July 27, 2011

Designer Line I Love: Notte by Marchesa

Every awards season I always find myself swooning over Marchesa dresses. They are always the most intricate, most beautiful gowns on the red carpet. Sadly, they also have a price tag around $4,000. Spending that much for a dress is simply not happening in my lifetime. (Unless, of course, the novel I haven’t even begun writing becomes a huge blowout success and a movie is made out of it and for some reason I’m nominated for an Oscar for ‘Best Book to Become a Movie’… THEN maybe I’ll drop four grand on a dress. It could happen.)

Ali Larter in Marchesa

Kate Beckinsale in Marchesa (2009)

Reese Witherspoon in Marchesa (2008)

Anyway, much to my delight, designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig released a lower end line several years ago called Notte by Marchesa. The dresses are in the $700 range and still kinda out of my range but they just seem more attainable at that price point. Here are a few dresses from the line. What do you think?

(Note: For some reason, all these models are in ridiculous poses. Don’t let that sway your opinions of the gorgeous dresses they’re wearing.)

One-Shoulder Floral Dress in lipstick ($725)

One-Shoulder Floral Dress ($725)

Ruffle-Bodice Strapless Gown ($990)

Ruffle-Sleeve Crepe Shift Dress ($660)

Strapless Organza Ruffle Dress ($795)

See the full collection of dresses as Bergdorf Goodman.

July 25, 2011

Hope Solo & Abby Wambach: The New Mia Hamms

I grew up obsessed with Mia Hamm–and when she retired, I wondered if someone new would step up and fill her role as “BADASS FEMALE SOCCER PLAYER.” And Hope Solo and Abby Wambach have. It’s important there be cool, accessible role models for young girls who play soccer–and these two are filling those shoes very well.

Hope Solo and Abby Wambach after Brazil World Cup Game

Hope Solo and Abby Wambach celebrating after beating Brazil in 2012 World Cup

Solo and Wambach play on the women’s national team that just finished competing in the 2011 World Cup. Solo plays keeper and Wambach plays striker. And they’re awesome. Both played huge roles in getting the team into the finals–and both were great spokespeople for the team throughout the tournament. Great, great athletes that spoke honestly and succinctly after each match. It’s no wonder the country so eagerly got behind this team.

It’s too bad the World Cup is over and we have to wait another four years to see these girls in action. I’m hoping the success of the women’s team in the World Cup will give women’s soccer the jump start it needs. Seriously, if you live near a team in the Women’s Professional Soccer League, go to a few games! Particularly if you live in Southern Florida: Solo and Wambach both play for MagicJack at the FAU Soccer Stadium.

And, just because I like them so much, here are some cool photos of them:

Hope Solo on the cover of Sports Illustrated

Abby Wambach scores winning goal against Brazil in World Cup semifinal

Abby Wambach scores winning goal against Brazil in 2011 World Cup semifinal

hope solo in Nike Woman: Make yourself ad campaign

Hope Solo in Nike Women "Make Yourself" campaign (Shot by Annie Leibovitz)

Abby Wambach celebrating goal against Brazil in world cup

Abby Wambach celebrating game-winning goal against Brazil in 2011 World Cup

Hope Solo

July 22, 2011

Red-Carpet Review: Jennifer Aniston’s ‘Horrible Bosses’ Premiere Dresses

Jennifer Aniston just finished making the international rounds for her ‘Horrible Bosses’ press tour and I thought it’d be fun to review her different looks.

Jennifer Aniston at Los Angeles ‘Horrible Bosses’ Premiere

Jennifer Aniston in Balenciaga at Horrible Bosses Premiere

Jennifer Aniston in Balenciaga Dress at Horrible Bosses Premiere

As a huge sequins fan, I want to really love this dress. And while I think it’s cute, I’m not in love with it. She seems to be standing weird in it and it’s not the most flattering frock in the world.

Jennifer Aniston at London ‘Horrible Bosses’ Premiere

Jennifer Aniston in Valentino Dress at London Horrible Bosses Premiere

This stone-grey dress is pretty amazing–and those Tom Ford shoes! They are gorgeous.

Jennifer Aniston at London Press Call for ‘Horrible Bosses’

Jennifer Aniston in leather mini dress at Horrible Bosses premiere

Jennifer Aniston in leather Celine dress at Horrible Bosses Photo Call

This dress is FAB-U-LOUS! The cut is extremely flattering and it’d fun to see Aniston sporting some leather. The strappy heels look stellar too.

July 7, 2011

Emma Watson’s Fashion Faceoff: LBD vs. Long & Tiered

I’m consistently impressed by the gorgeous looks Emma Watson pulls together for the red carpet. She’s been a fashion darling for several years now and it’s been exciting to see her choices on the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows press tour.

Emma Watson Harry Potter Premiere Black Dress

Emma Watson in black Rafael Lopez dress

This short Rafael Lopez black and lace dress is just stunning on Watson. It fits her well, it’s a good length for her (not too short, not too long) and she seems to be having fun wearing it. And the belt is the perfect finishing touch. (The Chanel heels aren’t hurting either.)

For the big London premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on Thursday, Watson wore a tiered Oscar de la Renta gown. While I understand the event necessitated something a bit more formal than the black frock she wore the day before, I’m not a huge fan of this dress. The bodice is beautiful but I don’t love the color or the tiers–she appears washed out and matronly.

Emma Watson at London Premiere Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in Oscar de la Renta

Emma Watson in Oscar de la Renta at London premiere of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows'

What do you think? Which dress do you like more?

July 3, 2011

Recent Red-Carpet Commentary: Jennifer Aniston, Selena Gomez, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Ali Larter and Others

A couple of recent red-carpet looks and my thoughts on each…

Jennifer Aniston at Daily Show taping

We all know I love Jennifer Aniston’s style–and this look is no exception. I think this black Nina Ricci dress is super cute, flirty and fun. And while she’s five minutes away from being too old to wear it, I think she looks fab. (Not the hugest fan of the shoes however.)

Ali Larter

Ali Larter had a baby around the time Kai was born. And needless to say, she looks AMAZING–it’s hard to believe she gave birth just six months ago. I think she’s gorgeous–and while I don’t love her dress, I think her hair and makeup look great. And I covet her shoes.

Jennifer Love Hewitt Herve Leger Red Carpet

Jennifer Love Hewitt in Herve Leger by Max Azria

Yikes! Usually I’m a huge fan of Herve Leger dresses–in fact, if I had the figure to wear bandage dresses, I’d live in Herve Leger. But this isn’t working. Perhaps the dress is a size too small? And the top part? All wrong. (She does have great hair though.)

Ashley Greene wearing a nude lip

Ashley Greene is almost always photographed wearing red lipstick but in this photo, she’s wearing a sheer pink gloss–and it looks amazing! Greene is gorgeous but at times I’m distracted by what feels like heavy makeup. And this is a refreshing look for her. Check plus.

Selena Gomez is pretty in purple

Selena Gomez is only 18 years old but she’s one of the best dressed celebrities this year. She always looks classy and cute. I can’t wait to see how her style evolves and pray she avoids the path previously taken by Miley Cyrus.

Pippa Middleton in Tania black knit dress

Pippa Middleton’s maid of honor dress at the Royal Wedding was drop-dead gorgeous–but she’s yet to hit another high note (in my opinion.) Until this little black number. Middletown looks super cute in this Tania black knit dress. Young, flirty, fun… perfect. I wonder if it’s a fluke or if she’s back on track…

June 27, 2011

Katie Holmes Nails It in Midnight Blue Dress

I already wrote about this dress for Popeater.com, but I loved it so much I thought I’d give it some extra love on the Hot Pink List.

Katie Holmes Don't Be Afraid of the Dark

Katie Holmes in midnight blue Contrarian dress

The basics:
Dress: Contrarian
Shoes: Lanvin
Bracelet: Lanvin

This dress is gorgeous and Katie looks sensational in it. The color is great, the shoe color is perfect and her hair and makeup complement the whole look very well.

Check plus, Mrs. Cruise, check plus.

Love the nude heels Katie paired with the dress

katie holmes don't be afriad of the dark premiere

Love Katie's hair and makeup

Katie Holmes at the Don't Be Afraid of the Dark premiere at the Los Angeles Film festival

Pockets!! Lovelovelove the pockets.

***My very hip and stylish friend Ann Marie just told me this dress is available at Singer 22 in lavender. The price is surprisingly just $381!

April 15, 2011

Today’s List: Movies I Always Watch When They’re On TV (That Are Kind of Embarrassing)

Note: This is not a list of movies I love. It’s a list of movies I’m embarrassed to admit I love. Please don’t make too much fun of me….

Up Close and Personal (1996)

Up Close and Personal
Maybe it’s because I’m a writer and by extension, sometimes feel like a journalist. Or maybe it’s because when I saw it in the theater with my mom, she turned to me at the end and said, that will be you! Or maybe it’s just because Robert Redford is extremely confident and sexy in this role. The reason doesn’t matter: I ALWAYS watch this movie when it’s on. I’ve seen it no less than 25 times. I’ve memorized Michelle Pfeiffer’s every mannerism. I know Robert Redford’s every move. I still cry at the end.

A Knights Tale (2001)

A Knight’s Tale
For some reason, this movie makes me feel like I’m in on a private joke with the filmmakers. Every character makes me laugh. Plus, I fell in love with Paul Bettany in this movie.

The American President (1995)

American President
I’m not AS embarrassed by this one–it’s written by Aaron Sorkin after all. But Michael Douglas is so likable in this role. And you can almost see Sorkin casting Douglas’ chief of staff, Martin Sheen, as the President in his next big project, The West Wing.

Wimbledon (2004)

Wimbledon
Tennis, funny one-liners and Paul Bettany. Done.

Armageddon (1998)

Armageddon
How mortifying is this? For some indescribable reason, I love this movie. I love every one-liner uttered by Bruce Willis, every ridiculous ‘we-need-to-save-the-world’ cliche and every scene with Billy Bob Thorton. Yes, you read that correctly: I LOVE BILLY BOB THORNTON IN THIS MOVIE. I know. I’m shocked too.

Independence Day (1996), Transformers (2007) and Star Trek (2009)

Independence Day/Transformers/Star Trek
Who am I? (I told you this list would be embarrassing.)

Selena (1997)

Selena
I have no defense.

April 13, 2011

Hot Spring Trend: Bold and Bright Handbags

I’m looking for a new handbag. Something cute, bright and fun for summer. Maybe yellow or something equally as bright. (I know, I know, I’m known for my love of all things black, but it’s time to lighten up!)

Since it’s my first foray into color, I’d like to keep the spending under $600. Also, Nick would kill me if I hovered into Chanel territory again so soon. Here are some cute options I’ve found:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Karlie Leather Clutch

Marc by Marc Jacobs Karlie Leather Clutch in Dandelion

I am usually not a Marc Jacobs kinda gal. His cuts and prints are SO not me. But this little clutch might be the perfect mini-step into the world of bright purses. Plus, I’m a hardware fanatic, and the detail here is Tracey-approved. ($250, net-a-porter.com)

Jimmy Choo Tilda Patent Tote

Jimmy Choo Tilda Patent Tote in Red

Okay, okay, so this isn’t under $600. But I love the color and patent leather so much that I had to throw it in. I’ve always been a big fan of Jimmy Choo handbags but for some reason have never pulled the trigger. This might be a fun first dip into the Choo pool. ($950, neimanmarcus.com)

Prada Striped Canvas Clutch

Prada Striped Canvas in Yellow

How cute is this? It feels so ’80s preppy. I love the stripes, the colors and the shape. ($595, saksfifthavenue.com)

Kate Spade Chrystie Street Large Anisha
and
Kate Spade Flicker Bon Shopper
Yikes! Much like Marc Jacobs, I’m usually not a Kate Spade person. But when it comes to color, she really knows what she’s doing. I couldn’t decide these two so I decided to post both.

Kate Spade Chrystie Street Large Anisha in Vine

Top handle bags are big trend for Spring and this one is such a fun color. At $445, it’s a good price a fun, new bag. ($495, katespade.com)

Flicker Bon Shopper in Sunshine

Love the yellow. Simple, bright, fun, affordable—perfect for the beach. ($225, katespade.com)

Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote in Poppy

Foley + Corinna Mid City Tote in Poppy

I love the shape of this bag. I love that you can carry it by the handles or fold it over and wear as a shoulder bag with its cute detachable strap. I almost bought this last month in black (surprise!) but perhaps this shade would be more fun for summer. ($395, shopbop.com)

Michael Kors Gia Flap Leather Shoulder Bag

Michael Kors Gia Flap Leather Shoulder Bag in Daffodil

Clearly I’m leaning towards yellow based on the number of yellow bags I’ve featured in this post and while this isn’t my favorite yellow one in the bunch, I think it’s really cute. It’s perfect if you have an office job and need a bag with clean lines. The hardware is nice too. ($595, saksfifthavenue.com)

Unrelated sidenote: I’m loving the bags in the Victoria Beckham line. Very sharp lines and pretty handles. But, if I’m going to drop between $2,600 and $4,500 on a bag, it’s probably not going to be on a VB bag….

March 11, 2011

Haute Look: Kate Middleton and Her Burberry Trench

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted, but nothing’s inspired me quite as much as the Burberry Trench Kate Middleton was spotted in at an official engagement with Prince William. This wool trench with frilled hem makes me wish I didn’t live in tropical weather!

Kate Middleton in her Burberry Trench

Kate Middleton Burberry Trench Coat Wool

Kate Middleton in Burberry Trench

I’m OBSESSED with the flare at the bottom — so fun and flirty! I’m a big, big fan of this overall look. Apparently this coat sold out in most sizes one day after she was photographed in it — I’m not surprised. It’s gorgeous. The look is fresh from the label’s spring/summer 2011 line.

This wool coat isn’t cheap at $995 BUT no one ever said Burberry trench coats were cheap! Check it out at Burberry’s site here.

What do you think? Do you like it?

October 22, 2010

Best Dresses of 2010, Friends Edition

After months of anticipation (ha!), I’m excited to present the Best Dresses of 2010, Friends Edition!

Back in July, I asked friends and friends of friends to send in photos of their favorite dresses. I also did some trolling on Facebook and found some gorgeous frocks as well. After sifting through all the submissions, I’ve narrowed down the list to these 11. They are in no particular order… but they are all fabulous!

Thank you to everyone who submitted and for all of you who allowed me to use your photos and dresses.

Elyssa C
Blaque Label

Elyssa C in Blaque Label

I love everything about this dress: the color, the length, the shoulder ruffle, the skirt around the waist… everything. And it fits Elyssa perfectly.

Kelly M
Diane von Furstenberg

Kelly M in Diane von Furstenberg

The print of this dress is so wild and fun–and Kelly pulls it off wonderfully. You need a little sass in your style to wear this dress and Kelly does this effortlessly. Love the length and fit too.

Kristen S
Tibi

Kristen S in Tibi

Kristen is one of the most stylish people I know. And with her model-like figure, she wears designer clothes beautifully. This Tibi dress is no exception. Fits her flawlessly… just gorgeous.

Hannah M
Catherine Malandrino

Hannah M in Catherina Malandrino

I love love love this yellow — and it looks so pretty on Hannah. Can you tell I like shoulder detail? The ruffles on this are so feminine and sweet. A perfect dress for a wedding!

Gillian B
Rebecca Taylor

Gillian B in Rebecca Taylor

I love how timeless this dress is–the cut, the sleeves, the pencil skirt. And Gillian wears it supremely — you can feel (and see!) the fun she’s having while wearing it. Love the splash of red too.

Meredith R
Marc Bouwer

Meredith R in Marc Bouwer

I love Meredith’s unique sense of style: what she does with clothes always amazes and impresses me. And this dress is no exception. I love the color, the crystal detail, and the one-shoulder top. Super fun shoes too!

Chelsea G
Wolford

Chelsea G in Wolford

How hot is this dress?! Chelsea is absolutely rocking it. I love the bodice, the colors… and I’m also just a tad obsessed with the shoes! Fits her like a glove.

Megan S

Megan S

The material, the fit and the colors of this dress create a look that screams effortless chic. And that’s just how I see Megan. She’s a mother of four that always looks put together in a classy and fun way. Love this!

Holly P
Alice + Olivia

Holly P in Alice + Olivia

I’m a total sucker for two-tone dresses and this one is fabulous. I love the strapless top, the length, the belt and the way it fits Holly superbly! You just can’t go wrong with Alice + Olivia dresses–they are always so fun!

Jen S
Nicole Miller

Jen S in Nicole Miller

Few people can pull off a dress this sassy and form-fitting, but Jen nails it. I’ve been loving Nicole Miller’s funky fabrics the past few seasons and Jen shows how to really rock it. I also love the collar of this dress: classy and feminine with a touch of flirt.

Meredith D
Aqua

Meredith D in Aqua

I was looking for the perfect little black dress to feature–and this was the hands-down winner. Aside from being a fun party dress, it really highlights Meredith’s showstopper legs. Not to mention those Pour Le Victoire heels. Hot, hot, hot!