Cannes Film Festival 2015

Whether they were starring in a featured film or not, the men and women in attendance at the 68th annual Cannes Film Festival really pulled out all of the sartorial stops, presenting us with some truly inspirational looks.

Here are my most memorable looks from the event:

1. Emma Stone in Dior Couture- I presume this gown is a vintage piece as it doesn't emanate the work of Raf Simmons. However, one never knows, I could be wrong. I really do adore this 90s silhouette, the choker and the high neckline. I know quite a substantial amount of bloggers would put this gown on their worst dressed list. To them it's 'too bridal'. Nonetheless, to me I see none of this nonsense. Yes it's an off-white, exquisitely detailed lace dress, but I see no resemblance to a bridal gown? Do you my dear readership, do you? Of course not.
It's perfectly pretty and falls well on her statuesque figure.

 

2. Karlie Kloss in Atelier Versace. Firstly if you don't know who Karlie Kloss is, then shame on you! I forgive you, regardless.
Karlie is, with Cara, Kendall, Jourdan and Gigi, a part of the new breed of the supermodel. Standing at 6ft2, Karlie is the American thoroughbred of the group. 

As a previous face of Versace, Karlie wears an interesting metallic piece. Let me explain my interest, one of Donatella Versace's fresh creations a couple of season's ago for her Atelier (couture) line was this pant-gown marvel. It was basically a strapless white one leg a trouser and one leg falling into a gown/ jumpsuit thing. Well it's what Karlie is wearing, so hopefully that makes more sense. 

I also loved Karlie's second dress by Nicolas Ghesquiere for Vuitton. She looks so dazzling and goddess-like yet with a hint of soft grunge.

 

3. Kendall Jenner in Azzedine Alaïa. As we all know, my aspiration in life is to be Kendall Jenner. Although deemed impossible to some, I'm going to make it happen. 

Throughout the festival, Kendall seemed to be channelling the Riviera chic in these crop top and full-length skirt combinations. For example at the Amfar Gala she wore that grandiose aubergine Calvin Klein which stole the show and now her Alaïa. I am torn between which look I prefer, I adore this due to the fact it's an Alaïa, and the little details, like the sheer panelling make it more distinct compared to the CK. On the other hand, the train and the rich colour on the CK is just so luxurious. I have to applaud her for not just wearing a traditional gown, but instead really embracing her surroundings and wearing something that you could imagine she would wear any day, something she's styled herself in.

                                        

 

 

 

4. Jourdan Dunn in Ralph & Russo Couture. Jourdan Dunn or now 'the modern day Naomi', completely stole the show at the 'Little Prince' premiere. She even upstaged French film royalty, Marion Cotillard, who wore a powder blue Dior Couture that unfortunately creased around the midriff. 

Furthermore, Jourdan is stunning beyond belief. I adore a fishtail gown of any sort, especially with that black lace and floral appliqué which perfectly balances out with her skin-tone. Let us not forget the makeup aswell- angelic to say the least.

At the Amfar Gala later that week, Jourdan wore the most incredible gown by Vera Wang. The structure was so complex for the finest of fabrics, silk tulle. Complete and utter perfection.

 

 

 

5.Cate Blanchett in Armani Privé. Cate Blanchett oozes class and elegance. If we think back to some of her greatest red carpet moments- perhaps that lilac, pearl embroidered Givenchy or last year's Academy Awards Armani gown encrusted in those incredible jewels, it is made clear that she is the embodiment of 40s glamour brought into the present day.

With this year being the 40th anniversary of the house of Armani, Giorgio hosted a retrospective runway show in Milan, featuring all the memorable creations from his work. One of his biggest inspirations, especially last season was the orient. An oriental Armani woman who meets the 40s. Perfectly portrayed by Cate Blanchett herself.

 

 

6. Natalie Portman in Rodarte. Oh no. This is well and truly tragic, isn't it? When emerging from her car with that asymmetrical disaster hanging from her elegant being, at first I thought her hem was caught on those diagonally descending embellishments which quite strikingly emblazons half of her torso, however I was incorrect.

I came up with a theory to help me understand why someone would wear this. We all know her directorial debut of 'A Tale Of Love And Darkness' did not fare well with Cannes critics. Therefore with that unsuccessful news taken to heart, she goes on a rebellion, against her movie whilst brandishing the 'cba' banner and turning up looking like a fash-hole.
If I'm being too candid for you to bare, please just calm down and take a seat.

 

7. Julianne Moore in Givenchy Haute Couture. Julianne is just flawless at every red carpet event she attends. Of course this, being a Tisci for Givenchy, I automatically love it.

This gown is so texturally outstanding. Let me pose this question to you, who wouldn't love to be coated in claret velvet over a crocodile corset? I can tell you I would. 

Ricardo Tisci is a creative God, I have to admit I much prefer Tisci's collaborations with stars, rather than his collections. He knows how to dress women in the spotlight and he has established this profoundly dark romantic yet sensual Givenchy Woman that the industry desires intensely.

 

8. Michelle Rodriguez. Whoever thought it was a good idea to channel your inner goth with a knitted dress and turtleneck whilst in the South of France in summer, is absolutely out of their mind. I think her face says it all. Even her eye makeup is suffering with major fall down.

To conclude this, wool knit + Cannes = a definite no from me.

 

9. Mona Ayoub. Who even is this? Looks like someone has had a bit of 'dental work' aka Hollywood code for botched plastic surgery. That face is worse than Cher's. 

Let us address the main issue, the fact that her dress is back to front?! Clearly this woman finds it so very difficult to cover her chest hence why she is holding it open for all the families to see. No thank you darling. 

 

10. Cheryl Fernandez-Versini in Ralph & Russo Couture. Ralph & Russo seem to have been a firm favourite amongst celebrities this year. I think it's because they produce such beautiful pieces and because the brand have been accepted by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture to establish themselves as the first British couturier. Now they are alongside some of the couture greats: Chanel, Dior and Valentino. 
This gown is exceptionally beautiful, especially the way the fabric drapes into the sleeves connecting with the intricate lace at the back. It actually melts my heart.

11. Doutzen Kroes in Vintage Dior. 10/10 for elegance. Love vintage pieces from the 60s, they just inject such a high level of classic sophistication. In my opinion, I think the beauty brings the look together- smoky eyes, a classy rouge lip and slicked back hair.

Another favoured moment of mine was when Doutzen wore this futuristic halter-neck number from Thierry Mugler.

 

 

Evidently I am a bit of a secret fan of Victoria Secret Angels, but Doutzen is amazing, you have to admit. This is the last one of her looks, I promise. Here she wears an Atelier Versace creation.

 

  

 



12. Cara Delevingne at the Chanel party in Chanel Couture. Cropped tweed, raffia bra-lets and those shoes. Absolutely ravishing my darlings.

 

13. Emily Blunt in Peter Pilotto. Believe it or not, I love this little combination. I know some may disagree because of the garish colour palette, but I think it's perfect for Cannes. Also, I really relish after the random flurry of audacious brights over the skirt, it's different to the conformist whites and blacks we've been seeing, for sure.

 

14. Charlize Theron in Dior Couture. I do not like Charlize or this dress. For me, its bland, a perfect reflection of Charlize's movies.

 

15. Leaving the best until last. Lupita Nyong'o in Gucci. I love this jade against her complexion. It reminds me when she wore a turquoise Gucci gown to last year's Screen Actor Guild Award, however this is far more free-spirited (especially when she twirled). Embroidered crystals and silk floral motifs adorned the dress, adding a strong feminine quality, one I would not expect to see from Alessandro Michele.
I admire Alessandro Michele's courage in taking on the red carpet just three months after being appointed as creative director at Gucci. Saying this, I think it's actually quite reminiscent of Frida Gianini's past work for Gucci, but with this new mysterious playfulness.

 

  

Note- I do not own any of these images.
Picture Courtesy of: Vogue.co.uk, Style.com and Getty images

 

Met Costume Institute Gala 2015: Best Dressed

Firstly I do apologise about how late this post is, it took me a while to choose some of my best looks from the somewhat average to boring array of oriental apparel shown at this year's gala.
A minority of celebrities followed one trend- sheer, flesh baring, jewel-encrusted gowns. Bringing the bipolarity of total streetwalker and high-class glamour. With this in mind, Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez are all given the honour of being in my top 5, but who will be queen of the carpet?

At number 8: Bella and Gigi Hadid,
Who are these girls do I hear you say? They, with Kendall Jenner are forming the new breed of the 'supermodel'. A hybrid, one would say.
On with their looks. When I first saw Bella in her LBD with some major floral adornment, I thought only one designer had made this- Tom Ford. However, this was not the case, this creation is by Topshop! That's right, you heard me, Topshop. My reaction entailed a face of pure perplexity. I think its rather exciting to see Topshop, the forever expanding giant of the high street, produce clothing at such a high-standard but with an affordable price label. With this reason, I applaude you Topshop.

 

 

 

 

Gigi, on the other hand, is wearing a custom postbox red gown with gold embroidery by Diane Von Furstenberg. A vision of sheer opulence.

7. Reese Witherspoon looks like a 50s film-star in this so simple  yet sophisticated red Jason Wu number. The jewellery is so exquisite. We love a touch of Chopard any day, darlings. Perhaps one could argue it's not in keeping with the theme, but I think she looks stunning. Also she has the most luminous complexion.

6. Next we have Amanda Seyfried in a Givenchy Haute Couture by Ricardo Tisci. I am sure you all know by now I love Tisci's work for Givenchy. He has really fought to put his stamp on the house with his gothic, sometimes fetishistic, modern designs.
This floral applique dress he has customized for Amanda is just pure Tisci, classic but with a incongruous twist- perhaps the high-neck line or the bewildering extra dimension the Chantilly lace and 3D plastered pearls add.

5. As the current face of Calvin Klein Jeans, it seems only right that Kendall Jenner wears a custom gown by Francisco Costa for CK. My fellow readership, please can we take this moment to appreciate just how angelic Kendall always looks. I am not even joking when I say I want to be her! Her entire look is impeccable, including the cheeky bit of sideboob. (considering my strong hatred for boobs)

4. Kate Hudson wears a custom Michael Kors. What an outstanding piece, she looks like someone has just doused her in liquid gold. A vision of a goddess. It's this infusion of oriental and Californian, which makes it so timeless and elegant.

3. Finally we have reached my top 3! Jennifer Lopez in Atelier Versace. Everyone, have we seen this dress? And have we seen J-Lo? I swear she never ages, because she looks out-of-this-world. Donatella Versace is just able to assert her skills of producing gowns which are so glamorous and so sexy. I love the bold dragon motif which covers her torso and also the colour combinations which perfectly complement J-Lo's skin. I will always have a special fondness for Jenny from the block.

 

2. My second best-dressed goes to Kim Kardashian in Peter Dundas' first design for Roberto Cavalli. I have no words to describe this dress, I love it with passion! Just look at the details, they are so intricate, its heaven. I cannot wait to see Dundas' first pret-a-porter collection for Cavalli. I have very high hopes.

1. I think we all know who takes the top of the list. Evidently Queen Beyoncé Knowles!!! I hope you know just how much I appreciate Bey as a music icon, queen and a human being. Beyoncé is practically the female equivalent of Jesus, she makes music that speaks to so many people around the world, music that holds such important messages that it emotionally attaches itself onto you, eternally. She is an inspiration to all.
Her gown is just mind blowing, yes yes I know its very revealing, but it is Tisci for Givenchy after all.Just look at her though, I worship her and I applaude her for taking a risk and absolutely killing it. She ruled that carpet and we all know that!

Note: I do not own any of these images- Vogue.com, Style.com, getty

Met Costume Institute Gala 2015: Worst Dressed

I think we all knew when the theme for this year's Met Gala was announced- 'China: Through The Looking Glass' that it would be, as Kara Brown put it an 'Asian-themed shit show'. Based on the non-conformist paths the industry takes, many predicted that it would be a low point for celebrities, designers and humanity in general.
In this post I shall be presenting to you my worst dressed list:

 

Disclaimer: Although you may be fond of what some celebrities wore, one does not mean offence, its just an expert's opinion.

 

Right from the very start we saw that many people had avoided the oriental theme full-stop, and frankly the looks they were producing were...equally boring!
If we look at the host of the event, Editor-in-chief of American Vogue's- Anna Wintour. I just want to scream 'why on earth are you wearing a dress you'd wear as a typical outfit of the day?' Just because she's increased the volume of her epaulettes to create sleeves, she therefore thinks this is acceptable...The shoes..do not even get me started on those shoes! 90s sling-back kitten heels, this is the Met red-carpet Anna, not Paris Hilton's Chihuahua funeral.

 

 

 

 

 

Dolce & Gabbana deemed popular amongst the clearly fashion wary celebrities that donned the Met last night. My fellow readership, I have you know that I detest the work of the Domenico Dolce and Stephano Gabbana with an ABSOLUTE passion. (I'm sure you know my reasoning from a previous post) everything they produce is soul-destroyingly tacky, seemingly a match made in heaven, bringing that OTT Italian audacity into quite the opposite cultured theme. I can't bare to set my eyes on those golden tiaras a few girls sported. Saying this, at least they weren't quite as horrendous as supposedly next season's faux pas with a hybrid of the tiara, the tiara headphones -An utter monstrosity!

 

 

 

 

 

The Moschino duo- comprising of Katy Perry and Madonna, certainly hitting rock bottom last night. Both wearing horrendous graffiti-emblazoned gowns. I don't understand Madonna, she's wearing a black cape with her new album 'Rebel Heart' scratched into it, I mean talk about self-promotion but darling please. Also she's wearing those hideous leather fingerless gloves again, intervention needed.

 

 

 

 

 

Thank god Chloe Sevigny turned up, but wait.....oh how tragic. Kudos to her for actually embracing the theme with her Asian-embroidered gown from JW Anderson. However, the structure of the gown was baffling. We had a bow-shaped strapless line with low-hanging sleeves, combined with the look of bad tailoring, and just to top that all off, we had the complexity of the textures, from the array of traditional fabrics which coated the gown. I'm sure it looked incredible off (well it is JW Anderson, of course), but the whole thing was not at all flattering. It's a firm no from me.

 

 

 

 

I hated Chloe-Grace Moretz for one reason only, because she dated Brooklyn Beckham. Until last night, where another reason was pushed towards me. Her dress from Coach was a disaster! It looked so ill-fitting, the plunging V was in the wrong place, the lines were sharp therefore creating the fabric to fall in a box shape on the shoulders, and finally her dress had no trace of of the asiatic influences. Yawn-inducing.

 

 

 

 

Dakota Johnson, I'm afraid to say, is a waste of space. She is only recognised from her 'vivacious' (yawn) role in 50 Shades and because her mother is Melanie Griffith. Ok, ok, first time at the Met Gala but come on Dakota, Chanel Couture or not, one simply does not attend in a short cocktail dress; a short cocktail dress that bares no resemblance to anything oriental.

 

 

                          

 

My best dressed list in contrast to this series of unfortunate fashions is miniscule. There were actually only a select handful that stole the show, the rest went from average to boring to an offense. I do hope you all check in on Saturday night for my best dressed. Until next time.

 

 

 

    Picture courtesy of Style.com, Vogue.co.uk and vanityfair.com

 

                   

 

 

 

Kim Kardashian's Style Reinvention

Although my hatred for Kanye West overpowers everything else on this world. I do, unfortunately, applaud him for his work on completely transforming Kim Kardashian's style. She's gone from tacky metallic wrap dresses, 90s kitten heels and monogrammed Louis bags to well-styled Givenchy bodysuits and Balmain flares.
For me, she hasn't put a foot wrong in about two years, saying that- an exception being her pregnancy style, which was frankly amusing. I think we all remember when she squeezed her swollen feet into those Givenchy perspex heels, don't we?
Kim is not afraid of taking risks and I think that is mirrored through the ferocious glamour she injects into every look.
In this post, I have picked out a few looks which I think Kim has executed to perfection:


1. Kim at Variety's Power of Women Awards. As most of you know, I have the biggest obsession with Kim K, although not as much as Beyoncé, as that would be sheer blasphemy.
Here, Kim wears custom Giambattista Valli accompanied by a Olympia Le Tan clutch. This is purely goddess-like.

2. Yes yes, one is aware the cleavage is revealed, but settle down please- it's Kim K, she's an fashion icon, she is allowed to take the risks.

Here she wears- sunglasses- YSL
                Fur coat- Givenchy pre-fall 2014
                bodysuit- Wolford
                knee-high biker stilettos- Givenchy spring 2015
                                  
                                   

                        

3. I know many people will disagree, but I absolutely loved the platinum blonde days- I mean talk about radiance.
Kim wears head-to-toe Givenchy Spring 2015

 4. This look, without a doubt, reflects Kim's fiery and risqué manner of dressing. The latex is extremely fetishist, however mitigated by the creamy mink to create a uniquely wearable outfit.

 

 

5. This is a perfect example of Kim's timeless style. This look is so simple yet so sophisticated.
Kim wears a coat from Chloe

6. Just imagine Kanye is NOT in this picture, but instead focus your attention on Kim in this incredible woven jacquard dress, encrusted in a pearls and Swarovski crystals, by of course Olivier Rousteing at Balmain.(one of my favourite designers)

   

7. December 2013- Kim wears an old signature, the metallic wrap dress(thank god not a horrendously tacky one). Love double mustard, even though it has the potential to have an acquired taste.
Kim wears a wrap dress from Lanvin and strappy sandals from Tom Ford.

8. The teddy-bear coat, this coat is so popular because of our lady, Kim Kardashian. Last fall she was constantly snapped wearing this coat and eventually it became a 'must have'. Yes I know you will say I simply cannot afford a £1,500 MaxMara coat, but do not worry, there are other high-street options.

 

Picture Courtesy of cosmopolitan.com via getty images