SAG - The narcissism begins...

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We all know the SAG awards are really just another excuse for celebrities to tell each other how great they are. So, I am not going to talk about the actors. I am, however, going to address their 'dress'. And, let me say, I believe we must appreciate the way the majority of them understood 'toning it down, while still representing high-class'.
Women: the best and worst...
You choose. Who do you think was best and worst dressed?
BEST
   Mila Kunis or Sofia Vergara
  
Juliana Margulies or January Jones 
   
Hailee Steinfeld or Jennifer Lawrence

Dianna Agron took my breath away in this Chanel Haute Couture - show them how to do it right! Her hair, make-up, jewelry, dress, color - everything was on.

Do we really need to talk about the men?

No one really stood out, but I have to give it up to LL Cool J. for always representing personal style.

Owning Personal Style

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Remember back in high school, when you wanted to be like everyone else? And if you weren't, or didn't, you were basically an outcast? Thank goodness for personal style. This for those of us who have always rocked our own style, whether trend-worthy or not.
Please send pics of you rocking your personal style.

HOT or NOT at the Golden Globes

This year it was all sequins, puffy sleeves, mid-slit, blush gowns for the women. For the men, unlike the usual effort of 'trying' to bring fashion to the table, it was bow-tie after bow-tie! Known for being the 'party' awards, we never expect couture gowns, but we do expect classic and striking looks. For the most part, people played it safe this year, but there were a few worth talking about.

For the men...
NOT - I am completely turned off my Justin Beiber's attempt to self-promote his new movie by wearing purple 3D glasses down the carpet.

NOT - Christian Bale, although of my favorite actors, complete failed in the 'get-ready-for-red-carpet-style'. His long hair and beard were shockingly long and definitely distracted from anything he might have been saying.

Some of our favorite men wearing the classic bow-tie on Sunday were Jim Parsons, Mark Wahlberg, Alec Baldwin, Ryan Kwanton, Matthew Morrison and Jake Gyllenhaal were some of the best.
My personal favorite was Ryan Kwanton. With purple velvet, his bow-tie spoke fashion at its finest, pairing luxury, class and party worthy color.

HOT - Robert Pattinson pulled out all the stops with his Navy suit and classic tie. Almost as if not trying at all, he walked the carpet with a ease, and in complete fashion.


For our lovely ladies...
NOT - Although Olivia Wilde is always working the carpet in the best way, this year she wore a black gown that had such a huge skirt, one could fit a handful of children underneath. I kept trying to decide if she was preparing for Miss America or to be a topper on my little girl's birthday cake.

NOT - When it comes to style, Tina Fey seems to always get caught between trying to keep things classic, but not go over the top. Unfortunately her efforts continually seem to land her in a "what was she thinking" look. Wearing a Lauren Scott, v-neck, puffy-sleeved, navy gown, did nothing but bring eyes in all the wrong places. On top of this, her hair was frazzled and make-up too simple. In the end, she reminded me of a dying peacock.

Some of the favorites were Angelina Jolie in emerald, Julianne Moore in a drop-dead, figure-flattering fuchsia, Lanvin, Catherine Zeta Jones in a hunter green, Monique Llulier gown (almost too much, worthy for the Academy Awards) and Claire Danes in a spot-on, salmon, halter style gown from the Calvin Klein Collection.
                            
HOT - Perfection graced the carpet with Natalie Portman. In a divine Viktor and Rolf, Blush floor length beautifully with a red rose and trailing details. Not only was she an angel on the carpet, but also a pregnant momy-to-be!!

For more great 'carpet' Hots and Nots...look forward to all the award show re-caps coming up. XOXO - J

Faux or Fur

Image by LunaDiRimmel via Flickr

There have been a lot of discussions, both personal and professional, stirring on whether it is okay to purchase these luxurious garments made from animal's fur or hides.  I, personally, am torn.  There are so many amazing pieces out there, especially when it comes to boots, jackets and handbags.  With real leather having such an amazing look, feel and lasting quality, it is hard to go back to faux.
Then there are the furs! Although never appealing to me in the past, in recent trends amazing vests and even boot linings have been exposed.  However, my ethics have yet to allow me to purchase anything.
For those of you who don't know, or who believe the materials used to make these items are coming from dead or 'used' animals, they are not.  Like fabric, most design houses sources animals for these materials.  Without getting too graphic, it is a sad tale.
What do you think? How do you feel? Do you research companies prior to purchasing garments with these fabrics? Would love to hear your thoughts...

Sexy, Sparkly and Spectacular

Image by Denis Collette...!!! via Flickr

I know that New year's Eve parties are over, but I can't stop thinking about amazing dresses.  I am absolutely head-over-heels in fashion love with this one by Sherri Hill!  (Carried by Liana's, in downtown Portland).
http://www.sherrihill.com/9230.htm
With color like that, you are a walking ray of sunshine. Embellishments unnecessary. This dress can be worn to summer parties, vacation dates, weddings (okay, certain weddings...you don't want to take too much attention away from the bride.).

Nature and pure fun inspires dresses like this - what better way to play, than with nature playing on you!