“Trailblazing”- WSJ Mazagaine March 2017
Top: Vanessa Seward, Shorts: Prada, Jewelry: Roxanne Assoulin, Aurélie Bidermann . Image WSJ MAGAZINE/CASS BIRD
Model: Luna Bijl
Photographer: Cass Bird
Stylist: Véronique Didry
Hair: Tamara McNaughton
Makeup: Frank B.
“Siren Song”- Harper’s Bazaar UK March 2017
Dress: Ermanno Scervino. Image HARPERSBAZAARUK/ERIKMADIGANHECK
Model: Madison Stubbington
Photographer: Erik Madigan Heck
Stylist: Leith Clark
Hair: Laurent Philippon
Makeup: Polly Osmond
The logo of the 23rd annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Image SAG-AFTRA
The second major awards ceremony on Hollywood’s schedule, the 23rd annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards was held on 29 January at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. Again there was some great fashion on display as the stars turned up their glam for the red carpet. Here are my favourite looks of the night.
Michelle Dockery- Elie Saab gown, Amanda Pearl bag, Jimmy Choo heels, Niwaka Collections Jewelry
LOVE THIS! It’s bright, it’s bold, and it’s a breath of fresh air on the red carpet, as well as in her style portfolio. I particularly like the asymmetric quality of the stripes, where line thicknesses and colours don’t line up on the bodice and skirt. It keeps the pattern interesting while breaking it’s resemblance to a circus tent. I’m not the biggest fan of her hair and makeup, but she looks beautiful and this is her personal best Red Carpet look. Image GETTYIMAGES/TOMANDLORENZO.COM
A closer look at her fiery rose gold and spessartite garnet earrings by Niwaka Collections. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Nicole Kidman- Gucci gown, Kotur clutch, Stuart Weitzman heels, Fred Leighton jewelry, Omega watch
I don’t understand all the hate this gown is getting- this is downright fab! Perfect gown aside, it looks phenomenal on Ms. Kidman, who has the style, body, height and bearing to work this gown for all it’s worth. This is how you do whimsy with panache: the macaw-head sleeves are amazing, her styling is perfection and that colour is gorgeous on her. Other stars should take note. Image POPSUGAR/VANITYFAIR.COM/TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Teresa Palmer- Valentino gown, Jimmy Choo clutch, Stefere jewelry
This was one of my favourite looks from Valentino’s Spring 2017 collection and I loved seeing it on the Red Carpet. The embellishments sparkled like crazy! Ms. Palmer looks gorgeous, and her styling and free flowing locks set the gown off perfectly. Image WIREIMAGE/POPSUGAR.COM
Sarah Paulson- custom Vera Wang gown and cape, Tyler Ellis bag, Brian Atwood heels, Nirav Modi jewelry
Clean cut perfection, with and without the cape. Also this lady can rock a peplum! Image TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Ellie Kemper- Wai Ming gown, Judith Leiber clutch, Giuseppe Zanotti shoes, Forevermark jewelry
The oddly slumping shoulder on this gown bothered me… I kept expecting it to slip down. But, this a simple, pretty look. Image VOGUE.COM
Maggi Siff- Zac Posen gown, Butani jewels
I’m not a fan of the pointy, overworked neckline, but this is a nice twist on the simple black mermaid gown. She looks great. Image POPSUGAR.COM
However, I have no quarrel with her white gold and diamond pendant earrings. They’re gorgeous! Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Cara Buono- Georges Hobeika gown, Olgana Paris heels, Beth Miller jewelry
She looks like a Valentine but this is pretty. I really like her shoes too. Image GETTYIMAGES
Evan Rachael Wood- custom Altuzarra suit, Judth Leiber Couture clutch, Salvatore Ferragamo heels, Tiffany & Co. jewelry
I love seeing velvet on the Red Carpet, and Ms. Evan’s suit is fabulous. I love the detailing at the back of the jacket, and her styling is great. Image VOGUE.COM/ZIMBIO.COM
Emily Blunt- Roberto Cavalli Couture, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
I really like this gown- I really like this gown- I love the crocheted detailing, and the netted corset lacing on the cutout under the bustline, but I think it would have been more stunning had the base fabric been a rich colour like turquoise blue, emerald green or even a deep rose. Ms. Blunt looks stunning regardless, but a contrasting colour would have pushed this gown above and beyond fabulous. Image POPSUGAR.COM/VOGUE.COM
These dangling floral ruby, pink sapphire and diamond earrings are beyond fabulous though! Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Alia Shawkat- custom Rubin Singer gown, Edie Parker bag, Loeffler Randall shoes
This colour looks great on her and I love the subtle striped texture of the dress’ fabric. I particularly love the jewelled waist that looks like ancient Byzantine jewelry. So fab! Image POPSUGAR.COM/ZIMBIO.COM
Amy Adams- Brandon Maxwell gown, Tyler Ellis bag, Jimmy Choo heels, Cartier jewelry
This look is her Red Carpet staple, but it’s a formula that works every time. Image GETTYIMAGES
A better look at Amy Adam’s Cartier platinum, aquamarine and white diamond jewelry suite. Image TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Rashida Jones- Vivienne Westwood Couture gown, Stuart Weitzman heels, jewelry by Irene Neuwirth & Ileana Makri
I wish she’d pulled her hair back! The dress is gorgeous though. Image VOGUE.COM
Claire Foy- Valentino gown, Jimmy Choo heels, Tiffany & Co. jewelry
This is how you do sheer and whimsical! I really love the floating illusion effect created by the sheer outer dress- it looks like she’s wearing a flowery smoke cloud as a gown. Image POPSUGAR.COM
Kirsten Dunst- Christian Dior gown, Fred Leighton jewelry
Again, I really wish she’d worn her hair up- those diamonds need to be seen and appreciated! Her gown is pretty, if basic for an award ceremony, but I like it… despite those sheer rhinestone encrusted brand name straps. Image POPSUGAR.COM
These gorgeous necklaces are all vintage- the largest is a silver, gold and diamond 19th centuary fringe necklace (circa 1890s) and is worn with white gold, large diamond rivière necklaces. Image ZIMBIO.COM
Janelle Monáe- Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017 dress, Roger Vivier clutch, Stuart Weitzman heels, Chanel Fine jewelry
Only quirky and fabulous Janelle Monáe could pull this look off this well. She looks great. Image VOGUE.COM/WIREIMAGES
However, those wristlets should be burnt.
Ms. Monáe wore a plethora of Chanel diamond and pearl fine jewelry, but my favourite piece is the grey and silver pearl and diamond ‘toi et moi’ ring she wore on her left hand (the constellation ring she wore on her right hand is my second choice, then the diamond feather, then the pearl and diamond camellia flower). Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Annalise Basso- custom Bibhu Mohapatra gown, Edie Parker bag, Amrapali jewelry
This gown has also gotten lot’s of hate over it’s trailing sleeves, but this is a fabulous look. The colour, cut and drape are phenomenal on her, and really- who wouldn’t play with those gauzy, fabulous sleeves? Image VOGUE.COM/POPSUGAR.COM
Her delicate white gold, diamond and pink spinel girandole earrings are fabulous too! Image ZIMBIO.COM[/caption
Natalia Dyer- custom Miu Miu gown, Nicholas Kirkwood heels, Jacob & Co. jewelry
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I really wasn’t into this gown until I got a better look at that neckline- look at the details on those flowers! What a gorgeous bit of ornamentation, and really elevated the look of this simple gown into something really unique. I’m not entirely behind the trend of wearing red and pink together, but this gown gets a pass. Image POPSUGAR.COM
Yara Shahidi- Naeem Khan gown, Jane Taylor and Swarvoski jewelry
This is pretty and bright, a refreshing change on the Red Carpet. Image VOGUE.COM
Angela Sarafayan- Zac Posen gown, Edie Parker bag, Jimmy Choo shoes, Kimberly McDonald & Gemfields jewelry
This is really gorgeous, and that vivid fuchsia looks great with her tan! Image VOGUE.COM
I love these floral white gold and rhodium Mozambican ruby and diamond earrings. Gorgeous! Image ZIMBIO.COM
Melissa Rauch- Luisa Beccaria gown, Tyler Ellis bag, Stuart Weitzman heels, Seffy jewelry
She’s very petite, and this gown does justice to her figure without swamping her in fabric. The colour is a little too on-tone with her skintone for me to downright love it (imagine it in a metallic gold, bronze or electric blue), but it’s a pretty look and she looks great. Image POPSUGAR.COM
Kimiko Glenn- Kayat gown, Stuart Weitzman heels, jewelry by Hearts on Fire and Le Vian
Simple and surprisingly pretty. The cutout slits on the neckline and the draping under the bodice make this gown interesting enough to stand out in a crowd. Image VOGUE.COM
Octavia Spencer- Tadashi Shoji, Tyler Ellis bag, Stuart Weitzman shoes, Jacob & Co. jewelry
Tadashi Shoji did a fantastic job dressing her to be both elegant and radiant. I love the lace detailing, sheer neckline and the peplum waist- she looks beautiful. Image VOGUE.COM
A closer look at Ms. Spencer’s white gold, tsavorite garnet, white diamond and turquoise earrings. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Elizabeth Rodriguez- Paolo Sebastian gown, L’Dezen by Payal Shah and Le Vian jewelry
Estevan and I had differing opinions on this gown: he liked the cascading cape shoulders and neckline but hated the train, while I loved the train and the shoulders but disliked the neckline. We’ve agreed that it’s an overall good look, but could have benefited greatly from some editing during the design process. Image POPSUGAR.COM
Judith Light- Tom Ford gown, Judith Leiber Couture clutch, Manolo Blahnik heels, Chopard jewelry
She is the definition of #redcarpetgoals. Flawless and fabulous. Image VOGUE.COM
Laura Carmicheal- Christopher Kane gown, Neil Lane jewelry
Very simple, but very pretty, and on trend with the 90’s style slipdresses that we’ve been seeing everywhere. She looks good, but her look could have benefited from an updo and some good jewelry. Image VOGUE.COM
Sidenote: I’m pretty certain my sister wore a gown almost exactly like this (but in red) to her high school graduation in 1998. What comes around goes around…
“Carolina de Monaco”- Vogue España February 2017
Coat, bag: Chanel, Jewelry: Ansorena, Durán Madrid. Image VOGUEESPAÑA/GORKAPOSTIGO
Model: Julia van Os
Photographer: Gorka Postigo
Stylist: Sara Fernandez
Hair, makeup: Pablo Iglesias
“Erotic”- Vogue Ukraine February 2017
Blouse: Off White, Briefs: Maison Close, Jewelry: Lanvin. Image VOGUEUKRAINE/CHRISCOLLS
Model: Anja Rubik
Photographer: Chris Colls
Stylist: Julie Pelipas
Hair: Diego Da Silva
Makeup: Maud Laceppe
I’ve been a lifelong fan of Dolce & Gabbana… my folks dressed me in it as a child and it’s among the first labels I remember buying when I started shopping for myself. Their clothes all fit so well and last forever, the excess of embellishment juxtaposing clean, modern silhouettes is exactly my taste and, well, their ad’s are always on point. Furthermore, as a lover of the type of romanticized history the brand bases it’s designs on, I don’t think I’m going to be jumping ship anytime soon.
Following several seasons of in-depth explorations of traditional Italian themes, the Fall 2017 “The New Princes” collection was a slightly more toned down continuation of their recent offerings. Featuring fall’s darker colours, beautifully crafted embellishment and a level of comical kitsch that was on the verge of being too much- but wasn’t. With over 100 looks covering everything from formal, lounge and sportswear to stuffed animal backpacks and embroidered heraldic beasts, there was something for every taste. It was a playful offering, sure to bring out the child in any man.
The overwhelming media attention has focused on the show’s models- superstar millennials Cameron Dallas, Tinie Tempah, Chen Xue Dong, the Stallone sisters, Sofia Richie and others walked among a sprinkling of actual (super)models Lucky Blue Smith, Oliver Cheshire, Aurelien Muller and the like, but for me, the clothes stole the show. True- a good model is entertaining and a star like Naomi Campbell can leave a viewer awestruck, but I look at runway shows so I can see what I want to buy. So, that’s what we’ll be focusing on here.
First of all, I love the embellished metallic suits and coats. The Dolce & Gabbana Alta Sartoria fall 2015 show premiered a literal suit of gold that closed the show in every sense, but this season’s less embellished versions were no less showstopping. The gold, blue and black jacquard suit worn by Tinie Tempah, a gold and red patterned three piece and another in black velvet covered with small golden crowns were my favourites, but really, I like them all. A beautifully tailored gold and black overcoat shown over pinstriped pants and red velvet slippers was another favourite, as was a bronze, gold and black Asian-inspired paisley patterned suit. Yes, they’re not really for regular wear, but I’d definitely wear them to all sorts of parties and club nights as shown, or with other clothing.
Even the darkest non-glittery suits and outerwear were cut of uber luxurious fabrics and were so well tailored that they definitely deserve mention- Cameron Dallas’ show opening deep purple and black number, another of black embriodery, Lucky Blue’s heavy wool coat and all of the looks sent out for the show’s final walk.
Embellished sweaters were another highlight and were definitely where a lot of the show’s kitsch showed up. All manner of snarling beast, heraldic symbols, skeletons, crowned cartoon faces, a ferocious bear sweater with one furry arm and more strutted down the catwalk in Milan. To many, it’s a lot. To me- perfect! I love all the early Renaissance looking animals, Barberini gold bees and endless crowns. Even the pop art caricatures of Domenico and Stefano that were added to a button down jacket were great. True, the stuffed toy looking backpacks and hoodie were too much- and you won’t see them here, but I didn’t mind them on the runway. Though this is coming from someone with closets full of just as kitsch-y clothes, I think Dolce & Gabbana straddled the playful line perfectly.
Printed polo and silk shirts and black ruffle-fronted shirts were also outstanding and beautifully carried the Renaissance theme. The ruffled shirts were mostly shown with embellished suits and somehow didn’t at all seem out of place.
Then there were some pieces that didn’t really fit in, but I very much liked. First was a camel coat that was beautifully tailored and had a pair of embroidered knights in a square off on the chest. The length and fit on this are exceptional. Then there was a beautiful gold edged, oversized black wool tunic that has an intricate coat of arms on the front and wine red quilted lining that I will DEFINITELY be getting. It was shown over a red velvet hoodie with grey pants and looked extremely comfortable. Finally the brilliant yellow blazer and brocade, lion embroidered bomber jacket stood out among the darker shades of the rest of the collection and were definite high points. As were the pants with armor shaped fabric additions at the ankle that were shown in many colours and fabrics throughout the lineup.
Finally, you can’t talk about Dolce & Gabbana and not mention the shoes and accessories. Let’s just say I like all. Shoe wise, the label’s coveted velvet slippers were in full force and were all beautifully detailed, but the simplest boots and formal shoes were just as good. I wish they had sent a good pair of slim toe-d oxfords down the runway because I’m not a fan of boxy, rounded shoes, but even these were of obviously excellent quality. The jewelry and bags shown (minus the animal ones) were great too, and of special note was the style and number of slim bowties that appeared.
Style wise, multiple signet rings and layers of chains turned the models into modern princes and are very easy additions that bring that catwalk style into your personal wardrobe. I’ve been rocking exactly that look for years, but I think I’m going to add a few more. Dolce & Gabbana is all about that lux, so head to toe, the models exuded wealth and a certain polished joie de vivre.
It was great.
Image credits: cover photo- Dolce & Gabbana’s official Instagram page, all others via Vogue.com
My best,
Estevan
Heraklean Knot Serpent Armlet- an ancient gold, ruby and garnet upper arm bracelet
The beautiful Hellenistic period snake armlet. Image THECURATORSEYE.COM
This Central Asian treasure is dated to the Hellenistic period of Greek history, about 4th century BC- 1st century AD, and is a beautiful and unusual piece. Style-wise, the jewel displays many classical aspects of Hellenistic jewelry, depicting the intertwined bodies of two Asclepian snakes joined in the centre by a Herakles knot, adorned with two inlaid cabochon-cut garnets and a large cabochon-cut ruby. What makes this piece so unusual is the incredible attention to detail that went into it’s construction: the snakes are lifelike, with textured heads and finely detailed faces, their bodies covered in hundreds of individually applied scales. This technique has been documented on several other artifacts, and has been attributed to the Scythian culture, since several pieces of surviving Scythian jewelry are constructed similarly.
This piece was most likely worn as a protective amulet by it’s original owner as it depicts two of the most powerful protective symbols in Greek mythology- snakes and Knots of Herakles.
Underview of the snake armlet. Image THECURATORSEYE.COM
The serpent is one of the oldest and most powerful symbols of fertility and creative life force in the Greek, Egyptian and Roman civilizations. It was associated with wisdom and protection in these mythologies as they often guarded the bodies and temples of the gods. Snakes were considered lucky, and snake-styled jewelry was extremely popular as talismans against evil among the elite of these cultures. Aesculapian snakes were considered particularly special due to their association with Asclepius, the Greek god of healing and medicine, who carried a rod entwined with an Aesculapian serpent.
Detail of the head of one of the armlet’s snakes. Image THECURATORSEYE.COM
The Herakles Knot depicts a strong knot created by two intertwined ropes, and was another powerful symbol in Greek, Egyptian, and Roman beliefs. Originally used as a healing charm in Egypt, the Greeks and Romans utilized the motif in protective amulets, believing it to avert evil and illness. It was often incorporated in jewelry and clothing (most commonly girdles worn by brides), but has been found in mosaics, sculpture, metalwork and pottery. Although it was a common symbol in Hellenistic jewelry design, it’s use in combination with snake imagery is notably less so, with only two other pieces of jewelry (both armlets) having been found so far.
Detail of the Herakles Knot and gemstones. Image THECURATORSEYE.COM
Hellenistic jewelry was also quite popular outside of the Greek civilization and was coveted by the nomadic Scythians, Persians and other cultures that traded extensively with Greek settlements. This sparked a thirst for Greek art across Eurasia, influencing craftsmen to adopt the Greek style in their art and jewelry. Some styles were so perfectly copied that it is sometimes impossible to determine who crafted an item, or even exactly where it was made.
Detail of one of the armlet’s snakes. Image THECURATORSEYE.COM
Such is the case with this piece. Although it has been attributed to the Scythians, it is not known exactly where it was made as the Scythian Empire stretched across Central Asia, into the Eurasian Steppes and up the coast of the Northern Black Sea. Trade within the Empire was extensive and as the armlet is made of widely traded inorganic materials, the conclusive dating and mapping of it’s origin may be truly impossible. For now, we’ll say it’s a Scythian product.
All I know is it’s beautiful and it’s history makes it even more special to me. It’s a perfect Jewel of the Month!
Xx – Ana
The logo of the 74th annual Golden Globes Awards. Image HFPA.
The Golden Globe Awards is the first major awards ceremony of Hollywood’s annual Awards season and is really the most entertaining of the group. With this year’s Golden Globe’s over, we have the Screen Actor’s Guild Awards, the BAFTAs (not actual Hollywood, but it counts) and the Academy Awards to look forward to. With so many events following in swift succession, the stars are kicking their fashion games into high gear, and this year, many have started early!
The 74th annual Golden Globe Awards took place on January 8th at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, and there was some seriously fab fashion on show. Many of the stars showed up looking their best, but here are my favourite looks of the night!
Evan Rachel Wood- custom Altuzarra suit, Neil Lane jewelry, Judith Leiber bag, Jimmy Choo heels
My favourite look of the night! I’m always happy to see starlets show up in a suit and this is one of the best examples I’ve seen. Everything about this look is perfect- from the suit’s expert tailoring, to the styling, MUA and accessories. Image VOGUE.COM/POPSUGAR.COM
Ruth Negga- custom Louis Vuitton gown, Fred Leighton & Gemfields jewelry
This futuristic gown is one of the best things I’ve seen coming out of the Louis Vuitton ateliers in a long while, and it suited her perfectly. It’s the dress of a scifi-goddess and Ruth has both the personality and bearing to work this type of look. Her styling was incredible too- the hair and makeup is Old Hollywood glamourous and the jewelry is eye-catching enough to be interesting without distracting from the gown. Image GETTY
Another look at the jewels- a rose gold cuff with white diamond trim featuring a faceted 25.51 carat Mozambican Ruby. Image TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Olivia Culpo- Zuhair Murad Haute Couture gown, Rubeus Milano bag, Schutz shoes, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
She committed to the Frida Khalo look and it worked in an over the top way. I like seeing prints on the red carpet and this abstract floral pattern is really great. Image VOGUE.COM
Here’s a closer look of Olivia’s floral yellow gold, yellow sapphire, orange sapphire and white diamond earrings. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Natalie Portman- custom Prada gown, Tomasino clutch, Jimmy Choo heels, Tiffany & Co. jewelry
Natalie Portman has been channeling Jackie Kennedy Onassis’s classic style for a while now, and it’s a look that suits her well. She looked lovely. Image GETTY IMAGES/TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Jessica Chastain- custom Prada gown, Piaget jewelry
This colour is absolute perfection on Jessica Chastain, and is one of the main reasons that I love this look so much. The fit is also spectacular on her, and the details are gorgeous. On the whole she is red carpet perfection. Image APC/GETTY IMAGES
Here’s a closer view of Jessica’s floral lariat- style diamond necklace. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Caitriona Balfe- Delpozo gown, Jimmy Choo bag, Loriblu heels, Neil Lane jewelry
This look was a personal best for Miss Balfe’s red carpet style, and it stood out as one of the chicest looks on that red carpet. The gown is understated but elegantly bold, and she works it! Image GETTY IMAGES/VOGUE.COM
Also, I love her after party look: a gunmetal lamé Maria Lucia Hohan gown, an Emm Kuo bag, Jimmy Choo heels and Amrapali silver, diamond and enamel earrings. Image TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Claire Foy- custom Erdem gown, Fred Leighton jewelry
I didn’t like this gown when I first saw it on the red carpet since it seemed to wash out Ms. Foy’s colouring under all the harsh camera lights. Then there’s that sash… but it grew on me the more I saw it. It was love once I saw it on stage though. It’s an interesting, eye catching, glamourous gown, and one that’s perfectly suited for a lady portraying a young Queen Elizabeth. The sleeves and the colour make it a hard look for most women to pull off, but Ms. Foy looked absolutely gorgeous. Image HARPERSBAZAAR.COM/POPSUGAR.COM
Meryl Streep- custom Givenchy Haute Couture gown, Harry Winston jewelry
An absolute queen, she looked stunning from every angle. I can’t say much more than she was fantastic and I love her! Image VANITYFAIR.COM
Zoe Saldana- custom Gucci gown, Bulgari jewelry
This is perhaps one of the best Gucci gowns I’ve seen in a while and I’m happy that I’m first seeing it on Ms. Saldana. It’s such a hard style and colour to pull off that only someone with her unique style personality, beautiful colouring and bearing could ever do it justice. She looks like a chic bohemian princess in a gown that could so easily make a lesser actress look like a sad pile of frumpy chiffon. Image GETTY IMAGES/VOGUE.COM
Gwendoline Christie- Vivienne Westwood gown, Ara Vartanian jewelry
I love this look- it’s simple, it’s chic and it’s fabulous. She looks great. Image VOGUE.COM
Naomie Harris- custom Armani Privé gown, Jimmy Choo heels, Tiffany & Co. jewelry
I really, really love this gown! It’s a quintessential Hollywood look- extravagant, sexy and beautifully detailed, but Ms. Harris’ glamourous styling made it even better. Image VOGUE.COM
Her fringed while gold and diamond earrings were also some of the best jewelry I saw on the red carpet. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Naomie’s after party look also deserves a special mention (and I kind of wish that she’d saved this stunner for another award ceremony). She wore another Armani Prive gown and Tiffany & Co. Jewelry. Image GETTYIMAGES
Amanda Peet- custom Bottega Veneta gown, Ana Khouri jewelry
A clean and stunning look, she’s gorgeous. This colour is also amazing on her. Image GETTYIMAGES
Millie Bobby Brown- custom Jenny Packham gown, Edie Parker clutch, Sophia Webster sandals
Pretty and age appropriate… and I love her shoes! Image VOGUE.COM
Thandie Newton- Monse gown, Harry Winston jewelry
I love the flame effect those orange sequins created along the bottom of the skirt, leaving her looking like a glamourous phoenix! Image VOGUE.COM
A better look at her platinum and white diamond earrings and necklace. I don’t like the trend of wearing necklaces back to front, but this was an exception, all the drama at the front of the gown (the flame effect rose higher at the front) would have distracted from the beautiful rivière style necklace- worn this way, it’s much easier to admire. Image THECOURTJEWELLER
Lola Kirke- Andrew Gn gown, Chopard jewelry
A pretty, if simple look. I wish she’d gone with a more elaborate hairstyle. Image HARPERSBAZAAR.COM
Kirsten Bell- Jenny Packham gown, Harry Winston jewelry
This is one of her best red carpet looks. She look ah-may-zing! Image GETTYIMAGES.
Ms. Bell also wore some platinum and white diamond cuff bracelets, but her earrings were my favourite accessory. Harry Winston’s diamond triple hoop earrings have long been some of my favourite designs. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Viola Davis- custom Micheal Kors (gasp) gown, Judith Leiber clutch, Harry Winston jewelry
Viola Davis looks best when she takes a simple approach to her red carpet styling. This vibrant yellow sequinned gown looked spectacular, especially with it’s sleek styling. Image REX
Teresa Palmer- Armani Prive gown, Jimmy Choo clutch, Sophis Webster heels, Niwaka Collections jewelry
I love seeing velvet on the red carpet as it pushes the luxe factor of any garment up a few notches. Teresa Palmer looked Old Hollywood glamourous in this draped midnight blue number, and I loved her sleek styling and minimalist diamond and sapphire jewelry. Simply gorgeous. Image GETTYIMAGES/VOGUE.COM
Brie Larson- custom Rodarte gown, Tyler Ellis bag, Roger Vivier heels, Forevermark jewelry
She looks so gorgeous in this colour! Image VOGUE.COM
Emma Stone- Valentino Haute Couture Gown, Valentino bag, Jimmy Choo heels, Tiffany & Co. jewelry
I would have liked this gown much more had it been in a deep jewel tone since I had a hard time determining if this colour was peach, pink or ivory. Imagine it in emerald green or a sapphire blue! Still, it’s beautiful, and Emma looks great. Image VOGUE.COM/POPSUGAR.COM
A closeup of Emma’s gorgeous Tiffany & Co. archive white diamond necklace and earrings. Image THECOURTJEEWELLER.COM
Issa Rae- custom Christian Siriano gown, L’Dezen by Payal Shah jewelry
She looked so gorgeous! I loved everything about this look from the styling to the makeup, and especially the hair! Image VOGUE.COM
A closer look at Issa Rae’s gorgeous diamond drop earrings. Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
Gillian Anderson- custom Jenny Packham gown Sophie Hulme bag, Jimmy Choo shoes, Chanel Haute Joaillerie
I love this lady, she looks so fantastic! Image GETTYIMAGES
Annette Bening- Pamella Roland gown
Stunning in this glittery striped number! Yaass gorgeous Ms. Benning! Image VOGUE.COM
Georgina Chapman- Marchesa gown, Marchesa bag, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
It’s a beautiful gown and I love this colour on her, but I wish she’d worn her hair up beacuse it’s distracting from her gorgeous jewelry. Image VOGUE.COM/GETTYIMAGES
Regina King- Ramona Keveza gown, L’Dezen by Payal Shah jewelry
She looked so fabulous! She knows it, and it showed. Image GETTY IMAGES
Winona Ryder- custom Victor & Rolf gown
I can’t critique Winona Ryder’s look because it fits so well with her personality. This is the essential gothic princess gown, and it looked so good on her because it fits that dark, quirky look that she constantly wears. Had this been any other actress, it probably would have come off as frumpy and awkward. Image TOMANDLORENZO.COM
Sofía Vergara- Zuhair Murad Haute Couture gown, Lorraine Schwartz jewelry
I don’t like sparkly flesh coloured gowns and I deplore ‘cold shoulder’ type sleeves, but I’m making an exception because it’s such a departure from Ms. Vergara’s usual red carpet fare. She looks great! I’m glad she chose slicker styling to tone the whole look down. Image VOGUE.COM
Her ‘nude’ diamond fringe earrings were gorgeous! Image THECOURTJEWELLER.COM
So, which were your favourites?
Xx – Ana
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
For Pre- Fall 2017, designer Alena Akhmadullina continued her decade-long tradition of translating traditional Russian folk tales into imaginative collections full of gorgeous craftsmanship and magical imagery. Ms. Akhmadullina is a designer who tells stories through her work, and this season she drew inspiration from The Firebird; a beautiful tale involving a magical bird, a resplendent palace and a royal garden with enchanted golden apples… how fab!
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
This translated into hand-painted prints of leaves and apples, embroidered birds, feathers and flowers, furry patchwork appliqués and elaborate intarsia knits. She based her looks in rich shades of blue, deep green, ochre, gold and black, and constructed them out of lux velvets, cashmere, silk tulle, satin, dupioni silk and fur.
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Silhouettes were also suitably plush, with relaxed, slightly outsized shapes that echoed the look of pyjamas, nightdresses and robes- a look that pushed the sumptuous, dreamy feel of the collection even further. There were some traditionally regal touches to be seen in the form of sweeping robes, ruffled dresses and enormous quilted Mongolian- style coats, while cozy sweaters, soft trousers and sheer button- front blouses added a modern edge that brought all the fantasy into our time.
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Oddly enough, the pieces that I was drawn to the most were the simpler ones- plainer knits, separates and the embellished slipdresses- these were the pieces that I could see people turning to time and again. Who wouldn’t love sumptuous, luxurious staples that would add a little fantasy to every day situations.
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Alena Akhmadullina’s Pre- Fall 2017 collection was a beautifully illustrated ode to Russian culture, like a Faberge egg of the fashion world. Apart from being fabulously designed and immaculately constructed, it allowed really Ms. Akhmadullina to showcase her extensive couture training to best effect. The painted patterns were beautiful and imaginative, while all the fur embroideries and layered knitwear were spellbinding in their precise execution.
Gorgeously done!
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Our Favourites: a bright blue handpainted slipdress, a black sweater with a furry patchwork wolf at the front, a dark green quilted coat with a painted apple print, a gold handpainted brocade slipdress, a black silk coat with a painted apple print and fur collar, a black silk coat with intricate Firebird embroidery at the back, a long dark green cashmere robe with feather embroidered lapels (love the blue version as well), a gold handpainted brocade robe with satin lapels, a yellow slipdress with an embellished black tulle overlay, a black button- front jacket with embroidered birds on the pockets, an embroidered blue cashmere sweater with matching trousers and a bright blue handpainted overcoat trimmed in fur.
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Alena Akhmadullina Pre Fall 2017. Image ALENAAKHMADULLINA
Xx – Ana
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Sparkle, sequins, metallics, and even gold- tipped feathers ran a festive-looking thread thread throughout Chanel’s 2017 Métiers d’Art collection, the brand’s sixth and final runway show of 2016.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Called Paris Cosmopolite the collection was inspired by all the glitz and glamour of Paris’ Hôtel Ritz, or rather “the evening dresses that women used to wear to dine at the Ritz” (which has just been given a fabulous facelift by the way). To Mr.Lagerfeld, The Ritz is “the cosmopolitan spot par excellence”, a place that buzzes with life, glamour and joie de vivre- qualities that every one of his Chanel offerings have maintained… it makes sense that he would focus on these particular feelings to excess throughout the collection.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
“The Ritz is very gilded. Look, white with gold!” Karl Lagerfeld remarked after the show, gesturing at the lobby’s décor from his throne of a plush velvet couch. Maison Chanel has had a long history with the hotel, Madameoselle Coco famously lived there for 35 years, and the Chanel’s atelier are literally steps away from it’s back door. However, despite this famous connection, Mr. Lagerfeld emphasized that this offering was not based on Mademoselle Chanel herself, but the elegance of the hotel and its fabulous patrons who have visited throughout the years. “[There are] people from all over the world who’ve come to the Ritz. There were hundreds of dinners in the ’20s and ’30s, where women wore incredible things.”
And he truly produced some incredible things!
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Everything sparkled- almost every look was covered with some sort of glimmering adornment, and Mr. Lagerfeld piled on even more shine with metallic fabrics and glossy leather inserts. He based the majority of his looks in black and white, with deep tones of rose and dusty blue, and girly shades of blush and metallic silvery- lavender adding richly coloured accents.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
It was all gorgeous: beaded jackets, embellished blouses, capri trousers covered in sequins, crystal- encrusted evening gowns with gold embroidery and feathered trims…showstopping things that showed off the work of Chanel’s ateliers to best effect. Glammed- up versions of Chanel classics appeared as well: tweeds that dissolved into trailing fringe, slim tweed suits covered in glimmering trim, and bouclé jackets shot through with gold and embellished with pearls, tweed roses, floral embroidery and gilded Plexiglass buttons.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Plainer items like relaxed knits, tweed coats, leather trousers and sleek pantsuits were no less impressive. Their trim Parisian silhouettes and immaculate construction gave them a classic look and offered a refreshing interlude from all the glamour. A little modernity was added here and there in the form of outsized knitted cardigans, sleek knitted slipdresses, embellished crop tops and even a silky black puffer jacket- the perfect thing to wear when it’s just starting to get very cold.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
It was a great collection. Chanel’s 2017 Métiers d’Art offering was a beautifully vibrant, elegant and glamourous ode to The Ritz and it’s fabulous aura. IT was also one of the house’s most polished collections in years. Mr. Lagerfeld hit every right note and it’s bound to be an offering that resonates well with loyal brand followers and new customers.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Our favourites: a black and white tweed jacket with black leather sleeves and a draped shawl neckline, a black leather jacket with cape sleeves, a puffy white waffle- knitted coat, a gold leather jacket and matching trousers, a fringed black and white tweed coat with a matching scarf, a black tweed jacket with multicoloured fringe, a long beaded black evening jacket with a matching embellished sweater and pair of embellished trousers, a black tweed skirt suit with multicoloured beaded embellishments, an embellished black evening dress with an ostrich feather skirt, a knitted metallic silver slipdress, an outsized pink waffle- knitted cardigan, fringed gold tweed dress with a pink tapestry bodice, a black evening jacket with multicoloured sequin embroidery, an embellished gold evening gown with a gold feathered skirt, two white evening suits with floral appliqués, pearl beading and gold embroidery, a red tweed overcoat, a white skirt suit with whip- stitched detailing, a gold pailette- embellished ensemble with a cropped blouse and long skirt and a black velvet evening jacket with a matching bow- embellished organza skirt.
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
Chanel Métiers d’Art 2017. Image VOGUE.COM
