel aura crystal ring is Amber's favourite

The question remains whether other South Africans will have as much luck. Definitely next on her list for a sourcing trip, designers in SA better be ready! Flash Trash recently worked with Arise magazine and was wowed by the jewellery design talent. Amber admits she won't be in SA just yet but encourages all South African designers to e-mail their designs to sales@myflashtrash.com.

The grunge Chanel

2011-03-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

If there's a single designer who knows evolution, it's Karl Largerfeld.

He surprised all of Paris fashion week this morning by switching from the typical girly Chanel girl- particularly visible in January's haute couture collection - to the darker, more grunge and mysterious woman.

Chanel-esque tweeds were cut rougher than usual, darker coloured than usual, and baggier cut than usual. Looks were finished off with ankle combat boots, and kitten heels were emphasized under ankle length trousers. Pops of reds and greens lightened the mood, such as the green cravat over elizabethan neck ruffles - which brought some classic femininity into the modern yet gothic designs.

Lagerfeld certainly went along with the dark, post-apocalyptic theme with lava, volcanic rock and smoke encircling the models.

But despite the cold atmosphere in the heated background, there will definitely not be a lack of warmth in Chanel pret a porter fall 2011/2012, nor a lack of winter eating space...

Lovin' Lanvin

2011-03-05T09:35:00.000-08:00

Alber Elbaz gave us everything we love and more in his fall 2011/2012 collection in Paris last night.

Starting off with a spooky atmosphere of witch hats, blacks, capes over skirts and gothic shaped minis that would make way for more ruffles and oversized everything he does so well.

One of my favourites- the straight cut cream shirt with ruffled, draped shoulders.
Elbaz is a pro at modernising the beloved classics, like the strapless mini here cut asymmetrically and subtly removing the second glove from hand.

Blooming dresses with puffed sleeves and waists followed with more fairy-godmother-than-witch floral headwears. Elbaz's love for ruffles of course came through as well as off the shoulder minis, and (what I predict will be worn on a red carpet too soon) the long, cream toga that looks too easy to do.

All in all, any (thick or thin) woman could grab at least one item off the catwalk that catered for the serious, the fancy and the fun.

Balmain fall 2011/2012

2011-03-04T02:55:00.000-08:00

Last night's highly anticipated Balmain fall 2011 show at Paris Fashion week went from costume drama expectations to relaxed, boyish realities. Christophe Decarnin surprised all with his quite
obvious decrease in fantasy and wow factor.

Top models such as Freja, Constance, Natasha and Sasha rocked in asymmetrical open cut tops, patterned shift dresses, jersey catsuits and of course the trademark Balmain metallic leather trousers and tailored jackets. But the jackets were taken up higher at the shoulders this season and the dresses were so baggy they could've been turned into hoodies.

It's almost a redo of last season's patterns and classics but with added grunge. I'm not a huge fan of it (minus the huge goat hair shoulder pads) but am sure a few items will be spotted being worn very, very soon. My ultimate go-to pieces are obviously the silver disco ball mini and shoulder pads.

hello...

Gaga & Britney continue...

2011-03-04T02:21:00.000-08:00

Released one day apart- one with surprise and the other on the catwalk, Gaga And Brit Brit are officially going at it.
Lady Gaga premiered her Government Hooker last night at the Thierry Mugler show during Paris Fashion Week- she even walked the runway. Twice.

And now, Britney's done it again- surprised us all with an unexpected so-soon release of a fun party track that's catchy, house, and well, fun. But Till the world ends is nothing new. Although great- for her. I can't say I don't miss her raw vocals, though, minus all the synthesizers.

If you hadn't already figured out after 4 seconds of listening, the song was written by Ke$sha and produced by Max Martin and Dr Luke. Britney is set to officially release it today on Ryan Seacrest Kiis fm.

I maintain that Gaga's bringing the newness.Who you gonna compare her to now, huh?
But when it comes to the charts, I have a feeling Britney will dominate this round...

Kim Kardashian Jams

2011-03-02T08:22:00.000-08:00

Kim Kardashian just released her first ever song 'Jam' with the Dream, a song that has sparked rumours for a few months now. We couldn't believe it before and there was 'no way' she'd try out as a singer...
But it's out, she tried it, and hopefully, it's done and dusted.
You see, Kimmy isn't one who's used to failing, but this, well is a big, fat, fail.
Her lethargic, monotonous voice comes through her singing to create one boring, monotonous song that is actually just an excuse for music. Or is it just me?

Oh Oscar

2011-02-28T10:34:00.000-08:00

With the Oscars come Oscar gowns, with Oscar gowns come fashion, and with fashion comes showstoppers and, well, disasters. Reds, nudes and sparkles were ever more present. This year the red carpet-walking ladies brought the class and femininity with nothing too over the top but rather subtle.

One particular actress-turned-singer was by far my best dressed of the night in a silver, we're-not-quite-sure-what-material silver Calvin Klein. Gwyneth Paltrow literally looks perfect and flawless with sleek hair, simple earrings and a ring, and a low cut dress that's classy enough not to reveal anything (hello, Jennifer Hudson in Valentino- peekaboo). Some may say this one's too simple but I can't take my eyes off this 'is it or is it not' silver gown.

Mandy Moore in Monique Lhuillier lacked no sparkle and somehow managed to stand out instead of getting washed out with her fair tone and nude dress. Have to say she wears it better than the runway look, although we have to wonder how many more times we're going to see sequin bodices and opaque trains...

I have to admit that I saw more rags than riches on Elie Saab lilac number Mila Kunis wore. It's not a great view front the side angle so she should probably have stuck to the front. I'm not a fan of the wowza chest lace and train ruffles, but Mila still looks like a Grecian goddess and chose the right dress for the fashion forward girl she is.

This is a gorgeous Marchesa gown. And Halle Berry is a gorgeous woman, but put the two together... is that even Halle's style? It's overly girly, young and flirty and although she wears it very well, I'm not sure if it actually suits Halle's style.

Did Hilary Swank just forget to take her dress to the dry cleaners? This dress just looks seriously dirty and I have the train to prove it.

Michelle Williams looks simple, classy and beautiful in Chanel haute couture.

So was this the Oscar worthy dress? Well, no, but I can't exactly blame Natalie Portman, the woman is with child! This Rodarte gown is, however, my favourite dress she's worn thus far during award season and the colour looks amazing on her.

So it's official. Nicole Kidman needs a new stylist. This Christian Dior white gown (oh, white? really? wouldn't have guessed...) looks old and just plain weird with the shapes and embroidery. I'm confused.

Sandra Bullock looks purrrfect in Valentino- maybe even topping last year's look.

Anne looks just a-ok in Valentino, and Scarlett looks like she wrapped herself in her grandmother's table cloth in D&G. Weird.

Holding it against Britney- again

2011-02-17T23:22:00.001-08:00

Oh, hello!
Did you catch any of that? Well, me, not so much.
There's no denying that the comeback queen looks great but with all that editing it's impossible to even see it.

There are a few great shots, but so edited that there's zero indulgence in them.

The single dancing number was supposedly rehearsed for weeks but we only catch a few seconds of it. And let's face it, Britney's dancing is nowhere near where it was before the Onyx tour suddenly ended, after which she had knee surgery and had to cancel the rest.

The concept of the products shown is just going over the top and I'm not sure if this is a music video, a statement or an advert.

If, like me, you're feeling bad for Britney- it may last a while. This Gaga vs Britney season has only begun, and it seems the Lady has won.

Georgina and Keren take New York Fashion Week

2011-02-17T12:08:00.000-08:00

You're probably wondering why I haven't been obsessing about the fashion shows in New York this week, so firstly I should probably apologize for my absence. Fall ready to wear isn't really my cup of coffee, I prefer thinking of gowns, tulle and summer colours. So while I have been keeping my eye on the many collections shown off at Lincoln Centre, it's not until now that I've received what I wasn't expecting.

The genius duo behind the go-to Marchesa dress, Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, outdid themselves with an overflow of old glamour while somehow getting some rock 'n roll edge in there. Red, black, white and lilac art flowed at the exhibition today.

Gothic elements of puffy shoulders, tulle, sharp edges and trains created a more couture than ready to wear collection that is true beauty in fashion.

Do I have vision of Natalie Portman winning her Black Swan oscar in this silver embroidered sliver? Well sadly not, probably due to a very pregnant tummy, and maybe a little bit of a reminder of Sandra Bullock's dress last year.

But all I ask is one thing, please, do not opt to match your tutu with this princess gown. Although gorgeous, it would just be too. much. tulle.

Glits 'n Grammies

2011-02-14T10:46:00.000-08:00

Well thank the red carpet gods that the boring ol' Golden Globes gowns are in the past, but it's aways been obvious that it's the singers who bring the fun to fashion.

Fun sure is something Katy Perry is well acquainted with as she fitted into that silver bra, mermaid skirt and costume closet angel wings. Well, I can now say Katy Perry totally copied my 10th birthday party look.
But dress up? On the red carpet? Are you completely dumb?

Looking more couture than costume was the gorgeous RiRi in Jean-Paul Gaultier. We all know haute couture week was just a few weeks ago, but please, next time sew on some lining (or buy a mirror).

Yes, I love the sparkly Cavalli, Miley. But there is just too much going on everywhere. The glits, the print, the long hair, the bangles. Next time leave the grunge style at home. Hair back and no jewellery would have made her fabulous.

Wow. Lea Michele looks spectacular in the low-cut black with the lace and slit. Best. Dressed.

Nice Pucci disco ball, Jlo. Nothing I can say is wrong with it. But maybe a little more MTV than Grammy, no?

Oh my hello skin and skimp, Ciara. Fun Pucci dress but really much too much skin. We really don't need that much sexy everywhere, including those hooker heels.

I want to rip that Ashi mini off Eva Longoria right now. I'm so glad the latino princess is finally showing off those legs and letting everyone know she's ready to mingle. The halter top and sculpted white skirt colour blocking with the black is gorgeous and classy.

I love that Hailey Williams is keeping her own touch of style but adding some glits. Beautiful top and fun, young feather fuschia skirt. Although I'm not sure about those crosses on the pantyhose.

Heidi Klum is once again assuming the responsibilities of a fashion goddess. The old school golden is sparkly and perfect, but don't get me started on those awful shoes.

Who cares that Lady Gaga didn't pose on the carpet? She's being super original while promoting her dance single.

Still need to find out how Kim Kardashian got a seat there.

SAG red carpet moments

2011-01-31T04:52:00.000-08:00

The reds and the nudes were blooming last night as Hollywood hosted the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Most ladies got the tone of the evening right- relaxed and light- all in a ball gown.

Mila Kunis dared a fiery red Alexander McQueen flowing bustier dress. Going for the passionate black swan theme, are we?

It was about time Eva Longoria had a white moment in this super classy Salvatore Ferragamo grecian style dress.

Lea Michele looks super simple and yes, super skinny in (her seemingly designer of the moment) Oscar de la Renta. Cute dress but a little granny, no? Now go eat some tacos.

I still don't get the big deal about Natalie Portman's fashion sense, but that's just me. Not changing a-n-ything from the Golden Globes (except removing that rose), the star of 2011 is glowing and simple in white Azzaro. Here's to hoping she's waiting until the Oscars to wear that career changing gown.

You may be surprised to learn that Sofia Vergara is my best dressed of the night. The girl just knows how to keep it toned down while keeping some pizazz. The blue satin Roberto Cavalli does wonders for her and I just adore it.

First of all, can someone enlighten me as to how Kim Kardashian got her hands on an invite to the awards?
Secondly, that means I'm going to be harsh and say that this Marchesa dress is so boring and an identical version was worn at my school dance.
That was 2 years ago.

Does anyone else think Wynona Rider looks kind of scary in this Alberta Ferrretti ghostly dress? Maybe it's the goth eyes and the pale skin, but this dress looks unfinished and like rags underneath.

Hilary Swank is gorgeous in this perfectly fitting Versace. The draping is subtle and the amount of embroidery is just right.

The Gleek blond Heather Morris is sparkling in Romona Keveza. And that to-die-for bodice? All that I've ever wanted! Are those feathers?? Love it. She looks super young, fun and beautiful.

It's tough to wear lilac on the red carpet without looking like a bridesmaid. Here, Jane Lynch looks like one.

Worst dress of the night. This is like depression in a dress.

I love a swan dress, but please, keep it for the oscars, not an actors' gathering.

Pretty in pink CHANEL

2011-01-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

Well hello there to that babydoll slash sailor pink Chanel couture that walked the runway just 3 days ago!

Diane Kruger looked perrrfect last night at the Pavillon d’Armenonville for a gala dinner in Paris. The babe looks way better than any model could, anyways. Although, next time, she should probably opt for another toenail colour. Just sayin'!

Maybe I should ask Diane Kruger to hook us up with Karl Lagerfeld? She must have some preeeety big friends in Paris.

Final favourite

2011-01-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

Elie Saab might as well change his name to Red Carpet as the Libanese designer delivered these Oscar-friendly gowns on the Paris haute couture runway yesterday.

Staying true to his classic silhouette aesthetic, Saab gave us plenty to talk about with sequins, embroidery, florals, neutrals, lilacs, blacks, reds and greens to please anyone's fancy. Light, airy, flowing and easy to wear gowns with grecian allure (despite delicate and heavy embroidery) is any kind of woman's delight.

As the awards show months continue, I'm willing to bet more than a few of these beauties will be worn (particularly by Oscar host Anne Hathaway who will be styled by Rachel Zoe) to make slightly safe but nevertheless beautiful fashion statements about themselves. Hey, didn't you know every dress is chosen for a reason when needing to walk the red carpet?

The showstopper was (obviously) the sexy but not-too-sexy black bustier dress with that oolala slit to make tongues wag (above right).

Sheer Chanel

2011-01-25T07:21:00.000-08:00

Karl Lagerfeld gave the women in Paris a breath of fresh air this morning as he presented an almost ready-to-wear, ballerina and flowing haute couture Chanel collection.

Nudes, paillettes, metallics and flow twinkled on the runway on Rue Cambon to the delight of modern girly girls.

Starting the show with the Chanel classics of black and white tweed, the breeze was felt with light pinks and dreamy tailleurs and then that short, straight cut sheer mini with a black band paired with black paillettes trousers that were prominent in the collection. Dresses over pants? Yes, according to Mr Lagerfeld. And don't argue with the man.

Following the 50s style mini, a more 1800s ruffled nude mini appeared on top of the modern black trousers, making Chanel's contrasting feminine and masculine ever more present.

I guess I should have expected Kal's added modern quirkiness (despite criticism) but I really cannot give him props for this fashion faux-pas of skirts over trousers, even if it does match. (sorry)

The sheers continued in these simple designs with clouded fabrics, in particular in the mini (above, left) paired with loose ballerina flats. The effortless chic is gorgeous, yet the chignon and choker add some old class. Perfect amount of everything.

And this above? Well that is just so me.

Not too many Oscar worthy gowns but a heaven of soft, almost sheer Chanel that is craving to be worn by ordinary (but stylish) women, and probably never will be.

Oh, and by the way, am I seeing colour? No. Does that bother me? Nope.

Galliano goes Grau

2011-01-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

Paris is feeling major glamour as haute couture week kicked off today, and everyone is talking about Dior as the biggest name of the day.

All American model Karlie Kloss set the tone as she stepped off the rotating set in a watercolour red and black degradé dress with layers of black tulle embellishing the hemline. That, and her red brows and eyeliner beneath a subtle red feather headdress began John Galliano's haute drama inspired by fashion illustrator Rene Grau (illustrations above).

Classic large sleeved, tailored Dior jackets accompanied by pencil and large skirts characterised by Christian Dior's 1947 New Look collection which then consisted of particularly full skirts below mid-calf length and a large bust. Cow necks were refashioned and belts used as accessories. Add that and Galliano's master in the colour palet, the result is a canvas of art on a woman.

I love the drama, but I love even more that Galliano knows when to stop and move on to what I love even more than that. Dior's beloved soft, pastel toned gowns that look good enough to eat.
PS: I'm thinking Katy Perry is bound to be in one at the Grammy Awards after her candyfloss revolution.

A spectacular design is one thing, but my view has always been that fabric is everything and without variety, toned, pattern and texture, the design often becomes bland. Here, flowers and light paint lines are used to accent and draw attention. Embroidery is used just enough to tease (Galliano always knows how to get my vote) and lines are finished and accentuated creatively with what could be messy but turns out as impeccable fringes.

A fairytale we were promised and a fairytale we got, with bows and tulles and every woman's inner girly fantasies. Dior is not only Marion Cotillard's go-to designer, it's mine when I'm in need of some womanly girly heaven. My eyes are drooling.

See the whole collection on www.vogue.com

That how to part.

To my sadness and ambitions, only small handful of women can afford to wear haute couture which, by the way, only exists in Paris anyways. It's in no way the profit machine of designers but selectively appoints them status above all the other designers. For ordinary girls who drool, like me, and can only dream of ever touching the one of a kind gowns, there are ways of making our own, 'personal' haute couture. Follow my guidelines for your own hand crafted Dior wardrobe.

Add

some tulle layers as embellishments- it's as easy as making a bow and pinning it on your outfit.

Flower embroideries from any fabric shop

A feminine silhouette with a large bodice and tight skirt or large skirt and tight bodice.

Shoulder pads

A tulle eye mask for that Black Swan look

I go Gaga

2011-01-20T10:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Lady Gaga debuted as musical director for Thierry Mugler's men's collection in Paris with a remixed version of 'Scheiße'.
She.is.brill.
But what's the connection? Well, the creative director is the Lady's costume mastermind, Nicola Formichetti.
According to the Telegraph UK: The collection, entitled 'Anatomy of Change', marks a creative collaboration between Formichetti and Mugler head designer Romain Kremer. The clothes consisted of sharp, tailored pieces in a palette of navy and black, punctuated by dashes of vibrant orange and khaki for the less formal looks. Eccentric accessories in the form of organza 'veils', pearl necklaces and leather gloves pulled up to the bicep ensured it was no ordinary menswear collection.

Right, so who's talking about the clothes? not me!ha!
Although I wouldn't mind being told more about her German obsession ever more present on twitter where the singer doesn't restrain herself with the 'Scheiße'. (No offence taken).
But in all seriousness, this remix is madness and my boots are shaking until 23 May when her album comes out.

2011-01-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

Woah, nice hair, Sandra. This Jenny Packham dress is pretty but looks a little too sloppy on the strong and independent actress with a tough face yet soft dress, weird, but ok.

2011-01-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

We KNOW you're not nominated, Leighton, you don't have to SHOW us. Like the shape, colour, but odd print and that clutch? HuH? I didn't know she'd been to Asia lately. She looks like a porcelain doll. A sexy one, that is.

Best dressed

2011-01-16T16:59:00.000-08:00

Oh my lord. She did it again. The queen of tinseltown shows us she's here to stay, in Versace. I have no words. I don't care about anybody else anymore. I could stare at her in this dress for-ever.
Simple and bright. Ladies, you could learn a thing or two from the experienced Miss Jolie. Tres, tres jolie, in fact. Wear the damn dress! Not the other way around.

2011-01-16T16:55:00.001-08:00

Scarlett surprises us all when she opts for the conservative and classic (yet kinda old) Elie Saab look instead of going for the 'hey there, i'm sexy, single bla bla). Confusing? yes. Old fashioned? yes.

2011-01-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

Simple yet sparkling, YES! She has it. And it happens to be Prada.
Uh, still trying to figure out why she left her earing on her shoulder though.

2011-01-16T16:41:00.000-08:00

Lea looks beautiful in Oscar de la Renta and I die for that train and colour so much that I'm prepared to overlook that messy one shoulder.

2011-01-16T16:36:00.000-08:00

It literally breaks my heart to see this beautiful, talented woman wear this night dress. I'm sorry, did no one tell her that e-ve-rybody is talking about her amazingness in Black Swan and how she is the most brilliant actress right now? Uh, that doesn't mean you can get away with wearing a funny dress. Forget the baby bump, that rose? And that creepy necklace? And the 80s lipstick?
I'm sad now.

2011-01-16T16:31:00.000-08:00

You know that feeling when you watch Natalie Portman getting frisky (alone) in Black Swan? Awkward... From the oddly sized ruffles that wonder what they are doing there to that heavy train just looks tired UGH I'm in a bad mood already.

2011-01-16T16:25:00.000-08:00

Does anybody else think Glee's Dianna looks like a lamb? Yeah, sure I love the champagne colour, but when you add the same coloured skin and practically same coloured hair, you get- bleh.

Snow Queen

2011-01-16T15:47:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Love Hewitt looks like a snow princess. The bodice is to die and so is the bottom. It's been a while since miss Hewitt had the right to pull off a nominee gown, and she does it puuurfectly.

GOlden

2011-01-16T15:43:00.001-08:00

One word.
Cinderella.
And maybe a little black swan in Marchesa

Let there be Chanel

2011-01-16T12:01:00.000-08:00

Is the Chanel too golden haute for golden globes?
I don't care, and I so hope someone takes the risk to be judged a-la-Bjork. What's not to leave about this peachy-nude feathery heaven? If someone is hesitating to wear this right now for tonight, I swear to you, you will be the best dressed, and not just on my list. I will yawn at whoever chooses old glam. SO 2010.

Kourtney in South Africa

2011-01-06T10:31:00.000-08:00

South Africa got a little mention at the People's Choice Awards' press conference last night when Kourtney Kardashian revealed she was wearing a mini by South African designer Gert-Johan Coetzee. This kind of thing gets me pretty excited... although it does look like she has worms crawling on her.

Katy also adores Betsey

2011-01-06T10:06:00.000-08:00

Remember this? Katy Perry looked so cute and fun in the new Betsey Johnson which I die for. She looked fun and all dressed up, and what better occasion to wear this fairy dress than the People's Choice Awards? Especially when you're the people's favourite female artist and favourite online sensation.

holding it against Britney

2011-01-06T09:30:00.001-08:00

Perez Hilton just released Britney Spears's new single demo, meaning it's the original song and of course not her singing (that will be released later this month). Yeah yeah catchy dance tune...but original? I think not.

Bedazzled by Bulgari

2011-01-06T06:56:00.001-08:00

Paris' Grand Palais has been bejewelled by Bulgari to celebrate 125 years. The spectacular exhibition showcases their finest and most decadent jewellery dating back from 1884 to today that has been worn by royalty and Hollywood starlets.

Andy Warhol once described Bulgari as the most important museum of contemporary art. This is precisely the sense one gets while walking in wonder through the chronological exhibition. Starting with traditional diamonds and emeralds dating back from 1884, it's hard to believe the finest jewellery in the world is right in front of one's eyes. Colour, colour and more colour glistens through the glass behind which rings, necklaces, watches, bracelets and even the most sumptuous alarm clocks sit.

Elizabeth Taylor's private collection is by far the most impressive section on display. The stand-out piece is a green emerald necklace that Richard Burton gave to the actress as an attempt to woo her on the set of Cleopatra. This anecdote, told on one of the films shown on the side of the display, further suggests the personal nature jewellery and the little stories that go with each piece. Richard Burton once said he made Taylor discover beer and she made him discover Bulgari, which was the only Italian word she knew.

Other significant clients of the jewellery included Anna Magnani, Monica Vitti, Romy Scheider, Ingrid Bergman and Sophia Loren.

The exhibition continues to display the vintage from the 60s and 70s which was inspired by pop art and a more relaxed culture. Larger stones were used in a more 'maxi' style which began to be worn during the day.

To end, jewellery from the 21st century is displayed with images of current Hollywood stars fashioning them.

from Paris with L♥VE

2010-12-30T15:23:00.000-08:00

This December I gave up sunny season for snowy season. So far, Paris has obviously made up for chills through its culture, food and more importantly, fashion. Today I embraced the city in my Kookai jeans, Zoom boots, Pinko fur coat and Zoom handbag.

Sucking up all cringe narcissism and taking it one step at a time, maybe in a few months I'll be able to post a photo with both eyes open. For now, though, I hope you follow drama queen into 2011 with a sense of humour, thought, style and self.

Until the next gorgeous year...

maje maje maje

2010-12-24T07:14:00.000-08:00

My latest obsession- Maje.

Judith Milgrom, originally from Morrocco but now living in France, created her own clothing line after opening Sandro with her sister Evelyne Chetrite- pieces more affordable than Chanel but more chic than the odd H&M.

Last September, Maje blew out their 10 candles, and with much to celebrate.
With 8 boutiques in the French capital and even more spread throughout the country as well as the world, Maje gives women clothing with a balance between feminine romanticism, independence and determination.

The current fall line is to die for, with plenty of leather accents, feathers and fur cut perfectly to fit. Narrow jackets, a favourite of Milgrom's, are particularly focused on in the collection. The expected blacks and browns are prominent with glimpses of red, gold, white and pink.

The pieces are urban yet bohemian with sculpted shoulders, lace and embroidery to keep you dreaming.
Did you know?
The name 'Maje' is made up of the initials of those who matter greatly to Milgrom.

I say lady you say ...

2010-12-24T03:35:00.000-08:00

After queuing in the snow for 5 hours in minus temperatures, ruining my boots and losing all feeling in my toes, Lady Gaga had a lot to make up for.

Unsure I even was that much of a dedicated fan - kids had after all after pitched tents the previous night- I waited a further 2 semi-painful hours in Bercy, watching an odd girl play records, drink Jack and unashamedly drunk-dance followed by Semi-Precious Weapons, a glam rock group with an outlandishly vulgar frontman, Justin Tranter, who kept asking questions then telling me to 'shut up' after I answered. Although he gets points for his gold heels. That's right. High, gold booties. Fantastically hilarious, terrible but catchy tunes by a band who have been touring with, we shall call her this from now on, Gaga, since 2006.

I've always been taught to prepare for any given task so of course I'd cheated by watching Gaga's performances online already. I knew some Dj Klaus would get us started with a countdown and the 24 year old brunette gone blond would sing Dance in the dark. But what I didn't know was that it would become my new favourite Gaga song that would bring nostalgia and a wave of feeling. Behind a screen she teases us with creepy body positions and lets us go mad when she finally appears.

That ill-looking, bad postured, old-looking woman on the tv becomes healthy, energised and full of presence as she dances and sings - live, make no mistake- in between talking to her little monsters and giving them a fully rounded performance.

Personality, huge sense of humour and energy were what I should have expected but frankly could never have due to expectations of Gaga drilled in me by media culture. A performer and person I've always thought I understood for one second and the next had no idea what she was thinking. On stage, however, she and everyone else knows who she is. This woman is extraordinary and you probably won't believe it until you see it.

With a big sense of humour she sarcastically tackles rumours about her alleged penis, she explains the Paris show cancellations (that's twice for one show) had nothing to do with her health- her last drug was in 2008, although she does enjoy the odd Jack and pot- and that she is no lip-syncher.

A fantastical yet surprisingly not overwhelming decor or costumes that could potentially steal away from the performance, the concert focuses on Gaga and her dancers as performers having a wild party with their little monsters who too are being celebrated.

Wild with sexual references, the show manages not to cross the vulgar line but remain provocative and thought-seeking. As an ambassador for gays, Gaga doesn't make let that overbear the show but obviously doesn't let it escape. The message of the show as a whole is clear: everyone should love everyone, including themselves, and not care how others judge us but how we judge ourselves.

Gaga really did give us the night of our lives (as she tweeted). This was a huge party of a monsterball that did more than just make us jump.

Vogue sans Carine

2010-12-17T03:52:00.000-08:00

For personal reasons unknown, it has just been revealed that Carine Roitfeld is stepping down as editor in chief of Vogue Paris.
According to Vogue.com, ceo of Condé Nast International, Jonathan Newhouse, had this to say:

Carine herself has become widely known as a beacon of style, fulfilling the role with charm and graciousness. She has become a giant in her profession. Carine will be deeply missed. I am extremely grateful to her for what she has achieved.

So is this what happens when an editor, artist and businesswoman verges toward the celeb scale and becomes a fashion icon worthy of parties and high end couture instead of being behind-the-desk? Is she leaving to pursue fashion design, become the face of some fashion house? Or, as rumour has had it for some years, take the reigns of American Vogue.

Vogue Paris is my favourite Vogue, only because of its level of high fashion photo shoots and all-to-do-with-fashion articles. If I'm reading Vogue, I don't really give about some oldie's nostalgia about their family...ahem American Vogue (yawn). But what I always appreciated most about Vogue Paris is Roitfeld's tangible involvement where at least one shoot was directed by her. And it was good. Really good.

She leaves us begging the question, who could ever replace her? Who will be able to keep fashion's authenticity? Or...who will defy what she believed in and make fashion for all, losing all it's mysteries, secrets and exclusive factor.

All I want for Christmas is Pierre and Christian

2010-12-16T03:59:00.000-08:00

Indulge me with a mere 8000 euro Balmain gold dress

Or some Louboutins?

Top ten trends of 2010

2010-12-16T01:27:00.000-08:00

This year saw a massive increase in accessibility to fashion for ordinary women, with more and more designers launching online stores and posting their shows online just minutes after the event. Much to the disapproval of fashion editors such as French Vogue's Carine Roitfeld but to the gleaming fashion victims, trends are available to everyone even if a budget is more tailored toward H&M than Chanel.
With all this instant information about design houses' trends, women made them their own, mixed and matched, tossed and took, to create a wardrobe perfect for 2010.

Here are the 2010 trends that we loved and will keep, while others faded and were less liked (ahem, low heels and military).

10. floral print

9.studs

8. fringes

7. maxi dresses

6. animal print

5. bootie

4. leather

3. fur

2. glam rock

1. lace

Derek and John

2010-12-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

My favourite journalist and Harper's Bazaar editor at large, Derek Blasberg, interviewed John Galliano at his New York store opening last week.

Trendspotting

2010-12-14T02:57:00.000-08:00

Floating around Europe between France and the UK has given me much hope for beauty in the coming winter of 2011. Modern cuts and edges combined with classic tailoring means women can now, I believe, look more stylish, feminine and powerful than they ever have in a long time.

Furry gilet

skirts and feathers

leather and shearling

the modern cape

leather dress

flapper style dress

classic tailored coat

leather detailed leggings

wedge boot

combat boot

riding boot

Amen to the AMAs

2010-11-22T11:11:00.000-08:00

There's always a certain commercial yet conservative angle to the American Music Awards and last night the stars ~~came straight from church~~ took it a little too literally.

Justin Bieber had a hailing church choir behind him, thanked "um..God" for his award, while Miley Cyrus wore a black robe and sang "forgiveness and love" among hundreds of candles. I blame the oversized robe on convenience to change into her 90s Britney outfit for her 18th birthday party later.

Katy Perry went much more conservative than her Victoria's Secret flashy moment and aimed for Snow White, and Taylor Swift was ~~on her way to a business meeting~~ an all grown up young woman dressed ~~as a man~~ in a suit.

Oh oh but that's not all, after the ceremony the soon-to-be 18 Miley partied at club Trousdale and was spotted in a public neck sucking session with rumoured boyfriend Avan Jogia...I'd rather not post that photo here for obvious reasons.

We all love the ironies of Hollywood.

Angels backstage

2010-11-10T12:57:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again, the time where 'honey glazed' (so says pro celeb tanner Jimmy Coco...really?) glowing and perfectly groomed Victoria's Secret Angels strut the runway in gorgeous fantasy lingerie.

It's obvious that no one can replace Heidi Klum or Doutzen Kroes so I don't know how much 'star power' this year's show will have, but with Katy Perry performing I'm sure there'll be a little.

Katy Perry by Todd Thomas

Here are some twitpics courtesy of modelina


$2 million diamond fantasy bra Adriana will wear

Battle of the Americans in Spain

2010-11-08T08:43:00.001-08:00

Katy Perry vs Shakira

They both look stunningly sparkly but the winner has to be Katy Perry for the originality and intended pun of her 'admit one' ticket dress. The red sparkles surprisingly never been done before and surprisingly looks fab whereas although Shakira's glam gold plunging neckline is perfect and makes her glow, she could have done a little more with this seen before mini.

Eva Longoria vs Rihanna

Eva's finally taken a risk from her usual old fashioned gowns in this shoulder padded black mini. It looks like a modern version of the Sleeping Beauty dress, no? Adoring this little number on her as it's simple yet elaborate and feminine yet edgy around the edges. Rihanna in Marchesa, however, is a different story. The beading, the ruffles, the feathers and the train lead to one big train wreck. Too much is never good. It's an absolute joke and the colour does nothing for her.

Taylor Momsen vs Miley Cyrus

Taylor Momsen is dressed even worse than her typical self in this shirt, and only shirt,with boots and a visible bra. Oh, and let's not forget that choker. Grungy grungy grungy is what she went for but all I see is someone who was too lazy to put pants on when they got out of bed. Despite the matronly Dolce & Gabbana dress, Miley somehow manages to keep it young and fun at the MTV event.

Ladies win with glam show

2010-11-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Katy Perry was her own ticket to the event and Shakira saw the gold even before winning the Free Your Mind award at the 2010 MTV European music awards.The event was so popular (probably helped by the fact that Justin Bieber was live tweeting from the States for the mtv blog) that users complained about streaming speed as only those lucky enough to be in Madrid, Spain could attend the performance-filled show.
Newlywed Katy Perry (or should I saw Katy Brand?) performed wearing a particularly odd and awful headband (and nevermind the outfit) outside, Rihanna was the 'only girl in the world' with her flower skirt and crown, Shakira did the Waka Waka while Freshley Ground were M.I.A and Miley pulled off a Lady Gaga-like leotard before Kesha rocked the lumo body paint and took the party up a notch with 'Tik Tok'.

Shakira kicks off EMAs

2010-11-07T13:49:00.000-08:00

Shakira kicked off the 2010 Mtv European Music Awards with this energised performance that might just have spread nostalgia of earlier 2010 events...
The Colombian also won the Free your mind award for her work in Africa.

Rihanna loves lies

2010-11-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

After Rihanna and Eminem's "Love the way you lie" off his comeback album Recovery, it's RiRi's turn to have part II on her next album Loud, available from 16 November.

So which is better? It's up to the listeners to decide, but this one is ten times less catchy the first time around. Sounds more like a feeble attempt to match the first's starpower.

Wonder if Megan Fox will be picked again for the video?

Lanvin fulfills fantasies

2010-11-02T02:13:00.000-07:00

After releasing news of the biggest collaboration in fashion this year, Lanvin for H&M keeps us intrigued with purses in hand by previewing the collection in this gorgeous, cartoonish film.

Featuring established Russian supermodel Natasha Poly as the edgy blond desperate for some Lanvin, the 4 minute film shows shows off splendid florals, asymmetrical lines, ruffles, puff dresses, tuxedo blazers (you get it, any woman's dressy fantasy), and even a menswear line. English born director (also of Miss Julie) Mike Figgis was raised in Nairobi, Kenya until the age of 8.

Artistic director since 2001 Alber Elbaz describes the process:
H&M approached us to collaborate, and see if we could translate the dream we created at Lanvin to a wider audience, not just a dress for less. I have said in the past that I would never do a mass-market collection, but what intrigued me was the idea of H&M going luxury rather than Lanvin going public. This has been an exceptional exercise, where two companies at opposite poles can work together because we share the same philosophy of bringing joy and beauty to men and women around the world.

Elbaz has transformed the Parisian fashion house into a powerhouse by seeing the potential of timeless embellishments such as pearls, bows, raw edges, colour and metallics. The menswear line came about in 2006 and due to her artistic creativy had a relaxed elegance.

H&M creative advisor Margareta van den Bosch had this to say:
We are thrilled about Lanvin’s collection for H&M, it is such an exciting moment. Lanvin will bring to H&M a luxurious French tradition that is also modern and playful. It is very much a Lanvin collection, using their cut and tailoring, with lots of focus on form and details for both women and men. The launch in November is going to be full of wonderful surprises.

The collection holds 30 women's pieces and 25 for men, 15 accessories for women and, 10 for men.

The line will be on sale from 23 November 2010 and should be available in about 200 H&M stores with prices ranging from $30 to $200.

Model would rather go naked

2010-10-30T13:52:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure what's worse: the journo or the model?
This loud, obnoxious and melodramatic interview is filled with ambiguity and I'm uncertain if Jane Velez-Mitchell, the award winning journalist, is mocking the teary eyed philanthropic model or actually trying to get the message across to Americans. Anyhow, I sure ain't for furry fashion and neither should anyone else, particularly after watching the inhumane videos, one really would rather go naked than wear fur.
But the successful, openly gay and recovering alcoholic journo is an American joke and the model is just tragically pathetic because her message really is the opposite.

Taylor hammered by Ellen

2010-10-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been feeling a little empathetic and Ellen really annoys me
in the way she pushes Taylor to reveal her private life. I get it, but the way
she does it gets a little cringe worthy. Stooooop!!!

Justin Bieber says never say never

2010-10-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

Ok so how brill is this trailer?
Only 3 months after being announced, fans can eagerly await this slightly copy-cat version of 'This is It' while reading his first book 'First Step 2 Forever: My Story'. Besides the over the top corny ending that really puts me off, as a whole, it's enough to make me pre-book.

I've decided to put my Bieber skepticism aside after realising that despite the millions of girls screaming his name, it must be a little tough to have an older generation judging you. Looking beyond his shiny hair flick, his older than 16 swagger and his mature attitude that many 16 year old's lack, the boy's got talent.

So I'm not going to be one of the mean critics and jealous older teens but rather acknowledge his tween music (there's only one song of his I can bare to listen to, guess which) and laugh at the little girls swooning all over him. Let's not bully him just because he's that lucky. People, time to move on and let him do his thing.

The end of Sufjan Stevens?

2010-10-21T03:03:00.000-07:00

Sufjan Stevens is on path of no return in his new album The Age of Adz, released by his own Asthmatic Kitty record label. Forget the indie-folk singer’s classics like To be alone with you, Stevens has taken advantage of the technological revolution to create messy, creative and crazy symphonies on top of his unique soft voice. This artistic masterpiece should be appreciated, but quickly put away (apart from the odd melody) to stop the ears buzzing in resonance.

After 5 years of playing Chicago on repeat, fans can finally hear this man’s creative genius on an album surprisingly not named after a US state, his original aim.

The Age of Adz is Stevens’s artistic response to his much talked about existential crisis of questioning life, death, pain and God. But this time he goes beyond the obvious religious connotations and bases his compositions on the Biblical prophesies of the end of days made by the paranoid schizophrenic American sign painter, Royal Robertson. The self-proclaimed Prophet had hallucinations of aliens and spaceships, monsters, superheroes and futuristic cities, which are geniously reflected in Stevens’s sounds.

The album begins comfortably enough with traditional acoustic guitar and his soft, whispering voice that we all missed. The lullaby-like melody declares his past efforts were nothing but Futile Devices. But the first song nowhere prepares the listener for the sounds that will soon blare his compositional habits of fluttering strings, piercing horns, and passionate church choir that will become more aggressive than ever.

It’s a strange combination of electronic synthesisers beneath which his voice that stands out and melodies emerge. In the second track’s repetitive and catchy phrase I walked ‘cause you walked, listeners will easily find the melody stuck in their head a few hours later. If anything, Stevens’s lyrics manage not to alienate his listeners due to catchy tunes despite messy, creative and crazy symphonies.

But he loses me at track 4. A combination of Super Mario, Lord of the Rings and any futuristic film you can think of that makes reference to Robertson’s art, the intro will confuse any loyal listener. The title track is enough to put anyone off the entire album, which, I believe, was a smart creative idea but commercially crap one.

The track was written during the recession, which clarifies the ‘grotesque’ style of combining different genres to expose monsters and all that is ugly. The odd song proposes a confusing sound that leaves one wondering if it’s supposed to be beautiful or ugly and terrifying.

Perhaps his sound is a challenge to his fans, or a quest to find more elite listeners, or it was just one whole mash up jam. But if anything, it’s clear that Stevens has done a lot of growing up as his lyrics point out he Wasn’t older then and that It’s different now I think.

Stevens doesn’t forget to communicate with his fans and reassures them over and over he’s not fucking around in his track I want to be well which could suggest the loss of the Stevens and the revival of what the music he’s always wanted to make on his terms, not his fans’.

It’s the final 25-minute long Impossible Soul that ties it all together. Referring to Robertson’s pain of losing his wife after 19 years when she left him for someone else, Stevens also makes subtle references to himself. With lyrics that grammatically stand out from the rest he admits he was trying to be something to be something that I wasn’t at all.

Fans have received the album in contradicting ways, some as “genius” and others as “disappointing” and “messy”. In the final track, Stevens himself indirectly addresses his listeners, ordering them: Don’t be distracted and perhaps testing his fans by asking Have you failed to feel delight? This album appears to be a test for his true loyal fans that can appreciate his talent and creativity. But for others, it’s a loud creative mess that is unlistenable.

"I was never the girl next door" - Dior RTW

2010-10-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

In celebration of sailors, sunshine, colour and fun, John Galliano stepped away from his traditionally extravagant gowns and towards the colourful, celebratory short dresses. Masculine khaki chinos and ribboned shoes were huge and different from tradition. I'm still a little confused about whether I like the first half of the show as it seems like a confused old woman in Hawaii trying to look 8 years old. The second half, however, is incredible and leaned more towards class. My dress to wear before I die? The bright purple ruffled silk mini accessorised with a turquoise necklace.

Paris Vogue's masked birthday ball

2010-10-01T06:27:00.000-07:00

Carine Roitfeld with a gorgeous mask
but a very odd leopard print coat.
I hate to criticize the hostess, but
this look was just ridiculous

Paris Vogue Editor Carine Roitfeld hosted a "Bal Masqué" in honour of the legendary magazine's 90th birthday which has already acquired the title of party of the season.

Models, editors, fashionistas, designers, and anyone who's anyone in the fashion universe was invited to celebrate the bash at Hotel Pozzo di Borgo on the left bank. Anyone left off the list, however, was left drooling over live Vogue tweets with twitpics that looked like the ultimate traditional ball.

18 year old model Karlie Kloss. Wondering
why she lifted her mask, though.

Spotted: Gisele Bundchen, Kate Moss, Christian Louboutin, Tyra Banks and many, many more masked and dressed to the theme "Eyes Wide Shut". Glamorous, dramatic gowns with a Commedia del' Arte air were even enough to intimidate Harper's Bazaar Editor at Large Derek Blasberg, who tweeted he was "very insecure about my look. The girls have pulled out all the stops!"

Gisele Bundchen looking grand

A lot of lace and a lot of black of course added to the dramatic ensembles on the perfect looking models. Masks out of diamonds, crystals, lace, feathers, even a cut out Vogue cover were seen.

Anna Kurkova is fierce

The evening would be nothing without the Parisian delicacies, so of course Potel & Chabot catered with all pink and red macarons, cakes, choux and more. I wonder if anyone indulged.

Vogue Japan editor Anna Dello Russo
in a custom designed Pucci gown
inspired by Lady Gaga

Tyra Banks is never too fabulous to make
her own fabulous mask

Battle of the bloggers

2010-09-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

It was a blogger showdown at the Cape Town One&Only hotel on Saturday night, as the best bloggers in South Africa attended the fifth annual South African Blog Awards.

The rum was flowing as the gorgeous, the artistic, the smart and the casual mingled in a subtle competitive spirit. From teenagers to elders, such as Premier Helen Zille, the vibrancy of all these diverse minds created something quite special and alive in the buzzing room.

Marco Riekstins & Robyn Cooke

Meeting the face behind the text is surreal , and that perhaps is the best word to describe the atmosphere. "OMG I love your blog!" was of course heard throughout the night as bloggers became more and more excitable in the easy-to-be-excited environment with sweet, minty drinks circulating the room. Bloggers could finally leave their keyboards and be treated to a well-deserved night of glamour with hors-d'oeuvres like grilled scallop, quail eggs and tartar.

The night was not, however, free of cringe-worthy moments like tweeting about someone you thought to be a we-are-awesome blogger, and later realised the group sitting right beside you really were the bloggers you'd been tweeting about. Or trying to make your way around the room while tweeting furiously and thinking you won't bump into the tall, skinny Boss suit. It's bound to happen.

Andrew Berry & Sean Sassen

Tom & Mumzy, MC

The actual awards room was packed with 250 bloggers, sponsors and guests as the unusually good, funny and comfortable MC added some energy to the room while giving out awards. There were the ordinary ones, who came on stage and pounced right back to their seat, there were the upbeat, like Che in her bright pink dress and matching heels who won best new blog and best design blog before posing a good facebook pic. Then there were those on behalf of Seth, who wore never-before-seen nude underwear as outerwear and in her speech expressed the blogger's pride of earning a profit from blogging while winning most controversial and best entertainment blog. The one sitting with the most disappointment in them, however, had to be Kim Gray who won best fashion blog.

The biggest winner of the night was watkykjy who took home best overall blog after the lady in leopard print delivered an adorable speech in Afrikaans.

But the bigger than biggest winner was, obviously, zanews, who won best video blog after only one year of being launched and already on their 3rd season. Helen Zille accorded them an interview, or rather accorded herself an interview, as Helen and Helen chatted during interval about politics, life, blogs, and her thoughts on her reflection.

The evening turned into the night as winners and the rest partied at the after party. The rest, however, became more than a little skeptical about the winners. Nothing was clear, no nominees were mentioned before the winner, and the judges' criteria was not revealed. I have no idea what the readership of watkykjy is, but I know it doesn't include me or anyone I know, and so I question their win because that's just what I do, and although I don't question their quality as a blog, I question whether it really is the best blog out there? After clicking on it I can't say I've been back on it.

CEO JP Naude made it clear that night that they want criticism, they want advice, and they want talk. Blogging is taking over the media world, believe it or not, and news and opinions are out there immediately, and sometimes with quality. It's up to the individual to decide what makes a great blog, and that's what the sa blog awards aimed to do with the voting system this year, although the procedure was not made transparent to us. I don't think all the winners are great, some are quite questionable, because I don't care what you had for breakfast. And if you don’t care about your readers, why should they care about you

That’s where urtak comes in. Letting bloggers create polls for readers to answer and ask questions. The two-way flow of communication is something the great bloggers have come to understand. No longer is one source reciting to the world but now has the world reciting back, out of which a conversation emerges. If you’re going to send your personal diary out to the virtual universe, sure, do it, but make sure you know why you’re blogging and not just sending out random messages to take up more unnecessary space on the net just to call yourself a ‘blogger’.

You have to have a good reason to blog.

Otherwise I have no good reason to read.

J'adore Betsey

2010-09-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

Self-described as "always in the party store", Betsey Johnson showcased cyclists on a party riding around New York. The creative idea worked beautifully and took the audience on a city trip, with each look representing different areas of the city.

Finally I found something different beneath the tons of designers' shows and ideas. This was a real SHOW, artistic with attitude. The models all wore choker necklaces that boldly told "ride me"- adding to the shock factor, perhaps, for the elite audience.
My favourite looks were those that made my dreams and fantasy world come true, explosive candyfloss coloured gowns and funky, young, fairy-like dresses that any woman's inner little girl desires.

Fashion at MTV Video Music Awards

2010-09-13T05:58:00.000-07:00

As any loyal MTV Video Music Awards viewer could tell you, the fashion is always all about youth, funk, glam and fun that's still trendy. Last year we saw way too much glitter and, although I'm not complaining, this year was a much needed breath of fresh air with some unexpected looks. MTV was so right to choose a white carpet this year as it made the stars pop that much more and create a cool, fresh atmosphere that would compliment their looks.

Ashley Greene went for lace and draping in the totally now black and white trend. She looked cute and not overdressed for the MTV occasion in Giambattista Valli .

Say what you will about this strange look but I quite liked it. I always adore applique on nude tones and the asymmetrical skirt adds some femininity. What did she have to say about the Marchese dress?

"I feel like an ice skater. Kind of like I just got a tatoo when I was drunk...and rainbow pony hair". The only slightly dodgy part? Her finger nails manicured with Russel Brand's face.

Not to be rude, but what is she still doing here? You'd guess that a garbage bag says trash more than red carpet and the rapunzel hair? Someone needs a hair cut.

Well of course Lady Gaga had to outdo that hat nest from last year, so naturally she would go with shoes made out of raw meat. I feel ill. Twittersphere soon after started spreading the word and trending the topic of her raw meat dress with comments like

I would pay a ridiculous amount of money to eat a slice of meat from Gaga's meat dress (; and once you kill a cow you gotta make a Meat Dress honey b.

Her red carpet look was Alexander McQueen and she looked more like a Cher as a peacock than anything else. I usually appreciate her fashion, but not anymore.

Audrina didn't do her research...the silver sequins were out this season after an overload of glitter in 2009. The Isaac Mizrahi mini is nevertheless cute but those Balmain sandals are all wrong, didn't your ma ever teach you? No silver and gold, girl!

The bodice of this Givenchy piece looks gorgeous on Ciara's body, but those tinted feathers? Quite a risk, but she pulls it off.

Stephanie Pratt is a stunner and this OK Nicole Miller gown is obviously quite ill fitting but the colour and detail looks super pretty on her.

The other Hills attendee was Lo Bosworth, who kept it classic but funky in this gold Gabriela Cadena sequined brocade dress. Not too short, which was the right move. Those shoes, however, are quite an unfortunate match.

Fashion's Night Out

2010-09-12T13:04:00.001-07:00

The second annual Vogue Fashion's Night Out was a combination of fashionable red carpet celebrities and street fashionistas shopping until dark.

Anna Wintour, the face behind the event, was caught in a rare, genuine smile at Carolina Herrera's new store in New York. Not to say it wasn't well-deserved, the Vogue editor did a terrific job launching the event to encourage shopping and fashion while boosting the economy.

Prabal Gurung SS 2011

2010-09-12T07:22:00.000-07:00

This new Nepalese designer showcased a wearable, feminine and clean collection. I love! As he so well puts it, "I create clothes, not costumes".

THAT blue bandage dress

2010-09-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

I first fell in love with this Herve Leger bandage dress when I saw it on Stephanie Pratt at 'The Hills' wrap party on 13 July before it made me run to the store in Paris. But after seeing it again today on Naya Rivera aka Glee's Santana, it's definitely lost its unique appeal. It doesn't even stop there. It turns out that the poor Carmen Electra and Lil Kim had worn it too on the same weekend (although in separate cities- Carmen in Las Vegas and Lil Kim in LA) two days before Stephanie Pratt. Needless to say Naya's stylist was not so up to date with the popularity of this mini and let her wear it to the Season 2 Glee party last night. I think they all look great in it, but can we please toss it out already?

The point is, don't go buy something because you thought it looked good on someone else. Be inspired. But don't copy. Do we really all want to look the same after all?

Dior Homme - Un Rendez Vous (by Guy Ritchie starring Jude Law)

2010-09-08T08:51:00.001-07:00

How odd is this new Dior short film by Guy Ritchie? Strange, awkward dialogue and a cliched ending.
Not quite sure what their message was.

Another Gossip Girl sneak peak...

2010-09-01T13:52:00.001-07:00

Not so Fabulous Emmy

2010-09-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

I must admit being disappointed after traditionally staying up all night on Sunday to watch the Emmy Awards fashion and pre-party on the red carpet. Besides bleh gowns that mostly all blended in with the corny blue backdrop, stars just didn't seem to be on their A-game. Maybe fall was getting to them. Or they were more excited for New York Fashion Week? Well I was, anyways.

The only dress that put a mild wow in my mind was January Jones's stunning Atelier Versace multi level dress. I could stare at it for hours. Sorry critics, Madonna isn't the only one in the world who can rock a cone bra. This 'mad' girl has become my red carpet icon in the fast two years and she never disappoints me. From her perfect hair to the metallic dress and classic black heel, she was oozed beauty, style and grace that night. marchesa

As soon as I saw Heidi Klum I thought she looked like a goddess. I don't care if the soon-to-be-forty is showing more leg than most girls can, her Marchesa ruffled mini is elegant and cute. Heidi looked better than ever.

I'm not saying Clare Danes doesn't look good, I'm saying if she's not my number 1 in sparkles, there's a problem here. When I tried to figure out why it was that this dress was just not clicking I quickly realised that it was because I had seen this paillete dress before on none other than Anna Hathaway. Ok, so maybe not the exact same dress, but a pretty similar Armani gown with the same shape, colour and everything else. Except here the pailletes are much smaller. But next time a little more originality please.

Now this Burberry dress is just sad. And there is NO glee in that whatsoever.

I was excepting so much more from Miss Kardashian. From the side her chest looks disastrous and this looks more like a school dance dress more than a Kim dress. Although I sympathize with her as her original gown's tailoring didn't fit right and this was more like 'plan B'. Clearly.

I really don't see the big deal about this simple navy ruffled fish tail Oscar de la Renta gown. This is no birthday dress for Lea. Yes, it fits perfectly but yes, it's also boring. And she looks like a flamenco dancer.

Sofia Vergara's Carolina Herrera dress looks like one of those high school girls at an awkward dance that others can't help feeling sorry for. She is so gorgeous yet she can't manage to get a dress without the oh-so-tragic seam down the middle.

I would say she looked fabulous as always. If she didn't wear the same dress every single time. Eva really needs to step it up and this typical tight and fish tail ruffled gown is putting me to sleep. Iw ould write about all the other even more tragic gowns, but I'd rather not pollute my page.

Gossip Girl preview

2010-08-21T07:10:00.001-07:00

The countdown has begun until 13 September!