Posts tagged Michael Kors
Our Hits & Misses of The CFDA Fashion Awards
Jun 5th
I’m sure you already knew that The Council of Fashion Designers of America held its annual Fashion Awards at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center in NYC this past Monday. Fashion elite came from far and wide for this exciting event to soak up the glitz and glamour. I have to say that that seeing my favorite stars dressed up at any red carpet event is what I hone in on. Don’t get me wrong. The event is important and I love how individuals are recognized in the world of fashion, but lets cut to the chance and name our hits and misses of the star studded affair! [We will spare you any more photos of Rihanna's look (or lack there of).]
STA’s Hits
I would have to say that Emmy Rossum in J. Mendel stole the show. This color way looks divine on her. I can’t forget to mention her hair! Who would have ever thought that crimping your hair would look so chic in 2014?
Sophia Bush in a romantic, white Marchesa frock. Lace in laser cut outs paired with that necklace makes the look so modern and swoon worthy. Her skin showing underneath the lace on the sleeves and hemline really make it sexy without going overboard.
Jenna Lyons, can I have this entire outfit? This is the definition of ‘cool girl style’ to the NEXT level. I want to be her. That is all.
STA’s Misses
I’m sorry. I know. I love her too. Blake Lively in Michael Kors reminded me of Gossip Girl, but in a really bad way. The scalloped hemline, over abundance of bracelets, and headband really just threw me off. I guess I just expected so much more from her after Cannes Film Festival.
Marion Cotillard’s Dior ensemble is interesting to say in the least… What are those things growing from her chest? Doilies? I love her shoes though!
Rachel Zoe in her own design… One sleeve, which has an oversized shoulder pad, an extra piece of fabric/lapel going across the collar, and a cinched waist. Just way too much is going on with that fabric and pattern… It just feels really cumbersome to her petite frame.
Those are picks of the evening. Who fell into your hits & misses? Sound off in the comment section below!
~Taylor, fashioniSTA intern
Photo Credit: Fashion Bomb Daily
Three Styles, One Fashionable Thanksgiving
Nov 26th
Thanksgiving, the one holiday that is actually about food. If you’re anything like me, I don’t necessarily feel my most beautiful and put-together self when I’m stuffing my face for 24 hours. It’s hard to resist those comfy and stretchy yoga pants, but don’t give in! Here are three fabulous outfit inspirations to keep you looking fabulous (as usual) this Thanksgiving.
1. Cozy and Versatile
This outfit is great for all of the active ladies. Whether lounging with the family or running around with the kids, this outfit is comfortable but ready to go! Citizen jeans are the epitome of classic casual, and the Theory knit sweater is a subtle touch of cozy and confident. Tory Burch boots add a little glam, and the Burberry scarf ties the whole thing together for an unstoppable ensemble.
And wouldn’t you know, this Burberry quilted jacket from STA 324 Newbury St. goes perfectly when it’s time for the family football game.
2. Elegant and Feminine
Sometimes we celebrate Thanksgiving with a loved-one’s family instead of our own. But don’t let that frighten your holiday fashion sense! A feminine, chic outfit is appropriate for any Thanksgiving atmosphere. We love this blouse from Ralph Lauren, which you can dress down with Calvin Klein black skinny jeans. Then add your personality in the accessories! We added some sparkle with Rebecca Minkoff loafers and a Marc Jacobs bracelet.
These Prada silver jeweled flats from STA Armitage are a fabulous way to add some glam to your sophisticated ensembles. And If you’re a guest, the Chanel cross body from STA Haddonfield can carry all of your little necessities while you’re out!
3. Stylish, Yet Forgiving
Maybe you’re like me and love to spend Thanksgiving with a glass of wine in the kitchen with the women of the family. All I know is I don’t want to wear anything too restricting, especially as I’m nibbling all day! A dress is a great way to stay comfortable and fashionable. This Marc by Marc Jacobs short dress allows you to move freely around the house. Paired with black tights and Chanel boots, it screams bold and down to business. And we can never resist a good accessory, like this Michael Kors collar necklace.
And don’t forget a Michael Kors boyfriend watch from STA 176 Newbury St. is a mandatory accessory on Thanksgiving to keep track of all the madness!
Happy Thanksgiving fashioniSTAs!
Inauguration 2013: Favorite Fashion Moments
Jan 22nd
As I tuned into the Inauguration festivities, I couldn’t help but intently focus on what the key players were wearing. From the FLOTUS outfit changes to Beyoncé’s tune-belting ensemble, this ceremony only proved that politics and fashion are no longer mutually exclusive. Here are our top five style moments from the ceremonies:
5. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Reception in Michael Kors - A repeat outfit from 2009, this black sequin dress is further proof that the First Lady is a woman of the people. How many of us go to a little black sparkly dress for a black tie event and try to economize their closets?
4. Sasha and Malia Obama on Inauguration Day in J. Crew and Kate Spade - Wearing shades of purple, theFirst Kids (Disney throwback anyone?) proudly donned American designers and looked adorably chic. There’s nothing I love more than sisters who wear matching outfits or who have the foresight to alter a look just by changing buttons on a coat.
3. Michelle Obama at the Inaugural Ball in Jason Wu - Since Michelle really only had three color choices, I love that she went with a twisted halter neckline and a flowing shape. This really shows that women of all ages can wear bold colors without looking matronly. Plus is it just me or does this remind you of a modern take on Motown’s full-length, red sequin dresses?
2. Beyoncé and Jay-Z on Inauguration Day - Let’s be honest, we care about what Jay-Z wore to the point where he looked presentable next to the former Sasha Fierce. B’s intricate Pucci gown was understatedly ah-mazing, and I’m so glad that someone new has become the ambassador to emerald jewelry.
1. Michelle Obama on Inauguration Day in custom Thom Browne - This whole look just works. From the impeccable tailoring to the accented jewel belt to the gloves that matched her daughters’ outfits, Mrs. O did everything right with this. She directed enough attention to herself without taking over the event and she balanced the line between fashion-forward and conservative perfectly. And if I had the chance to go custom-made, I would jump at it.
Tell us what was your favorite look on our Facebook or reach out to us on Twitter!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
Photo credits: Glamour.com, Philly.com, Bellastyles.com, Newswhip.com, HuffingtonPost.com
Festive Dressing – A Holiday Dilemma
Dec 21st
Whether you’re a college student home for the holidays, a young professional going to Christmas dinner at your significant other’s home for the first time, or a hostess expecting all of your extended family in your home, dressing festive (appropriately!) is never an easy task.
Lucky for you, festive is my specialty. Put down the ubiquitous Santa hat and choose one (or two, or all three) of these ways to bring some holiday cheer into your wardrobe for the next four days.
Baroque Details
Bring one of our favorite fall 2012 trends into your holiday arsenal. A little gilded Baroque-inspired detail (like the above gold jacket by ASOS) goes a long way during the holiday season. Best when paired with simple black pants and knee-high boots, this brings a bit of festive shimmer to your gift-giving look. You can take this look a little further with a gold-gilded skirt or dress in a Baroque print, or a two-toned lace dress - one color for the lace overlay and another color underneath - will give you the same effect. Want just a dash of this? Try a set of antiqued-gold bangles like these Amrita Singhs, or an embellished clutch to top off your outfit.
The Perfect Manicure
Blame our Pinterest obsession for this no-fail way to bring a subtle holiday hint to an outfit. The best part about this is you can keep it super simple if you’re short on time. Cranberry red, pine green, a gold glitter accent? There’s no better hand to have when reaching under the tree. If you’re looking for something a little more advanced, break out the toothpicks and tiny brushes to paint on stripes, snowflakes, or bows. We’ve found great tutorials for keeping your manis festive at Goose’s Glitter blog, Do Not Refreeze blog, Nails Helensvale, and Chickettes (for those of you who love nail decals). And don’t forget! Make sure to check out our Get Your Holiday Spirit Pinterest board for lots of holiday beauty inspiration.
The Never Fail Stand-By
‘Tis the season for red and green. We can assure you, this look is possible without looking like an extra from Elf. Start with a festive red or green cashmere pullover sweater, like the Michael Kors featherweight style above. Pair with crisp white pants, or a neutral black skirt for a timeless look that’d make even Kate Middleton’s holiday looks jealous. Prefer a dabble of festive color? Try a tartan headband or dark red and green gemstone jewelry for a modern take on traditional holiday spirit.
Happy Holidays (and make sure to check out our Holiday Tips of the Day on Twitter at @STAConsignment)!
-Meredith, FashioniSTA
Getting an Inside Look at Project Runway with Eila Mell
Aug 28th
Last time Eila Mell and I spoke was back in February, in the thick of New York Fashion Week. We were discussing her previous book – New York Fashion Week – and she alluded to a new project in the works focused on Project Runway. Well now it’s six months later, and Eila’s book - Project Runway: The Show That Changed Fashion - has hit shelves to the glee of both critics and Project Runway fans. Eila spoke with us about what it took to put this book together, and the style she encountered along the way.
STA: I’m so glad I’m getting to talk to you again, I’m so excited about your book!
Eila Mell: Thank you! It was so much fun doing it, but, you know, it’s nice when it’s done.
STA: What made you gravitate towards making PR the focus of your book?
EM: In my last book, I touched on PR. For a show that not a lot of people had faith in at the very beginning to be approaching it’s 10th anniversary is an incredible milestone. I felt that now was a perfect time to celebrate the show in a book.
STA: Who was your favorite contestant that you interviewed?
EM: I feel a little uncomfortable using the word favorite just because I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but I have to say I have a very soft spot for a few of them. But my absolute best would have to be Emilio Sosa – he’s fantastic, so talented.
STA: Love him! He just debuted his own line at NYFW in February.
EM: It was a beautiful show, my favorite that I went to, and I can’t wait to see what he does in September. He was also nominated for a Tony Award designing the costumes for Porgy and Bess, so he’s had an amazing year. What people might not know is that he’s really funny, he has the best personality. I don’t know how much people got to see that on the show because in the show he was focused on the work.
STA: This year is Project Runway’s 10th season, what do you think has made this show sustainable for so long?
EM: Absolutely because of the show’s integrity. It’s not manipulated, and what you’re seeing is creative people do what they do best. The cast is the best in the business, and that’s why people respect the show so much. You don’t just have whoever as judges, they have Michael Kors, they have Nina, it’s just an amazing show. There is no other place that showcases designers and gives them a voice other than PR.
STA: Any favorite Season 10 designers? 
EM: I am loving Ven Budhu – his [candy design] was amazing (shown at right), you couldn’t even tell it was candy! Right now I’m rooting for him, he’s super talented.
STA: Any fun tidbits from working on the book?
EM: Here’s a funny thing, when I met Heidi for the first time, I actually ended up insulting her without meaning to. I was talking to her and said, “How does it feel to have the contestants think of you as the mean judge?” And she said, “I’m the mean judge?!” She didn’t know! She was very good-natured about it, and not insulted, but I was sitting there thinking, “Oh my gosh, what did I say?!” Because people talk about it on the show! She was laughing and didn’t care. But then I was so relieved, because this woman who worked with her Googled it and said, “No no Heidi, they do, they refer to you as ‘Klum of Doom’!”
STA: Well she’s got that tough German accent and she tells it like it is!
EM: I think that’s what makes her so good, and I hope that people give her the credit she deserves. In comparison to some of the other hosts on reality TV, you can really see what a great job she is doing.
STA: And that seems to be one of the reasons the show does so well.
EM: You have Heidi coming at it as a model, she’s worn the clothes and knows designers. Then you have Michael Kors who is a designer, and he understands the creative process. And then Nina comes at it from an editorial point of view. That blend is really what makes the dynamic work because you’re getting three very valid points of view. Other shows just don’t have that.
STA: Do you have a favorite interviewee?
EM: Getting to interview Michael Kors was a career high for me. I was floating for days after. He’s someone who I think is so talented and brilliant business-wise. I love that he started from a modest background and built an empire. I think that’s fascinating.
STA: And Nina Garcia seems like an enigma to me, I wouldn’t know what to expect if I met her.
EM: She’s very cool and very together, just like she is on the show. She’s so chic, oh my gosh…her closet is the one I would want.
STA: Since NYFW is almost upon us, what are you looking forward to?
EM: Absolutely looking forward to what the PR designers are doing! Emilio [Sosa] is showing, Victor [Luna, from Season 9] is showing – I have a soft spot for those two, my buddies. And then Michael Kors always, he’s incredible. It’s fun to see what Marc Jacobs does, and [I love] Alexander Wang and Altuzarra. I cover the shows for FashionWatch.com, and I have a ball doing that. I also have my own blog called Not Without My Gucci [notwithoutmygucci.blogspot.com], I don’t know if people still get the Sally Field reference, but I still think it’s funny!
We’ll definitely have to keep on the lookout for your coverage while reading your new book!
~Ashley, FashioniSTA
A Very FashioniSTA Birthday
Aug 14th
Earlier this week, this fashioniSTA celebrated a very stylish birthday (not to mention a double birthday for my fashionable twin sister as well). Friends and family gathered on a waterfront restaurant roof deck overlooking Boston’s harbor where the sun was shining and the sangria was absolutely delicious. To dress for the occasion I wore a white form-fitting Nicole Miller number, while my sister opted for a flowy feminine look in soft pink silk chiffon. FashioniSTA friends arrived in sundresses and full skirts covered in florals, lace, and summer stripes. It was quite the party.
On your birthday it’s your time to shine, and at your party you are already the center of attention so make sure you dress the part. Don’t be afraid to wear a bold color or to steal the show in sequins. Play up your personality and show off your own unique personal style. Here are some fabulous looks for a fashioniSTA birthday party:
LWD: The little white dress is easily summer’s version of the LBD. It’s classic, elegant, and chic, and is the perfect dress for any special occasion- especially on your special day. The little white dress allows you to accessorize in a way that really shows off your personality, like adding some personalized Alex and Ani bangles or a statement necklace. There are many options of silhouettes, fabrics and details, so chose something that flatters your figure and that you feel comfortable in.
FashioniSTA picks: Susana Monaco, Alice + Olivia, Nicholas.
Be Bold: Another option is to wear a bright color which really puts you as the center of attention on your birthday. Neon has been a huge trend this spring and summer, so if you’re feeling daring, don a dress if the super bright shades. If trends aren’t your thing, try a dress in a summery shade of coral or yellow. Wearing a bold color exudes confidence and shows a fun, playful personality.
FashioniSTA picks: BCBGMAXAZRIA, Herve Leger.
Sparkle and Shine: At STA we love anything that sparkles. If you really want to shine on your birthday, wear sequins. A little sparkle will never go out of style.
FashioniSTA picks: Parker, MICHAEL Michael Kors.
~Lisa, fashioniSTA
An Inside Look at NYFW with Eila Mell
Feb 15th
Want to know what happens behind-the-scenes at New York Fashion Week runway shows? Just look online. But you want to know what went on behind the camera during the Bryant Park years (1994-2010)? There’s only one place to get it: Eila Mell’s book New York Fashion Week: The Designers, the Models, the Fashions of the Bryant Park Era. From fun facts to fashion rundowns to photos worth more than a thousand words, this book gives us all an inside look into a world of style that became a legacy. We sat down with the author to get her perspective on this year’s shows and all the industry itself.
What are you doing now for NYFW?
This week is an especially crazy week. I’m covering all the shows for FashionWatch.com, and in the meantime I’m working on a new book which will be out in September that is also related to the fashion industry.
Why did you become a fashion journalist? What was your path to getting where you are now?
I’ve had a really crazy career, I started out as an actor and I was unhappy doing that. I decided that I had a passion for writing but wasn’t exactly sure of what my focus was. My first book Casting Might Have Beens was about the film industry. After eight years of research and persistence it was finally published. It’s a real lesson about working hard and it paying off. I’ve always loved fashion and was able to merge my two interests in 2010 when I began working on my third book, New York Fashion Week.
As a fashion journalist, how did you see your role change in covering the shows?
I think that it has evolved. First it was just writing about the shows themselves, and I was writing [New York Fashion Week] at the same time, so I was more of a historian. Now I’m covering the shows with a focus on the current fashions, and what’s going on this season. It’s about the designers, and not so much the history.
What is your favorite part of NYFW?
I love seeing the shows, but I think even a little, tiny bit more than that is seeing people you don’t get to see the rest of the year.
Do you have a favorite designer that you like to see at the shows?
My favorite is Narciso Rodriguez, and Michael Kors, of course.
How do you feel about the newer lines that make it onto the runways?
I love discovering a new designer. I just saw an amazing show by a new designer named Misha Nonoo and she’s incredible. She had a beautiful collection, what I really loved and respected was that her price point was affordable. And there’s no sacrifice of quality. I also think Theodora & Callum is fantastic.
You seem to be very interested in anecdotes, where did you learn about the fashion trivia sprinkled throughout your book?
I interviewed a lot of people in the industry, and that was definitely the main source of information. To round that out, I also combed the archives of Women’s Wear Daily.
These photos are awesome, where did you get them?
My photos were actually going to be [a huge expense]. Then I was interviewing Kelly Cutrone, and she asked who was doing my photos. [When I explained what I was doing], she said, “No you can’t do that.” She called up Roxanne Lowit and Randy Brooke, and told them about the project and asked them if they wanted to work on it. It was such an honor to work with two top photographers.
Bryant Park was always synonymous with NYFW, and it gave a certain air to the shows. To me, Lincoln Center exudes a different vibe as a location, do you agree, and what do you think this means for NYFW?
I think of Bryant Park as one thing. It was in the heart of the fashion industry, right in the center of the city, and it brought in the crowds and a lot of excitement. Once it moved to Lincoln Center, it had a different air. It’s more about the arts. It’s not [necessarily] better, it’s just different.
Besides the obvious creative differences, what do you see has been the biggest (or most shocking) change to NYFW since the beginning?
Absolutely the biggest change has been social media. It’s changed how the industry works, [now] everything is immediate. Before we had to wait for photos, now as soon as the [show happens we get to see it]. Designers have to keep up with it; some of them are even putting [runway] looks immediately into production.
A look from Christian Siriano's NYFW Fall 2012 show
What do you think about live-streaming the shows, is it making them less exclusive?
I think that it’s making fashion more accessible, which is ultimately a good thing. I mean who do you want to reach? The customer. If I’m in Chicago, I can go [online and see the show]. I think it’s fantastic, why not?!
What do you think about Project Runway’s presence in the shows?
I think it’s really had a huge impact on the industry as well as across the country. The show has opened up a dialogue, making people aware of fashion, who probably didn’t know much about the industry before. Christian Siriano has totally broken out, and people don’t even associate him with Project Runway anymore. Daniel Vosovic has broken out as well, the show has given him a great opportunity, and he’s taken seriously by the industry. Emilio Sosa, he’s fantastic, [he debuted] his collection for ESosa [last Friday]. And he just did the costumes for Porgy and Bess on Broadway.
Where do you see fashion week going in the future, whether it’s the look of the clothes, the feel of the show, the way it’s reported (more commercialized, more editorial, etc)?
I think that eventually it might all be through social media. I don’t know, if in 10 years we’re going to have to go to the shows.
Your book includes a lot of discussion on supermodels. We don’t seem to see the same supermodel mentality that we once did in the ‘90s, is that just because we are glorifying the past?
I don’t think so. I think each era has its own personality. There are top models working now, but they are not household names [like in the ‘90s]. The supermodels of the 90s were reflections of their time, which was a time of excess. I am a huge fan of fashion magazines, and I used to always love to see which model got the cover. Now they all use celebrities [to sell magazines].
What do you think of the celebrity culture at the shows? You can almost judge a show before it even starts based on its audience.
That’s right! It’s true, you have to be careful as a designer which celebs you put in your front row. [Celebrity relations have] existed for a long time, it’s not going away. It’s a way for a designer to get his or her name out there, so I understand it.
The Spirit of the Seventies
Sep 9th
As the summer crawls to an end, we realize that the time is nigh to re-evaluate our wardrobe. How can you even begin to fathom stretching those summer must-haves into an autumn-appropriate wardrobe? Which easy breezy trends will have to hit the storage bin and which ones can be expected to transition into fall?
Fortunately for all of us fashioniSTAs, the biggest summer trend shows no signs of slowing down. Don’t box up those platforms just yet; it appears that the ’70s are here to stay. This upcoming season, it’s all about re-inventing your mother’s wardrobe — time to transition the spirit of the ’70s into the spirit of the season! Grab your gold, dig that denim, and get crazy with the crotchet!
Take it from Gregg Andrews, Nordstrom Fashion Director: “There were a lot of beautiful, chic clothes from the ’70s and a lot of people forget that. There was a great feeling of luxury and little bit of decadence, but it was more about a lifestyle than the way you dress.”
So while the designs from the Disco Decade continue to make waves on the runways , here are a few key elements to work into your fall closet this season: wide collars, flared or wide leg trousers with high waists, maxi hems, floppy hats, wraps, crochet and embroidery, denim-on-denim, one-shoulder pieces, big prints (especially paisley), and stripes in multiple colors.
Of course, reading about the trends isn’t as fun as actually seeing how to piece these all together… so let STA be your guide! Check out these looks, pulled from the racks of our Harvard Square location! Add a denim jacket and you’re good to go!
Dress: What Goes Around Comes Around (size S) $79 / Vest: Club Monaco (size S) NWT! $25 / Bead & Crotchet Necklace: $12 / Leather Belt: $15 / Vintage Yves St. Laurent Bag: $79 / Cynthia Vincent Slides (size 6.5) $69
Gryphon Dress (size M) $89 / Necklace: $9 / Sequin Belt: $15 / Stuart Weitzman Sandals (size 9) $89 / Jessica Simpson Sunglasses: $19
Arden B. Knit Halter (size S) $19 / Patchwork Denim Skirt (size S) $15 / Rope and Clay Necklace: $10 / Isabella Fiore Embroidered Bag: $99 / Karen Millen Sandals (size 7.5) $69
BCBG MaxAzria Crotchet Halter Dress (size M) $49 / Carlos Falchi Bag: $79 / BCBGirls Sandal (size 8.5) $39 / Necklaces: $6 & $12 / Belt: $15
Diane von Furstenberg Wrap Dress (size 10) $69 / Plastic Necklace: $9 / Frye Sandal (size 10) $59 / Vintage Bag: $15
L’Amadei Maxi Dress (size L) $25 / Necklaces: $8 & $14 / Rope Belt: $15 / Kors by Michael Kors Sandal (size 7) $79 / Vintage Tote: $15 / Straw Hat: $15
~Kim, FashioniSTA/Harvard Square Store Manager
Dress the Part: Day-to-Night
Jul 15th
Let’s say you’re spending your weekend lounging in the backyard with a plate of delights hot off the grill, relaxing on the patio, iced tea in hand. Sounds like heaven, right? But suddenly your phone flashes and there’s (insert BFF’s name here), begging you to be her wingman as she cruises for man candy downtown in a few hours. Being the gracious soul that you are, you agree, but only later realize how quickly time flies when you’re having fun in the sun. You can’t meet her out looking the way you do, all casual and toned down, but you only have 15 minutes to freshen up before you head out again! Ahhhhh!
They key to transitioning from day-to-night without a complete outfit change lies in your accessorizing. You can change almost any outfit from casual and classy to glam and dramatic by simply swapping out the hardware! Check out our STA Harvard Square picks below to see the transition from simply day to sultry night.
Day Look: Dress, Free People (size 6) $39 / Necklace, $14 / Flats, Banana Republic (size 10) $19 / Wicker Bag: Lewis $19
Night Look: Dress, Free People (size 6) $39 / Jacket, Earl Jeans (size L) $39 / Necklace, $14 / Bag: Salvatore Ferragamo $99 / Shoes, Madden Girl (size 6) $25
Day Look: Cardigan, Ann Taylor (size M) $19 / Dress, no label (size M) $19 / Necklace, $12 / Bag, H&M $9 / Sandals, Michael by Michael Kors (size 7.5) $49
Night Look: Dress, no label (size M) $19 / Necklace, $18 / Studded Belt, $15 / Bag, L.A.M.B. $79 (NWT!) / Sandals, Aldo (size 7.5) $25
~Kim, FashioniSTA/Store Manager Harvard Square
Met Gala 2011: The Solids, the Sequins and the Sleeves
May 6th
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala is the high fashion event where the style elite can push the envelope in the hautest way possible. Unlike the Grammys where celebs show up wearing cans of tuna or weird disco sunglasses, the Met Gala showcases the true potential of designers, fashion-forward celebs and ingenious stylists. Join us as we break down the top trends, the fashion elite and the style disasters that graced the Met Gala red carpet.
Americandy
While this is a great event to showcase haute gowns and bold picks, it is also refreshing to see a group of ladies strutting their stuff in simple, streamlined ensembles by American designers. Michael Kors must have worked overtime, dressing Diana Agron (below, right), Brooklyn Decker (below, left), Emma Roberts, and model Caroline Trentini. From Brooklyn’s hot pink, high slit fierceness to Caroline’s nude, textured concoction, Kors got it right, sending out the perfect amount of American minimalism with the Met Gala-required wow-factor.
Always the American minimalist, Claire Danes showed up in a metallic Calvin Klein Collection gown, while Zoe Saldana (below, center) also donned the designer wearing a strapless pale lemon dress. Both were low-key looks, yet they managed to not underwhelm us with their fresh choices in color.
Got Something Up My Sleeve
One of the biggest trends of the night was sleeves. These stars must have finally been affected by the raging winter the rest of the country experienced, because you could not take a step without bumping into a not-bare arm. However, this trend seemed to work only on the stars who were able to keep it simple. The stand-outs of the night got this trend exactly right, including Renee Zellweger in a nude Carolina Herrera gown with just the right amount of sparkly detail on each hip. Naomi Watts also must have gotten dressed with Renee, because she too showed up in a nude gown with sparkle accents (by Stella McCartney), however hers created this ethereal feel with the illusion sleeves and light, translucent material. Gwyneth Paltrow brought the classy element back to gold in a stunning Stella McCartney, open-back, fitted gown, along with Sarah Jessica Parker in a silver, high-neck Alexander McQueen creation with the perfect silver-on-silver pattern detail. Going for a bit of a fashion risk, Ashley Olsen (below, right) encompassed the overall image of the evening in a vintage Christian Dior black gown with full, ivory, off-the-shoulder sleeves.
However, her sister, Mary Kate (below, left), missed the mark with her oversized Givenchy dress that looked like it was fit more for a trip to an Amish 1970s beach rather than a costume gala. Iman also looked like she was out of another decade a Stella McCartney gold, belted jumpsuit, and in the bad, 1980s type of way. But the biggest trend offender of the night? Christina Ricci in Zac Posen, evoking a morbid, just-raised-from-the-dead-in-a-Tim-Burton movie motif.
Surprise Designer: Topshop
When I think of the Met Ball, I think of haute couture gowns with feathers, studs, sequins and an expensive designer label attached. This year, however, three stunning starlets graced the gala in a label even we frugal fashionistas can afford. Jessica Szohr (below, center) edged things up a bit in a black velvet and tinsel minidress, while Maggie Grace (below, left) hit the red carpet in a limited-edition black gown by the mainstream label. Finally, Ginnifer Goodwin (below, right) wowed in a knotted green dress with a deep v front, which was ever so slightly overworked with the matching green eye makeup.
FashioniSTA Best Dressed: Diane Kruger in Jason Wu (left). Between her use of the illusion, sleeves and bedazzled trends, you’d think this would be a complete miss. But she managed to make it all work, evoking an old Hollywood glamour rather than a trashy mash-up of trends, which is definitely not easy to do.
FashioniSTA Worst Dressed: Fergie in Marchesa. Not only is this dress an atrocious bridal nightmare from 1982, but the overly bronzed makeup and borderline frosted hair just added to the disaster. Bring back Grammy 2010 Fergie please!
Most Improved: Rather than give this to an actual person, this award goes to Valentino’s daisies, making their big comeback as appliqués on Dakota Fanning’s tulle dress. After seeing Michelle Williams in these daisies at the Golden Globes, we thought that this trend would die a slow, painful death, but they have come back at the right event, on the right starlet, and in exactly the right way.
~Ashley, FashioniSTA, Second Time Around