Ladies in Red: Heidi Klum and Taylor Swift

Let there be no mistake. Red is a trend. Over the past few days there has been a plethora of celebs dressed in red for their functions. In addition, today is World Aids Day, and so wearing red (as I am today) shows some support for this worthy cause. But let's just take a look at how is can be done BRILLIANTLY, starting with Heidi Klum. I mean, c'mon on! She looks incredible. Red on red on red. Michael Kors simplicity and power is what it is. Damn. And even lil'ole Taylor Swift looked all kinds of lovely last night with her matching red lips and dress. Accessorised in gold. Stunning.

Serena Williams (in Donna Karan), Kristen Johnson (in Antonio Berardi) and Jessica Simpson amongst many others have also had their red dresses on recently. This, people, is a trend. Mark it. Wear it. Love it. It's hot.

Miranda Kerr in Dolce & Gabbana Leopard Print Bustier Dress

The Victoria Secret 2011 Show was broadcast on US television on Tuesday night, and the Angels were out in force to support it at the viewing party. It made me think about how lovely I have been finding Miranda Kerr's outfits of late. I am not sure why, but every look - casual or formal - seems to charm me. Particularly since she seems to be smiling an awful lot these days. Miranda wore a Dolce & Gabbana leopard print dress to the party, but earlier in the day was seen in her favourite leather skinnies, and the night before was resplendent in a slashed-to-the-thigh dress and gold belt that smacks of Michael Kors.

But it is her off-duty looks that I like. Skinny legs with ballet flats or booties, paired with great jackets and longer length top pieces. Great style and easy to emulate. Accessorise with a smile.

Looks I Loved This Weekend: Jessie J, Florence Welch and Heidi Klum

You know how I love this post every week. Unrelated, fashion stunners which I show you based purely on the fact that I loved them. Starting this week with songstress Jessie J. It always amuses me when I post on Jessie. I get like NO traffic. You guys are just not on board. Fair enough, she usually wanders around in colourful leotards and Doc Martens. But what's wrong with that when she looks so good? And she actually manages to cover up mostly, rather than letting it all hang out so... Anyway, every now and again, she stuns us with classic beauty. And her appearance on UK X-Factor this weekend was one of those. I love the black lace and the floor sweeping skirt. Love.
Then there was my absolute favourite favourite of the British songstrells, Florence Welch. In head to tow vintage, bar the awesome Mulberry bag. Jislaaik. I freaking love this look. All navy and burnt orange. Seriously.
And then take a look at Ms Heidi Klum. In her animal print Louboutins. That is all. Enjoy.

Lanvin's Christmas Whimsy for The Dorchester Hotel

The annual London-based, five star, Dorchester Hotel Christmas tree, is always designed by some famous designer person. Last year it was DvF. This year it has been designed by Lanvin creative director Alber Elbaz. How exciting for us fashion folks. Guests arriving in the hotel's Art Deco lobby will spot that the tree wanders whimsically from tradition in several key elements, notably the inclusion of Alber himself as the 'fairy' at the top of the tree, complete with his trademark spectacles and bow tie. It also includes a Claridge's doorman and a hotel maid dressed in Lanvin-designed uniforms.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr Elbaz said: "The concept of the Christmas Tree decoration is to create an installation that carries the spirit of Lanvin, an infusion of tradition and modernity at the same time. The tree is to emanate and bring heartwarming joy to all who work and stay as guests at Claridge's hotel. It's my way to wish them a very Merry Christmas."
The Christmas tree will be in the hotel until January 2, 2012 so if you are in London this festive season, go and have a peek. How fun. Festive fashion fun.

Gotham Independent Film Awards 2011 Red Carpet Best Dressed

There is no doubt for me who was the best dressed at the Gotham Independent Film Awards on Monday night. First it was Charlize Theron, obvs. See previous post. Then it was Elizabeth Olsen. She didn't win for best breakthough actor. But she definitely won in Valentino. Stunning. Sometimes dressing up pays dividends. And then third place was secured firmly by The Swinton. As one has come to expect Tilda Swinton wore Haider Ackermann. And it works. Seriously. Hands down. Love.

And then there were some other girls who looked lovely. I adore Judy Greer with almost everything I have. And she looked shimmery and curvy and sexy and lovely in a gold cocktail dress. Then the person who did win best breakthrough actor, Felicity Jones, wore a peppermint Proenza Schouler frock. Apparently we need to keep a style-eye on this young lady. So let's do that. And then one of my televisual favourites, Sarah Poulsen, also looked all kinds of lovely in this silver dress. I could do with that in my wardrobe, no?

Charlize Theron Wins At Gotham Independent Film Awards

Oh how happy I was when I heard that onse very own Charlize Theron was back in the awards. Getting a special tribute award for acting at the Gotham Independent Film Awards on Monday night, alongside master Gary Oldman, Charlize has kicked off awards season with a win. And I LOVED her Gucci outfit. The twenties are definitely back with the dropeed waist and slashed v-neck. All totally on trend. And yet, Charlize made it look entirely fresh. I also adored the headband and pink lips. Super cute for the season.

Charlize had arrived with a great evening coat. An evening coat is one of those unprioritized items in a wardrobe, but when you get it right, it is stunning. Also, earlier in the day, Charl has donned a tuxedo jacket with her rather impressive brick-coloured jumpsuit. And I don't mean that in a good way. Moving on.

Eva Mendes New Romance Style (with Ryan Gosling)

I have loved Eva Mendes for many years. Since I saw Hitch, I believe. She was about as sexy a woman as I have ever seen. And lovely with it by all accounts. And now there is a new romance afoot. With none other than the delectable Ryan Gosling no less. I mean there is a hottie if ever there was one.

She is in Paris currently filming, and so her new beau took a few days off and joined her there as they took in all the sights, including the Eiffel Tower and the parks of Paris.

Let's take a look at her style. All winter warming with classic coats and scarves. Boots, soft knits and skinny jeans. Super sexy hats and the single red rose. Seriously.

Cat Deeley in the Pink As She returns from Mexico

Another one of my favourite girls, and member of my fantasy fashion book club, Cat Deeley, has been on holiday in Mexico for the past couple of weeks. She has been keeping us updated on her relaxing adventures, including her workouts every day (really?) and her lovely fresh fruit breakfasts, via Twitter, so we are all up to speed.

She also Tweeted a few images of her holiday so we could see the lovely place she was in. It was all quite blissful. But now she is back in LA and she returned fully celebrating her holiday tan in a great pink dress and tribly. With the winter really setting in over in the US, it is not going to be long before the sleeves and socks make and appearance though.

Victoria Beckham and Alexa Chung Win at British Fashion Awards

There is nothing that makes me happier than when a member of my fantasy fashion book club gets a well-deserved accolade. Last night two of the girls won big at the British Fashion Awards. Victoria Beckham won Designer Brand of the Year, wearing a beautiful halter neck, pleated black column of loveliness. She gave a tearful speech in which she thanked all the relevant people and made us all a bit weepy in the process. Alexa Chung won the British Style Award, which she attributed to her parents voting a lot. That's my girl. She wore a sparkling Christopher Kane dress - and presented him with the award for New Establishment Brand.

Other notable awards included Designer of the Year which went to Sarah Burton presented by Samantha Cameron, the first lady of the UK, Model of the Year, which was won by Stella Tennant, and Accessory Designer of the Year which was taken by Charlotte Olympia, of the kitty shoes - see Alexa Chung's for reference.

Kate Hudson presented Stella McCartney with her award for Red Carpet Designer of the Year, fittingly wearing Stella McCartney. Other well dressed attendees included Olivia Palermo, of course, Kate Moss, Poppy Delevinge (wearing what I think is Valentino) and Abbey Crouch.

Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, Greets The Media in Mulberry

Last night HRH the Queen, invited 350 of the media to the Palace to kick off the diamond jubilee celebrations. The lovely Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, was there with her husband in support of the Queen. And she wore bright green Mulberry from their autumn/winter collection. Not only is the label proudly British, but the colour looks great on the girl. Lovely.

Aside from Kate, can we please take a look at Radio 1's Fearne Cotton, herself a bit of a deisgner (she has a line for very.co.uk) was also present. Looking a hundred levels of cute in that orange blouse with the mustard Peter Pan collar. Apparently Prince William asked her for a 'shout out' on the radio this morning.

Victoria Beckham at Heathrow With Baby Harper

So I am a little bit broody. Not in a 'I want a baby of my own' kind of way, but more in I adore the cuddles kind of way. I saw this gorgeous little munchkin on the weekend who was dressed in a bold red onsie and a hat with ears. I could have cried I wanted it so much. The onsie, you understand. And it doesn't help that my dear Victoria Beckham keeps carrying little squigie Harper around with her everywhere she goes. Now four months old, this little girl is looking just as deliciously dressed as her mama. Just check out those black Chloe tights! Cute. (And yes, they cost like R400, but I am guessing the Beckhams can afford it and it is not hurting anyone)

But check out Vicky B's outfit too. When last did we see her in a skirt and blouse? She has been wearing dresses for so long now, it is cool to see her in something quite different to normal. so a quick analysis. I love the collar and the back fastning - as well as the brilliant plaid - of the blouse. The 70s aesthetic of the skirt is a surprise - see the length and the inset pleat for clear 70s references. But how cool? Love the pockets. But am confused as to how VB keeps it clean with a small child in tow... And then those boots. My favourites of hers. Louboutins of course.

Primrose Hill Set the Style for Christmas

The legendary Primrose Hill Set - including the Geldofs, the Law/Frosts, the Mosses and the Chungs - hit up the equally famous Christmas market on Primrose Hill in London this weekend. First let me say that, famous people aside, Primrose Hill is one of my favourite parts of London. With magnificent views across the city, some actual wide open space, and excellent bars and restaurants (especially the Lemon Tree greek restaurant, assuming it is still there), P-Hill is a stunning enclave in the heart of a big city.

The market is fun and chilly and gets you into the spirit of Christmas in a way that we don't really have here in SA. It was obviously a bright sunny day amidst the chill of UK late autumn this weekend, and so an amazing pair of sunglasses was the first step in style. A classic pair of Wayfearers like Sadie Frost's are always a winner. Then you need skinny jeans. A definite. Then add a cool scarf - the navy dotty one my mate Alexa Chung is wearing is the winner here. And then a bold coat or a bright jumper - well played Nick Grimshaw. Or even a textured knit like the one Kate Moss managed to pull off. Well not literally. Finally, you add a beanie like Pixie Geldof's if you are especially cold, and there you have it. Christmas style, the Mossy Posse way.

There was so much star style power in one place I am surprised the world didn't tip on it's axis just a little bit. For those of you heading to colder climes, this is the way to do it. Enjoy.

Sienna Miller in Pucci in Paris

It's been a while since the queen of the boho babes, Sienna Miller, wore something worth posting on the blog. Don't get it twisted, I think that she is an intriguing young woman. Super pretty, obviously smart, wonderful little designer with her sister of the line Twenty8Twelve. So definitely worth keeping an eye on. But she has sensibly been under the radar of late. Performing on stage. And apparently no longer with her phone tapped as she was paid out by the News of the World when she sued them for it.

Last week, testifying in the commission appointed to investigate media behaviour, she turned up at the high court in London in a lovely swing coat that caught my eye. Looking rather lovely. And then before you knew it, she was popping up in Paris, same shoes and tights, but in a smashing little black lace and fringed Pucci number as she played host at the "135 Years of French Legerete" event held there that night. Well played lady. Nicely done from day to night. We haven't seen that for a while.

Kylie Minogue Is a Sheer Delight As She Goes Back to Blonde

Inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association Hall of Fame at the annual ARIAs, held in Sydney over the weekend, Kylie Minogue looked a picture of joy. First, we can all breathe a sigh of relief, Kylie is blonde once more. Seriously, I wasn't sure what was going on with the brunette business, but it wasn't working for her. Now, back to bouncing blonde curls, she is gloriously pretty perfect once more. Second, she was of course on the arm of the Spanish deliciousness that is her boyfriend, Andres Velencoso. I would also look delighted if he was my boyfriend, let's be honest.

Wearing a sheer silk chiffon skirt under a black lace corseted bodice, Kylie was the first on the red carpet to wear this trend. But not the last. Delta Goodrem also paired sheer and short and lacy. Now there is a girl with good hair, it has to be said. Although her taste in boyfriends (Nick Jonas) is not quite as desirable as Kylie's...

And then my favourite, Dannii Minogue, was there to support her sister. Stunning in draped black with a belt of epic proportions. And the cutest brunette pixie crop since country-mate Natalie Imbruglia, no?

Emily Mortimer in Valentino Beauty

At the premier of Hugo the other night, actress Emily Mortimer wore a dress I think is just beyond stunning. I mean look at the pretty, ethereal beauty of the fabrication. And the perfect pleating. And the unexpected lime embroidery. And then that black detail of embroidery, just for fun on the sleeve. It's Valentino, you know. Sure she looks a little washed out in it. But I wouldn't. Nor would Florence Welch, who I could also see in this dress. But mostly just me. Or you? What do you think?

Pippa Middleton Style Watch Episode 7: Dresses and Jackets

So the big shift in the Pippa Middleton daily uniform of style for the cooler months is to add a jacket to her lovely collection of Zara, H&M and French Connection dresses. Specifically that amazing structured tuxedo jacket with the shoulder emphasis that she has worn three times this month. The best of which, in my opinion, is with that Sonia Rykiel pink dress. Yum.

Pipps does of course have a full selection of other jackets as well, and I particularly like the addition of the waterfall cardigan with the belted Whistles orange/brown print dress. Nice. The pick out of the bunch for me this month. What about you? Any favourites from this month's selections?

Carey Mulligan in Peter Pilotto

The adorable Carey Mulligan is back! Yippee! The great thing about Carey is that she always makes a quiet fashion statement that is so very typical of her. She always surprises us with something totally fresh. But never looks like all the other starletts. She keeps things interesting style-wise.
And now she is back starting the pre-publicity for The Great Gatsby, which is currently filming. Oh my goodness, this is going to be a fun fashion ride. You better believe there are going to be endless Carey Mulligan posts on this blog over the next year. Starting with this one. Yesterday she wore Peter Pilotto, a cool British designer in the same gang as Mary Katrantzou - using interesting digital prints to evoke movement in a dress. Stunning. She was on Craig Ferguson's show and I couldn't get a good image anywhere of her in the dress, so I tool some screen shots. I hope you can see why I am so excited. Do you like it? Are you also looking forward to The Great Gatsby?

Rosie Huntington Whiteley Helps to Reopen M&S in Paris

You know how I love Woolies. I can't live without it. And in all those years I spent living in the UK, I had exactly the same love for M&S. Now those chic Parisians are getting a little taste of this love. Well, a retaste, I guess you would call it. It was only ten years ago that M&S closed their Paris stores and retreated back over the channel. Now they are back, all Rosie's blazing. Because of course Transformers actress and sometimes Victoria Secret model, Rosie Huntington Whitely, is the current face of the Autograph collection for M&S. And she turned up to support the reopening.

She wore two different dresses during the course of the occasion. Both from the Autograph collection. One with Stella McCartney-esque body contouring detail. The other with lace insets and peplum design flourish. Pretty much replicating couture for the masses. On trend and affordable. That's why I can't help but love high street fashion. Good to see a big name wearing it so well, too.

Michelle Obama's Hawaiian Style

I have somewhat neglected the glorious FLOTUS Michelle Obama of late on the blog. No reason, just loads of other things to talk about. But I did get a glimpse of her delightful 'holiday' wardrobe. Well, the gorgeous set of summer dresses she wore earlier this month to an APEC summit hosted in Hawaii. And I thought, with the rest of the celebrity world getting all snowed in and freezing, we need some style inspiration from sunnier climes. And who better than Michelle to show us the way.
Sticking to her established style of sleeveless fitted print dresses, Michelle did a great job with this set of frocks. There was the brown and white 'basket weave' dress worn with her usual Jimmy Choos. The stunning floral print silk which she wore to the spouses lunch. The navy cotton poplin Narciso Rodriguez dress that is perfect for the heat and has a very flattering neckline. And that stunning Vera Wang pink and silver one shoulder that Mrs O wore to the more formal event. It is like a perfect summer wardrobe all in one. Enjoy.
Click on the image to make it bigger.

Pippa Middleton Style Watch Episode 6: A Collection of Coats

So what is the collective noun for a collection of coats, I wonder this morning? Because whatever it is, it needs to be applied to this Pippa Middleton style watch episode as she moves her wardrobe from cute summer outfits into her winter warmers.

And what a collection of coats it is. P-Middy prefers her top layers to come from a label called Fay. And what lies beneath is usually Zara or H&M. She jazzes it all up with scarves from Temperley London. And then dons her signature shades to glam it all up. As if she needed to with glorious hair like that.
I have a favourite of course. Well, several. I love the on-trend colour of the red coat, paired with that scarf. And I absolutely would sell a small child for that khaki military-style short coat with the leather toggles. I wish she (and her sister) would give up on the black knee-high boots, but she has introduced some great variety across her boot selection so we will forgive slightly. Good work Pipps.
For those of you more interested in Pippa's style, sans coat, I will show you the rest of this month's work tomorrow.

Gillian Anderson in Vintage Christian Dior

It was a celebration of the 10 year anniversary of InStyle in the UK. And there were plenty of young Brits in attendance, wearing rather revolting tight and shiny frocks. And then Gillian Anderson, she of Mulder & Scully, turned up. And she wore a beautiful white column of elegance. With pockets. It may be one of the most beautiful dresses I have ever seen. So exquisite in its simplicity.
Paired with a set of emerald earrings and a silver heel, this is perfection in a dress. And of course it is Dior. But more specifically vintage Christian Dior. From a time of taste. I love it. Do you?

Taylor Swift Goes Preppy in Ralph Lauren

First let me declare I love preppy. Not really for me to wear, as such, but as a style concept, I adore it. It is cute, organised, pretty and speaks eloquently about the person wearing it. Taylor Swift is very young, and so usually I disregard her style. She has moments, of course, as anyone with her kind of money and exposure must have. She generally wears super pretty clothes to her awards shows and all that. Ocassionally, really, really pretty gowns.

But yesterday she grabbed my attention. Wearing a cute mustard pleated skirt is a great start. You know how I like me a pleated mini skirt. Pairing it with Ralph Lauren is a great play. And then the punch of burgundy in those shoes. Stroke of genius people.

While we are on the subject of youngsters making style statements, can I just say a heartfelt 'played' to Master Justin Bieber on that Junya Watanabe college jacket. Stroke of luck, one would think, rather than genius. But good one never the less. It rocks.

Florence Welch in 70s Style

The uber stylish Florence Welch from Florence and the Machine was doing some promotional work State-side yesterday. She went to Good Morning America and wore a divine 70s inspired outfit that is totally do-able for us mere mortals. A maxi dress in clashing floral prints in shades of orange, combined with patent wooden wedges and over-layerd rings all make for a modern 70s look that is totally easy to replicate. Go for it. Especially those of you who love Flo as much as I do.

Lady Gaga's Christmas Workshop at Barney's New York

There she was, Lady Gaga, resplendent in her custom Chanel fairy dress. And pearls. Presiding over the new Gaga's workshop as part of department store, Barney's New York Christmas celebrations.
I don't really have much to say about it, other than it is big and bold and Kaiser Karl must have had a total ball designing it with the Gags. Awesome.

Really, what an inspired idea for Lady Gaga. I can't believe that no one had thought of that before!

Attending amongst the celebrities, was one of my girls, Blake Lively. In an electric blue Elie Saab suit of beauty. The lace shoulders make it particularly interesting. I would possibly have added an actual cami underneath the jacket - almost certainly tonal matching with the suit for the full effect - but I think that Blake carries it off beautifully. Fashionable, interesting, unexpected. The best kind of outfit and possibly more palatable to me than Gaga's Chanel. Possibly. What do you think?

Rihanna Launches a Capsule Collection with Emporio Armani Jeans

Announced as the global face of Emporio Armani Jeans in July, raunchy pop songstress Rihanna is taking her role to a new level. No content with just starring as the face of the campaign, she is putting her creativity, name and literally her face to a capsule collection for the brand. She has designed a range of jeans wear, lingerie and t-shirts that contain a logo that is the combination of her initial and the Armani wings.

One of the t-shirts also has her face printed on it, backed with a signature animal print. And the lingerie comes in navy and black. As you would expect from Rihanna. It's not going to be pink is it? So what do you think about this spate of celeb designers? More specifically, what do you think about this collection from Rihanna? Any good? Would you buy it? Let me know.