09/22/2015 Darling of the Day: Gwyenth Paltrow’s Monique Lhuillier-Inspired Look for Less!


Gwyneth Paltrow is always one to watch when it comes to celebrity style, never failing to impress since she made her red carpet mark back in the 90s. Lately, the actress has been turning heads with hints of skin, wearing bold head-to-toe monochromatic looks, & she continues to set trends for future Style Darlings. During her appearance at The Broad Museum Black Tie Dinner, she choose a modern take on an evening look with a boxy blouse & wide leg pants, both by designer Monique Lhuillier, & styled her ensemble with chandelier earrings by Norman Silverman & black pumps by Brian Atwood (which I would love to see, but I couldn’t find the pic!).

Gwyneth Paltrow in Monique LhuillierSHOP: LOOK 1: stripe floral blouse ($25.00, was $49.00) @Dorothy Perkins, pants ($11.67, was $20.95) in black @Romwe, Jennifer Lopez teardrop earrings ($12.10, was $22.00) @Kohls. LOOK 2: Vince Camuto top ($31.60, was $79.00) in clay @6PM, sailor pants ($16.99, was $24.90) in black @Forever 21, rhinestone drop earrings ($5.00, was $14.50) @Icing. LOOK 3: floral plaid top ($34.30, was $49.00) in black multi (available in sizes 14-32) @AvenueJM Collection pants ($34.98) in black (available in sizes 14 – 24) @Macy’s, pa earrings ($10.00) @Charming Charlie. LOOK 4: printed flared sleeve top ($59.50, use code PLAY for 30% off) in black & white @Eloquii, Alyx pants ($20.99, was $42.00) in black (available in sizes 1X – 2X) @JC Penney, crystal dangle earrings ($12.00) @River Island.

How would you recreate Gwyneth’s look? Would you wear wide leg trousers to a special occasion event like this? Where do you shop to make celebrity style a reality for your wardrobe? For more posts, check out the complete red carpet gallery from this weekend’s Emmy’s, shopping for the best end of the summer sales, Emily Ratajkowski’s suede skirt look, how to wear scarves all year long like Rihanna & Ashley Olsen, the plaid lookbook from Adam Lippes’ collection for Target, & fall’s must-have mustard pieces inspired by Blake Lively & Jennifer Lopez! Happy Styling!

#RedCarpet Review: #2015SAGAwards #BestDressed Gallery, Featuring Sofia Vergara, Jennifer Aniston, Emmy Rossum, & More!


Reese Witherspoon, Claire Danes, Keira Knightley, & Sarah Hyland.

Last night’s Screen Actor’s Guild Awards were full of red carpet surprises from veteran A-listers like Cake nominee Jennifer Aniston (in vintage Galliano), Birdman‘s Emma Stone (in Dior Couture), America’s sweetheart Julia Roberts (in Givenchy), Homeland‘s Claire Danes (in Marc Jacobs), & last year’s it-girl, Lupita Nyong’o (in Elie Saab). Also, there were plenty of newcomers who made an impact, including many Orange is the New Black winners like Uzo Aduba (in Angel Sanchez) & Danielle Brooks (in Christian Siriano), as well as Game of ThronesMaisie Williams (in Self-Portrait).

Some of my favorites of the night included The Imitation Game nominee Keira Knightley (in Erdem), Wild‘s Reese Witherspoon (in Atelier Versace), model & wife, Camila Alves McConauhey (in Donna Karan), designer darling Emmy Rossum (in Armani Prive), Modern Family‘s rising star Sarah Hyland (in Vera Wang), St. Vincent nominee Naomi Watts (in Balenciaga), How to Get Away with Murder winner Viola Davis (in Max Mara), & this season’s golden girl, Still Alice winner, Julianne Moore (in Givenchy).

Now the official countdown to the Academy Awards can begin, which takes place on Sunday February 22nd, sure to wow & inspire more amazing style. Who wore your favorite look? What trends are you still talking about? For all the latest on this awards season, check out previous Red Carpet Review posts with complete galleries from the Golden Globe Awards & Critic’s Choice Awards. If that isn’t enough, get more celebrity inspiration from Style Darling‘s spring dress predictions featuring Kerry Washington & Allison Williams, how to style a statement necklace like Katy Perry or Emma Roberts, & Jennifer Lopez’s stylish press tour for her new movie, The Boy Next Door! Happy Styling!

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Red Carpet Review: The 2015 #GoldenGlobes Awards, Featuring Jennifer Lopez, Emma Stone, Amy Adams, & More!


Anna Kendrick, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, Lupita Nyong'o, Jennifer Lopez, Dakota Johnston, Kate Mara, Diane Kruger, & Kate Hudson.

The 2015 Golden Globes is upon us & already the show is an extravaganza in entertainment & movie madness. However, it’s the red carpet that has the fashion world buzzing, including some major trends in pops of color like red, cobalt, & yellow, as well as luxe metallics, plenty of cleavage from A-listers, pretty pastels, & dramatic ballgowns. Some of my favorite celebrities that hit the red carpet are Anna Kendrick (in Monique Lhuillier), Emma Stone (in Lanvin), Naomi Watts (in Gucci), Lupita Nyong’o (in Giambattista Valli), Jennifer Lopez (in Zuhair Murad), Dakota Johnston (in Chanel), Kate Mara (in Miu Miu), Diane Kruger (in Emilia Wickstead), & Kate Hudson (in Versace).

Other noteables are the always glamorous Reese Witherspoon (in Calvin Klein Collection), Jessica Chastain (in Atelier Versace), Kate Beckinsale (in Elie Saab), Allison Williams (in Armani Prive), Zosia Mamet (in Andrew Gn), Gina Rodriguez (in Badgley Mischka), & Amy Adams (in Versace). Who was your favorite on the red carpet? Which looks are you talking about the most?

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For more fashionable posts, check out Runway Rundown galleries featuring Jenny Packham, Christian Siriano, & Oscar de la Renta, as well as how to get Girls-inspired style, affordable capes from Chic Nova & Romwe, & the top 10 Style Darlings to watch for in 2015! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Monique Lhuillier’s Complete Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Collection From New York Fashion Week!


Monique Lhuillier Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 Fashion Week Collection

In an ongoing effort to bring readers the best from New York Fashion Week (#NYFW), I’m very excited & inspired to share the latest from Monique Lhuillier, who continues to present a combination of modernity with classic femininity. The blend of flowy separates & evening gowns made for a really beautiful show. I love the soft, luxe pastels in this Spring Summer Ready-To-Wear 2015 line, especially when they’re shown with a little sparkle.

These looks are made for the red carpet & editorials in upcoming fashion magazines & I can’t wait to see which star wears one of these designs first. The videos capture a behind-the-scenes look at the collection, beauty prep, & an interview with Ms. Lhuillier herself.

Check out the gallery of gorgeous shots from the catwalk, as well as the slideshow. Also, to shop the designer’s current pieces & bridal collection, head over to Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, & Shop Bop. Which look is your favorite? What trends are you looking forward to for spring? How is this season’s fashion week inspiring your own personal style? Happy Styling!

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Red Carpet Review: This Year’s CFDA Fashion Awards, Featuring Nicole Richie, Hailee Steinfeld, Sofia Vergara, & More!


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For those of you who didn’t know.. The CDFA Fashion Awards are like the Oscars in the world of fashion design. This week, the festivities took place, honoring the best in fashion with a stunning red carpet, which included lots of sheer panels, cut-outs, ankle-strap sandals, & bare backs. Winners of the night included Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Proenza Schouler as Womenswear Designer of the Year, Thom Browne for Menswear Designer of the Year, & Phillip Lim for 3.1 Phillip Lim for Accessories Designer of the Year.

Of course, the red carpet was dripping with models like Karlie Kloss in a black deep-v Cushnie et Ochs dress, a golden Karolina Kurkova in a Michael Kors shorts outfit, Adriana Lima showing off her legs in a sheer Givenchy dress, & Miranda Kerr looking as flirty & pretty as ever in a printed Proenza Schouler dress with strappy shoes.

Some of my favorite celeb looks were no-brainers like Kerry Washington‘s ode to Beauty & the Beast in a yellow Jason Wu gown, Nicole Richie‘s slinky gold Marc Jacobs dress, Sofia Vergara‘s plunging, emerald Hervé L. Leroux gown, an adorable Hailee Steinfeld in a floral print Suno dress, & Kate Mara‘s black lasercut Dolce & Gabbana dress with Irene Neuwirth jewelry.

Which looks were you the most excited to see? Do you agree with the winning designers? Who was your favorite on the red carpet? For more fashionable galleries, check out previous posts, including Tory Burch’s Resort 2014 Collection, Gucci’s glittery Resort 2014 Collection, menswear looks on Jennifer Lopez & Brit Marling, & the gorgeous designs that hit the Cannes Film Festival! Happy Styling!

Top 10 Celeb Sightings: Mini Dresses & Leather Accents, Featuring Jennifer Aniston, Anne Hathaway, Victoria Beckham, & More!


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On this very bright & sunny Happy Mother’s Day, I wanted to share the best looks from the last week, worn by our favorite celebrities & some really noteworthy up-and-comers. Of course, there’s more to come since the opening of The Great Gatsby this weekend, fashionistas of the world will have to up their game with inspiration from pearls, sequins, & other luxe embellishments. However, today’s gallery includes some regulars like Victoria Beckham‘s chic travel look when landing at JFK recently, Stacy Keibler‘s sculpted leather dress by Monique Lhuillier, & the always lovely Scandal star, Kerry Washington, in a designer mix featuring Marni, Isabel Marant, & Jennifer Fisher.

Also featured are Alexa Chung in a head-to-toe Dior look, Anne Hathaway‘s mod mini by Givenchy, Gwyneth Paltrow‘s continued obsession with black & white in Barbara Bui, Jennifer Aniston‘s gray suede shift dress at the Living Proof website launch, Fast & Furious 6 star Jordana Brewster in a stunning Jenny Packham column gown, Kate Bosworth‘s edgy flared skirt & pointy toe pumps at the Black Rock premiere, & Olivia Munnn‘s minimalist J. MendelChristian Louboutin combination.

Which are your favorite looks? Who is your go-to star for red carpet inspiration? For more celebrity posts, check out the complete gallery from this year’s Met Ball including looks worn by Jennifer Lopez & Katie Holmes, Keira Knightley in the Karl Lagerfeld-directed Chanel film Once Upon A Time, Beyoncé’s latest ad campaign for H&M, black & white looks on celebs like Kate Beckinsale & Jennifer Lawrence, & Scarlett Johansson’s recent cover shoot for Marie Claire! Happy Styling!

Splurge Or Save… On A Black Peplum Tank!


During a recent shopping venture, it occurred to me that my wardrobe lacks a peplum piece. This was surprising because of how flattering a peplum silhouette is for any & every shape. I’ve seen plenty of peplums on the red carpet, designed into gowns, styled with pencil skirts, paired with pants, & accented on cocktail frocks. This is seen on Glee actress Naya Rivera in a Monique Lhuillier sleeveless top with a printed pencil skirt. Also, Star Trek’s Zoe Saldana celebrated Prabal Gurung in a belted top & shorts look by the designer. Oscar nominee Amy Adams is feminine in a polka dot Jenny Packham design with Jimmy Choo stilettos.

Naya Rivera, Zoe Saldana, Amy Adams, Olivia Palermo, Freida Pinto, & Cate Blanchett.

Style muse Olivia Palermo matches a tweed Rebecca Taylor top with skinny jeans & silver pumps. Indian beauty Freida Pinto took in Burberry Prorsum‘s recent runway show in a jewel tone ensemble. Aussie actress Cate Blanchett attended the Dubai International Film Festival in a peplum top by Peter Pilotto with a pencil skirt & studded evening sandals.

When you’re planning to invest in a trendy piece, it’s always important to consider how often you’ll wear it to get the most for your money. This is especially true in the case of the Trina Turk peplum top ($228.00) from Nordstrom, which is also available in pink & white to lighten up your tougher looks as we transition from winter to spring. For a more relaxed look, you can head over to ShopBop for the Only Hearts ladder back peplum camisole ($110.00) to wear with skinny jeans, liquid leggings, or a satin mini skirt. Banana Republic‘s ponte knit peplum top ($49.50) offers a chic alternative to stuffy work looks with suit separates or printed trousers.

At a lower price point, the Romeo & Juliet Couture high-low peplum blouse ($34.30) from Last Call by Neiman Marcus has been recently marked down from its original $130.00 price tag. For my curvier Style Darlings, the Mossimo sleeveless peplum top ($22.99) is available @Target in sizes XS – XXL. Also, it’s sold in white stripes & orange stripes so that you can play with prints & mix it with a pair of floral cropped pants or a polka dot skirt. Lastly, the most affordable is the zip back peplum tank ($17.94) from Express, however sizes are limited & will probably run out due to the store’s current 40% off sale.

Clearly, peplums are pretty easy to find so many varieties, especially sleeveless ones that are perfect for layering over long-sleeved shirts in the cooler months, over a sheath dress to add more structure, & with any & every bottom in your current wardrobe. Do you follow the peplum trend? How do you like to wear it? For more from Splurge or Save?, check out previous posts including blue leather moto jackets, Kim Kardashian’s silver pointy toe Jimmy Choo pumps, pink jeans from Michael Kors & J Brand, Diane Kruger’s floral Stella McCartney pants, & polka dot pants from White House Black Market & Ralph Lauren. Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Complete Coverage Of The 85th Annual Academy Awards, Featuring Naomi Watts, Reese Witherspoon, Zoe Saldana & More!


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The 2013 Oscars are just starting & there’s so much to talk about from tonight’s red carpet, including the anticipation behind the performances from the cast of Les Miserables, as well as the tribute to the James Bond series. Some of my favorites so far include Naomi Watts‘ high fashion look from Armani Prive, Reese Witherspoon‘s classic old Hollywood Louis Vuitton cobalt gown, Zoe Saldana‘s two-tone fishtail gown by Alexis Mabille, & Sandra Bullock‘s lace-detailed Elie Saab gown.

Other notable hits include Jessica Chastain (in Giorgio Armani), Nicole Kidman (in L’Wren Scott), Jennifer Garner (in Gucci), Kerry Washington (in Miu Miu), & Charlize Theron (in Dior Haute Couture). Not to mention that I predicted Jennifer Lawrence‘s Dior Haute Couture gown as an Oscar pick in my recent post, which is nothing short of fabulous when it hit the red carpet!

Who wore your favorite looks? Which nominees are you rooting for? Are you excited to see performances by Adele, Norah Jones, & Jennifer Hudson? For more from this year’s awards season, check out more from Red Carpet Review including the Golden Globes, Grammys, BAFTAs, & SAGs! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review / Runway Rundown: Style Darling’s Top 20 Best Oscar-Worthy Gown Predictions!


We’re less than a month away from the 2013 Academy Awards & the SAG Awards are this weekend! The speculation behind the results inside those envelopes & what the nominees are going to wear have been bouncing around all over the web & for the first time, I’m going to share my fashion predictions, based off the Pre-Fall 2013, Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear, Spring 2013 Haute Couture, & Resort 2013 collection runways. Of course, Oscar-nominated celebrities like Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lawrence, Anne Hathaway, Amy Adams & Naomi Watts are subject to one-of-a-kind custom-made haute couture gowns, but it’s been a lot of fun to click around & find the most gorgeous gowns that wowed on the runway. In addition to the nominees who are celebrating their achievements in film, possible presenters like Rachel Weisz, Amanda Seyfried, Jennifer Lopez, Emily Blunt, Kate Hudson, Jennifer Garner & more will be turning heads on the red carpet.

Surely there will be lots of glitz & glamour, but predictions of trends are hard to tell. There was so much going on at this year’s Golden Globes, including black, black & gold, white, pink, long sleeves, cut-outs, high slits, & nude illusions. Starting off is a gold lamé & embellished gown from Michael Kors Resort 2013 Collection, which was recently featured in a Runway Rundown post. From Carlos Miele‘s Resort 2013 Collection comes this beautiful embellished sweetheart gown with an animal print under-lining. Some might call the white & black-leather accented Emilio Pucci dress from the Pre-Fall 2013 Collection is too safe for the Oscars, but I think it’s a modern & refreshing take on a white gown.

Michael Kors, Carlos Miele, Emilio Pucci, Monique Lhuillier, & Jenny Packham.

For the risk-taking Style Darling, I can see the metallic long-sleeved gown from Monique Lhuillier‘s Pre-Fall 2013 Collection making an entrance on the red carpet. I picked this tangerine Jenny Packham Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection gown b/c of its unexpected color, but on the right skin-tone, it will certainly set some trends on the red carpet for the rest of the year.

Next, we have a floral-embroidered belted gown by Temperley London, which was featured in the Pre-Fall 2013 Collection. This has a very classic, Zooey Deschanel look to it, which is why I loved including it! Badgley Mischka is a name synonymous with red carpets & perhaps we’ll see this all-over embellished metallic gown from their Pre-Fall 2013 Collection on one of the front-running Oscar nominees. One of my favorite designers forever & always is Marchesa & I wasn’t surprised to see so many red carpet candidates in their Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection, including this sari-inspired sheer-overlay blue & gold confection.

Temperley London, Badgley Mischka, Marchesa, Collette Dinnigan, & Roberto Cavalli.

I love the feminine softness from the short-sleeved Collette Dinnigan gown from the Resort 2013 Collection. The coral / fuchsia hue is perfect for an ingénue like the ever-changing Dakota Fanning or the retro Krysten Ritter. Roberto Cavalli‘s black sequined & lace overlay corset-structured gown is a stunning choice for a more dramatic look on the red carpet & it’s from the Pre-Fall 2013 Collection.

Designs by Alexandre Vauthier made a style statement at the Golden Globes since both supermodel Heidi Klum & Downton Abbey actress Michelle Dockery both donned looks, but I picked this leg-baring halter gown from the Spring 2013 Haute Couture Collection. J. Mendel‘s Pre-Fall 2013 Collection was a dreamy mixture of texture, detail, flowy fabrics, & strong silhouettes, including this lace-accented spaghetti strap gown with off-the-shoulder tiers. Also, Giambattista Valli‘s white & gold ball gown took my breath away from its Spring 2013 Haute Couture Collection & would certainly wow fashion critics if worn on Isla Fisher, Julianne Hough, or Kerry Washington.

Alexandre Vauthier, J. Mendel, & Giambattista Valli.

Valentino, Christian Dior, & Elie Saab.

There ought to be room on any red carpet for a Valentino red gown, like this strapless & effortless gown from the Spring 2013 Haute Couture Collection. Also, Christian Dior‘s Spring 2013 Haute Couture Collection featured the pink puffy mermaid ball gown. In addition, someone like Diane Kruger or Zoe Saldana can wear an floral-embellished, dramatic gown like this from Elie Saab‘s Spring 2013 Haute Couture Collection.

After Lucy Liu‘s splash at the Globes in Carolina Herrera, I knew I had to look further into her Pre-Fall 2013 Collection, which included this gorgeous black & white graphic print gown, perfect for fans of the label including Renee Zellweger, Emmy Rossum, or Olivia Wilde.  Next, from Oscar de la Renta‘s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear, this aqua tiered dream of a gown is borderline bridesmaid, but the color is just so pretty & it reminds me of the Romona Keveza ball gown that Kaley Cuoco wore at last year’s SAG Awards.

Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, & Jason Wu.

You can’t have a look at the best from the runway without talking about American designer, Zac Posen, & his Pre-Fall 2013 Collection, which is a dramatic statement that will change the way black gowns appear on the red carpet. Lastly, a daring look for the Oscars comes from Jason Wu‘s Spring 2013 Ready-To-Wear Collection & perhaps a young starlet like Emma Watson would wear this will some extra lining to fill the skirt since the ceremony is so formal.

Which designers are you hoping to see on the red carpet? Which gown is your favorite? Which nominees are you rooting for during this year’s Oscars? For more runway goodness, check out galleries including Rachel Roy, Calvin Klein Collection, Diane von Furstenberg, & Narciso Rodriguez! Also, to read more from Red Carpet Review, check out looks from the 2013 Presidential Inauguration, leather & black oufits featuring Elisabeth Moss & Scarlett Johansson, the 2013 Critics’ Choice Awards with looks from Eva Longoria & Jaime King, & this year’s red carpet from the People’s Choice Awards with Jennifer Aniston & Chloe Grace Moretz! Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Monique Lhuillier’s Pre-Fall 2013 Collection!


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There’s nothing that Monique Lhullier can’t do right, especially in her latest Pre-Fall 2013 Collection, which is chock full of femininity, glamour, & the modern classic style of today’s woman. Naturally, this line is already being celebrated by celebrities, including the always lovely Julianne Hough, who donned the golden glittery confection on the red carpet at this weekend’s Golden Globe Awards. I was able to pick out the dress right away since I’d been scoping out the runway looks for a week now.

This collection features everything ladylike that stars of the past like Grace Kelly & Elizabeth Taylor were made famous for. With a mix of graphic prints, ombre details, lace overlays, sequins, & ruching, Monique Lhuillier has delivered perfection.  For more from Runway Rundown, check out galleries including Badgley Mischka, Michael Kors, Zac Posen, & Chanel! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: The 2013 Golden Globes, Featuring Jessica Alba, Tina Fey, Jennifer Lopez, Katharine McPhee & more!


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The 2013 Golden Globe Awards are still airing, but I just couldn’t wait any longer to post this very thorough gallery. Some of my favorite looks include Tina Fey (in L’Wren Scott), Jennifer Lopez (in Zuhair Murad), Katharine McPhee (in Theyskens’ Theory), Kerry Washington (in Miu Miu), Emily Blunt (in Michael Kors), Lucy Liu (in Carolina Herrera), Rachel Weisz (in Louis Vuitton), Rosie Huntington-Whiteley (in Saint Laurent Paris)… just to name a few!

Top trends included lots of black & gold, as seen on Kate Hudson (in Alexander McQueen), Helen Mirren (in Badgley Mischka), & Nicole Kidman (in Alexander McQueen), as well as reds & oranges like Jennifer Lawrence (in Christian Dior Haute Couture), Jessica Alba (in Oscar de la Renta), Marion Cotillard (in Dior), Claire Danes (in Versace), & Zooey Deschanel (in Oscar de la Renta).

Also, you can’t forget about the black looks, some of which I’ve named in my favorites, but I also loved Julianne Moore (in Tom Ford), Adele (in Burberry), Allison Williams (in J. Mendel), Debra Messing (in Donna Karan Atelier), Sofia Vergara (in a floor-length sequin gown), Eva Longoria (in Pucci), & Salma Hayek (in Gucci).

Lastly, softer nearly colorless colors had their place with Anne Hathaway (in Chanel), Lea Michele (in Elie Saab), Amy Adams (in Marchesa), Amanda Seyfried (in Givenchy), Megan Fox (in Dolce & Gabbana), & Hayden Panettiere (in Roberto Cavalli)!

Which looks are your favorite? For more posts from Red Carpet Review, check out galleries from the Critics’ Choice Awards & red carpet from the recent People’s Choice Awards! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: 2013 Critics’ Choice Awards Featuring Naomi Watts, Jennifer Lawrence, Rebel Wilson, & More!


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Last night’s red carpet for the 18th Annual Critics’ Choice Awards, movies like Argo, Silver Linings Playbook, Zero Dark Thirty, & Lincoln were celebrated along with their very well-dressed cast. The leading ladies of the film hit the red carpet, showing off their assets.  There was plenty of sheer paneling, giving off the sexy illusion of skin, as seen on Jennifer Lawrence (in Oscar de la Renta) Helen Hunt (in Philip Armstrong), Amanda Seyfried (in Marios Schwab).  Also, bold colors were a big trend with Leslie Mann (in Honor Spring ’13), Jessica Chastain (in Prada), & Sally Field.  Not to mention floral & sequin embellishments which were made all the more fabulous by Marion Cotillard (in Zuhair Murad), Elle Fanning (in Chanel), & Nina Dobrev (in Monique Lhuillier). Check out the complete gallery & share with us who you think was the best dressed of the night!

For more Red Carpet Review posts, check out the 2013 People’s Choice Awards, the top 10 Style Darlings to watch for in 2013, & the latest in movie premieres, featuring Emma Stone & Kerry Washington! Happy Styling!

Basics For A Bargain: Pointy Toe Heels Are Here To Stay, Inspired By Katie Holmes, Stacy Keibler, Miranda Kerr, & More!


While this little Style Darling has been busy with holiday preparations & fighting off a nasty cold, I’ve been finding joy in shoes, pointy toe shoes, more specifically. While perusing through the latest gallery pics of the most recent & fabulous red carpet looks worn by my favorite celebrities, I started noticing that pointy toe shoes have been making a sneaky comeback.  Of course, celebrities have been donning these on & off, but throughout the summer & fall, they’ve been mixing up their looks with towering platforms, round toe pumps, as well as cut-out & deep-vamp booties this season. I decided to feature some affordable pointy toe shoes in classic black, nude, & fun designs for a variety of looks for day, evening, & work. 

First off, I wanted to share some celebrity inspiration with nude pumps. Katie Holmes pairs her neutral shoes with a bright magenta Narciso Rodriguez sheath dress & olive trench coat. Kerry Washington softens her leather A.L.C. frock with nude shoes & House of Lavande jewelry.  This is 40 star Leslie Mann is all smiles in a knotted coral number with a luxe cream coat.  Singer / actress Mandy Moore offsets her stunning cobalt asymmetric dress with a colorful Bvlgari clutch & super pointy shoes. 

It didn’t take very long to find some affordable counterparts, without having to break the bank.  This includes Forever 21‘s patent & faux leather pump ($27.80) in tan with a 4 1/2-inch heel, perfect for elongating your legline.  I also recommend the Madden Girl Tartt pumps ($34.99) in blush patent from 6PM, which are currently 30% off from their original $50 price tag.  Of course these shoes are perfect for any dress look, making any pair of gams long miles long, but they’re also especially flattering with skinny jeans & a tunic top, leggings & an oversized sweater, or a 70s-inspired jumpsuit. 

As for the basic black pump, a pointy toe is edgy when matched with feminine frocks, & they can even dress up the most basic of outfits.  Tina Fey shows off her digital printed top with skinny pants, whereas Kate Bosworth mixes her pumps with a sophisticated Emilio Pucci peplum dress. 

Maria Sharapova plays with separates, including a floral Zimmermann top, Tanya Taylor skirt, & Iwona Ludyga earrings for her Giuseppe Zanotti pumps. The svelte Stacy Keibler looks long & lean in her wool & leather Monique Lhuillier suit while walking the red carpet at the VH1 Divas show. Clearly, black pumps are an essential for any wardrobe, including the Nine West Love Fury pumps ($47.99), as well as the Dianna pumps ($39.95) by Diba from DSW.

Lastly, if you’re going to wear pointy toe pumps, there are some occasions when a fun & flirty shoe is a must-have.  Make an unexpected move by going monochromatic like Miranda Kerr‘s all-white look at an event for Mango, or get wild with something textured like Sarah Jessica Parker‘s Jean-Michel Cazabat snake embossed pumps which well-coordinated with her vintage Estevez dress & Fendi bag. 

Rashida Jones plays with color in her slim leg cobalt suit, Peter Pilotto blouse, Jimmy Choo clutch, & Dana Rebecca Designs jewelry.  Lastly, Olivia Wilde makes her sexy leather head-to-toe look even more enviable with spiked Christian Louboutins & a House of Lavande ring. 

For a splash of sass, I looked for pointy toe pumps with some color & personality.  @Charlotte Russe, I found the patent pointed toe pump ($25.50) in hot pink, which will pop against any all-black look, or bring out the best from a watercolor print dress.  Also, since it’s the holiday season, add a little sparkle to your pump with the Robidoux ($27.99) in bright multi from Aldo. Try these with a classic LBD, leather jacket & mini skirt, or sweater dress & tights.

Which pointy toe shoes do you like? How much do you usually spend on footwear? Do you prefer pointy toe or round? Happy Styling!

Runway Rundown: Monique Lhuillier’s Spring 2013 Collection @New York Fashion Week!


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Shame on me for not updating my readers about the fabulous on-goings of New York Fashion Week. Not only is that excitement happening, but I’ve just come off a multi-day celebration of my 29th birthday, which was super exciting since I decided to skip last year’s birthday. Of course, in the midst of the wine-drinking & dress-wearing, I’ve finally acquired a new job & decided to freshen up my wardrobe with some affordable new additions from the end-of-the-season clearance racks.

However, let’s talk business & I mean Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City. The first collection that I’ll be featuring in this latest edition of Runway Rundown is Monique Lhuillier‘s Spring 2013 Collection. The line features feminine details like lace, ruching, slits, cut-outs, & peplum hemlines. Leave it to Monique Lhuillier to create a timeless collection that is sure to grab the attention of celebs like Eva Longoria, Emma Stone, Jessica Chastain, & Krysten Ritter, especially as the big fall / winter awards season is descending upon us.

Take a look at the gallery to ooh & ahh at the 45-piece collection.  Also, for more runway talk, check out previous posts, including the 10th anniversary collection of Project Runway for Lord & Taylor, shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood’s jaw-dropping 106-piece Fall 2012 collection, & Chanel’s dazzling & classic Fall 2012 Haute Couture collection! If you’re looking to shop these trendy new looks, Monique Lhuillier designs can be found at Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, & Saks Fifth Avenue. Happy Styling!

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


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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!

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


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: White Hot Style At The White House Correspondents’ Dinner!


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The hot red carpet ticket this week has been the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, featuring celebrities like Charlize Theron, Kate Hudson, Rachel Zoe, & Ginnifer Goodwin. Of course the stars are showing their support for the president, but the biggest news coming from the celebration is the fabulous fashion. Take a look at the gallery below & share your favorite looks! Happy Styling!

Red Carpet Review: Top Looks from the 2011 Cannes Film Festival!


Get ready, get set, Go! There must a race of style at this year’s Cannes Film Festival because there’s an abundance of ravishing beauties hitting the red carpet in names like Calvin Klein, Salvatore Ferragamo, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, just to name a few.  Today we’re celebrating the many, many highs on the red carpet, at the movie premieres, & for photo calls.  Check out In Style’s Photo Gallery for a more detailed look at all the stars attending this ultra glamorous event. Let’s take a look at first & foremost, the scene-stealers, the true best of the best.  These are the looks that celebs wear for which red carpets are made!

Diane Kruger is my current favorite Style Darling!  The model-turned-actress is experimental when it comes to fashion.  Not to mention that she is effortlessly chic, especially in this gorgeous Calvin Klein shimmering gown that looks like flowing liquid medal against her enviable shape.  Rachel McAdams really surprised me with this intricately detailed in a red lace Marchesa number & Veronica Lake hair.  I just can’t get over how it makes her look like such a movie star. Salma Hayek Pinault can’t go wrong in a silver Gucci Premiere strapless gown.  It hugs her curves in all the right ways & she looks like a princess! Uma Thurman is a tower of pure elegance in a white feathered Versace sweetheart gown.  In no way does she wear it like a bride, but as an accomplished & stylish movie star. I’m not usually a fan of Tilda Swinton, but I do respect her passion for fashion.  This navy satin Haider Ackerman gown is so regal, very feminine, & timeless!

Additionally, there was quite an impressive slew of international beauties, including Mexican beauty Salma Hayek Pinault in a leather Gucci dress with a hand-painted flower shrug (kind of recalled Jennifer Lopez at the Met Costume Gala),  Indian actress Aishwarya Rai in navy & white silk strapless bustier Giorgio Armani Prive, & British import Cheryl Cole (who was recently named the latest judge on Simon Cowell’s The X-Factor) wearing a plunging Stephane Rolland gown with gold accents on the belt.

Australian star of Sucker Punch Emily Browning (who appears twice more in this blog) wears a sweet deep-v embroidered Valentino creation in nude, & fellow Aussie Alice in Wonderland star Mia Wasikowska in a Roland Mouret column gown & drop earrings!

Last, but not least, Canadian sweetheart Rachel McAdams switched it up in a Monique Lhuillier embellished bustier top & matching wide leg pants.  The Salvatore Ferregamo clutch & stacked bangles make this a chic & modern way to show up at a formal event.  There aren’t many women who can pull off a pants look on such a prestigious red carpet, but Rachel hits a homerun!

Some of the photo calls during the day called for the stars to face the press in very chic & elegant day looks.  These include Cannes stunner Tilda Swinton in a two-piece look that virtually everyone can wear.  A loose-fitting blouse tucked into a pencil skirt with flower-accent Roger Vivier heels. Rachel McAdams was front & center in an uber-feminine bright white flower Maxime Simeons dress with peep toe pumps by Salvatore Ferragamo.  Mia Wasikowska brought some sweetness in a lace Valentino pleated dress with beige strappy sandals.

Uma Thurman stayed with white once again in a slimming Dolce & Gabbana dress with silver Jimmy Choo sandals.  Emily Browning brough some color to the mix in a jungle print Louis Vuitton tube dress & nude peep toe platforms.  Angelina Jolie celebrated Kung Fu Panda 2 in a beige chiffon wrap dress with a leather belt & round toe pumps, a throwback to vintage Hollywood, but still very modern & minimalist.

At night some of the stars hit yet another red carpet wearing some of the best of the best designers.  Sarah Jessica Parker showed up to support a Weinstein Company press event in a belted Dolce & Gabbana with an embellished belt & layers of pearls (very Carrie Bradshaw)!  Somewhere at the celebrity-riddled circuit was a Calvin Klein sponsored bash which featured Uma Thurman in black, Vanessa Hudgens in yellow lace, & former Gossip Girl co-star Clemence Poesy in a color block shift dress, all designed by the label.

Check back with my Red Carpet Review for more upcoming events, as well as series of blogs for the Costume Gala!  Happy Styling!