Category Archives: Red Carpet Review

9/26/2012 Darling Of The Day: Olivia Palermo- Casual Chic Is Layered With Luxury!

Posted on by

It’s been hard for me to decide which celeb look to feature, but I’ve been loving everything that I’ve seen reality star Olivia Palermo wearing, which is why I featured her twice in the last post for Top 10 Celeb Sightings, where she rocked some Burberry duds & an ethereal Valentino gown. However, when I spotted her latest layered look while shopping & hitting the streets, I knew that this spin on classic style would be perfect to share with readers. Naturally, I’m recreating this look for both women’s & plus sizes to enjoy, doing my best to find complimentary pieces since it’s such a versatile & anytime ensemble.

So to start, look to the left & you’ll find the pieces to create a curvy reimagining of this street chic outfit.  First, I headed to Forever 21, which helped me I find the plus size sequined yoke contrast top ($22.80). I loved the resembling details with the purple & black contrast in Olivia’s top, giving a blousy feel, as opposed to a heavy knit sweater.  Also, the rockstar jeggings ($28.00) in medium wash from Old Navy helped to complete the bottom half, especially when on a budget & they’re available in sizes 16-30.  However, it was hard to find a two-tone leather jacket with multiple textures, but pieces like leather should be an investment, one that will last for many years, thus paying you back, which is why I’m happy to share the DKNYC leather & ponte motorcycle jacket ($189.00) from Zappos.  This is a classic cut, adding an edgy feel to any feminine look.  Of course accessories can be found virtually anywhere, but I added New York & Company‘s ribbon bib necklace ($24.95), which is currently on sale for Buy One, Get One FREE.  In addition the square sunglasses ($3.80) from Forever 21, Kelsey Dagger ‘Charley’ pump ($59.95) available @DSW, & Jennifer Lopez gold-tone hammered button stud earrings ($12.00) from Kohl’s are the perfect finishing touches, playing off the different textures.

Now, for the look on the right, I like the refreshing hue of the August Silk round neck pullover ($24.99) from Loehmann’s, especially since it can be mixed with other office-friendly pieces like a pencil skirt or be worn with a sequin mini for a date.  Also, @Forever 21, I found the hooded moto jacket ($24.80) & braided collar necklace ($12.80), which only enhance the casualness of the whisker wash skinny jeans ($41.40) from GOjane.  Normally, I don’t recommend a light wash jean, but these pieces really add a modern feel to an 80’s-90’s looking wash.  Lastly, I added the posh Mossimo gradient smoked lens sunglasses ($16.99) from Target, must-have Charlotte Russe pointed toe gold pumps ($32.50), & Dana Buchman gold-tone texture button stud earrings ($14.00) from Kohl’s.

Which pieces are your favorite in recreating this look? Where would you wear this? Do you like Olivia’s choice of accessories? For more posts from Darling of the Day, be sure to check out Olivia Munn’s KMart dress, colored jeans worn by Kate Middleton & Christina Hendricks, & LBDs copied from Anne Hathaway’s press appearances! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: 2012 Emmy Awards Featuring Zooey Deschanel, Sofia Vergara, Hayden Panettiere, & More!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

This is a first for Style Darling. The 64th Annual Emmy Awards are currently airing & I’ve been scouring the web for the last 45 minutes to put together a complete gallery of the fabulous red carpet looks. Some of my favorites include Zooey Deschanel in a princess-like Reem Acra look, Julie Bowen in neon Monique Lhuillier, Claire Danes as a blushing mom-to-be in Lanvin, & Christina Hendricks in a belted design by Christian Siriano. Who are you rooting for? I’m a big fan of Girls, so keep an eye out for the very multi-talented Lena Dunham! Check out the gallery & share with readers which looks are your favorites! Enjoy the show! Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Embroidery & Pretty Menswear Featuring Olivia Palermo, Anne Hathaway, Sarah Jessica Parker, & More!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Now that New York Fashion Week is over, the celebs are stepping out in serious style in preparation for awards season & movie premieres.  However, I’m excited to share some looks that have been catching my eye, especially when stars like Anne Hathaway, Olivia Palermo, & Sarah Jessica Parker have lent their support to Valentino Haute Couture designs. In addition, I’ve included another stylish look of Olivia Palermo at the Burberry Prorsum show at London Fashion Week, as well as Amy Adams in Roksanda Illincic, Elizabeth Olsen in Topshop & ASOS, Gwyneth Paltrow‘s LWD while on the campaign trail, Hailee Steinfeld‘s mixed prints in Rebecca Minkoff & Mary Katrantzou, & Olivia Wilde in Alexander McQueen. Which looks are your favorite? Which celebrities are your following on the red carpet?

For more from Top 10 Celeb Sightings, check out looks from Emma Watson & Zoe Saldana, Jennifer Lopez & Kristen Bell, & Ashley Madekwe & Malin Akerman! Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain: Fall’s Faux Leather Forecast, Inspired by Jessica Chastain, Lucy Hale, Maria Sharapova, & More!

Posted on by

I’ve been on the prowl for great fall finds & one trend that keeps stopping me in my tracks is leather & it’s just not going away.  Why should it? The luxe, lush material adds an edge to a feminine blouse, contradicts a flirty skirt, makes you look like a rock star, or just helps any Style Darling stand out a little bit more.  Take it from some of our favorite celebrities, including Jessica Chastain, Kate Bosworth, Lucy Hale, Nicole Richie, Sophia Bush, Maria Sharapova, & Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

My previous post about summer leather shared looks worn by Emma Stone, Alexa Chung, & Julianne Hough, but our calendars change to fall in just a few days, so why not start looking at ways to wear leather- or faux leather in this case, that can really spruce up your current wardrobe, as well as help welcoming the season.

At the recent celebration of New York Fashion Week, we saw lots of leather in recent posts for Runway Rundown, including Spring 2013 collections by designers Jason Wu, Holmes & Yang, Oscar de la Renta, & Michael Kors. Also, there was more leather to be found hitting the runway with metallic pencil skirts from DKNY, jackets by Marc Jacobs, pleated dresses by Tracy Reese, cut-out accents from Pamella Roland, & chic tops for Helmut Lang, as seen below.

However, when it comes to affordable fashion, it’s not always easy to find leather when you’re shopping on a budget. Enter: faux leather. You can’t forget that faux leather isn’t harmful to animals & is always less expensive.  It’s so easy to find faux leather separates, jackets, & dresses these days & I couldn’t decide on just a handful of items, so brace yourself… there’s a lot to look at!

What caught my attention to start posting about all these leather trends was a recent post made by Venus that I spotted on my newsfeed on Facebook.  These looks all include faux leather items, including (from left to right) the faux leather trimmed blouse ($36.00), faux leather mini skirt ($32.00), peep toe ankle strap heel ($39.00), sweater with faux leather ($18.00), faux leather leggings ($44.00), & faux leather dress ($64.00) in black. Of course, I couldn’t just write about items from one store, so here’s some more!

I should disclaim that I do not condone wearing any of these items with other faux leather pieces. You can take that risk if you’d like, but to avoid looking like a biker chick or appearing as though in costume, I’d recommend allowing for one item to be the standout & then mix with other fabrics to create a multi-dimensional & textured look.  First, the zipped faux leather denim skirt ($19.80) comes from Forever 21 & is available in plus sizes 12-20.  Underneath, you’ll find the essential faux leather shorts ($15.80), which are perfect for fall with tights & ankle booties.  Pair either of these bottoms with a fabulous blouse, studded tee, or menswear-inspired button-down.  The a-line skirt ($39.00) from Joe Fresh is cute for bringing to life the looks worn by Selena Gomez & Nicole Richie at the top of this post.  Also, add just a hint of leather with the zip back pencil skirt with (minus the) leather ($59.90) from Express.

We all know that leggings are all the rage right now, so to find the perfect pair for this edition of Basics for a Bargain, I turned to H&M for their leggings ($24.95) in black, which are also available in white, if you dare! Break these bad boys out with a chunky oversized knit & your fiercest pointed toe pumps, or help a graphic tee look less casual & top it off with a satin blazer.

I also found the plus size tee with faux leather shoulders ($34.99 – $39.99) from Jessica London & Antonio Melani Sardinia faux-leather top ($34.65) @Dillards which pair well underneath a suit for the office, or with dark denim pieces like jeggings or a mini.  If all-over leather isn’t your thing, then the touch of texture on the shoulders helps frame your face & becomes an accessory to your look. Lastly, the faux leather strapless cocktail club dress ($54.99) in black 2 cute 2 trendy crawls near the borderline of pinup, but with asymmetric zipper details, you could be working it just like Kristen Stewart or Brooklyn Decker do when making red carpet appearances.

Which leather pieces are your favorite? Which celeb looks the best in leather? Are you a fan of real leather or would you rather wear faux leather? How would you style your leather look? Happy Styling!

Splurge Or Save… On Leopard Print Flats?

Posted on by

I recently had a very insightful discussion on the preferences of animal print, how to wear it & what the essentials are for one’s wardrobe (yes, this really happened). Of course I’m crazy for zebra (with a purse, flats, sheets, laundry bin, skirt, etc…), however leopard print just won’t go away, & why should it? I own a satin pair of ballerina flats with a fabulous leopard print & bow-crystal accent at the heel.  They’re super comfortable & perfect for any casual look or fashionable dinner with the girls.

In my newest category (yes, the creativity just keeps pouring out- see Fabulous in 4 Ways), Splurge or Save? will investigate an item at different price points.  Staples like leopard print flats can be found virtually anywhere, especially this time of year when we’re preparing our fall wardrobes for chic splashes of personality when the weather becomes crisper.

As you can see, we have a little celebrity inspiration joining us. Fashion icon Alexa Chung wears her pointed toe leopard flats with a menswear-inspired shirtdress, reinforcing why she’s just so darn fun to watch.  Designer Whitney Port looks sweet mixing prints in her Whitney Eve outfit & leopard flats.  Socialite Olivia Palermo, who’s been everywhere lately it seems, breaks out in a feminine floral shorts look & some bowed leopard flats.  However, now that we’ve seen some of Style Darling‘s favorite celebrities wearing leopard print flats, let’s take a look at what I’ve found, ranging in price from $14.99 – $275.00!

The above five shoes range quite a bit in price, but each share the same concept of a bow detail & black trim around the foot, which emphasize the classic design of a ballet flat.  First, the RED Valentino leopard print ballerina flat ($275.00) from Neiman Marcus would cost you just over $10/wear if you wore them once every other week. Perhaps this doesn’t sound so bad, but dropping the cash to buy them initially will put a big dent in any shopper’s budget.  I’d feel lucky to the proud owner of any Valentino piece, but at this point in my life, such luxuries will only appear on Super Style Wishlist.  Next, the Ashley bow ballet flat ($98.00) from Banana Republic will earn you plenty of rewards points for future discounts if you’re a cardholder, but the fact that this style of ballet flat is available in other such trendy textures like tweed, patent leather, croc, houndstooth, metallic, & suede will certainly suit your shopping fancies.

While clicking around @Nine West, I discovered the Cacey flats ($79.00), which serve double purpose with the patent leather cap toe accenting the wild print.  However, the cost-per-wear for these is down to $3/wear, if worn once every other week.  NOTE: Select designs of this shoe (polka dots & pink colorblock leather) are currently reduced to $29.00 on the website! Moving on… I was pleasantly surprised to find that ALDO‘s clearance section included the Warnack flats ($35.00) which have been reduced from their original $70.00 price tag.  The metal tips on the bow add some extra detail to what surely will be an already polished look.

Lastly, the most affordable pair in our collection includes the American Eagle Flash flat ($14.99) @Payless– my go-to source for shoes.  I know I can always rely on Payless for comfortable, yet stylish shoes that work with my budget, especially when I’m on the go & can’t always take the time to go shopping in a store. When ordering online, Payless offers FREE SHIPPING if your purchase is shipped to a store location, which always makes me happy.  Since these are the least expensive of all of the selections, I’d like to inform readers that the CPW (again, cost-per-wear) now becomes less than .60/wear.  If you plan on wearing them more than once every other week- & I don’t blame you b/c they’re just so cute!- you’re still getting a bargain for a reliable must-have when building an outfit.

How much would you spend on a pair of leopard flats? This sort of investment will keep paying your back, since these versatile statements of footwear can go with you to the office, school, on a date, or wherever your day may lead you. I know I’m a sucker for a good deal, but when it comes to shoes, there are a few other factors to consider like fit, how well the texture is made, if I like the print, & so on. What about you? What would you do? Would you splurge or save? Happy Styling!

Fabulous in 4 Ways: Over-The-Knee Boots From Victoria’s Secret (Dedicated To Laurie)!

Posted on by

Attention Style Darling Readers: We have a new category alert! Fabulous In 4 Ways is my latest in offering the best style advice that I can, while keeping a budget in mind. Of course, I’ve had this idea (taking one item & showing how it’s worn in 4 fabulous ways) for a while now, just sitting away & linkless on my categories page, but just recently, a good friend has come to me w/ a deal on a killer pair of over-the-knee boots, asking for help on how to wear them once the temperatures cool down & heavy knits emerge from the depths of our closets.  Said friend, Laurie (who I’ve dedicated a total of 4 blogs to now- Jordana Brewster’s style, how to wear turtlenecks, & the best day-to-night blazers) has challenged me in a very good & very stylish way. Let’s take a look…

As I usually do in my Basics for a Bargain posts, let’s start off with some celebrity inspiration to see how some of the most photographed & stylish stars interpret their over-the-knee boot looks. The City star / socialite Olivia Palermo looks Upper East Side chic with her navy suede boots & fur-lined jacket, mixing neutrals with a sweater tunic. Mom-on-the-go Kourtney Kardashian wears her boots with a flowy blouse under a menswear-inspired blazer & floppy hat, keeping accessories like her bag matching in texture with her footwear. Supermodel legend Claudia Schiffer goes casual in jeggings & a cobalt cable knit sweater with a coordinating bag for her tan suede over-the-knee boots. Former Spice Girl / designer Victoria Beckham keeps her polished posh persona in check with ultra tight leggings, a black top, & satin-trimmed blazer while traveling through Heathrow airport. Lastly, Project Runway host Heidi Klum offers an edgy approach to her leather Jimmy Choo over-the-knee boots by completing her look with a graphic tee & abstract print blazer.

The boots inspiring this post are the Colin Stuart over-the-knee boots ($94.00) from Victoria’s Secret, which are on sale for less than their original $118.00 price tag (pictured below, to the left).  These are fierce confections of footwear meant only for the confident Style Darling (for example: Laurie!).  Even though these may seem much pricier than your average pump &/or ankle bootie, I can’t emphasize enough that this is an investment piece, especially one that you can dare to wear from the beginning of fall, all the way to the end of the winter.  Since we’re talking boots, VS is currently having a 20% off sale on all Colin Stuart boots, which you can shop here.

However, let’s get down to business in putting together these outfits wth some of the celebrity inspiration seen above.  Typically when I see boots, I think of sweaters & leggings b/c they’re both just so comfy & very on-trend for effortless fall looks.  My first ensemble includes the asymmetric hem sweater ($59.90) from Express, which is available in orchid, black, grey, & blue.  The loose fit is perfect for recalling that 80s off-the-shoulder bulky sweater look, as well as hugging your curves to show off your legs.  Just so you know, Express is currently having a mix & match BOGO 50% off sale this Labor Day weekend, so if you really love the look pictured, then check out the short metal stick necklace ($44.90) to go with the sweater. I’ve selected Forever 21‘s pebbled pointe knit leggings ($17.80), which will add some texture & shine against the rich suede of the boots.  Of course, any solid legging will do, but if you’re going for something with a print, keep it subtle since you’re dealing with a sexy lace-up detail in the back of the boots.

My second outfit is perfect for an office environment where jeans are allowed.  The Faded Glory jeggings ($12.88) from Walmart are a steal & can work with so many other wardrobe staples all year long.  The colored denim trend is obviously not going away & pairing it with White House Black Market‘s tweed trophy jacket ($188.00) is a professional & elegant way to dress up denim.  When shopping @WHBM, of course the regular prices are on the high side, but if you sign up for their seasonal catalogues, you can get discount codes, as well as earn points for reductions on future purchases. I find that comes in handy around the holidays when in a pinch for a cute cocktail dress.  For an extra feminine splash, I’ve selected the graphic checkered strips tiered cotton tank ($39.99) from LOFT to add some dimension- which also just so happens to marked down another 30% at checkout.

Look #3 required a little more attention since I wanted to find pieces that would work for more than just the over-the-knee boots challenge.  I started with this streaky knit t-shirt dress ($39.99) from The Limited, which has been marked down 50% on the store’s website. With a solid sheath-like dress as this, I immediately thought of a belt & found this duo of ivory cheetah & glossy black skinny belts ($10.79) from Bluefly. To keep warm during the cooler fall days, I picked out the basic, yet affordable Style & Co. three-quarter ruched sleeve cardigan ($14.99) in black from Macy’s. If you’re headed out to happy hour with the girls or going from the office to an evening function, this look is perfect with the boots, especially when the Minicci scroll weave tights ($7.99) from Payless are hiding underneath your layers.

Lastly, the forth look is my favorite, but perhaps not too far of a departure from the previous blazer look above.  When I saw the Merona tailored blazer ($34.99) @Target, I immediately loved the idea of mixing the plaid with the laces, as well as navy & black, along with integrating the fall’s best new neutral deep red hue with New York & Company‘s satiny roll-tab shirt ($39.95). Of course you can complete the look with skinny pants, but Style & Co. skinny stretch jeggings ($36.75) from Macy’s looked too good to be true in a classic dark wash!

What do you think of these looks? Would you wear over-the-knee boots? If so, how would you style your look with them? What boots are you shopping for this fall? Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Poised, Polished, & Pumped Up Featuring Jennifer Lopez, Lea Michele, Kate Beckinsale, & More!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

It’s been a whirlwind for celebrities recently, what with movie premieres, prepping for the Emmy’s, press appearances, & charity gatherings, yet I’ve been able to sift through some of the best looks for my Style Darlings.  It seems that our favorite ladies of the red carpet haven’t forgotten to dress like ladies, especially since they’re all sporting pretty dresses with pumps, just enough plunging necklines, & figure-flattering frocks.  I’ve been keeping an eye out for the fall trends as well, finding that suit separates are one of the top trends, but I’ll save that for another post since 9/10 of these Style Darlings are pants-free.

Click around through the gallery to see more of fashionable actress Camilla Belle in Jason Wu, Eva Longoria looking red-hot (& affordable) in ASOS, Jennifer Lopez making a splash in Las Vegas wearing Edition by Georges Chakra, the soon-to-be Mrs. Timberlake, Jessica Biel, in bridal white by Giambattista Valli, Dallas star Jordana Brewster in Dolce & Gabbana, Total Recall badass Kate Beckinsale in neon Preen, Hit & Run actress Kristen Bell in a Jenny Packham jumpsuit, Glee songstress Lea Michele baring her assets in Giorgio Armani, rising star Olivia Munn in Raquel Allegra, & the always adorkable New Girl, Zooey Deschanel in polka dots! For more from Top 10 Celeb Sightings, check out links to see Oscar nominee Anna Kendrick & Revenge actress Ashley Madekwe, Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton & the lovely Emmy Rossum, & a cropped Anne Hathaway & Victoria’s Secret model Miranda Kerr! Happy Styling!

Designer’s Best: Coco Chanel’s 129th Birthday Is Today & She’s Never Been More Fabulous!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

When I was sifting through my Twitter feed (@MissAlissaL) this morning, I was surprised to learn that today marks the 129th birthday of the one & only Coco Chanel.  The blogosphere is a embracing the day with #CocoChanelDay attached to every tweet, so I thought that today would be the perfect day to debut my latest category here on Style Darling, Designer’s Best. I’ve searched high & low to find some of the most fabulous looks by Chanel that have been worn by some of our favorite celebrities like Alexa Chung, Blake Lively, Emma Stone, Jennifer Aniston, Katy Perry, Sarah Jessica Parker, & many more!

Of course there are thousands more images to appreciate when celebrating the Chanel legacy, so check out Karl Lagerfeld’s “The Tale of a Fairy,” behind-the-scenes footages from Keira Knightley’s Coco Mademoiselle commercial, & Chanel’s denim-inspired nail polish! Also, I would love to share with readers some of my other favorite Chanel-related articles that are featured exclusively for today including Elle‘s “Looking Back: Coco Chanel”, “Coco Chanel Birthday: The Design House’s Signature Look Throughout The Years” from The Huffington Post, & Vogue’s “Honoring the Life of Coco Chanel!” Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Stars Like Emmy Rossum, Malin Akerman, & Ashley Madekwe In Sweet Dresses, Minis, & Pretty Pumps!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Get your dresses ready for the end of the summer & even if you’re not heading anywhere special, make a standout entrance in your favorite frilly frock.  I’m all about the dresses any time of year, but I think right now is the perfect season for feeling feminine & fashionably fierce.  If you need a little celebrity inspiration, check out the below gallery, featuring some of my favorite summer looks that have hit the red carpet, made public appearances, or have been caught walking out & about.

My top picks include Shameless actress Emmy Rossum in Monique Lhuillier, Hart of Dixie star Jaime King‘s Marchesa masterpiece, & a sultry Jessica Biel in a belted Giambattista Valli dress while promoting her latest summer blockbuster Total Recall.  In addition, I’m featuring Anna Kendrick in Mulberry, Revenge style icon Ashley Madekwe in Zimmermann, a lovely Jennifer Garner in Lanvin, Jordana Brewster in laser-cut Bec & Bridge, Leslie Mann cute in coral, Lizzy Caplan‘s multi color Lisa Ho mini, & Malin Akerman‘s sexy slitted Cushnie et Ochs halter dress. For more fabulous celeb looks, check out previous posts of Top 10 Celeb Sightings featuring sheath dresses & Kate Middleton, stylish separates worn by Miranda Kerr & Anne Hathaway, & sweet summer looks worn by Emily Blunt & Krysten Ritter! Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Sheaths, Lace, LBDs, & Ladylike Style Featuring Kate Middleton, Rachel Bilson, & Jessica Biel!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I’ve returned home to the middle-of-nowhere suburbs on Long Island, known for its malls & neighboring university hospital, & as I’m preparing the daunting task of unpacking my overpacked bags from my eleven-day Southampton-based excursion of style & writing, I’m sitting here at my laptop, absorbed in checking on the latest & greatest from my favorite websites (In Style mainly) to see what I’ve missed.

While the Olympics are underway in London & the summer blockbusters are hitting theaters stateside, some of the best dressed celebrities are hitting the red carpet & posing at press events.  Not to mention that all of our favorite fall television shows are returning to production & the stars are plugging their shows & pilots in some serious style. From actresses to singers to royalty, this edition of Top 10 Celeb Sightings is chalk full of chic sheath dresses, lacy frocks, revealing LBDs, & ladylike elegance, sure to spark some water cooler conversation (among Style Darlings, of course).

Check out Emmy Rossum in Zuhair Murad, Jaime King colorblocking, Jessica Biel in Oscar de la Renta, Kate Middleton repeating her Roksanda Ilincic dress, Katy Perry in Dolce & Gabbana, a red-hot Kylie Minogue, Liv Tyler rocking a risky babydoll, Lucy Liu in J. Mendel, Rachel Bilson in menswear-inspired separates, & Rachel Weisz in Dior Haute Couture. Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Casual Cool Featuring Miranda Kerr, Miley Cyrus, Katie Holmes, & More!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

I’m still out in Southampton, celebrating all things creative about the written word, but my eye is scouring the classrooms, computer labs, & lecture halls to see what my new friends & classmates are wearing. However, in an effort to stay up to the minute with Style Darling, I’ve been seeing a lot of separates looks on the red carpet, in pics taken by the paparazzo, or out for promotional events. I wanted to capture the cool & casual style of some of my favorite stars, including who are mixing up their denim, accessories, & skirts in unexpected ways. Take a look at the gallery below & share with readers who’s wearing your favorite looks! My personal favorites belong to Miley Cyrus & Anne Hathaway! Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Summer, Separates, Miranda Kerr, Heidi Klum, & More!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

‘Tis the conference season once again & I’m spending some quality writing time out in Southampton, New York- one of my favorite places to visit. However, in between classes, lectures, & readings at this conference, I’m constantly checking to see what’s going on in the world of fashion.  Some of my favorite stars are hitting the red carpet, going about their daily lives, or posing for pictures in some of the most gorgeous looks.  If you’re into separates, evening dresses, or fun frocks, take a look at my latest picks for Top 10 Celeb Sightings! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Marion Cotillard & Anne Hathaway Wow In White At Premiere!

Posted on by

At the New York premiere of the highly anticipated The Dark Knight Rises, leading ladies Anne Hathaway & Marion Cotillard stepped out in style, wearing white dresses worth talking about! Anne is donning a plunging white hand-draped Prabal Gurung gown with diamond Kwiat jewelry.  The simplicity of the gown nicely offsets her new cropped ‘do, not to mention that white has always looked gorgeous on the Oscar nominee. Also, French actress Marion is wearing a cocktail dress by Dior, with Chopard jewelry & strappy Christian Louboutins.  Both brunette beauties are turning head & I can’t wait to see what else they’ll be wearing as the film premieres around the world.  Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The Best Looks From The ESPY Awards!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Fashion & athleticism are connecting in the best way possible right now, surely with a little help from tennis star / designer Serena Williams & the always gorgeous Maria Sharapova. Athletes, models, & stars alike joined in this week’s festivities, celebrating the greatness of sport during the ESPY Awards.  This small, yet fashionable gallery is worth a look, especially considering how gorgeous Maria Sharapova looks in the pleated J. Mendel gown, as well as the knockout LWD by Christian Dior worn by actress Jessica Biel & a long-awaited & stunning red carpet comeback for the petite Hayden Panettiere. Click through & share with us who your favorite look belongs to! Happy Styling!

7/12/2012 Darling Of The Day / Basics For A Bargain: Anne Hathaway’s Cropped ‘Do, LBDs, & Audrey Hepburn Inspiration!

Posted on by

Anne Hathaway has hit the red carpet with a reinvented classic retro vibe, cad with her pixie cut (for Les Miserables), little black dresses, basic black shoes, & elegance pendant necklaces.  The Oscar-nominee is in full swing promoting her latest film, the major summer blockbuster The Dark Knight Rises. The Style Darling‘s looks are elegant, contemporary, youthful, & worth making her the Darling of the Day.

Since I couldn’t pick just one look that I loved, I decided to share the four most recent images of her Audrey Hepburn-inspired style.  Her short ‘do is perfectly understated while these leg-baring frocks reveal that the actress isn’t slowing down her glamour game just yet.  Included in these images are dresses by Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, & Givenchy, paired with Tory Burch ankle strap sandals.

Since there are so many fabulous details in the dresses above, I’ve found some affordable LBDs to help recreate Anne’s breathtaking noir turn.  First from Forever 21, we have the shawl collar surplice dress ($27.80) & the mesh yoke bodycon dress ($24.80), which is available in sizes XL – 3X. H&M has this belted dress ($34.95) which moves beautifully & can be dressed up with peep toes or worn casually with flats.  To show off your shape, I recommend the ponte knit sheath dress ($48.93) from Express.  If you’re looking to imitate the feel of Anne’s forth look above, head over to Lulu’s for the Motown black dress ($38.00). Lastly, since we are talking about one of the most sought after actresses in all the land, we need to step up our style game just a little & share the Jessica Howard sequin cap sleeve dress ($70.00) @JCP. 

Lastly, to help complete the look, I’ve searched high & low for some of the best accessories. This includes the Forever 21 oval locket necklace ($5.80) & floral pendant necklace ($1.50).  In addition, my shoe choices include the Brash Gemini flat ($26.99) from Payless (which I’ve previously featured in champagne), Charlotte Russe‘s fabric mouse ballet flat ($30.00), sueded ankle wrap pump ($35.50), & Michael Antonio Loveme patent pump ($40.00) @Zappos.

Which of Anne’s looks do you like the best? Would you ever rock a pixie cut? How do you feel about all the black-on-black? All comments & suggestions are always welcome, so please share! Check out more posts like this in Basics for a Bargain, Luxury Look-Alikes for Less, & Red Carpet Review! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Funny Lady Leslie Mann Steps Out In Style!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

So this isn’t my typical gallery… Funny lady Leslie Mann, best known for her roles in Knocked Up & The Change-Up, has been hitting red carpets under the radar for quite some time now.  However, the actress (& wife to director Judd Apatow) is climbing the style ranks, especially after several appearances during Paris Fashion Week.  I put together a little collection of some of her best looks from recent events & a few years ago.  The svelte blonde turned 40 years old this year, but is looking better than ever with the classic elegance of a veteran red carpet regular.  My favorite look is her Armani Prive LBD! Kudos to Leslie Mann! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Beyoncé’s Bold Style & More From The BET Awards!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The second I saw Beyoncé in this gorgeous belted lemon Stephane Rolland gown, I knew I had to feature it.  She was by far the best dressed at this week’s BET Awards, stealing the spotlight from every other stylish celebrity that his the red carpet.  Of course, props should also go to Mariah Carey, Monica,  & Kerry Washington who range in classic glamour, sassy menswear-inspiration, & sexy separates.  Check out the gallery to see who wore what & share your comments if Beyoncé was also your favorite of the night! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Small Screen Stars At The Critic’s Choice Television Awards!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Of course movie stars get a lot of credit for showing up to premieres & awards shows in couture gowns, but some of the faces that we see on a weekly basis on the small screen don’t always get the credit they deserve, or attention for their fabulous red carpet style.  In this edition of Red Carpet Review, the stars who walked the red carpet at this week’s Critic’s Choice Television Awards stepped up their style in gorgeous cocktail dresses, jaw-dropping gowns, & classic designs.  Some of my favorites of the night include Shameless star Emmy Rossum in a stunning gold Donna Karan dress, Kate Walsh of Private Practice in a sparkling yellow Jenny Packham mini, the cutest geek on TV Zooey Deschanel in a sweet belted Oscar de la Renta dress, & the always lovely Julianne Moore, who won for her role as Sarah Palin in Game Change, in a body-conscious Jason Wu dress. Check out the styles & leave comments of who you think got it right! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Solange Knowles Breaks Out In Style!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Solange Knowles is often the butt of every Beyoncé joke made by Joan Rivers on E!‘s Fashion Police, but there’s nothing to laugh about when it comes to this singer’s style. She’s been a serious contender on the red carpets & during various other appearances, teaching Style Darlings everywhere a thing or two about how to make separates work in the most unexpected ways.  Her rebellious & flirty style are becoming her signature, clad in ankle-strap shoes, mixing prints & colors, as well as playing with proportions for her hair.  As iconic as big sister Beyoncé is, there’s no doubt that Solange is an individual force to be reckoned with.  Check out the gallery below to see Solange’s best looks this spring! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Tons Of Style At The Tony’s!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Last night’s Tony Awards dazzled, sparkled, & even made history with former Private Practice star Audra Mcdonald winning her 5th Tony award, this year for Porgy & Bess.  Among the stars of the stage, big screen celebrities like Jessica Chastain in a risky sheer Marios Schwab dress & Amanda Seyfried in an accessorized Givenchy slipdress with embellishments.  Take a look at the gallery below & share with us your thoughts on some of the unconventional yet glamorous looks! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Celebrating The Best In Fashion At The CFDA Awards!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

If you follow fashion, then you know all about the Council of Fashion Designers of America Fashion Awards which took place last week.  I’m excited to share all the red carpet style, featuring favorites like Jessica Chastain, Zoe Saldana, Mandy Moore, Rachel Zoe & the Olsen twins who were awarded the big prize of the night: Womenswear Designer of the Year, for their high-end label, The Row.

Click through the gallery to see who wore what & share with reader your favorite looks! As always, for more posts in Red Carpet Review, check out the latest which includes stars like Julianne Hough & Emma Stone rocking leather looks, Charlize Theron’s high-profile promotional appearances for Snow White & the Huntsman, & what went down at this week’s Country Music Television Awards! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The CMT Awards Stylish Round-Up!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

This has been a busy week for celebrity style bloggers, what with the MTV Movie Awards, CFDA Fashion Awards, & the always-fun Country Music Television Awards.  Some of the best looks of the night featured high-wattage sparkle, feminine frills, & sleek sheaths.  My favorites include the show-stopping & leggy Carrie Underwood, Ashley Greene, & Kristen Bell! Take a look at the all best & risky fashions from the night in the gallery below.  Also, if you’re a big country music fan, check out my post from Red Carpet Review of the Academy of Country Music Awards’ red carpet! Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain / Red Carpet Review: The Look Of Summer Leather!

Posted on by

Instead of posting yet another click-worthy gallery, I’ve selected these five outstanding red carpet looks, worn recently by some of my favorite celebrities.  Each of them are showing how leather isn’t just a material for the cooler months.  The sexy skin is also no longer just for jacket & bags, as seen in these above photos. Designers are all about texture this season, showing leather off in all sorts of articles of clothing.  This includes dresses, as most frequently seen on the likes of rivaling stars like Angelina Jolie & Jennifer Aniston, but here I’m featuring Rock of Ages actress Julianne Hough in a blue leather dress at the film’s premiere & the always adorable Emma Stone in a red frock by Monique Lhuillier for an appearance on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.

In addition, trendsetter Alexa Chung mixes her leather motorcycle jacket with a menswear-inspired look, paired with a printed mini skirt, embroidered clutch by Charlotte Olympia, & patent leather flats. Model Karolina Kurkova hit the streets of New York in leather leggings, Monika Chiang sneakers, a printed blouse, & chic double-breasted jacket.  Zoe Kravitz plays with leather & tweed in a black & white ensemble at a cash celebrating Chanel.

For the rest of us on a budget, real leather may not be as tangible, but while keeping animal-friendly, faux leather is always an option, especially with these cute & affordable options to mix up your wardrobe.  Check out the faux leather sheath dress ($27.00) from Venus, which makes the idea of an LBD all the more sexier.  While I was searching through the Venus website, I came across this super sweet faux leather circle skirt ($24.00) in brown, which will toughen up even the most feminine of blouses or dress up the most basic silk camisoles for a stylish night out!

If you’re daring enough to wear leather on your bottom half, head over to Sears for the faux leather leggings ($25.99) which will pair nicely with any bohemian-inspired tunic top, a dolman top, or your favorite tank & blazer.  For more subtle ways to wear leather, Cynthia Steffe has created this Maggie draped faux leather trim top ($47.00), available @Saks Fifth Avenue. To keep a classic faux leather look in your wardrobe, I’ve found this chic faux leather zip front jacket ($27.49 – $29.99) from Fashion Bug, which is sold in sizes Small – 4XL.  This can make any pair of trousers & blouse fiercer & more fashionable because of the front pinhole details & rugged zippers.

For more celebrity-inspired style for the budget buyer, check out previous posts of Basics For A Bargain, as well as Luxury Look-Alikes For Less to get the latest & greatest in affordable fashion! To see more of what the celebrities are wearing & what trends are hitting the red carpet, take a look at Red Carpet Review, especially Charlize Theron’s latest looks & who wore what at the MTV Movie Awards! Which faux leather pieces are your favorites? Do you often wear leather or faux leather in the spring & summer months? Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Snow White & The Huntsman’s Charlize Theron Has A Very Stylish Spring!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

One of the biggest movies this summer is Snow White & The Huntsman, starring Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, & Academy Award winner Charlize Theron.  The beautiful Charlize plays the Evil Queen, however the spokesmodel for Dior has been making waves this season with her red carpet appearances & casual street style caught by paparazzi.  I’ve put together a gallery, embracing the South African native’s impeccable style. Of course she’s been at it for years & is a pro donning designer duds. Which of these looks is your favorite?

Also, I’ve included the exciting trailer for Snow White & The Huntsman, which is in theaters now! Happy Styling!

 

Red Carpet Review: The Hits From The MTV Movie Awards!

Posted on by

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Last night’s MTV Movie Awards brought out some big stars, big style, & skin-baring styles.  Some of the headline-making fashions were worn by the stars of some of this year’s biggest films, including Elizabeth Banks, Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, & Emma Stone.  The ceremony, hosted by Russell Brand, might not have made MTV history, but the red carpet was ripe with style.  Take a look at the gallery & tell us who your favorite is!

For more on Red Carpet Review, check out galleries from the Cannes Film Festival & the Met Costume Gala! Happy Styling!