Thursday, January 29, 2015

Couture Week: A Whimsical Romance

As we enter Paris Couture Week, we're taken into a fantastical realm with a collection of dresses fit for a princess from a fairytale romance. As it ends slightly too quickly, we feel like we've reached the end of a tale as old as time and occasionally, we may shed a tear. The soft music pulls us into this world that has brought our vivid imaginations to life due to the creativity of some of our favourite designers. In many ways, Couture is better than Ready-to-Wear because it takes us back to the origins of fashion when that was all that existed and women dressed extravagantly every day. This year, we were taken back in time with Valentino, transported into a natural paradise with Chanel, caught in a maze of beautiful colours with Dior, immersed inside a world of romance with Giambattista Valli, and sprinkled with sparkle at Elie Saab. What did they all have in common? We could pictures ourselves in every outfit standing before our Prince Charming as he accosts us in his horse-drawn carriage. 
Let's review, shall we?

VALENTINO
From the braided updos to the frilly necklines, Valentino took us to another era, one more akin to Downton Abbey or The Knight's Templar. As usual, this collection was all about the elegance of the past with brocade prints, long hemlines, and peasant blouses. It was ladylike in an old-fashioned way that we wish still existed. Some velvet gowns stood out, particularly one in a rich red hue with a cape that added to its regal quality. Some subtle shades of beige were integrated to the collection, bringing us back to 19th century England, back when lovely maidens would frolic in the fields. A few romantic patterns were introduced as well on some of the final dresses, including flowers, clouds, and words from a love letter to Romeo. Evidently, these two designers were in a very nostalgic mood, longing for the golden days of romance before dating apps and hook-up culture ever existed.

My Favourite Look: 46

Valentino - Spring 2015 Couture - Look 46 of 48
via style.com

CHANEL
Is there really a Couture show we look forward to more than Chanel? Probably not. We can always expect extravagance from Karl, something unusual that we never imagined possible. He dives into his imagination every year and stuns his audience with an awe-inspiring show. This year, that something was a garden of Eden of sorts with paper flowers in bright spring colours at the center of the runway. The show began with a young man in a straw hat watering this lovely garden as models in wide rim hats began to appear in bold shades of blue, yellow, and pink Chanel tweed. There were some beanies as well, but not the beanies we are accustomed to seeing on the streets of winter. These beanies were in pretty pale pink with a net to shield the eyes. What followed was a series of monochrome looks that took us back to the days of Coco, the woman who invented the LBD as we know it today. What was new? Some cropped blazers and blouses were a predominant look as well as an abundance of floral appliques, a popular style choice this season. Ruffles and sparkle were added to this feminine mix, making this collection the ultimate woman's dream. And of course, the show ended with a drool worthy wedding gown. Are you as smitten as I am?

Favourite Look: 38
Chanel - Spring 2015 Couture - Look 38 of 73
via style.com
CHRISTIAN DIOR
This year, the Christian Dior collection consisted of the perfect combination of sexy, with thigh high patent leather boots in a variety of colours from blood red to mustard yellow, and ladylike, with A-line skirts taking us back to the New Look of yore. The vibrant prints came in a wilder form than usual with stripes and florals taking center stage as well as abstract head-to-toe whimsical looks in shades of orange, blue, and yellow. Regardless of the abundance of geometric prints, this collection kept the classic Dior silhouette intact with the full skirts of the 50's and the mini dresses of 60's splattered throughout the show. Bright shades of yellow, orange, and green emboldened this runway alive with artistic fervor. Let's not forget to mention the elaborate embroidery on many of these looks that teased the eyes and awakened all of our senses. Raf Simons may have taken a risk with this collection, but it was definitely a step in a more modern direction.

Favourite Look: 54
Christian Dior - Spring 2015 Couture - Look 54 of 55
via style.com
ELIE SAAB
Whether you're a celebrity or a commoner (as I am), Elie Saab is every woman's Red Carpet dream. After all, who doesn't love beading and sparkle? Like at Chanel, we saw some bold floral prints, but this time, on sheer beige dresses. We were taken to an enchanted forest where you could feel the romance in the air, particularly with some of the final looks resembled water colour paintings, creating the illusion of a flower garden. As always, there were many dresses we'd love to see on celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett at this year's Oscars. Lucky for us, the event is coming up in a few weeks and I can already envision a number of these pastel dresses making an appearance. With glamorous retro waves, some silver and some gold, as well as a few feathers, any of these looks would make for bold choices that can't go wrong. As usual, Elie Saab knows how to make women dream.

Favourite Look: 17
Elie Saab - Spring 2015 Couture - Look 17 of 56
via style.com
GIAMBATTISTA VALLI
One of my own personal favourites, Giambattista Valli, never fails to impress. This season, he kept his feminine touch throughout the collection with his traditional pale pink, yellow, off-white, and black combo, while adding a little touch of darkness. With black hair nets, black bows, and sheer black skirts over black pants, this collection felt more like a dark fantasy in an enchanted forest of mystery. The full skirts, floral appliques, and flamboyant tulle, kept it girly and romantic as per Giambattista Valli's style. Even the soft french voice seduced us as we watched each model walk the runway in embroidered dresses with sheer paneling and frilly details. This designer proved that skirts over pants is the new normal and our traditional perception of the princess dress can be reshaped to suit our modern imagination. Pink fur, anyone? 

Favourite Look: 9
Giambattista Valli - Spring 2015 Couture - Look 9 of 47
via style.com
These are some of my top picks for Paris Couture Week this year. Which shows were your favourites?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella


Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Whimsical Flats Could Change Your Perspective On This "Unflattering" Shoe

via wwwnymag.com
While watching reruns of Sex and the City, all you see is Carrie Bradshaw skipping across the streets of New York in Manolos looking glamorous. You keep yourself up-to-date on street style at Fashion Week and you're overwhelmed by the number of Adidas sneakers and sky high wedges you only dream of adding to your closet. You go wild for the array of shoes at Red Carpet events.

But where do flats fit in?

The answer? Nowhere.

Fine, I'm exaggerating slightly. Some women live in their flats. However, nobody aspires to flats.

Let me explain.

When you ogle at a pair of high heels in a shop window, you start to salivate as you envision how they would look with your brand new LBD. When winter hits, you explore the option of stiletto boots and mourn the day a snowstorm invades your city, preventing you from wearing your favourite over-the-knee leather pair. Come summer, you cannot resist those lace-up high heeled sandals that everyone is raving about in your inner circle. But, how do ballet flats make you feel?

For one thing, they are the practical shoe. They are the shoes you have to wear to give your feet a break from that unnatural arch. You don't dream of flats. You don't fantasize about wearing them on a first date with that guy who delivers your pizza. You merely contemplate them for a moment because they might just allow you to spend a day racing around the mall to catch up on your shoe shopping. And in the world of fashion, who dreams of practicality? In fact, the word is almost taboo (unless you're Alexa Chung). We strive for originality and wearing things #forthesakeoffashion not #forthesakeofbeingpractical. People criticize fashion people for their propensity to wear a light leather jacket in the winter or layer to no avail rather than purchasing a warm parka. It is what this world is known for.

Until now.

Allow me to introduce: The Whimsical Flat.

Charlotte Olympia has transformed my vision of this once dreary pair of shoes by presenting one that has more personality than the average. By adding whimsy to her shoes with a cat face, I've begun to wrap my head around flats in a way I never thought possible.

Could this be a game changer? Can I actually be fantasizing about cat flats?

Let me ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella


Monday, January 26, 2015

SAG AWARDS 2015: The What Were They Thinking Edition

As you may or may not know, the SAG awards were on last night. It's one of those events that slips our minds immediately after the Golden Globes, but that still matters a little to the television folk of Hollywood. Apparently, nobody made an effort this year for this event (and with reason) because frankly, who watches it? In fact, some people showed up in the most unflattering garb you can envision, lowering our expectations for the Oscars so that everything will look breathtaking in comparison. Though celebrities like Emma Stone and Lupita N'Yongo still hit the mark, most had me flabbergasted at their choices and wondering if their stylist is on vacation. In honour of this event, I have decided to make a worst-dressed list featuring 10 looks from yesterday evening. Take a look and judge away.

NUMBER 10
Laura Carmichael in Vionnet
White on a blond gal like Laura Carmichael is usually a major hit, but in this case, it completely missed. The combination of this unflattering halter top and that undefinable waistline makes it difficult to fathom how she made this choice. And let's not even talk about that sheer skirt with the print I can pinpoint. Though I love my Lady Edith, I don't think she thought this one through.
via www.eonline.com
NUMBER 9
Amanda Peet in J. Mendel
This is particularly painful for me because I'm a huge fan of J. Mendel and that colour is stunning. Now, let's get to the bad part. There's something about that diamond shaped piece of fabric in the middle of her dress that's unsettling. I would also remove those black bands that seem to have no place on this lovely lilac gown. Amanda, you almost made it, but no cigar.
via www.vogue.com
NUMBER 8
Keira Knightley in Erdem
I know it's tough to find a dress that fits when you're pregnant. I also know that this look doesn't work. I only wish she would have taken pointers from Kerry Washington who killed it on the Red Carpet throughout her pregnancy. Other than the colour, I can't wrap my head around this "frock" because let's face it, that's the best word to describe it. Better luck next time, Keira.
via www.usmagazine.com
NUMBER 7
Laverne Cox in Johanna Johnson
Honestly, somebody had to inform this woman that satin is a major no-no on the Red Carpet. This looked like it belonged in a prom catalogue for hideous dresses you can't imagine anyone actually buying. From the strange neckline to the droopy fabric that never ends, this dress needs some serious work to be a real Red Carpet contender.
via www.usmagazine.com
NUMBER 6
Jennifer Aniston in John Galliano
I'm sorry, Jen, but this deep V J. Lo thing isn't doing you justice. Usually, I can live with your choices because they're fairly safe and clean cut to match your meh hair, but this just looks like snakeskin, and not in a sexy way. Let's not forget to mention the cleavage jewellery. I'm not quite sure what she was thinking with that.
via www.gofugyourself.com
NUMBER 5
Julia Roberts in Givenchy
Two women showed up at the SAG Awards in menswear inspired looks. Emma Stone rocked a Dior and Julia Roberts, Givenchy. However, since Emma Stone looked beyond stunning with a sheer skirt and tuxedo dress, she completely upstaged Julia and practically pushed her onto this list. Though this jumpsuit had a nice neckline, I have very little else to say about it. I expected better things from you, Julia.
via www.gofugyourself.com
NUMBER 4
Claire Danes in Marc Jacobs
First of all, I'm not too crazy about this khaki colour on Claire. Second of all, that belt. Third of all, that belt. Why would you belt it, Claire, why?
via www.laineygossip.com
NUMBER 3
Sarah Hyland in Vera Wang
I love Vera Wang and Sarah Hyland, but that organza overlay on her dress is really bugging me. The top wouldn't be half bad with a different skirt since the beading is quite pretty, but unfortunately, it's only a fifth of her dress.
via www.gofugyourself.com
NUMBER 2
Rosamund Pike in Dior
Though this dress looks ridiculously comfortable, that is not what awards season is for. There is a whole lot of unnecessary fabric on this dress drowning Rosamund's figure and I can't figure out how I feel about it. At least it triggers a reaction, but perhaps one closer to a cringe.
via www.gofugyourself.com
NUMBER 1
Mayim Bialik in Christian Siriano
Oh dear. I really like Mayim Bialik, but the giant mermaid skirt is slightly overwhelming. The concept of the Little Black Dress has completely evaporated under the fabrics of this look and I only wish I had a pair of scissors handy.
via www.usmagazine.com
What do you think of this list? Who is your worst dressed?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Friday, January 23, 2015

#IconCity: Feeling British With Alexa Chung

Alexa Chung belongs in IconCity because it is undeniable that she has become a fashion icon. Representing British hipster style, the girl always stays true to herself no matter what she's wearing. After her recent collaboration with AG denim, we can finally consider her the queen of the Canadian tuxedo. For her quirky sense of humour and quirky style to match, we can't get enough of her.

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1
Nobody does the casual cool look quite like Alexa. Adding a wide rim burgundy fedora to her edgy outfit, we're all envious of her effortless style.
via www.vogue.co.uk
LOOK 2
Once again, Alexa looks totally boho chic in a floppy hat. With a turquoise fur coat and girly ballet flats, she keeps her look feminine and sophisticated.
via www.vogue.co.uk
LOOK 3
Queen of femininity, Alexa wears a flared skirt, peter pan collar, and some bow flats on a casual day out.
via on-thestreets.tumblr.com
LOOK 4
Though she is known for her adorable flats, Alexa also knows how to rock a heel. In these shiny black booties, sequinned midi skirt, and textured white peasant blouse, she proves that she knows how to mix and match. She also knows that the best accessory to any look is a Chanel clutch.
via www.instyle.co.uk
LOOK 5
Nobody rocks a pair of denim overalls like Alexa Chung. In fact, if it were a contest, she would win every time.
via eatsleepdenim.com
What do you think of Alexa Chung's looks? Which one is your favourite?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Thursday, January 22, 2015

What Your Do Says About You

In the New Year, many of us are searching for change. The easiest one just happens to be in our appearance. There is nothing more gratifying than declaring that an external change will motivate us to make a more concrete internal change. That is why for many years, women have been cutting or altering their hair to indicate that they are entering a new life stage. In honour of 2015, here is an indicator of what your hairdo can say about you, because frankly, it says a lot. Perhaps when making your decision, you can refer to this list for guidance.

TIE DYE
Whether ombre ends or a bold new colour like green a la Kylie Jenner or lilac a la Nicole Richie, integrating an unusual hair colour to your natural locks is a popular choice for the bold amongst us. A woman who colours her hair is not afraid to take a concrete risk and try something new. Come hither future because you are ready for a big change. Nobody can stop you from chasing your dreams this year and your hair is there to show it. If you're ready for this big step, it's time to take out the tie dye.

via www.fashionmagazine.com
LONG WAVES
The girl who lets her hair run free and take on its natural waves is ready to settle down and get her life together. This may seem like a boring look to the average person, but to this woman, it's a sign that structure awaits and it symbolizes the beginning of an effortless lifestyle. If you have been wearing your hair short all your life, long hair signals that you've decided to let go of all the bad and go with the flow. It's time to take it easy and maintain a positive attitude Blake Lively style.

via www.popsugar.com.au
PIXIE
It's time to take that step you've been afraid of all your life and leap into the land of pixie cuts. This woman is tired of the norm and societal expectations, and ready to take her life into her own hands. It's the symbolic haircut of a powerful woman who runs her own life and makes her own rules. You may have been swayed by convention in the past, but this is your shining moment and the perfect time to set yourself apart. You're prepared to take a risk and dive into new territory. You're bold, strong, and someone to be admired. Change, here you come.

via www.vanityfair.com
SHOULDER LENGTH
It might not be time for a major change just yet, but you're on the road to redefining yourself. Seeking a more mature look, this woman opts for the shoulder length cut to project a more serious vibe to others. You're ready to take control and get rid of those long locks you've gotten used to. Who needs them? It's time for a hairstyle that will place you along the ranks of fashionistas like Miroslava Duma and Carine Roitfeld. You're a woman on a mission and your hair is there to prove it.

via www.whatwouldwangdo.wordpress.com
THE BOB
You live for trends, which is why you're ready to try a bob this season. Everyone from Sienna Miller to Reese Witherspoon is exploring this look this year and it's time for you to join that club of divas. There's nothing more in vogue than asymmetry and you cannot resist this cool new do. Though you are used to taking hair risks, this look says that you're prepared for change at a moment's notice. You're always up for an adventure and a challenge. After all, hair grows back, right?

via www.luckymag.com
Ready for a big change? Next time you get a haircut, take a look at some of these great looks. Choose wisely, but be prepared for something bold. 

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Can A Season Really Be Defined By A Colour?

via popsugar.com.au
As a self-designated "fashion girl", I am often asked: what is the colour of the season?

And to that I answer: what?

To think for a moment that a season can be defined by a singular colour is preposterous. There is nothing more absurd than choosing one colour and declaring it the one to wear for the next 3-4 months.

Apparently, Spring 2015 is all about the pastel pink. As much as I love pastel pink (as a self-designated girly girl), I cannot imagine wearing this colour all season long.

Yes, I know that there are prints as well. Florals have obviously not gone out of style and stripes are resurfacing faster than you can sing Seven Nation Army. However, they are all appearing on the racks in a light shade of pink reminiscent of my cousin's baby shower.

How is this still a phenomenon? When will the world understand that fashion is about breaking down the boundaries? Yes, I like to wear black in the summer and pastel pink in the winter. Is there anything wrong with that? Theoretically, there isn't. In practice, you may get some uninviting stares by the average passerby.

The strange thing about fashion is that we like to pick a colour to help others choose their next wardrobe, but we also like to encourage originality. There is nothing more chic than someone who looks confident in an outfit a magazine didn't even tell them to wear. We like to label them as trendsetters. In fact, one might say that selecting a single colour is only meant to facilitate shopping for those who don't actually like to shop.

For women who strive for a unique look that truly represents their personality, what is a colour? It's a change of mood. It's an experiment. It's an endless abyss of choice. It should not be a repressive tool.

So next time somebody asks you what the colour of the year is, you should ask them what they think it should be and take it from there. Let's choose our own colours and refrain from following the mold, shall we?

XOXO,

Bella

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Will We Ever Learn To Embrace Our Curls?

via styleblazer.com
Yesterday, I decided that for the first time in 6 months, I would let my natural curls run free. For anyone else with a naturally curly fro, you can understand that this is a major risk that I chose to take. When it comes to curls, they can either come out unruly or sexy and bouncy. It really is a gamble. When I look at women like DVF, Lorde, and Sarah Jessica Parker, I admire their ability to wear their curls with pride. I only wish I could pull it off with the same amount of class and sophistication.

Here begs the question: why are we still ashamed of our curls?

No matter how many times this look appears on the runway, it never quite makes its way onto the streets. Hair stylists may praise it and designers might embrace it, but the women who endure it every single day cannot comes to terms with it. We buy our heat protecting creams, our irons, and our blow dryers and spend countless hours searching for youtube tutorials that can teach us how to tame our locks. The stigma on curly hair continues to exist today and I can hardly understand why. Though I have fallen for social pressures to sport a blow-dried look, I'm constantly tempted to leave my hair to take on its natural form. However, since I have become accustomed to my smooth straight hair, I can't seem to take the leap into natural territory.

Why are we all so scared to look natural?
In a society where feminism is once again on the rise, can't we put down those tools and embrace our real selves?
When will curly hair become the coveted look?

When Prada had her models wear their hair wet on the runway and Karl Lagerfeld had them in bold curls, everyone gasped in awe and the natural look was getting promoted in all our favourite magazines. Unfortunately, they remained in the magazines.

When I walk across the street I continue to see women with blow outs and wonder what they would look like if they left their hair natural. Is it as wild as mine? What if we took a break every once in a while and let it, dare I say, AIRDRY?

I challenge you to go natural for a few days and see how you feel. Let your hair breathe and take on its original form. You may be surprised at your reaction.

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Are Thigh High Boots Stripper Boots Or Totally Chic?

This is a question that has been plaguing my thoughts for the last three months as I noticed them emerge onto the fashion scene.

How do I feel about thigh high boots? Get ready for my own personal semi-relevant lo-down.

As a girl of petite proportions, I have been led (read: tricked) into believing that there are a number of trends I could never pull off. For one thing, midi skirts are NOT an option. Oversized clothing is reserved for oversized people and baggy pants should never even enter my lexicon. Over-the-knee boots have somehow fallen into that same category, leading me to question these limitations placed on people of my stature.

Is height our self-defining quality?
Are we not allowed to experiment out of fear it'll shrink us even further to the public eye?

All my life, I have been concerned about appearing even smaller than I already do. I've gone through certain lengths to ensure that I looked taller and the password to entry into the fashion industry, PROPORTIONATE.

What happens when you decide to take a risk? And what if you do it right? Dare I suggest that this is possible?

After noticing a number of short women I respect for their impeccable style including Miroslava Duma, The Olsen Twins, and Nicole Richie, in clothing I never thought possible for women of their height, I started to question everything I grew to understand.

Known for their oversized knitwear, the Olsens are defiant to established fashion rules for petite women and some may disagree with their fashion choices, but their success is undeniable.

via teenvogue.com
Nicole Richie wears that maxi dress like a badge and though she references her height restrictions on her show, Candidly Nicole, fashion does not seem to be one of them.

via imgbox.com
As for Mira Duma, she has been spotted in longer hemlines, oversized coats, and OVER-THE-KNEE boots. PS. I love her.

via www.instylemag.com.au
So, how can they possibly be hooker boots when they look gorgeous on one of the top muses of the industry?

Your answer? No, they are NOT hooker boots by any means. When worn with a chic coat or classy dress, they transform into the most stylish pair of shoes in your closet. Are you running to the stores yet?

Thought so.

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, January 12, 2015

A Golden Globes Best-Dressed List? Oh My.

Last night was an evening of fun and games with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey as well as a night of sparkle. Literally. Many celebs like Dakota Johnson, Julianne Moore, and Reese Witherspoon wore their glittery Christmas rejects, while others opted for lemon yellow. That's right. Lemon yellow was a popular choice for stars like Jenna Dewan Tatum, Leslie Mann, and Naomi Watts. And the sorbet dessert theme did not end there. Strawberry was even more widespread on ladies like Heidi Klum, Allison Williams, Lena Dunham, Taylor Schilling, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Viola Davis. Have I forgotten anyone? Bold was obviously the trend because many appeared in cobalt blue including Amy Poehler and Cindy Crawford. The battle of the cleavage proved that it is no longer all about the booty this year. It was a close tie between J.Lo and Kate Hudson. Who came out victorious? That's for you to judge. And let's not forget the men of the evening who looked dapper as usual. Mr. Clooney, Adam Levine, and Eddie Redmayne were amongst my favourites. Now, let's get down to the true business of this awards show. As we all know, it's not about the destination, but rather the process. Let's rate fashion.

NUMBER 10
Dakota Johnson in Chanel Haute Couture
This was my favourite piece of glitter to grace the red carpet. I am partially more excited for 50 Shades of Grey because of this dress. One may have nothing to do with the other, but that slit sure packed a punch.
via Elle UK
NUMBER 9
Amy Adams in Atelier Versace
Versace won the night and deserves an award for the abundance of stunning gowns she created on that Red Carpet. Amy Adams looks like a goddess of the seas in a periwinkle dress that hugged her curves. Clearly, her great bod made the dress and not the other way around.
via Elle UK
NUMBER 8
Giuliana Rancic in Maria Lucia Hohan
Of course, Giuliana Rancic, queen of fashion, looked adorable in a pale pink strapless with a flared princess skirt. I'm assuming she was inspired by Jeremy Scott's barbie collection, but who knows? In the world of cinema, it's just a pretty dress.
via usmagazine.com
NUMBER 7
Kate Hudson in Versace
I hate (love) to say it, but Kate did it better than J.Lo. I'm usually not a big fan of the deep V cleavage, but Kate has never looked better. Then again, I say that at every Red Carpet event. Does anything look bad on her really?
via Elle UK
NUMBER 6
Lupita N'Yongo in Giambattista Valli Couture
This may seem like an odd choice and I had some trouble wrapping my head around it at first, but there's something charming about it that I just can't get over. Maybe it just reminds me of the lovely gardens of yore or maybe Lupita is just amazing, but I'm slightly obsessed with this on her.
via Elle UK
NUMBER 5
Amal Alamuddin Clooney in Dior Haute Couture
This may be the beginning of a series of best-dressed appearances for Amal. THE Mrs Clooney has proven herself worthy of the fashion scene by dressing for success at every occasion. She may have been the classiest lady at this ultra classy event in long gloves we might just like. Will this accessory appear at the Oscars? If she is the trendsetter I think she is...
via usmagazine.com
NUMBER 4
Jenna Dewan Tatum in Carolina Herrera
Something I learned at the Golden Globes? Jenna Dewan Tatum looks amazing in yellow. She looks like spring sunshine in a field of sunflowers and it doesn't her to have a gorgeous manccessory.
via usmagazine.com
NUMBER 3
Heidi Klum in Versace
Once again, Versace wins the race on Heidi Klum. She may not be a film star, but she looks as glamorous as Monroe herself with her wavy blond locks and bold red dress. She definitely knows how to match the Red Carpet and stand out simultaneously.
via Elle UK
NUMBER 2
Kate Beckinsale in Elie Saab Couture
When is Kate not on one of my best-dressed lists? The answer is NEVER. She always looks breathtaking and I want to hire her as my new best friend. She pulls off that effortless Hollywood glamour I dream of and her bun is divine.
via Elle UK
And the NUMBER 1 is...
Emma Stone in Lanvin
Was this not obvious as soon as she walked that Red Carpet? If anyone can pull off pants at the Globes, it's Emma Stone. Matched with a charming sense of humour, we're all pretty much in love with her.
via Elle UK
And of course, I'd like to honourably mention the two runners up:
1. Reese Witherspoon in Calvin Klein
2. Julianne Moore in Givenchy

Did you watch the Globes last night? If so, what did you think of those Red Carpet looks? Which one was your favourite?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Friday, January 9, 2015

#IconCity: Naomi Campbell. Duh.

If anyone in the entire fashion stratosphere deserves icon status, it is the queen of the runway, Naomi Campbell. Not only was she one of the top supermodels of the 90's, but she continues to model today on the DVF runway and runs her own show, The Face. Let's not forget to mention her most recent ad campaign for Burberry with the successor to the Campbell throne, Jourdan Dunn. Another thing she does incredibly well? Style. Every outfit she wears is pure gold. Here is proof.

Take a look at five of her best looks.

LOOK 1
This Alexander McQueen dress is so darn cute, it makes Naomi look adorable, yet somehow, still fierce. Love the way she rocks those booties as well. Are you as envious of that body as I am?
via Harper's Bazaar
LOOK 2
Naomi may look great in an LBD, but she looks even better in an LWD. Sweet with this ruffled Alaia dress, but spicy with those lace-up booties, she creates a killer combination in one look.
via Harper's Bazaar
LOOK 3
Nothing says Naomi Campbell like a leopard print and she does it without looking tacky. Queen of the flared mini dress, Naomi rocks our world once again.
via Zimbio
LOOK 4
Once again, Naomi Campbell wore an animal print and looked amazing while doing it. She wears a structured dress like no other and it fits like a glove.
via The Cut
LOOK 5
You put Naomi Campbell in a gown and you cannot expect anything less than perfection. This is a mermaid fresh out of water and ready for a glistening red carpet in navy velvet.
via Style Bistro
What do you think of Naomi's style? Which is your favourite look?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Wednesday, January 7, 2015

Justin Bieber Has Been Hiding In His Calvin Klein Underwear

via style.com
Though Justin Bieber was still a big name this past year, it cannot be denied that his reputation has dwindled. Whether it was the series of suspicious behaviours or the number of Bieber haters across the globe that made him run into his rabbit hole remains to be discovered, but at least Calvin Klein still likes him.

That's right. Bieber has just been selected to pose in the new Calvin Klein underwear ad campaign featuring top model, Lara Stone (11 years his senior). It looks like reputation isn't everything after all. Though he has disappeared off the surface of the pop world he once semi-reigned, he has made a comeback that suggests an edgier image and we might be liking it (only a little).

He may have been the Aaron Carter/Jesse McCartney replica of the 21st century, but he has chosen to set himself apart from these other two teen heartthrobs by following the current celebrity trend of posing for fashion ads in hopes of projecting a more multi-faceted personality.

What happened to the innocent "Baby" Bieber of yesteryear? Did he even exist? This one is posing against a topless Lara Stone while exposing his bare tattooed chest. Is he yearning to become the next Miley Cyrus by throwing away his sweet image in exchange for something a little more spicy? What will he do next? Is fashion in Bieber's future or is this merely his attempt to bend it like Beckham?

We can't predict the future, but I'm guessing Bieber is about to resurface in 2015 as a new and improved man striving towards Adam Levine level sex appeal. Will he succeed at attracting women above the age of 13? I'm thinking that's his goal.

Let's Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, January 5, 2015

2015 Predictions: Because I'm An Oracle

There's nothing we all love more than predicting the future. We try to plan our next vacations, our next spa trip, our next mani-pedi. We predict our impending disappointment a couple of months prior to our birthdays and anticipate our next accomplishment. As someone who enjoys planning ahead, these predictions are the heart and soul of my existence. Who would I be if I didn't attempt to predict the future? Mixed with a desire to say "I told you so" come 2016 and a need to know what happens next, I've constructed an educated guess of the fashion stories that will define 2015.

Here is goes.

2015 Will Be The Year That...

PLATFORMS REIGN SUPREME
After spotting the platform at Tom Ford, I just knew this one was here to stay. In 2014, there may have been high wedges and flatforms on the streets of Paris, New York, London, and Milan, but the heels are about to get higher. To some, it was the year of the sneaker, but in fact, it was the year we tried to mix comfort with style. In 2015, comfort will take on a new definitions as the platforms get higher and we'll get to relive our deepest Spice Girls fantasy.

via glamazonsblog.com
LOOSER PANTS KILL THE SKINNY
Say goodbye to tight pants and hello to loose flowy beach babe skirt pants. Is it a skirt? Is it pants? Nobody knows because they're just so darn flowy. With the 70's revival, flared legs will become the new sexy look du jour, so get ready for supreme comfort and vacation style 24/7.

via blog.captainshelm.com
APPLE WATCHES BECOME THE NEW MICHAEL KORS
Once upon a time, everyone wanted a chic Michael Kors watch or a classy Marc Jacobs. This year, those who belong to the inner fashion circle will opt for something a little more high tech. The apple watch will emerge as the new arm candy statement maker. If you thought tech fashion was big last year, in 2015, it will explode.

via refinery29.com
SLITS REPLACE MINI SKIRTS
While 2014 was the year that the mod trend invaded the fashion sphere, longer skirts will return in 2015 to replace the Twiggy mini, but with a catch. While a maxi or a midi may seem more conservative, these ones will have more slits than ever. Slits may have been popular in 2014, but they're about to get bigger.

via sheslikeaghost.tumblr.com
GIGI HADID REPLACES KENDAL JENNER
Though I admit that I've become attached to Kendall (she is my favourite Kardashian), another young model is emerging with a promising career ahead of her. With a campaign for Tom Ford and some runway appearances at the hottest shows, this young model has evolved from her Guess days into a full-blown high fashion model. Are you ready for Gigi?

via womensweardaily.tumblr.com
METALLIC NAILS REPLACE NAIL ART
Remember when nail art was a thing? Thankfully, we've gotten over that fad. This year, I'm hoping for metallic nails. While I love a sheer pastel, metallic fits with the current 70s wave. I'm ready for something bolder this year, are you?

via pussyglamorous.tumblr.com
CURLS RETURN
While this has no been confirmed by designers, the emerging 70's trend predicts some bouncier curls this year. Will hair officially get bigger? I can't wait to find out.

via tumblr.com
IT'S ALL ABOUT THAT TREBLE
While 2014 was all about that Bass (as proven by Nicki Minaj, Kim Kardashian, and Meghan Trainor) 2015 will be all about the treble. We've obsessed over our rears long enough and it's time for our VS bras to shine.

via www.victoriassecret.com
Are you ready for the new year? Which of these do you think will come true?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella