28.2.11

FASHION REPORT: 2011 Oscars Red Carpet

I was asked to write a review on the Oscars 2011 red carpet fashion for the Birmingham Mail, below is the full review and the article published on Tuesday 1st March 2011.
The report is structured in more of a bullet point format as to make it easier for the journalist to insert the writing into her article. 
  
The Oscars red carpet is known for its glamour, elegance and outstanding talent, and this year’s 2011 ceremony didn’t disappoint. 
Michelle Williams, Best Actress nominee for her role in Blue Valentine dressed in a semi sheer, grey-toned nude Channel dress, with a rounded neckline and flattering half sleeves. Simple and neutral makeup with the most perfect and classic blonde pixie hair-do. So modern yet so elegant.
The biggest fashion statement would have to go to Cate Blanchett in a couture gown by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy, a cutout front with structured shoulders, the most divine complimenting embellishment and definitely on trend in shades of lavender, just perfect for spring/summer 2011. 
Unsurprising glamour from Sandra Bullock presenting this year at the ceremony, in a stunning red Vera Wang dress with a modest low-cut back and balconette neckline. Minimal jewellery. She epitomises the true elegance of the Oscars.
Like her breath taking performance in Black Swan, Natalie Portman looked radiant in an off the shoulder, deep plum tone Rodarte gown, beautifully embellished to flatter an ever-expanding baby bump. Simply accessorised with Tiffany & Co jewellery, wearing tassel earrings that added an up to date edge to her classic look. Glowing and natural makeup teamed with sleek relaxed waves in a romantic side parting. Who would have thought she could have topped the Viktor and Rolf dress at her golden globe appearance? Portman’s Black Swan co-star, Mila Kunis sported a feminine yet sexy lavender Elie Saab dress with romantic lacing and loose draping, just beautiful.
Amy Adams nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Fighter, wore a L'Wren Scott navy/dark blue sequin embellished gown with a round neckline, capped sleeves and figure hugging form.
Hillary Swank dressed in a silver sequined Gucci dress, as usual sleek hair and minimal makeup perfect for the occasion. Grey and silver toned with feathered train and a dusty pink clutch compliments the overall look. 
A different look for Scarlett Johansson this year, wearing a lace Dolce and Gabbana dress, with cut out back that oozed Johansson sex appeal. The usual Johansson effortless rebel hair-do paired with flawless makeup and a sultry smoky eye. Not necessarily badly dressed just arguably not glamorous enough for the occasion.
A more daring look from Nicole Kidman this year on the fashion front with brightly coloured heels, an on-trend statement for spring/summer 2011. Nominated for Best Actress for her performance in Rabbit Hole.
Mr Robert Downey Jr. changing up the scope for men’s attire on the red carpet, in a dark navy suit crisply outlined with satin edging, white shirt and ivory satin tie. 
Christian Bale dressed in a Gucci navy suit paired with a silk black tie, should have been clean-shaven and smoother 
round the edges like Hugh Jackman, who just sums up the perfect Oscars gentleman.
Most creative look goes to Helena Bonham Carter who collaborated with Alice in Wonderland costume designer Colleen Atwood, to create a black corseted dress, celebrating what the Oscars is really all about, the talent and skill across the board in film making.
My fashion expertise were quoted in the Birmingham Mail (as shown above)

14.2.11

PARIS

 
Someone dropped that apple off in the wrong city.
I could eat Crème Brûlée for breakfast, dinner and tea.
We looked at the Eiffel Tower from literally top to bottom.
You just can’t get a decent brew over there, 
sometimes its even blue. 
The last time. We went off the beaten path and found the café where the Jean-Pierre Jeunet film, Amelie was filmed. To me, there is nothing better than walking onto a film set. It was such a cute and mischievous story and to get to see the real life setting just makes the story that little bit more real? 
Just magic!
What wasn't magic, were the more than grotty toilets. 
They could challenge a London public toilet any day, i'll tell you. However. 
One glass of lemonade and a tiny snoop around and I was content. 
This time. I found these at a market, I think i'll make them into rings or maybe a broach?
The Parisian style is a classic one, a vulnerable one. 
Understated beauty with subtle sophistication and a timeless elegance that I really admire. 
While I'm there I want to look girly and romantic, frilly and powdered. 
I'm just not girly enough for you Paris. 
I think I'm more of an Amsterdam girl...