Music is the much anticipated directorial debut of songstress Sia. The film focuses on Zu, played by Kate Hudson, who is newly sober when she receives news that she is to become the sole guardian of her half-sister named Music, a young girl on the autism spectrum, played by Maddie Ziegler. The film explores two of Sia’s favorite themes finding your voice and creating family. The film did gain some push back for casting Maggie who doesn’t have autism in the role of someone who does. I would have loved to see this film have a red carpet as Sia, Kate, and Maddie all have in incredible sense of fashion. Below are the three looks I would have wanted to see them wear on the red carpet for there premiere had COVID not stolen it from us. 
Sia has always had an unique sense of style. It is bold, quirky, and avant garde. I tend to love it because of how odd it is. When I was putting together this wish I had several options about what we could possibly have seen and what stuck out the most to me was this coral feathered Roksanda Spring 2021 RTW sleeveless peplum sack style gown. It is all about the drama shapelessness for me. I feel these are things that Sia would be drawn to. Now I’m not sure she would wear a fully sleeveless gown so I would ask Roksanda to create a customized version with coral tulle blouson sleeves with ruffled cuffs. I would love to see her bring this moment to life with a big blonde and coral retro banged updo that obscures the face (one of Sia’s signatures), a coral Guibert rose fascinator, and a pair of gold croc embossed Jimmy Choo ‘Maple 125’ round toe ankle strap meets slingback d’Orsay platform pumps.
Kate Hudson always knows how to bring the glamour to the red carpet. She does a beautiful job of meshing of the different aspects of her style into her red carpet looks. She is all about the bohemian meets the glamizon meets rock and roll. So as I was starting to think about what I would have wanted to see Kate wear on the red carpet for the premiere I thought that this black Balmain Spring 2021 RTW tuxedo which features a crystal peak lapel blazer with pagoda shoulder, a silk cami top, and crepe flared trousers with a crystal tripe down the side would be another perfect look to mesh those sensibilities together yet again. It is very sexy and glamorous with a lot of high octane rock and roll spirit. A sleek side parted updo, defined eyes, bold red lips, a black Jimmy Choo ‘Cloud Crystal’ spiked crystal detailed clutch, black Christian Louboutin ‘Galativi P Strass 100’ mesh detailed pointed toe pumps, and a pair of asymmetrical white diamond Messika Paris ‘My Twin’ earrings would definitely add the perfect finishing touches to this look. 
Maddie Zeigler was to make her leading role live action feature film debut with Music. This would not have been her red carpet debut by any means, but the pull of being the lead in a highly anticipated could definitely have brought even bigger things for her. Maddie has sat front row at Rodarte and been dressed by Giambattista Valli, Ralph Lauren, Carolina Herrera, and Marc Jacobs and I would have loved to see her bring a major moment to the red carpet for this premiere. I would have loved to see her bring this hot off the runway black Iris Van Herpen Spring 2021 Couture high low gown with intricate metallic foil detailed gown to life. I definitely feel like it is sexy, but not too sexy for her modest 18 years. To really make this a major movie star glamour moment I would have styled this gown with a sleek center parted hairstyle, defined eyes, bold matte red lips, a pair of strappy black Aquazzura ‘Luminous 105’ strappy sandals, and edgy yet glamorous Yeprem ‘Mystical Garden’ 18k white gold and white diamond earcuffs. Oh what could have been.
Month: January 2021
“Malcolm & Marie” Premiere Red Carpet Wish List
Malcolm & Marie is an upcoming American black-and-white romantic drama film written and directed by Sam Levinson. The film stars John David Washington and Zendaya (who both also produced) as the title characters, a director and his girlfriend, whose relationship is tested on the night of his latest film’s premiere. The project was the first feature to be entirely written, financed, and produced during the COVID-19 pandemic, with filming taking place in June and July 2020. Malcolm & Marie was released in a limited release on January 29, 2021, before being slated to be released digitally on February 5, 2021, by Netflix. The film has received polarizing reviews from critics, earning praise for Zendaya and Washington’s performances and the black and white cinematography. The film is getting a lot of awards buzz and I cannot wait to see what the virtual promotion for this film will bring ahead of awards season. 
John David Washington isn’t a dude who will push the boundaries of fashion, but he will rock some chic looks from the coolest brands out there. Well what brand is hotter is menswear right now than Dior Men by Kim Jones? So yes of course I immediately thought of this black silk double breasted suit with notch lapels and slim fit tapered leg trousers from the Dior Men Resort 2021 collection. The suit itself isn’t boundary pushing at all, but I love the horizontal ribbon stripe detail on the waistband of the trousers as well as the subtlety branded black, white, grey, and camel striped button down it was styled with on the lookbook make this look incredibly chic. While I don’t often advocate for wearing a double breasted suit open, but I love the effortless chic that the look evokes in the lookbook and I would have John David pose on a red carpet just like this with the look styled with a pair of black Christian Dior ‘Saddle Derby Monk’ polished calfskin monk strap inspired shoes and a Rolex ‘Oyster Perpetual Submariner’ in Oystersteel with a Black Cerachrom bezel and a black dial with large luminescent hour markers. It would definitely ooze cool boy chic which is the vibe I am expecting to see from John David in this movie. 
Now when it comes to fashion few do it better than Zendaya. This girl isn’t afraid to take a risk and I am going to be forever mad at COVID that it stole this really important movie premiere from us, even though without COVID we might not ever had seen this movie come to life. As I was planning this list I had just started saving the looks from Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week and so I immediately knew that I wanted to see the glamizon that is Zendaya wearing this lilac Antonio Grimaldi Spring 2021 Couture mini dress gown with a blouson silk taffeta cape bodice that turns into a dramatic train with a feathered skirt. There are really very few who could make this look work and I know that Zendaya is one of them. I want to see more of Antonio Grimaldi on the red carpet and I feel like a major moment on someone like Zendaya would make the label become a heavy hitter in the red carpet arena. To really make this look super cool I would style it with a bun of braids, defined eyes, glossy nude lips, a pair of Amina Muaddi x Awge ‘Phoenix’ crystal embellished butterfly brooch detailed PVC pointed toe slingback pumps, and a selection of Nikos Koulis ‘Universe Line’ collection jewels including a pair of white gold shard drop earrings with white diamonds in translucent enamel, and two complimentary white gold rings with white diamonds in translucent enamel (one / two). It would be a very millennial princess moment for Zendaya.
2021 National Board of Review Awards Red Carpet Wish List
The National Board of Review announced their 2020 honorees, with Da 5 Bloods earning Best Film and Best Director for Spike Lee, Best Actor for Riz Ahmed in Sound of Metal, and Best Actress for Carey Mulligan in Promising Young Woman. The organization has also announced that Chadwick Boseman will posthumously receive the NBR Icon Award, an honor that celebrates the work of leading cinematic artists who contribute meaningfully to the history, culture, and excellence of motion pictures. The NBR will announce its plans to celebrate its 2020 honorees at a later date. So since we don’t know if there will be a gala at a later point as there normally is or if we will have a virtual event I decided that I was just going to go ahead with putting out some wishes for stars who the National Board of Review has honored for their 2020 film awards. 
The National Board of Review has honored Carey Mulligan with their Best Actress award this year for her performance in Promising Young Woman. I have to say that when I saw the previews this movie did not seem like it was going to be something I would be interested in, but when it started getting honors and nominations I knew I had to check it out. Well I ate my words. It was a phenomenal film and Carey’s performance was also incredible. Now when it comes to style I go back and forth with regards to how I feel about Carey. I am hoping that with a major awards season run ahead of her that we will see some super chic looks from her. Should there have been or will be a gala like we are used to seeing for the National Board of Review Awards I would love to see Carey wearing this black Chanel Spring 2021 Couture midi dress with gold lattice beading and thin straps. It is a very simple dress that I think is perfectly in tune with Carey’s sense of style, but with an elegant sparkling twist. A chic romantic updo, defined soft smokey eyes, a pair of black suede Christian Louboutin ‘Rabakate 100’ pointed toe half d’Orsay pumps with a gold leather lined bow detail on the heel, and simple sparkle via yellow gold and white diamond Cartier ‘Agafe’ chain link drop earrings would all make sure this look is chic defined from head to toe. 
Regina King’s feature film directorial debut One Night In Miami was announced as the winner of the National Board of Review Freedom of Expression Award. To be honest I don’t exactly know what the criteria to win this award is, but none the less I am very excited for Regina. I really fell in love with her and her style over the course of the awards season run that culminated in an Oscar for her performance in If Beale Street Could Talk. We have seen Regina take fashion risks and rock some of the most coveted labels in the world. Now for this event I would have opted for one of the younger emerging talents out there right now: Christopher Esber. Since founding his label in Sydney in 2010, Christopher Esber has built a global reputation for precision tailoring and a purity of expression that he employs to create silhouettes of structured fluidity that whisper rather than shout. That aesthetic is on full display in this tangerine orange strapless floating throw ‘Bahia dress which features an open back with a strap for support and cape like wings from the Christopher Esber Pre-Fall 2021 collection. It’s in a crinkled poly fabrication so it has a bit of a more causal air about it, but I feel like with some amazing styling that this look would be gala ready in a moment. So to make this look gala ready I would love to see Regina style this gown with an intricate braided updo, defined eyes, deep berry red lips, gold Gianvito Rossi ‘Plexi 105’ PVC detailed pointed toe pumps, and a selection of major Fernando Jorge jewels including a pair of yellow gold set topaz and white diamond ‘Electric’ drop earrings, a yellow gold set white diamond ‘Disco’ ring, and a yellow gold set ruby ‘Electric Crown’ ring. 
Sound of Metal has earned Riz Ahmed the National Board of Review Best Actor award this year. The British Pakistani actor, musician, and activist has some good style usually so I would have expected to see him bring a cool look to the red carpet at the National Board of Review Awards. I went to the Prada Spring 2021 Menswear collection which featured a very simple and utilitarian take on dressing. While this black four button nylon suit isn’t groundbreaking or boundary pushing for menswear it is a very chic and cool moment. I feel like Riz would definitely be able to make this look work with the crisp white button down buttoned up all the way with no tie work for a formal occasion especially if styled with a pair of black Prada spat meets combat style lace-up boots and a Chopard ‘Millie Miglia Classing Chronograph’ watch with a black rubber strap evoking tire treads.
“The White Tiger” Premiere Red Carpet Wish List
The White Tiger is an 2021 American drama film directed by Ramin Bahrani, adapted from Aravind Adiga’s 2008 novel of the same name. The film stars Adarsh Gourav in his first lead role, with Rajkummar Rao and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. I would have loved to see Priyanka on the red carpet to premiere this movie. She always brings dramatic glamour to the red carpet and I would have expected nothing less. 
I was looking for a good lockdown glamour moment and thought about all the ones that Georges Hobeika has had and it just made sense to pick a look from them for this wish. I LOVE this black and white half moon Georges Hobeika Spring 2021 RTW one shoulder fitted gown with a flared hem and I definitely think that it would accentuate Priyanka’s amazing figure. Style it with a sleek updo, defined eyes, dark antique rose pink matte lips, a pair of black Christian Louboutin ‘Double L’ pointed toe patent leather and mesh t-strap pumps, and statement Chopard Red Carpet Collection 2020 emerald, sapphire, black opal, and white diamond octopus earrings and I know this would easily be a Best Dressed of the Year worthy moment.
Dream Inaugural Ball for President Joe Biden Red Carpet Wish List Part 5
As this post goes live Joe Biden will be taking the oath of office on the steps of the capitol. The day of change has arrived and we are going to mark it by continuing of what could have been tonight had COVID-19 not stolen the traditional Inaugural Balls from us. I have six more wishes for what could have been and I feel like these looks would definitely been given Best Dressed standards. Let’s dive in. 
Andra Day is gearing up for a promo tour for her upcoming film The United States vs. Billie Holiday and has been quite the activist in her own right. Her hit song “Rise Up” has become an anthem for pushing through. She took to the stage to perform on Monday for the “United We Serve: A Celebration of the National MLK Day of Service” coordinated by the Biden Inaugural Committee. So I would not have been surprised to see Andra rocking a major fashion moment in a Washington D.C. ballroom tonight at one of the inaugural balls had there been any. I’ve always loved how Andra gives very retro glam vibes on the red carpet, so I went into the archives of the king of retro glam: Zac Posen. While his label closed last year I would still love to see stars dig into the archives and wear so many of the amazing looks that have never been worn. For this occasion I would have loved to see Andra wearing this black silk faille off the shoulder ballgown from the Zac Posen Fall 2014 RTW collection. I love the structured bustier and the caped sleeves. It is very modern take on classic glamour, and I feel like Andra would have shut this gown down. Now I would take that black fur stole she is wearing in the reference photo on the left adding a retro updo with crystal pins, thick winged eyes, bold red lips, a pair of black Tom Ford ‘Disco’ platform ankle strap sandals, and a selection of major Amwaj jewels including white diamond pear shaped drop earrings, a white diamond pear cut collar necklace, and an abstract marquis cut white diamond ring to really make this look ooze glamour. 
Who was the most unexpected political pundit of 2020? It had to be Cardi B. She conducted interviews with Bernie Sanders during the primary (whom she was a very vocal supporter of) and then Joe Biden after he was the presumptive nominee. Cardi as a political face is actually something I love. So had she been invited to one of the inaugural balls I would have loved to see her show up and show out wearing an amazing look from a young black American based designer. I have been loving Ese Azenabor for a while now and I really do feel like this one sleeve a-line multicolor/patterned gown with a thigh high split and a dramatic train would have been a major moment for Cardi. It is the meshing of her flamboyant style, but a little on the reserved side. Reserved might not be the best phrase. It isn’t sheer. I think that’s what I’m more interested in. A high bubble ponytail, smokey eyes, deep mauve lips, major black Fenty ‘Ribbon Ropes’ crystal embellished satin strappy sandals, and dazzling ‘Cascata’ white diamond waterfall drop earrings from Cardi’s go to jeweler Gismondi 1754 would definitely have finished this look in a MAJOR manner. 
Debra Messing hosted “We the People” a pre-inauguration concert over the weekend and as a very vocal supporter of the Democratic Party I definitely would have loved to see her attend an inaugural ball. In these wishes you will see I dug into archives in spirit of both finding something “new” to talk about but also with the idea of sustainability in my mind. Debra has been friends with Christian Siriano for a long time and he has dressed her for so many red carpets it was an forgone conclusion that I would pick a gown from him for her. So I went shopping in his runway archives and found this burgundy silk strapless ball gown with a ruched bodice, dramatic bow hip detail, and a dramatic train from the Christian Siriano Fall 2010 RTW collection. I have to say that this was one of a few major gowns from this collections that were never worn on a red carpet. It is from one of Christian’s first post Project Runway era runway shows and before he became one of the biggest designers for the red carpet. I definitely feel like this color would be absolutely phenomenal on Debra and with a soft romantic updo, defined eyes, antique rose pink lips, a pair of burgundy Christian Louboutin ‘Kate’ pointed toe pumps, and a selection of Norman Silverman diamonds including simple teardrop earrings and a delicate floral tennis necklace it would be perfection. 
Justin Timberlake will be performing tonight during the “Celebrate America” primetime special that is taking the place of the traditional inaugural balls. Regular readers will know I love when Justin and wife Jessica Biel take to a red carpet together. They know good fashion and always bring it. So I am disappointed that this moment has been stolen from us. Had there been a ball I would have expected these two to serve up glamour from head to toe starting with Justin wearing a perfectly tailored Tom Ford Fall 2020 RTW tuxedo which features a marbled black and white shawl lapel tuxedo jacket, straight leg silk trousers, a white shirt, and a big black bow tie. This is a classically cut tuxedo with a statement making twist and I know Justin would wear it well especially styled with a pair of black Christian Louboutin ‘Alpha Male Flat’ velvet and striped suede millerighe slip on oxfords with a crystal toe cap and a Chopard ‘MillE MIGLIA LAB ONE CONCEPT’ watch. For Jessica I went for a classically glam Michael Kors look with a black fitted sleeveless gown with a plunging neckline and a short train from the Fall 2012 RTW collection. I am honestly surprised as I have been with all the archive looks in this wish list that this gown has never been worn before. It is that classically glamorous moment and I feel like whether it was worn then or now it would be a very chic and elegant moment. A sleek updo, defined eyes, bold red lips, a black crystal embellished Christian Louboutin ‘Palmette’ clutch, a pair of black leather Christian Louboutin ‘Loubi Queen 120’ ankle strap sandals, and dazzling Dena Kemp ‘ Brilliant Jewels’ collection white diamond paisley inspired drop earrings would ensure this look was glamour defined. Separately these looks are incredible, but together it would just prove once again that Justin and Jessica are indeed a red carpet power couple. 
Finishing out my wishes for my dream inaugural ball is talk show hostess Tamron Hall. I have long been fascinated with Tamron’s style. She is definitely the most extra of all the TV hosts and I love seeing her when she steps out. One of her last looks before lockdown was a major pink high low ruffled taffeta Oscar de la Renta gown at the 2020 NAACP Image Awards. It was one of her best looks to date. So when I was thinking of who I could put in Vera Wang in my Dream Inaugural Ball Wishes I thought that Tamron would be a great option to bring this deep burgundy one shoulder mermaid gown from the Vera Wang Spring 2013 Bridal collection out of the archive and give it a major red carpet moment. I know that Tamron has the diva-tude to really bring this gown to life on the red carpet. Her unique sense of style would be perfectly on display in this gown styled with a chic spiky pixie style, defined eyes, glossy nude lips, black embellished lace mesh Christian Louboutin ‘Follies’ pointed toe pumps, and a selection of Sutra jewels including a pair of 18K blackened gold ‘Fireworks’ burst white diamond and deep ruby earrings and a white diamond ‘High Diamond’ bracelet.
Dream Inaugural Ball for President Joe Biden Red Carpet Wish List Part 4
COVID-19 has stolen so many red carpets from us. The latest casualty are the traditional inaugural balls following the swearing in of a President of the United States. Now while President Trump didn’t have troves of celebrity following to add more dazzle to the balls, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris do. So I am really disappointed in the fact we aren’t going to see these supporters get up and dazzle in the ballrooms of Washington D.C. 
Beyonce was relatively silent this election cycle until right before the election where she posted a photo of herself on Instagram wearing a full Balmain ensemble and a Biden/Harris mask saying “Let’s do this Texas.” I was honestly surprised that we didn’t see Beyonce do more especially with Kamala Harris. Now I still would have loved to see Beyonce give us a dazzling moment had she attended any of the inaugural balls and that is exactly what she would have done wearing this royal blue Nedo by Nedret Taciroğlu Fall 2020 Couture strapless trumpet gown with asymmetrical ruffle details and a hip high split. I did tend to go with American designers for these dream inaugural ball wishes, but I needed a dazzling couture moment for Beyonce. I know she would definitely own this moment and with a sleek retro inspired updo with white roses in her hair, thick wing defined smokey eyes, bold matte red lips, a pair of silver Jimmy Choo pointed toe d’orsay crystal fringe trimmed ankle strap pumps, and a selection of major Lorraine Schwartz jewels including ‘Mesh Collection’ sapphire drop earrings, a round sapphire cocktail ring, and a geometric white diamond cocktail ring it would be retro glamour defined. 
Darren Criss was a part of the virtual Biden inaugural event “America United: An Inauguration Welcome Event Celebrating America’s Changemakers” on Saturday. I would definitely have marked that as a reason why he would have been given a ticket to one of the inaugural balls had there been any. I always love seeing Darren and his style on red carpets and so I feel like this really is a potential major menswear moment stolen from us due to the pandemic. Had he done a look for an inaugural ball I would have loved to see him rep American based designer Virgil Abloh and this ensemble from the Off-White c/o Virgil Abloh Resort 2021 collection which features a grey blazer with a half band belt waist and skinny fir black trousers. Now I love this look and it is definitely something that Darren would be drawn to. I would make the look more formal with the styling to make it appropriate for an inaugural ball with a crisp white shirt, black bow tie, and a pair of Thom Browne classic long black leather wingtip brogues with a red, white, and blue striped grosgrain strap. It would be statement making with a nod to patriotism. 
Demi Lovato will be performing tomorrow night at an event titled “Celebrating America” which will take the place of the traditional inaugural balls. I haven’t always loved Demi’s style and I was uber disappointed in most of her looks from the People’s Choice Awards last year. Demi and her stylist Siena don’t have a lot of pull with major designers so I turned to the resource that they used for most of her PCA’s looks, Albright LA. Albright is a fashion rental library where stars and stylists can rent looks for red carpets and editorials. I went through their virtual racks and found this super glam art deco inspired black and silver beaded Tom Ford sleeveless column gown. It is super simple in silhouette, but it definitely packs some glamour. I think it would go great with the pink high and tight pixie that Demi just debuted on Instagram. I would definitely have gone with a high glam styling with defined eyes, dark rose pink lips, a black crystal embellished Judith Leiber ‘Slim Slide’ clutch, a pair of black satin Tom Ford crystal embellished wrap around ankle strap sandals, and a little more sparkle via Messika Paris ‘Desert Bloom’ feather inspired cluster earrings to really make this look absolute perfection. 
When it comes to country music stars they tend to skew Republican, but Maren Morris made a very passionate plea for people to vote for Joe Biden. She made the plea during an I Will Vote event and said “Coming from a Southern family with a conservative background, throughout my childhood I was always taught to treat people with respect and dignity, no matter their race, their religion, their sexual orientation and, yes, event their political party. But like a lot of us, I’ve been in perpetual shock watching what’s happened to our country these last few years.” Well now America is about to have a new president and I would have loved to see Maren show up and serve up a glamorous look. I don’t always love what Maren wears on the red carpet, but I always give her the benefit of the doubt. I went into the Naeem Archives to find this gorgeous gown with a silver intricately crystal embellished bustier and a lilac silk charmuse wrap style skirt and a thigh high split from the Indian born New York based designer’s Spring 2015 RTW collection. I have gone through a couple brands archives to find amazing looks for these wishes and found many amazing unworn gowns like this one. I feel like with a chic sleek center parted hairstyle slicked behind the ears, defined eyes, soft pink lips, a silver mirror crystal cut L’Afshar acrylic clutch, light purple and silver Grey Mer strappy platform sandals, and some dazzling jewel moments from Paul Morelli including a pair of elongated ‘Triptych’ brilliant cut white diamond, blue sapphire, pink sapphire, and purple sapphire drop earrings and a ‘Moderne’ purple sapphire and white diamond cocktail ring would definitely make this a very chic head to toe moment for Maren. 
In an opinion article she penned for The New York Times Padma Lakshmi said “when I heard the news of Kamala Harris and Joe Biden’s victory. I felt elated. Then suddenly I felt this heat welling up from my chest into my throat and it burst out of me in tears I could not control. At first I didn’t even know why I was sobbing. Finally, I was thinking. Finally a woman, and a woman of color, takes this office.” During the campaign Padma participated in virtual events to work to elect Biden and Harris, specifically working to get out the vote of members of the South Asian community. Well to celebrate the success of the campaign and to mark this historical moment that means so much to Padma herself I would have been sure that we would have seen her on inauguration night giving us glamour at one of the balls. I had gone through my photo archives and found some designers who show in New York and picked this black and white Greta Constantine Spring 2021 RTW column gown which features a v-neck, puffy sleeves, and a cape almost immediately for Padma. It is statuesque glamour defined and I know that she would be able to really make it a major moment. Now while Greta shows in New York, she is based in Toronto, Canada. So she isn’t really an American designer, but I am still here for it. A sleek side parted low bun updo, defined eyes, bold red lips, a black croc leather Judith Leiber Couture ‘Cayman’ crystal embellished clasp clutch, white satin Aquazzura ‘Bow Tie’ crystal embellished pointed toe pumps, and a nod to Kamala and her famous pearls with a pair of TASKI Atelier ‘Aurora’ white diamond and akoya pearl drop earrings would add the perfect finishing touches to this extremely glamorous look. 
Rasario Dawson participated yesterday in the “United We Serve: A Celebration of the National MLK Day of Service” and she is the girlfriend of Senator Cory Booker, so yea I definitely would have expected to see her in Washington, D.C. for one of the inaugural balls this year. I’ve always loved that Rosario is an outspoken activist and she is appealing to the better angels after supporting Bernie Sanders in the Democratic primary over Joe Biden, but is now throwing her support behind the new president. When it comes to fashion Rosario can be a little hit or miss for me, but when I thought of Rosario wearing this white one shoulder Sergio Hudson Fall 2020 RTW column gown with gold belt buckle details on the shoulder and the waist I thought it could be a really chic moment for her to rock. Sergio Hudson is a black owned luxury women’s ready-to-wear label designed and produced entirely in Los Angeles so checks all the boxes of a Made in America label which Joe is really advocating for in supporting to help us weather the pandemic and job loses. I would have loved to see Rosario give us glamour styling this gown with old Hollywood waves, defined smokey eyes, deep red glossy lips, a gold lizard embossed Tyler Ellis ‘Lily’ clutch, a pair of gold Giuseppe Zanotti ‘Kate’ ankle cuff sandals, and more pearls to honor from another young black designer with a pair of MATEO NY 14k gold baroque pearl trio dangle earrings.
Dream Inaugural Ball for President Joe Biden Red Carpet Wish List Part 3
In this fraught environment I have to say that writing my wishes has been getting me through. I started officially planning my wishes for my dream inaugural ball since the day of the siege on the Capitol. Fashion has always been a bit of escapism for me and that is exactly what we need right now. There might not be fancy balls with star studded guest lists that will happen, but I am going to continue to dream about which looks we might have seen some of the a-list supporters of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. In the looks below you are going to find looks mostly from American designers and one super glamorous blue couture gown. 
Billy Porter always serves looks so I would have loved to see him bring a major fashion moment to the inaugural festivities this year. Just recently I was flipping through the Christian Siriano Pre-Fall 2021 collection and the moment i saw this ivory suit ensemble embroidered with 3-D eye appliques and features a cropped tailcoat with the tails turning into a train I immediately thought of Billy. Is this look anything we would expect to see at a presidential inaugural ball? Oh hell no. But as I’ve said menswear in Washington, DC needs a shake up and this look would definitely do that. Of course the look would need to be customized for Billy to fit his proportions. To finish out this look I would add a black button down dress shirt and a pair of black Rock Owens slip on platform chunky heel boots (a favorite of Billy) to make sure this look screams individuality. 
In a virtual campaign event Jennifer Lopez, and fiance Alex Rodriguez, sat down with Joe Biden to talk about the importance of voting, especially Latinos. She will also be performing at the Inaugural Ceremony. So yes I had to make sure she was included in my wishes for what could have been a dream inaugural ball. I decided to break away from American designers for Jennifer as she just needs a little bit more razzle dazzle. So I picked this blue metallic silk one shoulder Elie Saab Fall 2016 Couture gown with some intricate beaded embroidery and a thigh high split, I also picked a major Elie Saab gown for her to wear for her performance at the Inaugural Ceremony as well. It is inherrantly the sexy glam vibe that Jennifer always brings to a red carpet and I just know that she would have shut down the look down on a red carpet for an inaugural ball. Styled with old Hollywood waves worn over one shoulder, smokey eyes, glossy ruby red lips, a navy crystal embellished Judith Leiber Couture ‘Slim Rectangle’ clutch, silver crystal studded PVC Aquazzura ‘Dream 105’ ankle strap sandals, and a selection of Harry Winston jewels including white diamond and emerald cut sapphire drop earrings and a white diamond and sapphire ‘Crisscross’ ring I know this would have been a glamorous moment from head to toe. 
Julia Louis-Dreyfus is the final hostess from the 2020 Democratic National Convention whom I wanted to include in my wishes for a dream inaugural ball. (The others are Eva Longoria, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Kerry Washington). Out of the four Julia is my least favorite in terms of style. While her style isn’t bad it is just boring typically. That being said I knew almost immediately what gown I was going to use for Julia’s wish. This simple oyster pink silk Brandon Maxwell Spring 2021 RTW strapless column gown with a thin bright orange bow detailed belt is super chic and I feel like it would have been a perfect moment for Julia to wear for an inaugural ball. Simple waves, defined eyes, soft pink lips, an orange Edie Parker ‘Jean’ marbled-effect acrylic box clutch, champagne Christian Louboutin ‘Galativi 85’ crystal embellished and mesh paneled pointed toe pumps, and one-of-a-kind Irene Neuwirth 18k rose gold set pink opal, fire opal, and white diamond pendant drop earrings would definitely make this look incredibly chic and just the right amount of statement making for Julia. 
Okay here we go. My wish for Lizzo is one of my favorite of all my wishes for what could have been at the inaugural balls for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. Since she really burst onto the scene at the end of last year Lizzo has been encouraging her fans to get out and vote! From Tik Tok and the stage at the Billboard Music Awards to virtual events for the campaign she was really pushing people to do their civic duty; so under normal circumstances I would have been shocked not to see Lizzo in Washington DC for inaugural events. As I was looking for wishes I knew I wanted to use this red satin strapless Oscar de la Renta Fall 2020 RTW gown which features a fitted bodice, drop waist, and an asymmetric high low bubble hem and when I thought of Lizzo wearing the gown my heart started to race. It isn’t something we’ve see Lizzo wear before, but I feel like the dramatic glamour is definitely something she would be able to sell with ease. I would style the look with a vintage inspired updo, defined smokey eyes, bold deep red glossy lips, a red crystal embellished Judith Leiber Couture ‘Hot Lips’ minaudiere, a pair of red crystal embellished Amina Muaddi ‘Karma’ pointed to slingback ankle strap pumps, and Butani jewels including ‘Hypnotic” ruby and diamond wreath hoop earrings and a selection of ruby and diamond bracelets to finish it off in high glam style. 
“Party in the USA” the hit song by Miley Cyrus made a return to the iTunes charts back in November 2020 thanks to the election of Joe Biden. Miley herself shared a video of Biden and Kamala Harris dancing with the song edited in, and captioned it, “Now THIS is a PARTY IN THE USA!” In an interview with Jimmy Kimmel Miley said that she would love to perform at the inauguration. Well as of now I haven’t heard anything about her performing at the ceremony, but had she gone to Washington for the inaugural events I would have loved to see her do so in her full glam grunge vibe that she has been rocking. I wanted to put Miley in Marc Jacobs, but decided instead of going for something current that I would dive deep into the brands archives. When I saw this black chiffon and sequined slip style dress from the Marc Jacobs Fall 2006 RTW collection I knew I had found the right look. It is the perfect balance of grunge and glamour and I feel like it would have definitely been a superb moment for Miley to wear for an inaugural ball, especially if styled with her signature mullet, thick smokey eyes, bold red lips, a pair of black patent leather Christian Louboutin ‘Double L’ strappy sandals, and white diamond Yeprem ‘Inside Out’ double hoop earcuffs. 
Talking about “Party in the USA” Selena Gomez danced to Miley’s hit song on Instagram Stories after the race was called. Selena has been a voice to make sure you are registered to vote and specifically encouraging Latina’s to use their voices in the electoral process. So yes I would have loved to see her take on Washington DC for an inaugural ball especially if she did it wearing this burgundy jersey Ralph Lauren Fall 2005 RTW criss-cross halter gown. I adore this super chic and glamorous moment and I know that Selena would definitely make it a super chic moment. A sleek updo, defined eyes, burgundy lips, a gold Tyler Ellis ‘Perry’ python embossed clutch, burgundy suede Gianvito Rossi ‘Portofino 85’ ankle strap sandals, and a selection of major Messika x Kate Moss 18k gold set jewels including a pair of broken hoop white diamond earrings with baguette cut drops and an art deco inspired white diamond ring. 
Rounding out today is a super chic look for Taylor Swift who has been using her voice in politics for the last couple of years. I just always love seeing Taylor so after seeing her really using her voice to encourage people to vote I would have loved to see her in DC for the inaugural events. I went with classic glamour with this pool blue silk chiffon Monique Lhuillier asymmetric draped gown with a thigh high split. It isn’t anything boundary pushing, but I definitely think that for gliding around the room shaking hands (a novel thought isn’t it) and schmoozing that this is a great look for Taylor. A soft romantic updo, defined eyes, soft pink lips, a pair of silver strappy Jimmy Choo ‘Lilah’ metallic leather sandals, and simple yet glamorous art deco inspired Tiffany & Co. aquamarine and white diamond drop earrings would add the perfect finishing touches to make this look super glam for Taylor.
Dream Inaugural Ball for President Joe Biden Red Carpet Wish List Part 2
In the state of the world we live in with the COVID-19 virus and all of the political unrest what more have we than to dream of better days? I think that’s what has kept be going through the last year. With so many events cancelled and minimal press tours, no galas, and a lack of glamour I have been continuing to dream through these wishes. So that is what I am going to keep doing today with seven more wishes for looks I would have liked to see at my dream Inaugural Ball to celebrate the start of the term of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. I’ve always loved paying attention to political fashion and inauguration day has always brought some very interesting looks. So let’s see what looks I would have liked to see the people featured in today’s wishes wear shall we? 
Kicking things off today is Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. When it comes to the politics of fashion I have long been intrigued by AOC. She has talked many times about how she doesn’t want to be the person dressed by all of the top designers. Many of her looks are purchased via thrifting and sales. So I did the same for all the looks I picked for her to wear for the inauguration. While I went more expensive with her look to wear for the inaugural ceremony, the look I’ve picked for AOC to wear for the inaugural ball cost less that $500 all in. The centerpiece of the look is a purple Zac Posen asymmetric sleeveless gown with a scoop neck and embellishments throughout the bodice and down the hips. I love this gown and it is definitely a signature draped moment from the House of Zac Posen, which I miss so much. This gown when originally purchased was most likely over $1,000 probably over $2,000. It arrived on The Real Real for $545 and is now on sale for 80% off that price and is now just $109, a real steal. I can definitely imagine this gown hugging Alexandria’s fantastic figure beautifully. To make this look full glamour head to toe I would have her style it with a sleek vintage inspired updo, defined eyes, bold red lips, a gold Nina metallic foil crystal trimmed minaudiere ($62.50), a pair of black glitter Stuart Weitzman platform sandals ($144), and Miguel Ases ‘Cape’ amethyst 3-drop flower chandelier earrings ($127.80). 
On the eve of the election Chrissy Teigan & John Legend flew from their home in California to assist Joe Biden in campaigning in Pennsylvania, a state that ultimately served Joe Biden with the electoral victory. John will also be performing in a television special celebrating the inauguration. So with that in mind it makes total sense that they would have been included on the guest list for one of the inaugural balls. I love seeing these two together on the red carpet. Just to stand in the crowd while John performed at the Pennsylvania rally Chrissy donned couture so I know she would have served a look for an inaugural ball. I would have loved to see her go for sexy goddess glamour with this white asymmetrical LBV Spring 2021 RTW draped gown with a high split. If anyone could make this look really come to life it would be Chrissy. I would go with a sleek updo, defined eyes, bright pink lips, a pair of white crystal embellished Gianvito Rossi ‘Glam’ ankle strap sandals, and and a pair of dazzling floral white diamond Butani drop earrings to really make this look scream glamour. For John I wanted to break up the sea of classic penguin suits instead opting to see him wearing this black, white, and pink floral embroidered Tom Ford Fall 2020 RTW collection tuxedo. Now while the runway’s styling isn’t what I would do instead opting for more classic with a white tuxedo shirt, classic black satin striped tuxedo pants, a black bow tie, and black patent leather Christian Louboutin ‘Corteo Flat’ oxfords. It would definitely make these two look like a major power couple, of course which they are. 
Elizabeth Banks is a huge advocate for women’s rights and has worked closely with the Democratic Party for years. On election night the actress, director, and advocate tweeted “I’m so so so relieved. Congrats to @JoeBiden I am crying at the thought of @KamalaHarris as Vice President of the United States – wow wow wow.” I feel like Elizabeth would definitely have been seen on Inauguration night attending one of the balls and I would have expected to see her do so in very glamorous fashion. I would have loved to see her bring a true ball gown to life with this charcoal silk satin Bibhu Mohapatra Fall 2020 RTW halter ball gown which features intricate silver sequined embroidery. I think that this look screams glamour and Elizabeth would have worn it with effortless ease. A sleek side parted low bun updo, defined eyes, rose pink lips, a pair of black suede Jimmy Choo ‘Emsy 100’ crystal embroidered peep toe cross strap sandals, and Kwiat ‘Eclipse’ diamond wreath earrings would definitely make sure this look exudes glamour from head to toe. 
At the onset of planning these wishes one look I knew immediately what I wanted to do was for Kerry Washington. She was one of the few who actually braved the pandemic and went out for in person events as a surrogate for the Biden campaign. With that and the knowledge that Kerry will be a part of the “Celebrate America” inauguration night television special I would have expected to see Kerry bring a super glamorous moment to life had there been an inaugural ball. Immediately I thought of putting Kerry in this black liquid sequin jersey Marc Jacobs Fall 2020 RTW scoop neck column gown. It was inspired by the iconic designs of Norman Norrell in the 1960’s and I couldn’t imagine a more perfect gown for Kerry to wear for this occasion. It isn’t dramatic, but all about glamour. She would be able to walk through all of the parties schmoozing with the political elite with effortless ease. A sleek center parted bob, defined smokey eyes, bold red lips, a black Miu Miu ‘Ayers’ crystal studded leather clutch, a pair of black mesh Christian Louboutin ‘Mariacar 120’ peep to cross strap d’Orsay pumps, and a statement white diamond Tiffany & Co. ‘Schlumberger® Stars and Moons’ necklace to really bring the glamour of this look to full capacity. 
Lady Gaga will be performing at the Inauguration Ceremony, so I would have definitely expected to see her make a wardrobe change and attend one of the balls had there been any. While I did decide to pick looks from American designers for almost all of my wishes for what could have been should there have been an Inaugural Ball, but I just couldn’t find a look from an American designer worthy of Gaga’s dramatic sensibilities. So I turned to French Haute Couture. This electric blue Stephane Rolland Spring 2020 Couture “Half Moon” duchess satin gown which features one long sleeve, strong shoulder detail, a silver crystal embellished detail on the bodice, a draped tulip skirt, center split, and a LONG dramatic train is a major moment and one that only a few would be able to sell to me on the red carpet. Lady Gaga is one of them. I know that she would wear this gown with ease while delivering it as the statement drama moment it was intended. I would have styled Gaga with the runways silver platform pumps, thick defined eyes, bold red lips, a retro glam updo, and a pair of statement surrealist inspired white diamond and sapphire de Grisogono drop earrings to make this an absolutely phenomenal fashion moment. 
The final look for today is for Tracee Ellis Ross who was one of the four ladies who helped host the 2020 Democratic National Convention. I have always loved Tracee and her style. She works with Hollywood power stylist Karla Welch (who according to Moore in LA will be working with Madame Vice President Kamala Harris for the inauguration) and they always make magic together. I would have loved to see Tracee give us some 60’s hostess glamour wearing this salmon pink chiffon Brandon Maxwell Fall 2020 RTW chiffon caped gown with a pussy bow detail at the neck. It is super glamorous moment and I know that if anyone could really bring it to life on a red carpet it would be Tracee. I would add a sleek 60’s retro inspired updo, defined eyes, deep berry lips, a gold metal Jimmy Choo ‘Cloud’ 3D flower embellished clutch, a pair of gold Jimmy Choo ‘
Dream Inaugural Ball for President Joe Biden Red Carpet Wish List Part 1
Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, due to COVID-19 the standard Inaugural Balls held on the night the President of the United States is sworn into office have been cancelled. Well. Since we have to continue to dream I am going to still put wishes out into the universe for those who definitely would have and who I would have liked to see attend the balls. Over the next couple of days I will be mixing political figures with stars who were part of the Joe Biden campaign to show you some of the looks I would have loved to see them bring to life for my dream inaugural ball. Today’s looks are all about glamour, elegance, but most importantly American based design labels. 
As I said yesterday I feel like First Lady Dr. Jill Biden is secretly a real fashion girl and I cannot wait to see what she will be wearing for her FLOTUS duties over the next four years. I would have loved to see Dr. Biden step out onto the stage with President Biden wearing this black Carolina Herrera Spring 2021 RTW stretch fluid crepe trumpet gown which features a sleeveless fitted bodice detailed with bows and a dramatic hem. It is a super glamorous moment and I definitely believe that Dr. Biden would look phenomenal. It is a very Audrey Hepburn moment and I think that styled with a sleek side parted updo, defined eyes bold red lips, a pair of black sheer embellished lace Jimmy Choo ‘Love 100’ pointed toe pumps, and simple yet dazzling Harry Winston white diamond and blue sapphire drop earrings that Dr. Biden would definitely have had a winning fashion moment on her hands. 
For the Vice President Kamala Harris I wanted to play to a couple of different sensibilities. When it comes to dressing Kamala is very matronly for sure. There are people out there that prove that you can be modest and dress “age appropriate” and still embrace the fashion factor. I wanted to play to Kamala’s heritage paying homage to her black and Indian roots with her inaugural ball ensemble. So I turned to a black designer to create the gown which is this bold violet purple silk Christopher John Rogers Fall 2020 RTW collection draped long sleeve gown which features a dramatic sash cape. The sash cape gave me a bit of sari vibe and I just feel like this color on Kamala would be amazing. Now where this look would really come together is in the styling. This gown has the possibility to feel very matronly, but with the right styling it would be super chic. A soft updo, defined smokey eyes, dark red glossy lips, purple satin Tom Ford pointed toe pumps, and a nod to her famous pearls with dazzling white diamond and pearl ‘Princess Fantasy’ chandelier earrings from Indian jewelry designer Farah Khan would definitely make this look absolutely PHENOMENAL from head to toe. 
Pete Buttigieg is Joe Biden’s nominee to be the next Secretary of Transportation and I personally love him. So I felt like I had to include him and his husband Chasten in my wishes for what the inaugural ball could have been. While they might be gay neither Pete nor Chasten are what I would consider to be ‘flashy.’ So I wanted to pick two very chic complimentary looks for them to wear had they attended the inaugural ball. For Chasten I went with something a little left of normal picking a Ralph Lauren tuxedo with a deep purple velvet tuxedo jacket. It isn’t something normal, but I feel like Washington needs some fun infused into their stuffy style. It would stand out in a room full of men in classic black and white penguin suits, but the cut and styling would be kept very classic so I definitely think it would be a perfect look, especially as the plus one of a Cabinet Secretary designate. Now for Pete I went with something a little more classic with a black Ralph Lauren tuxedo that has a cropped jacket inspired by the cut of a tailcoat, without the tails. The look keeps the classic tail coat styling of the low cut waistcoat and the onyx shirt studs. It is a little more military-esque but I feel like it would be a really chic moment for Pete. 
I cannot remember ever seeing a former First Lady attend the inaugural ball of a new president, but given the fact that I adore seeing Michelle Obama in a gown I knew I had to include her in my dream guest list for an inaugural ball. I always loved seeing what gowns she would bring to life and I went through several options for her to wear for this event. I decided to finish on this black Oscar de la Renta Resort 2021 strapless column gown which features a draped rosette detail down the back. It is a very chic and elegant moment and I know that Michelle would wear it with elegance and ease. A sleek updo, smokey eyes, glossy ruby red lips, a pair of black Christian Louboutin ‘Galativi’ crystal trimmed and mesh paneled pointed toe pumps, and a statement Bulgari ‘Barroko’ Collection white diamond and emerald high jewelry collar necklace. The necklace is definitely a bit more than we are seeing, but I think it would be the perfect touch to really make this moment major. 
Eva Longoria was one of the hosts of the 2020 Democratic National Convention and was out on the campaign trail even in spite of the pandemic to support Joe Biden. She will also participate in a prime time inauguration concert special the night of the inauguration, so it would have come as a real surprise to not see her at one of the inaugural balls had this been a normal year. I haven’t loved a look that Eva has worn in a really long time and I would have wanted to see that dramatic diva side of her style on display had she stepped out for a ball. Marchesa was once a go to designer for Eva and I feel like it is time for her to make a return to the brand. I immediately thought of this hand painted pink and white peony print silk Marchesa Spring 2021 RTW one shoulder draped gown which features a relaxed fit, fitted bodice, and a dramatic train detail and know that it would be perfect for Eva especially if styled with a romantic updo, soft smokey eyes, matte rose pink lips, metallic pink and gold Roger Vivier ‘Vivier Queen Strass’ strappy sandals, and a pair of statement Anabela Chan fuchsia ombre waterfall earrings made of pale rose sapphire, fuchsia pink sapphires, rose tourmalines, and white diamonds.
Mindy Kaling did a couple of virtual events for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris over the course of the campaign. Upon the announcement of Kamala Harris as the VP selections Mindy tweeted “Was there ever more of an exciting day? For our entire country of course, but especially for my Black and Indian sisters, many of us who have gone our entire lives thinking that someone who looks like us may never hold high office? We work so hard and contribute to the fabric of our lives in America, & now to see @SenKamalaHarris rise to the top like this? It’s thrilling!! I am filled with hope and excitement. Thank you @JoeBiden. Let’s do this.” So I really would have loved to see her attend one of the inaugural balls. I went with one of my favorite color combos with this red Badgley Mischka Spring 2021 RTW column gown with hot pink puffy sleeves and an intricately pleated bodice and a sweetheart neckline. Mindy has always been one to love bringing color to her looks and I definitely can imagine this being a superb moment. A sleek updo, defined eyes, red lips, a red satin Tyler Ellis ‘Perry’ faceted clutch, a pair of red suede Aquazzura ‘Aria 105’ strappy pointed toe pumps, and some statement Chopard Red Carpet Collection jewels including white diamond and ruby paisley inspired drop earrings and a dazzling white diamond and ruby cuff bracelet watch would make sure that Mindy had a phenomenal moment on her hands.
Inauguration of President Joe Biden & Vice President Kamala Harris Red Carpet Wish List
I’ve been on a break from writing for a while. It was a very busy and emotional holiday season and start to the new year. It has actually made me very grateful that awards season was postponed this year due to COVID-19. With all that being said, I am very excited to be back writing again and what better event to kick things back off with than the Inauguration of President Joe Biden. I am a huge political nerd and so of course I’ve been paying very close attention to what has been happening in the United States. I’ve been wondering what Inauguration Day is going to look like since last summer. We have learned that there a public ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, January 20, 2021, on the West Front of the United States Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Festivities will be limited to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The live audience will be limited to members of the 117th United States Congress and, for each, one guest of their choosing. Public health measures such as mandatory face coverings, testing, temperature checks, and social distancing will be used to protect participants of the ceremony. So the looks below are for those members who are invited, plus Michelle Obama who may attend as the wife of a former President should any of them attend. 
Just like for what the events of the inauguration I have been thinking a lot about what our future First Lady Dr. Jill Biden would wear. I’ve said that I believe that Dr. Biden is secretly a fashion girl. Over the course of the campaign we saw Dr. Biden wear looks from brands like Dolce & Gabbana (which I never want to see her wear again) and Oscar de la Renta. I would love to see her wear an ensemble from a label Michelle Obama made famous, Jason Wu, with a deep peacock blue quilted silk coat from the Jason Wu Collection Fall 2020 RTW show and a blue and ivory silk chiffon floral long sleeve midi dress. The coat will most definitely keep Dr. Biden warm in the balmy 43° weather expected in Washington on Inauguration Day. The dress on the other hand is not something I see as warm whatsoever. But sometimes I do go with something that is fashion over function. Both of these items would in fact be wonderful additions to Dr. Biden’s wardrobe. Styling this look with her signature flared waves, defined eyes, a soft grey-ish blue silk mask, grey Malone Souliers ‘Maureen’ strappy pointed toe pumps, a pair of Barney’s Originals real leather gloves in light grey, and a bit of sparkle via Swarovski ‘Vintage Drop’ clear and dark teal crystal teardrop earrings would definitely make this an absolutely phenomenal moment for Dr. Biden to kick off her tenure as First Lady of the United States. 
I will be so excited to watch Kamala Harris take the oath of office to be the first female Vice President of the United States. Now while I really want to see Kamala bring some superb fashion moments to the political arena over the course of her tenure as Vice President, but I also know that isn’t going to be the case most likely. She loves herself a pantsuit and they don’t often fit very well. When I was thinking of the perfect designer to dress her for the occasion of the inauguration really the only designer who came to mind was Joseph Altuzarra. He is known for his sharp tailoring and so I went shopping on the runways. I found an amazing grey speckled wool trench coat and a grey wool double breasted pantsuit with a batteau neckline from the Altuzarra Fall 2020 RTW collection which I feel would be phenomenal on Kamala. This suit isn’t exactly anything we expect to see from Kamala, but I do believe that the fit and neckline would be incredibly flattering and strong. Now while personally I would have her go bare chested as the suit as presented on the runway that isn’t really Kamala’s sensibility, so I would style the look with a dark heather grey turtleneck sweater to keep her warm and protect her modesty. Now the rest of the styling to really make this look super sharp would include her signature waves, defined eyes, berry lips under a grey silk mask, a pair of grey snake effect Le Silla ‘Sharon’ ankle strap pumps, and her signature gold rope trimmed pearl button earrings.
Regular readers will know I LOVE a Michelle Obama sighting. I don’t think we’ve had such an iconic fashion first lady since Jackie Kennedy (though Nancy Reagan’s formal looks were pretty phenomenal) and I have really loved seeing how Michelle’s style has evolved since leaving the White House four years ago. Should we see her on the inaugural platform for the swearing in of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris I would love to see her give us a LOOK which is why I turned to one of my favorite New York based labels, Proenza Schouler. I went through lots of options from all of the typical labels we saw Michelle wear in the White House including Prabal Gurung, Michael Kors, and Marc Jacobs, but I really fell in love with this major grey peppered wool asymmetrical double breasted coat from the label’s Pre-Fall 2020 collection. I love the contrasting statement lapel and cuffs and I definitely could see MObama being drawn to it. Now underneath it I would love to see her wear this black Proenza Schouler asymmetric spiral button detailed long sleeve matte crepe dress from the retail collection inspired by the Proenza Schouler Fall 2020 RTW collection. It would make for a really super chic fashion moment for Michelle. A sleek side parted hairstyle, casual smokey eyes, a custom black Proenza Schouler mask detailed with one of the gold buttons on one side (we stan fashion continuity here), a pair of hot black suede Balmain ‘Raven’ thigh high hold heeled boots, and MATEO NY 14k gold small pearl dot hoops would add the perfect finishing touches to this look. 
Last up for the ceremony is Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. While she wasn’t a huge Joe Biden supporter I know she knows that it’s better to work together than fight each other. I definitely feel like she will serve a look should she attend the swearing in ceremony. “You can also thrift and buy second hand online, which helped me get higher quality, longer-lasting things that would normally be out of budget,” Ocasio-Cortez just said to new Congresswoman Cori Bush about how to start shopping for a wardrobe worthy of a US Representative. So instead of going to super high fashion off the runway route for AOC I went to the online sale racks and resale stores to put together a chic look. The look is centered around a navy Cinq a Sept ‘Lorena’ wool blend cape. AOC loves a good cape look and I feel this coat would be something she would work into her regular wardrobe. I found it on the virtual sale rack of Saks Fifth Avenue for $591 (15% off it’s original $695 price) which is steeper than what I feel she would normally go for but a good coat is a staple. For the perfect suit I went to the online re-sale racks of The Real Real and found this incredibly chic vintage Christian Dior navy blue pin striped wool skirt suit which features a cropped double breasted jacket and a pencil skirt which is new with tags and looks like something from the Galliano era of Dior. Best thing about it? This suit was probably $1,000 plus when purchased by its original owner and is available through The Real Real for $385. Again on the slightly more expensive side, but something she could wear to work over and over and over. To style this look I would finish it with a sleek high ponytail, thick defined eyes, bold red lips under a navy silk mask, her signature gold hoops, and a pair of black and navy Marc Ellis strappy ankle cuff pointed toe d’Orsay pumps. It would be the epitome of chic glamour.
Lady Gaga will perform the National Anthem at the Inauguration Ceremony. Now I do not know if she will be there in person on the capitol steps or if her appearance will be virtual. Either way I would love to see her serve up a very chic and sophisticated moment by digging into the Brandon Maxwell runway archives. As I was going through Brandon’s past runways I was shocked by how many great moments still sit unworn including this ivory intricately pebble beaded print caped dress from the Brandon Maxwell Spring 2018 RTW collection. The intricacy of the beading in this ensemble is phenomenal and I feel like it would be a beautiful moment for Gaga to bring to the Inaugural platform. Now should she be there in person she would need to keep warm so I would style the look with white Italian leather opera length gloves from Ines Gloves to add some warmth to this look. A sleek side parted bouffant inspired updo, thick defined eyes, a crystal and pearl embellished Rinaldy Yunardi “Masker” couture mask (worn over a protective cloth mask), a pair of white glitter Christian Louboutin ‘Kate’ pointed toe pumps would make this look come together in a manner that meshes perfectly the sophistication of Washington and the extra of Gaga. 
In addition to Gaga the incomparable Jennifer Lopez is also been tapped to perform at the Inaugural Ceremony. Her performance has been billed only as a “musical performance.” With the theme of the Inauguration being “America United” I would love to see Jennifer perform “This Land Is Your Land” or “America The Beautiful” in both English and Spanish and do so while serving a LOOK. I first started going down the suit route for Jennifer, but when I was looking at Elie Saab’s collections for a suiting possibility I saw this electric blue sequin one sleeve pleated gown with a scarf tie neck, a defined waste, and an a-line skirt and fell in love with the idea of it on Jennifer. It would definitely be a very major moment and one that would add a lot of dazzle to the inauguration platform. Now while I would like to see Jennifer perform in the gown alone, I know that keeping her warm while out on the platform is important. So I found this major blue, black, and white geometric print mink Frame fur coat and thought it would definitely be right up JLo’s ally. I would love to see her make this look come to life with a chic soft wavy high ponytail, defined eyes, red lips, electric blue satin Casadei crystal strap pointed toe pumps, a selection of David Morris jewels inducing oval cabochon sapphire, faceted rock crystal, and brilliant-cut white diamond ‘Twilight’ drop earrings and a ‘Twilight Crossover’ fluted rock crystal and brilliant-cut white diamond cocktail ring, and a black crystal embellished face mask.
The Inauguration of Joe Biden & Kamala Harris will take place on Wednesday January 20, 2021.
If I Was A Stylist 
