Oscar Glamour

Watching the fashion that waltzes down the red carpet during the Academy Awards is truly sometimes more entertaining than the show itself, although this year the opening had me chuckling – any dance number with Patrick Neil Harris – I can’t help but to sit down and watch.  Now that we are able to see a bit more as to what it all entails to appear as glamorous as the actresses do, there is a bit more appreciation from myself as a viewer.

As I watched in anticipation the 2010 Oscar red carpet, wondering what Rachel Zoe and other stylists had decided to put on display, only a handful really knocked my socks off, but to be fair, there weren’t too many fashion faux pas.

Jennifer Lopez in Armani Prive was absolutely stunning. She seemed relaxed and comfortable in a fabulous gown.

You either hated Sarah Jessica Parker’s Chanel Couture gown or you loved it, and I was absolutely fawning over it.  The back of the gown is what grabbed my attention in particular.  Not just anyone who could pull it off, you would have to be a mini-me, which she is.  Lovely SJP.

SJP – Chanel Couture

While I don’t feel this photo does Sandra Bullock in Marchesa the justice it deserves, I felt this was one of her personal best Oscar dresses. The bodice is what caught my eye immediately and the intricate design is beautiful.  

I only needed to get a glimpse of Demi Moore in Versace Atelier, and I was smitten.  The beautiful soft nude pink tone just shimmered.  The hair should have probably been swept off the face, but overall, one of my favorites.

While this dress may not have been meant for the Oscars, I would argue that it still brings that touch of class that is necessary, and Nicole pulled it off well.   In a frock by Reem Acra, it seems to put her new brunette look on display which only goes to complement the dress. 

Vera Farmiga in Marchesa makes an immediate statement.  The color of the night seemed to be cranberry or gold, and she fits in perfectly.

Zoe Saldana in Givenchy looked breath-taking. 

Meryl Streep in a white gown by Chris March looks simply stunning. Bon Appétit!  (I couldn’t help myself.)

And I must end it with the most dapper gentleman of the night for more reasons than just his style.  A delicious (as Oprah would say)Tom Ford, wearing of course Tom Ford.

So, I’m curious to know your thoughts.  What were your hits and misses of the evening, and if you include SJP on the miss list, you won’t hurt my feelings.

Hopefully you enjoyed the entire evening and were able to get a good night’s sleep in for the week ahead.  Bonsoir!

 

All images courtesy of TV Guide, New York Post and The Examiner

Can't Live Without

The essential item in my wardrobe that I’m realizing I can’t live without, and am not quite sure how I lived without it for so long, is the cardigan . Whether it be long or a boyfriend style, a cardigan can dress-up, class-up, or simply cover-up any outfit that is missing that extra “something”. Here are a few ways in which a cardigan can spice up your wardrobe.

Add a touch of class to dress up for dinner out on the town. -Blake Lively, courtesy of Couture in the City blog

To bring balance to an outfit with skinny jeans, add a cardigan. -Jessica Simpson

When traveling, a cardigan allows you to be comfortable, yet still stylish. -Julianne Hough

A short sleeved cardigan in a perfect neutral color (navy) for a spring or fall day. -Katie Holmes

A punch of color to a monochromatic outfit. -Vanessa Hudgens

Paired with jeans, a cami and statement making heels, a cardigan is a lovely accessory. -Kate Hudson,

courtesy of Couture in the City blog

Throw on a cardigan for a day of shopping, brunch with friends or anytime the weather is a bit temperamental. -Veronica Webb

Comfortable and yet stylish, few things can provide both. -Zoe Saldana

The cardigan that I have in my closet currently is J.Crew's forever cardigan, and I am absolutely thrilled with the versatility it brings to my wardrobe. Whether it be over a cami for drinks out with friends or over a t-shirt for garage sale hunting, I feel pulled together and ready for just about anything. I have a feeling I will be purchasing more as I am realizing they are great in both summer and winter, and I will be needing more in spring.

What's your "go-to" wardrobe item?