Last night, I watched the 2009 American Music Awards which was held in the Nokia Center in Los Angeles and was shocked and awed at all the fashions. I thought it would be fun to make a list of the top 5 fashion misses at the 2009 AMAs.

Image: Zuma Press

1.  Paula Abdul – Can this mermaid dress be any tighter? She was the first presenter and she had a lot of trouble walking over to the mic. It’s a beautiful dress but it was way too tight and way too much for her small frame.

Image: Zuma Press

2. Shakira – She’s fabulous, no doubt but this outfit was just a total miss for me. I love how she took a risk with the bright yellow colour but she could have a chosen a more age-appropriate style. And the shoes! There’s just way too much going on.

Image: Zuma Press

3. Rihanna – Stunning gal and equally stunning Marchesa dress but somehow they don’t look quite right together. I think it’s the shoes? Maybe something open toe would have been a better choice. Whatever the case, this dress was way over the top.

Image: Zuma Press

4. Chani Christie (singer/daughter of NBA player Doug Christie) – Too short, too tight! Did I mention she’s only 16? Not a good look on such a pretty girl.

Do agree with the list above? Shall we have to agree to disagree? Who are some of the celebrities on your fashion miss list for the 2009 American Music Awards?  Stay tuned for my fashion hit list from the awards show!

Post from: The List Maven

Here are just of my favorite (beauty and style) things:

1. Clarisonic – Since I started using this a little over a year ago, I think my skin has noticeable improvement.
2. Pink – Not just because it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month either!  Pink has always been a color that I’ve loved, and with so many shades, it’s flattering to nearly every skin tone.  And it’s available in clothing, lipstick, blush, and nail color.
3. Heels – I’ve always loved them, giving rise to the theory — so many heel, so little time.
4. Jeans – No matter the cut, the wash, or the label, nothing says sexy like a great fitting pair of jeans.
5. Bare Escentuals foundation – While I continue to sample everything else that comes out, I always go back to this favorite.
6. Black – My wardrobe staple, and a solid base to build from.  Having a staple like this means everything I buy will go with numerous things in my closet.
7. Ballet flats – Normally a heels gal, I broke my foot earlier this year and had to re-discover flats.  They’ll still never replace my heels, but ballet flats can pull together a casual or evening outfit.
8. Body scrubs – Although I love going to a spa for a body scrub, even using it at home helps keep all those dry bits of skin at bay.
9. Scarves – A simple and inexpensive way to change an outfit, and to turn drab into wow.  Done well, it almost makes me feel European.
10. Louis Vuitton hand bags – Especially when you can buy them at the flagship store in Paris.
11. iPhone – With all the available apps, you’ll never be far away from all the information you need.
12. Kiehl’s Silk Groom – This simple, all-purpose product help keep me well coiffed in addition to making my hair feel soft.
13. Diamond Studs – Part of any earring wardrobe, these can be worn with an evening gown or jeans.
14. Gold Hoops – The best size will depend on your face structure and hair, but every girl needs a pair.
15. Bubble Bath – The ultimate in relaxation.  Better with a book or magazine.  Even better with a glass of wine.
16. Pajamas – Whether for sleeping, lounging, or a romantic evening, I love my pajamas.
17. Massage – Nothing takes the stress out of my body like a deep tissue massage, and every time I have one, I tell myself not to wait so long before the next.
18. New York Times – A cup of coffee and the Sunday style section makes for a great weekend.
19. Hats – I used to wear them more often, and I think I’m ready to get back into wearing them again.  The classic fedora for the fall and winter may be a way to ease back into the trend.
20. Make up Bags – For travel, for home, for in the car, for at my desk, I love pretty little bags to keep my necessities in.
21. Animal Print – I wasn’t sure that I could wear this trend, but there are so many different choice that everyone can find a way to pull it off.
22. Champagne – The perfect thing to hold in your hand when your wearing a little black dress.
23. Mascara – Some how, even if I’m not totally pulled together, mascara makes it look like I am.
24. White shirts and blouses – They always look fresh, go with everything, are easy to accessorize, and with enough styles and fabrics that you can’t own enough.
25. Prada Infusion D’Iris perfume – My current go-to fragrance.
26. Paris – Fashion capital of the world, and where women don’t get fat.
27. Kindle – To read all that great chick lit and fashion biographies.
28. Pedicures – My feet are not terribly attractive, but a good scrub and polish gets them sandal-ready.
29. InStyle – Probably my favorite fashion magazine.
30. Splendicity – Reading every day keeps me up on the newest designers, latest trends, and all the new products coming out.

What are your favorite things?

Photo credit:  SXC

Post from: The List Maven

Since I’m recently back from Europe, where even casual wear like shorts and a t-shirt looks incredibly chic, so those are the cities that I first though of.  But where else?

Milan Fashion Week: Cynthia Rowley

In a recent survey, by trend-tracking group Global Language Monitor, here are the top 10 Most Fashionable Cities:

1. Milan
2. New York (last year’s number 1)
3. Paris
4. Rome
5. London
6. Los Angeles
7. Hong Kong
8. Sao Paulo
9. Sydney
10. Las Vegas

If you’re looking for fashionable US cities, these ranked top in the survey:

1. New York
2. Los Angeles
3. Las Vegas
4. Miami
5. Dallas
6. Atlanta

The survey is based upon results of a proprietary algorithm that tracks words and phrases in print and electronic media, on the internet, and throughout the blogosphere.  The words and phrases are tracked in relation to their frequency, contextual usage and appearance in global media outlets.

What do you think?  Did the Global Language Monitor’s algorithm get it right?  Are these the cities that you think of as the most fashionable?

Photo credit: Art Comments @flickr

Post from: The List Maven

Image: WWD

From WWD:

Curated by Harold Koda of the Costume Institute and guest curator Kohle Yohannan, the exhibit features 86 looks arranged mostly by era. It welcomes visitors with a take on perhaps the most iconic model image of the past century — a life-size, three-dimensional re-creation of Richard Avedon’s Dovima, with a mannequin in the dress by Yves Saint Laurent for Christian Dior, and life-size die-cut boards of elephants. The centerpiece in the room devoted to the Sixties has a rotating platform featuring aluminum dresses from Klein’s cult movie classic, while a Seventies vignette of looks from Yves Saint Laurent and Halston reenacts a scene from Studio 54.

Image: WWD

So just what is it about models? There is a mystery and delightful appeal to the high fashion world, especially for those of us who are on the outside looking in. In the off chance that you find yourself at “The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion”, you will naturally want to make sure you have brushed up on all your model related trivia and are ready to impress everyone with your knowledge of all things fashion.

1. Haute Couture was established in Paris by Charles Worth in 1858.
2. The Lacoste crocodile is considered to be the first logo to appear on garments.
3. Vogue was launched in 1892 as a weekly society magazine – it wasn’t until Conde Naste took it over in 1909 that it really took off.
4. Supermodels Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista were known as The Trinity during their reign of the 1990s.
5. Janice Dickenson first proclaimed herself to be The World’s First Supermodel…and has been reminding us every day since.
6. In France, the label of Haute Couture is protected by Law. The Syndical Chamber of Haute Couture requires that each fashion house show at least two collections every year. Each collection must be made up of 35 separate outfits for daytime and evening wear.
7. Hurbert de Givenchy met Hepburn during the filming of Sabrina in 1953, and is credited for creating ‘The Audrey Hepburn look’. He went onto design the wardrobe of many of Hepburn’s most loved films.
8. Though the names Manolo Blahnik, Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo might come to mind, “The Heel King” Roger Vivier is actually the original creator of the stiletto heel.
9. In post-war 1947, the “New Look” was introduced by Christian Dior, which included thin waists and droopy shoulders. After Dior released his look, Paris was known for fashion.
10. Stiletto is a Renaissance-era Italian word for an assassin’s narrow-bladed knife.

Image: WWD

Images: WWD

Post from: The List Maven

1. Penelope Cruz and her also super fashionable sister Monica have developed 25 piece line of clothing and accessories for the brand.

2. Tomboyish plaids are paired up with a girly neckline and sleeves for a unique take on your typical cowboy look.

Image: Bauer Griffin

3. Limited edition Solidarity t-shirts are cute and fun – with profits going toward the Artículo 1./ Foundation, whose main aim is to spread the message of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights through art.

4. Their bohemian dresses are reasonably priced, ranging from $100-200 each.

Image: Bauer Griffin

5. I have a feeling you are in the market for a new belt buckle or two, aren’t you?

6. The Spanish brand has developed a strong international presence, but so far it hasn’t quite crossed over to being everywhere like some other clothing companies that have crossed the pond.

7. In case, you don’t live nearby a Mango (or MNG, as they are branded in the US), they ship almost everywhere.

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But if you have any doubt about the staying power of leggings, take a look around the fashionable streets of Europe.  There they are worn by women of all ages and shapes.  I think they’re here to stay. . . at least for a little while.

Basically, leggings are tight, form-fitting trousers (not tights!) that generally go from waist to ankle.  You will find them made of lycra and any number of fabrics, from cotton to cashmere or silk.  I picked up a beautiful pair of cashmere leggings in Paris, and while a bit of an indulgent purchase, have worn them a lot.

Here are 4 fashionable legging choices from the Los Angeles boutique of  Ron Herman.

Grey pinstripe leggings, $98; Black zippered ankle leggings $108.  Black leather leggings $1,668; Tuxedo leggings $85.

Are you wearing leggings?

Image credit:  Ron Herman

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If you haven’t hopped on the bandwagon, here are some great red selections that will make your irresistible all through spring and summer.

Sunburst Ponte Dress from BCBG MAX AZRIA, is a sleek pullover dress with nice stitched details at the bodice and waist.  $218 at Sak’s.

French Connection Women’s Solar A-Line Dress has a sweetheart neckline, with a fitted bodice.  $178 at Bloomingdale’s.

The lean shaped cardigan from Simply Vera by Vera Wang is perfect for adding a little warmth over a summer cami, for belting over a sundress, or simply throwing on over a tee and jeans.  $40.80 (sale priced) at Kohl’s.

The hoodie is a staple for every casual wardrobe, and this one from Mossimo comes in comfy french terry.  Snap pockets are convenient for safely holding necessities.  $22.99 at Target.

This simple Miley Ribbed Tunic features a ribbed bodice and a coordinating ribbed banded hem.  Wear as a mini, over skinny jeans, or slip on some leggings.  $17.80 from Forever 21.

If you have to wear a coat, this mid-thigh length Gallery Fit & Flare Twill Trench is a perfect blend of fashion and function.  With a shapely cut and fashionable pleated skirt, you don’t have to give up femininity when you put on a coat.  $128 from Nordstrom.

What are you waiting for?  Put a little RED in your life!

Photo credits:  Sak’s, Bloomingdale’s, Kohl’s, Target, Forever 21, Nordstrom

Post from: The List Maven

So add a little heart and soul into you your life with these treats that are appropriate all year long:

Genuine Murano Glass Heart Pendant.  I developed an appreciation of Murano glass after my visit to Italy last year, and this heart-shaped pendant makes a unique and artistic bauble.  Handmade in Italy, with 24-karat gold foil, this heart hangs from a contrasting cord.  On sale now at Overstock.com for $29.69.

The cat lover can celebrate that special bond with their four-footed friends with this fabric covered heart from Heart Art Creations ($54).  Non-pet lovers can scoff all they want, but the rest of us know how our cat sits through the crying chick flicks with us, curls up and purrs when we’re mourning a break up, and stays by our side when we’re sick.  That’s says unconditional love to me!

Sleep in hearts with this Heart Pant from PJ Salvage.  Soft, lightweight, and perfect for snuggling up in, these sleep pants feature hearts and roses in a tattoo print.  Sweet dreams!  Available from Urban Minx, $53.

Take your heart to the beach, with these Heart Sandals from Victoria Secret.  Perfect for the beach or the pool, these come in yellow, pink and blue.  Pick one to suit your personality.  Or, at this price ($24.50), you can get a pair in every color.

Need something to put all those lipsticks and eye shadows in?  As a frequent traveler, this Quilted Heart Cosmetic Case caught my eye as perfect for packing all my cosmetic essentials.  With a lined interior and a mirror beneath the lid, this is a bargain at $10.80 from Forever 21.  It comes in pink and black.

If you need one more hoodie in your wardrobe, this one with Swarovski crystals from Twisted Heart is a great one to add.  The crystals form a sparkling heart on the back of the hoodie, as well as trim two front pockets.  Raw edges at the top of the waistband, cuffs, and pockets keep it from being too-too sweet.  It’s even machine washable.  $209 at Nordstrom.

Image credits:  Overstock.com, Heart Art Creations, Urban Minx, Victoria Secret, Forever 21, and Nordstrom.

Post from: The List Maven

When it’s time to look and act like a professional, you need to start off with quality core wardrobe items.  Those things that are classic in cut, color, and style, and which will last for years.  (Think Audrey Hepburn or Princess Grace.) Although these pieces may cost more initially, classic styles can last forever, giving your pieces a very low amortized cost.

When it comes to core items buy the very best that you can afford.  Get things tailored so they fit well because an expensive item with a sloppy fit will look cheap.

Here are 6 core wardrobe pieces to build around:

1. A suit.  Even if you don’t work in a suit environment, you’ll need one for job searches, interviews, or photo ops.  Change the blouse and your accessories, and it can do double duty for a wedding, funeral, or business related event.  Black and navy are classic choices, but any solid neutral will be fine.
2. A little black dress.  Opt for a simple classic style that can be paired with a jacket and go from the boardroom to the dance floor with a change shoes and accessories.
3. Classic blazer.  Find a color that coordinates with the suit, and you expand your versatility with just one piece.
4. Pair of tailored slacks.  Forget the cropped and the hip huggers, and choose a traditional classic trouser cut in a neutral color that coordinates with your suit.
5. Blouse.  One dynamite blouse that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for business or evening wear.  Choose a simple style that will look good under a suit or tucked into jeans.  White is the most classic, but any basic color will do.
6. Jeans.  These are not your garden variety work in the garden jeans.  These are jeans that fit you like a glove and make you look and feel like a million bucks!

You can mix and match these items with some of your inexpensive and trendy clothes and give them a whole different look.  Classic don’t have to be boring, after all.   And as your budget expands, and your personal style evolves, these essential are the basis from which your wardrobe will grow.

Did I miss anything?  What do you think are the core essentials for building a wardrobe.

Photo credit: Armani from Neiman Marcus

Post from: The List Maven

Since most of us don’t have a stylist coming in every day to help us pull our wardrobe together, try hanging one of these calendars on your wall for a daily reminder to be fashion forward.

Here’s four to choose from.  (My favorite is the shoes!)

Images:  All from Amazon

Post from: The List Maven