2021 Grammy Awards Red Carpet Wish List Part 6

As we get closer to the actual date of the Grammy’s my wishes are going to get a little more fantastical. While I am still incorporating picks for performers and nominees, some of my wishes are for people we would normally have seen on a Grammy’s red carpet. There are all sorts of great events happening before and after this years show which tell me that there would have been some great moments from those stars as they usually make appearances at those events and then at the Grammy’s themselves. So I am disappointed we are loosing out on some of those moments, but I am getting more and more excited for the future. Red carpets are sure to start returning in full force by the end of this year and I am very excited.Andra Day is one of those stars. She is attending one of those satellite events and with her major awards season run (so far in Chanel Couture and custom Prada) on the road to the Oscars I would definitely expect that we would have seen her at the Grammy’s. For her last two Grammy’s shes referenced bold retro inspired glam, but for this years show I would have gone for more 40’s femme fatale glamour with this deep pool blue velvet Ralph & Russo Fall 2018 Couture strapless column gown which features soft draping, a bustier bodice, intricate crystal snake embroidery, and a daring hip high spit. I love the super sexy Rita Hayworth vibe of this gown and I feel like Andra would be able to sell this gown to us easily. So I would have loved to see her wearing this gown with a sleek retro inspired updo, defined eyes, matte burgundy lips, a pair of gold Casadei rock crystal studded ankle strap sandals, and a statement 18k gold David Webb chain-link collar necklace with brilliant-cut white diamonds and black enamel. Billy Porter will be appearing in a Grammy special about the music connected to social movements in the weeks after the show. Knowing that I would have expected to see the fashionista on the red carpet. He always serves up major fashion moments and I’ve been dying to see Billy wear this lime green Palomo Spain Spring 2021 ensemble which features a floor length duster coat (with a robins egg blue lining) with matching trousers and a white shirt since it was first presented. I was going to use it for a “premiere” of a movie he will be staring in, but that movie release got pushed. So I was thrilled that I still got to put this wish into the universe. I would love to see this major fashion moment styled perfectly with a pair of gold Saint Laurent ‘Candy’ platform boots and a vintage Veruda ‘Nosegay’ peridot, white and yellow diamond brooch set in 18k gold and platinum. Cardi B will be performing on this years show Sunday night so I know she will be serving LOOKS. Her last two Grammy’s have both been in Mugler, both vintage and custom. I wanted a major moment this year and I found it in this black and silver Elie Saab Spring 2021 Couture one shoulder gown which features sequined “feather” 3D details on the bodice, a single sleeve, sheer construction, crystal embellished waist, and an a-line skirt. I have been all over this collection in my Grammy wishes picking looks for H.E.R. and Ariana Grande as well. Crazy thing is that while all three looks are coming from the same collection they all feel very different at the same time. I would absolutely love to see Cardi take this sexy yet glam moment and style it with a sleek updo, smokey winged eyes, bold red lips, a pair of black leather Christian Louboutin ‘Round Chick Alta 150 Black Kid’ scalloped edge peep toe ankle strap d’orsay platform pumps, and a selection of Amwaj jewels including white diamond waterfall chandelier earrings and a matching white diamond cocktail ring to really make this look come to life. John Legend has two Grammy nominations this year and that would definitely have meant we would have seen him and wife Chrissy Teigan on the Grammy’s red carpet this year. I am hoping that this social media savvy duo will still do some super chic fashion moments for the ‘gram. I picked two super dazzling and glam complimentary moments for the pair starting with a steel blue and silver floral jacquard metallic Tom Ford Fall 2021 Menswear tuxedo blazer styled with black trousers. Now the jacket is a favorite of mine from the Fall 2021 menswear collections and I feel like John would look phenomenal in it, but I would style it with a classic white tuxedo shirt, black tuxedo studs, a black bow tie, and a pair of black patent leather Jimmy Choo ‘Foxley/m’ tassel detailed loafers. Now for Chrissy I went with a shining moment with this metallic gunmetal grey pleated chiffon Georges Chakra Fall 2020 Couture strapless gown which features intricate ruffle details, a beaded waist, an a-line skirt, and a thigh high split. Chrissy always knows how to deliver high glam moments on the red carpet and this look would definitely make this a major moment on the red carpet. A sleek updo, defined eyes, dark mauve lips, a grey crystal embellished Jimmy Choo ‘Cloud’ clutch, a pair of metallic gunmetal grey Stuart Weitzman ‘Oracle 100’ crystal ball detailed ankle strap sandals, and statement arabesque inspired Karen Suen white diamond chandelier earrings would add the perfect finishing touches to this look. A winning duo for a fabulous couple. Best Country Song nominee Maren Morris will be performing with John Mayer at this Sunday’s show. I always find something to fault Maren with. I want to love her, but her style just is tacky and dated and very try to hard. I actually can’t believe I went here, but I picked two looks from D***e & G*****a Secrets & Diamonds collection. She wore D***e for the CMA Awards and it was one of her better looks. I just feel like if anyone could make me like a D***e moment now it would be Maren. For the “red carpet” I would love to see her wearing this black tiered gown with thick straps, intricate crystal embroidery, and a bustier bodice. It is all about glamour from head to toe and would be perfect with sleek old Hollywood waves over one shoulder, defined eyes, bold red lips, black suede Amina Muaddi ‘Vita’ strappy platform sandals, and a selection of Dena Kemp jewels including black and white diamond drop earrings and a matching link cocktail ring. For the performance I went with more dazzle for Maren picking this silver crystal fringe mini dress which I can see being a super modern flapper moment. Keeping the same beauty adding a soft waves, a pair of silver Aquazzura ‘Temptation’ crystal trimmed PVC peep toe slingback sandals, and more Dena Kemp jewels including white diamond fan cluster earrings, a three flower stud white diamond two finger ring, and a five row white diamond cocktail ring would make this look sparkle and shine in the best way possible on our television screens.

The 2021 Grammy Awards, hosted by Trevor Noah, will air live on CBS Sunday March 14, 2021. You can see all of my wishes for this years red carpet here.

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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.

2020 American Music Awards Red Carpet Wish List Part 4

With every day that comes I am getting more and more excited for the 2020 American Music Awards. The presenters and performers list is really good. It is going to be the most star studded night since lockdown hit back in March. I’m holding out hope that everyone will be on the top of their glam game. I want this red carpet to rival the Oscars and Grammy’s earlier this year in a time that almost feels foreign. All of the looks in today’s wishes would definitely make for a major night of fashion. Let’s start today’s wishes by digging into the archives for Cardi B, who is nominated for 3 American Music Awards. She has been a big fan of Mugler and pretty much since she burst onto the scene. She’s rocked major modern and vintage Mugler on several occasions. For this weekends red carpet I went back into the brands archives to pick a major moment for Cardi to bring to life with this major ensemble from the Thierry Mugler Fall 1995 Couture collection which features a huge white fur coat with a train and a black to nude sequin ombre fitted column gown with long sleeves, an illusion bodice, and a crystal embellished necklace. I definitely feel like this would be a phenomenal moment for Cardi while still being the perfect meshing of hood glam and haute couture. That coat would definitely draw in some hate from PETA, but Cardi isn’t afraid to wear a fur and that is what really sold the idea of this look to me. A sleek braided high bun updo with curled edges, thick winged smokey eyes, deep berry red lips, a pair of black crystal embellished Giuseppe Zanotti peep toe double stacked stiletto pumps, and Lorraine Schwartz earrings made of 100 carats of round cut white diamonds and teardrop colombian emeralds would definitely make this the major uber glam statement making moment I want to see from Cardi. Harry Styles has been blurring the gender lines, ever so slightly, for a while now. He was lauded for being the first solo man to cover VOGUE wearing a Gucci gown none the less recently. I have gone back and forth when it comes to Harry’s sense of style. I want him to really deliver, but often times it falls flat. I think my expectations for his style are a little higher than what the Gucci people will let him get to. Now while he is a face of Gucci, and there is a purple suit from the recently presented Gucci Spring 2021 Collection I would love to see Harry wear, I decided to go left and pick this black J.W. Anderson Spring 2021 Menswear tuxedo which features a bow detailed waist tuxedo dress and high waisted harem pants. This look is such a statement. It would continue to blur the lines between masculinity and femininity for Harry and I would love to see him give it the moment it deserves. I would style this look with a pair of black patent leather Jimmy Choo ‘Foxley’ tassel detailed loafers, white Gucci logo tube socks with black bands on the ankles, and a single Cartier ‘Pluie de Cartier’ plume inspired white diamond drop earring. It would make it a really cool moment for Harry to bring to life. Justin Beiber is performing at the AMA’s this weekend (where he is also nominated for 4 awards). I hear it’s going to be an almost identical performance to the one he just gave this last weekend at the People’s Choice Awards. I hope not, but I also hope we see Justin serve a look on the red carpet. While I appreciate his more laid back style I know his stylist Karla Welch would be able to get him into something much more fashion-y which is why I picked this really cool hand drawn Burberry by Riccardo Tisci Spring 2021 RTW look which features a long sleeve button down shirt and straight leg trousers. I love how the buttons on the sleeve were styled unbuttoned on the runway and I would do the same for Justin if I was dressing him. Honestly I would keep all the runway styling except I would swap the shoes for a pair of white Nike ‘Air Force 1 Low Supreme I/O Michael Lau’ quilted leather sneakers. Now I doubt it, but who would be a better person to introduce Justin’s performance than his supermodel wife Hailey Baldwin? It’s been a really long time since we’ve seen her make a public appearance and I would love to see her up the glam game stepping out for the American Music Awards with Justin wearing this brick red David Koma Spring 2021 RTW halter gown which features crystal tube trimming at the neck and on the split, a cutout curved split, and a sheath silhouette. It is a sexy and sporty yet very glamorous moment that I think Hailey would be able to serve up on the red carpet. A sleek center parted bob, defined eyes, soft blush pink lips, silver Azzedine Alaia twisted studded rope strappy metallic leather sandals, and glamorous Kwiat ‘Cobblestone’ teardrop pendant drop pave set white diamond drop earrings would add the perfect finishing touches. Lady Gaga isn’t confirmed to attend the American Music Awards as of yet despite the fact she is nominated for 4 awards. I was all over the map when it came to deciding what I would want to see Gaga wear on this red carpet if she were to walk the red carpet. Ultimately I saw this lavender Germainer Spring 2021 RTW off the shoulder gown which features intricate ruching, a ruffled neckline, poet sleeves, tulip hips, and a flared hem and thought it would be a major moment for Gaga to bring to life. Believe it or not this gown is made up of just 5 rectangles of fashion so this look is considered to be zero waist. Germainer is one of the rising stars in sustainable fashion and I feel that in addition to the major alien like drama of the look that is something that would drawn Gaga to this look. I went round and round with how I would style this look. I adore the way the model was painted lavender to match the gown, and I can totally see Gaga doing that. I just don’t know if she would do it after the designer did in the lookbook. Instead I decided that a high metallic lavender high ponytail wig, bold smokey eyes, a statement silver crystal embellished Rinaldy Yunardi baroque inspired couture mask (which is decorative and Gaga would need a real protective mask underneath), and lavender glitter and clear PVC Pleaser ‘Adore’ crazy platform sandals. It would all make for a truly major alien glam moment. Closing out today is Maren Morris who is nominated for two AMA’s. I know she has potential. I can see it deep inside, but she doesn’t wear anything well. She has terrible taste and I know it isn’t the stylist. She has had multiple and no one has been able to make me like her red carpet looks. So I didn’t even try to pick something that would be a game changer for her standing on the red carpet, but instead opting for something I feel like is exactly what we should come to expect from Maren. I think she would be all about this hot pink and electric blue silk charmuse one shoulder Redemption Spring 2021 RTW 80’s inspired draped gown which features a bow detail on one hip, faux wrap style skirt, and a thigh high split. I personally hate it and there are very few I think could really sell it to me. That being said Maren isn’t one of them, but again it’s almost like I’ve given up at this point. A loose updo, defined eyes, soft pink glossy lips, hot pink Giuseppe Zanotti crystal trimmed ankle strap sandals, and a pair of one of a kind fancy shape Norman Silverman floral inspired dangle earrings set in 18K white gold might be enough to make me not hate it, but the look would have to be tailored perfectly.

The 2020 American Music Awards will take place on Sunday November 22, 2020. Check out all of my wishes for this red carpet here.

2020 E! People’s Choice Awards Red Carpet Wish List Part 5

Tonight is the night! I am really excited to see what everyone is going to bring. There was still a fantastic list of stars who are nominated, presenting, and performing tonight. So I decided to finish up my wishes with a round-up of everyone left. While I enjoy detailing out my thought process in picking my wishes there just wasn’t enough time to write about everyone. There are definitely some absolutely major fashion moments I want to see on this red carpet tonight out of these wishes. While I know we can expect to see Alison Brie, Armie Hammer, Christina Hendricks, and Justin Beiber tonight I don’t know who else we can expect to see that I’ve featured in this list. But as I’ve said multiple times this year it’s better to dream in glamour than drown in the fear of what is going on in the world.

The 2020 E! People’s Choice Awards will take place TONIGHT November 15, 2020 and you can see all of my wishes for this years red carpet here.

10 Best Collections of Spring 2021 – Christopher John Rogers

In the official “Fashion Month” line up Christopher John Rogers swooped in and presented one of my favorite collections of the season. He decided not to show in he well earned perch on the schedule during New York Fashion Week, but it was well worth the wait. He won the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award last year and the CFDA Emerging Designer of the Year award this year. I have been captivated with every collection CJR has presented, and this was no different. He LOVES drama and color. That was on display this season for sure. In a Zoom interview with VOGUE Runway’s Janelle Okwodu he said “Part of the reason why the collections have been so well-received is that they’ve been quite visceral in terms of the way they were conceived. [Our team] has been like, ‘This feels exciting, we enjoy this’ instead of investigating why.” I feel like this is what designers really should do. I was just talking with friends about how commercialized many of the biggest houses are. They have a formula that they know sells and even houses like Alexander McQueen who hold avant garde creativity at their core seem to have become redundant. Christopher John Rogers does not. Each season seems like a new experiment in the codes that he has set for his house. Drama, color, femininity, and structure. These are the core of what CJR is all about and this season delivered exactly that in a way we haven’t seen from him yet. He embraced abstract pattern and a myriad of bold primary colors this season. “I was away for four months and couldn’t do anything physical with my hands, so I just bought crayons and color pencils and started scribbling like I was a kid,” Rogers said to VOGUE Runway. “I wasn’t trying to create anything specific; I just wanted to have fun and express myself. It’s about getting back to the way children see the world through very simple shapes. They put energy on the page when they draw, so this was about simplifying and translating that energy into the clothes.”  The colors and patterns elevated basics that I definitely think will sell. The more glamorous and red carpet worthy looks are AMAZING as well. There is a lot of red carpet potential in these looks. So continue to read to find out who I want to see bringing this collection to life out of the lookbook and on the red carpet. Mixing bold floral pattern with a padded tulip hip skirt this thin strap tea length gown is definitely one of the best looks from this collection. It did immediately make me think of a Rosie Assoulin Spring 2017 gown that was worn by Naomie Harris; mostly because of the fluorescent floral pattern and the hips. Now this look is far from easy to pull off. I would love to task the gorgeous Kerry Washington with bringing this look to life on a red carpet. I feel like she has the presence to really make this look work. With a sleek cropped center parted bob, defined eyes, deep red glossy lips, a blush satin Jimmy Choo ‘Cloud’ pearl flower embellished frame box clutch, a pair of gold Jimmy Choo ‘Tesca 100’ strappy sandals, and glamorous MATEO New York 14k gold and white pearl curve form drop earrings this look would be absolutely MAJOR.

Now while pattern and texture is a hallmark of this collection there were some really good solid colored pieces as well. One of them was this traffic stopping orange strapless gown which features a column front and a draped cape back. Orange is such a bold color to wear anytime of day, but especially for evening. There are only a handful of orange red carpet looks I love, but I can imagine that his is going to be a major red carpet moment when it gets worn. I would love to see Danai Gurira be the person who brings this look out of the lookbook and onto the red carpet. She knows how to handle drama and color and I can just imagine how good this look would be. I would style this look with a major sculpted updo, smokey eyes, glossy nude lips, a pair of matching orange Giuseppe Zanotti ‘Neyla’ ankle strap sandals, and a MAJOR exquisite necklace of undulated design, with emeralds, diamonds, and pearls, the central emerald weighing 4.5 carats, while the diamonds 25 carats total, mounted on 18kt yellow gold. Made in Italy, circa 1965 sourced from vintage jewelry dealer Eleuteri.Not all of Christopher John Rogers gowns are all about unapologetic glamour and drama. Sometimes they evoke more a laid back causal vibe, but they always make a statement. Case and point? This camisole slip gown which is sand colored from the front, but explodes into a color-blocked rainbow in the back. Now this gown isn’t something I would expect to see on a major awards season red carpet, but I feel like Gabrielle Union would definitely rock it for a gala fundraiser. I took inspiration from the laid back vibe of the look for the styling. I would love to see Gabrielle rock the red carpet in this gown styled with a big high bun of braids, defined eyes, deep burgundy glossy lips, a pair of black and brown Brother Vellies ‘Midnight Woven Olivia’ chain detail ankle strap pumps, and statement 18K Rose Gold set Fernando Jorge ‘Comet’ waterfall earrings made up of white diamonds and lapis lazuli. ​

I was looking at this sand quilted silk strapless tulip skirt tea length gown I couldn’t get Zendaya out of my head. I would have just gone on with using her as the pick, but the shape is so similar to the Christopher John Rogers gown that she wore for the Emmy’s last month I wanted to branch out. I was obsessed with this look as it was one of the tame-er looks from this collection and I feel like Anya Taylor Joy would take this gown and really deliver it on a red carpet. I feel like in the line up of stars I’ve picked to wear this collection that Anya stands out for sure, but I feel like she has the presence to really make this gown come to life. Style it with a loose romantic updo, defined eyes, soft pink glossy lips, a pair of light gold crystal embellished Sophia Webster ‘Giovanna’ cross strap slingback sandals, and a statement Bulgari ‘Barocko’ collection white diamond and multicolored precious stone necklace for a pop of color and I know that this could be one of the best Christopher John Rogers red carpet moments ever.Tessa Thompson was wearing Christopher John Rogers before he was cool. Since he hit the mainstream we haven’t seen Tessa rock a look from his collections. I want that to change. I cannot recall Tessa ever giving us a big princess moment on the red carpet, so why not ask her to give it to us wearing this black ballgown with bright neon piping detail all over the bodice. I feel like this look is a very modern take on the ballgown and that is what I think would make it such a cool look for Tessa to rock on the red carpet. I would go left with the styling opting for a half up and down braided hairstyle, defined eyes, nude lips, a pair of black croc chunky platform Christian Louboutin ‘Foolish’ sandals, and a statement rainbow ombre Pomellato ‘Gourmette Caméléon’ chain choker made of a list of precious and semi precious stones to long to go through. It would definitely be a super cool moment for her to bring to life.

Now I had to put this wish into the universe to finish out this review. The moment I saw this neon color-blocked knit catsuit with bullseye detail on the breast my mind immediately went to Cardi B. I could see her rocking this with a matching fur coat for street style or on its own as a performance ensemble. I know the looks is something she would be drawn to and I would love to see her rock this with custom mismatched orange and yellow Christian Louboutin ‘Round Chick Alta 120’ platform peep toe half d’Orsay ankle strap pumps, long sleek center parted locks, crazy nails done in matching colors, defined smokey eyes, and bold red lips. What do you think about this collection? Who would you like to see bring looks from this collection to life on the red carpet?

10 Best Collections of Spring 2021: Sukeina

I’ve decided to talk about the Spring 2021 collections differently this season. I got so busy with work at the beginning of “Fashion Month” that I wasn’t able to keep up with writing reviews of the collections. So instead of multiple reviews good, bad, and indifferent I picked my top 10 collections of the season and will review them. In the midst of the pandemic I was overjoyed to see designers bring creativity and glamour to the collections. With many of the biggest heavy hitters deciding to sit the traditional calendar out this season it allowed for a lot of younger talent to shine. One of those was Sukeina. Beautiful and subtly mysterious, Sukeina is a tangible expression of an ongoing romance between the concept of femininity and the brands creative aesthetic of founder/creative director Omar Salam. This ‘romance’ evolves from a ‘language’ spoken between exotic fabrics and a gifted talent that seeks less to clothe the physical than it does to translate and visually express the essence of inner beauty and unique spirit that is womanhood.  By escaping the conformity of merely making ‘clothes for women’, what ensues are collections that are beguiling, exotic and transcendent, meticulously detailed yet glamorous in their simplicity. In a word, ethereal. He made his debut presenting a lookbook during New York Fashion Week: Digital. It made a splash.

The Sukeina Spring 2021 RTW collection is titled “Miracle” and that it was. In a season where there was a lot of dialed back details I was in love with the attention to detail that we saw in this collection. It was unique. In fashion collections do tend to be political in one way or another. This collection is no different. The idea centers on power dressing; having a seat at the table, something Black creators like Omar Salam have continuously struggled to receive. In a phone interview with Vogue “If one color is missing, the picture can’t be complete. They might not [explicitly] say that someone isn’t allowed in the room, but when all that is necessary to get into those rooms excludes an entire group, the message is clear.” So this collection was all about using African heritage mixed with western power dressing. Malian dress, Kenya’s Maasai tribe, and the Bassari people of the West African region all helped serve as the inspiration for this collection. While Salam referenced these cultures it did not come across as costume-y or appropriation. I was absolutely obsessed from the first moment I saw it. Below you are going to find 8 major moments from this collection I would like to see stars snatch out of the lookbook and bring to life on the red carpet, if we even get any more red carpets coming up.As I was first looking at this collection the first celebrity to pop into my mind was Cardi B. I feel like the aesthetic of this collection is something that Cardi would be totally interested in. I really would love to see Cardi rock this red ‘Kyte Cloud’ dress which features mesh construction, a mock neck, intricate embellishments, and cutouts on the hips. It is glamorous and trashy and that is exactly what I would want to see Cardi bring to life. She knows how to walk that line perfectly. With a sleek center parted hairstyle, defined eyes, dark antique rose pink lips, a pair of red suede three strap Giuseppe Zanotti crystal embellished sandals, and a pair of white diamond Butani vine chandelier earrings I know that this would be a major fashion moment for Cardi to bring to life on the red carpet.

I was also immediately drawn to this lime green and black ‘Cloud Mini’ high neck mini dress which features puffy feathered sleeves, mesh construction, and intricate embroidery. It’s such a fun fashion moment and I really do think that it could be a cool look for Miley Cyrus. She’s been killing the fashion game lately and I definitely think that this look would fit her glam grunge aesthetic perfectly especially if it was styled with thick kohl rimmed eyes, glossy pink lips, and a pair of black Rene Caovilla ‘Cleo’ crystal embellished satin satin ankle cuff coil sandalsSex wasn’t the only thing on the menu in the Sukeina Spring 2021 RTW collection. We saw several super sophisticated and lady like looks too. I loved seeing this burnt orange ensemble which consists of a ‘Butterfly’ organza long sleeve bodysuit blouse and a ‘Delta’ structured origami fold detailed pencil skirt. Again this was a look that immediately put a star in my head? Who? Well obviously Jennifer Lopez. It would be a really cool interview ensemble for JLo. Style it with a sleek low bun, defined eyes, dark berry lips, a light brown Celine ‘Medium 16’ top handle natural calfskin bag, a pair of metallic gold Casadei ‘Blade’ croc effect pointed toe pumps, gold Elie Saab gradient effect oversized sunglasses, and dazzling Loren Jewels sterling silver and 18kt gold pave diamond hoop earrings with 7.17 carat total weight of champagne diamonds to really make it a superb fashion moment.

While the collection was uber sexy the super covered black gown ensemble which features intricate embroidery, long sleeves with scarf detail on the cuffs, high neck, origami folded details, and a fit to flare skirt was definitely a standout. It is going to be a difficult look to pull off, but I feel like Mary J. Blige would be the perfect person to bring the look to life. Now the gown itself is such an intricate statement I would just love to see her style the gown with a blonde fingerwave updo, defined eyes, bold glossy lips, and a pair of black leather Vetements drill-bit heel pointed toe pumps. We know that Kim Kardashian would be all over some of the sexiest looks from this collection, even though she has been really into vintage for the last year. I saw this black mesh ‘Kyte’ long sleeve dress which features a plunging neckline, lace up detail on the front, blouson sleeves, drop waist, cutout detail on the hips, and a flared handkerchief hem and immediately thought of Kim. While I do think it would be a bit of an eye roll moment as it is perfectly within Kim’s usual MO I definitely think it is something she would rock on a red carpet. A sleek high ponytail, defined eyes, nude lips, a pair of black Amina Muaddi ‘Zula’ strappy crystal embellished and PVC detail sculpted heel sandals, and simple yet glamorous Lorraine Schwartz white diamond emerald cut drop earrings would definitely make this a very Kim but also very high fashion moment.

My final wish, for this list at least, is for the one and only Beyonce. I would love to see her bring this black ‘Tocca’ embroidered mesh jacket with strong shoulders with a white collar to life as a major performance moment. I feel like I can definitely picture Beyonce rocking a stage wearing this jacket over a black Wolford ‘Mat de Luxe’ spaghetti strap bodysuit. A sleek high ponytail, smokey eyes, bold red lips, and a pair of black Saint Laurent ‘Moon’ over the knee boots which feature a chunky heel and a lace up detail up the back are exactly how I would bring this look to life as a major performance ensemble. So yes I am so excited about this collection. I feel like we are going to see stylists really embracing this collection for the red carpet. Who would you like to see bring these looks to life?

2020 Billboard Music Awards Red Carpet Wish List

Tomorrow night are the 2020 pandemic version of the Billboard Music Awards. The awards are finally happening, in a virtual event, after being postponed earlier this year. I don’t know what to expect, but there are some major names in the list of nominees and performers so I hope to see a lot of these stars over the course of the telecast tomorrow night. Check out some of the absolutely major moments I want to see these stars rock tomorrow night for the virtual “red carpet” and let me know which are your favorites and which ones you most want to see brought to life.

2020 BET Awards Red Carpet Wish List Part 2

We may not be getting a red carpet for the 2020 BET Awards, but at least there will be a virtually created telecast. We don’t know what the future of awards shows are going to look like. So I am very interested in seeing what this virtual awards event ends up looking like. My wishes are not focused necessarily on what I want to see the stars wear for their Zoom awards show, but more for what I would have wanted to see them bring to life on the red carpet had an in person awards show happened. So check out the five major moments I would have wanted to see brought to life on the red carpet at the 2020 BET Awards. I always LOVE seeing Angela Bassett on the red carpet. She always brings the drama and the glamour. I would have loved to see Angela give us visual glamour wearing this water pattern sequined velvet Tadashi Shoji Fall 2020 RTW gown which features dramatic short ruffled sleeves, a plunging neckline, a bias cut, column skirt, and a short train. I was starting my search for the perfect gown for her Angela to wear had there been a red carpet for this years BET Awards and the moment I saw this gown I was sold. It is different, avant garde, and super glamorous and that is exactly the kind of look that Angela is drawn to for her red carpet gowns. I can definitely imagine her bringing this look to life with a sleek updo, emerald and charcoal smokey eyes, glossy deep nude lips, a gold Tyler Ellis ‘Perry’ python leather clutch, gold metallic leather Aquazzura ‘Whisper 105’ strappy sandals, and a pair of simple yet dazzling IVY New York ‘Mistletoe’ tsavorite and diamond drop earrings. For Cardi B I decided to go the couture route which is definitely not the usual route I would go for in regards to the BET Awards red carpet. But this is a fantasy right? So let’s go big or go home right? I was looking at looks and I saw this white Georges Hobeika Spring 2020 Couture asymmetrical tea length dress which features a sheer leaf embroidered bodice, full bell cuffs with fringe, a thin silver bow detail belt, a crystal embellished column skirt with rounded seams and a daring hip high split and was wondering who could rock it for the BET Awards. When I thought of Cardi I was a little apprehensive at the beginning because I wouldn’t want her fake boobs ruining the look like it did with the hot pink Nicholas Jebran gown that she wore for the Clive Davis Pre-Grammy party earlier this year. The more I thought about it the more I decided that it was a risk that I would love to see her take. The dress is super glamorous and I think that with the right statement styling I knew that Cardi would have made it a major moment. I would have styled this look with a sleek high ponytail, silver glitter and aqua blue eyes, deep red matte lips, silver crystal embellished talon nails, a pair of silver Le Silla ‘Petalo 120’ ruffled detail ankle strap PVC d’Orsay peep toe sandals, and statement Lorraine Schwartz paraiba tourmaline and white diamond teardrop pendant earrings to make sure that this look screams dramatic glamour from head to toe. I first took notice of H.E.R. a little over a year ago when out of nowhere it she became a fashionista to me when she walked the red carpet at the amfAR Cinema Against AIDS Gala in Cannes to help launch the Giambattista Valli x H&M collection. Before then I hadn’t heard of H.E.R. but I’ve followed her since. She has such an eclectic sense of style. It very much reminds me in a away of Andra Day, but a little more bohemian than retro. I knew immediately the designer I wanted to see H.E.R. wear on the BET Awards red carpet had they happened. I love this sea foam green silk Victoria Hayes Collection Fall 2020 RTW long sleeve robe style midi gown. It is structured yet relaxed and I definitely think it would have been a perfect option for H.E.R. to bring to life on this red carpet especially styled with a bun of curls, defined eyes behind her signature round sunglasses (the ones I picked for her to pair with this dress are Versace), deep berry red lips, a pair of dazzling silver crystal embellished plaid pattern Marco de Vincenzo chunky platform ankle strap sandals, and Norman Silverman white diamond hoop earrings. Lizzo is another one who I’ve been following for just over a year. Now in comparison to H.E.R. I have seen Lizzo turn into a MAJOR fashionista getting custom looks made for her from all of the top fashion labels. However I do love when she turns to one of the first designers to really embrace her, Christopher John Rogers. I was just starting to learn about Christopher John Rogers when Lizzo wore him for the 2019 MTV Movie and Television Awards. It was the first time I really noticed Lizzo and her beat hasn’t slowed since. So when I was looking for looks for her to wear for the BET Awards, had there been a red carpet, I turned first to the Christopher John Rogers Fall 2020 RTW collection and this marigold iridescent gown which features a cutout neckline, long sleeves, and a knot detail. I actually first considered this look for Lizzo to wear on the red carpet at the Met Gala. Ultimately I went for something more dramatic, but the BET Awards would have been a perfect time for Lizzo to bring this look to life on the red carpet. Styled with a high braided bun updo, smokey eyes, burgundy glossy lips, an ombre gold crystal embellished Judith Leiber slim faceted rectangle clutch, a pair of gold Saint Laurent ‘Hall’ metallic leather ankle strap sandals, and statement David Morris ‘Doorknocker’ hammered yellow gold and white diamond earrings I know that this would have been another MAJOR fashion moment for Lizzo. I always love seeing Zendaya bring the glamour to the red carpet. She is a style chameleon and we never know what to expect from her on the red carpet. Now had there been a BET Awards red carpet I have no idea what she would have worn, but I went for much more of a dramatic look than we are used to seeing on the BET Awards red carpet. Initially I was going to pick an Atelier Versace Spring 2020 Couture baroque scarf print cocktail dress for Zendaya, but when I saw this asymmetrically draped gown which features a single cap sleeve, draped detail, thigh high split, and short train. I was sold. I know that Zendaya would definitely have made this look come to life on the red carpet. It would definitely be a risk, but that’s what I love about Zendaya. I would have loved to see her style this gown with the runways strappy knee high sandals, a sleek high ponytail, defined eyes, glossy light pink lips, and a pair of Kwiat white and yellow diamond pear shaped drop earrings.

Check out Part 1 of my 2020 BET Awards wishes here. The virtual BET Awards will take place on Sunday June 28, 2020 at 8pm on BET, BET Her, & CBS.

2020 Met Gala Red Carpet Wish List Part 27

This years Met Gala is still postponed with no reschedule date the the books. I am really excited for this years event and am ready to know when it is going to be rescheduled for. The theme of “About Time: Fashion and Duration” is going to deliver some super major moments on the Met steps and I cannot wait. The five looks in today’s wishes are a mix of long shots and expected moments, but all of them fit the DNA of the brands they come from and this years theme perfectly. I know they would make major moments on this years red carpet, and the styling I’ve picked to go with them just makes them even more perfect. Cardi B shut down the red carpet at her first Met Gala last year giving us edgy uterus quilted drama from Thom Browne. I knew she was going to bring the drama and she did. This year I decided to go for something a lot more subdued than that moment. I would love to see her give the David Koma label it’s first major Met Gala red carpet moment. Now Koma had a couple of simple moments on the Met red carpet back when he was the creative director of Mugler, but never as the David Koma label. I was looking at his Fall 2020 RTW collection when I saw this black velvet white and green crystal embellished velvet off the shoulder mini dress which features a curved neckline and sleeve and knew it would be a super glam moment for this years Met Gala red carpet. The look definitely makes sure that the David Koma label has its first major Met Gala red carpet moment. Now I would love to see this gown lengthened into a column gown for Cardi to really have a super glamorous moment for the Met Gala. Now while the gown might be simple in silhouette the embellishments and structure on the bodice add the right amount of drama to this look. I would up the drama level even more with the styling pairing this gown with a big bun updo, smokey winged eyes, ruby red glossy lips, a pair of black Jimmy Choo ‘Max 150’ peep toe platform sandals, and a lot of jewels from Gismondi 1754 including a pair of white diamond and emerald ‘Rugiada’ drop earrings, a statement white diamond and emerald ‘Rugiada’ lace choker necklace, a ‘Rugiada’ white diamond and emerald lace cuff bracelet, and a statement emerald cut emerald and white diamond cocktail ring. After the 2012 Met Gala Gwyneth Paltrow said she would never attend again, calling the event “totally un-fun.” Well then she’s been twice since then as the guest of Calvin Klein 205W39NYC and Chloe. Well I don’t know why but I feel like she just might be on the red carpet again this year. Now that being said I have HATED every single thing that Gwynie has worn on a red carpet this year. It seems like she is trying to hard to hold onto her “fun.” I want to see Gwyneth ooze sophistication on this years red carpet. I have been thinking about Gwyneth wearing this nude liquid sequin Valentino Spring 2020 Couture long sleeve gown which features a diamond cutout back detailed with black satin bows and a sweeping train since it was first presented back in January. The gown is modern glamour defined and I believe that Gwyneth would be able to bring this look to life on the red carpet. A sleek updo so that the back of the gown will be on full display, defined eyes, soft rose pink lips, a pair of nude Aquazzura ‘So Nude’ slingback sandals, and statement Cartier High Jewelry ‘Sorelli’ rutilated quartz and white diamond drop earrings all would make sure that this is Gwyneth’s best red carpet moment in years. Lily Collins always knows how to handle a theme on the Met Gala red carpet. She has been amongst my favorites the last three years and I am excited to see her own the red carpet this year. I decided to go left of the expected labels for Lily because she was the perfect fit to wear this sage green tulle Azzi & Osta Fall 2019 Couture strapless ballgown which features a sculpted rose peplum bodice. This is a collection that traverses between vintage allure and modern glamour, paying tribute to the golden age of couture of the 1950s. The history of haute couture is intrinsically linked with the history of photography, and it is the work of Irving Penn that provided the inspiration for an absolutely stunning couture collection from Azzi & Osta. With inspiration like that this collection embodies the theme of this years Met Gala. Giving this gown the full 50’s treatment with a sleek beehive updo, defined eyes, pink lips, a pair of mint green satin Manolo Blahnik ‘Skyroj’ crystal embellished blue pointed toe pumps, and vintage peridot, yellow sapphire, and white diamond pendant drop cluster earrings would definitely make this a major moment for Lily to bring to life on this years Met Gala red carpet. Over the years Joseph Altuzarra has designed a number of custom gowns for the Met Gala red carpet. So I am always looking at his fall collections to find the perfect look for him to customize for a lucky starlet. As I was watching the Altuzarra Fall 2020 RTW collection presentation I fell in love with this silver crinkled velvet skirt suit which features a blazer with an off the shoulder portrait neckline and peak lapels as well as a pencil skirt with a serious thigh high split. The first person to pop into my head was Best Actress Oscar winner Renee Zellweger. This look as presented is definitely right up Renee’s little box of style. Now that being said I would create a custom gown for Renee to wear on this red carpet so there is no blazer lines down the tummy or on the hips. The silhouette of a column gown is exactly what Renee wore all awards season long and I wouldn’t expect to see her deviate from that if she were to step onto her first Met Gala red carpet in seven years. Keeping the styling relatively expected for Renee with a simple center parted low bun, defined eyes, soft pink lips, the blue leather belt the runway look was styled with on the runway, a pair of silver Jimmy Choo ‘Teja’ crystal embellished pointed toe d’orsay pointed toe pumps, and then adding a bit of a statement via a David Webb ‘Dinner Roll’ collar necklace made in carved rock crystal, brilliant-cut diamonds, 18K white gold, and platinum would definitely make this a major moment for Renee to wear on the Met Gala red carpet. When it comes to style I do not typically laud Sofia Coppola. She is quite mundane and bland when it comes to her sartorial choices. I would however love to see her walk this years Met Gala red carpet as a guest of Marc Jacobs. Sofia and Marc have been friends for a really long time so when I was trying to think of someone who could wear this superb black silk satin rode caged off the shoulder midi dress from the Marc Jacobs Fall 2020 RTW collection I thought it was a perfect match. This look is definitely a chic moment, simplistic which is in line with Sophia’s sense of style, but is enough to make a look for her interesting. The classic look is perfect for Sophia and I would love to see her style it with a romantic updo, thick defined eyes, dark rose pink lips, a black satin Roger Vivier ‘Mini RV’ floral crystal embellished buckle clutch, a pair of black Roger Vivier ‘I Love Vivier’ pointed toe pumps custom made in satin instead of leather, and vintage Cartier white diamond ribbon ear clips with white pearl pendant drops.

PARIS FASHION WEEK FALL 2020 RTW RED CARPET WISH LIST PART 1

Paris Fashion Week might be long over, but as red carpet events are being cancelled due to Corona Virus I thought well best not to let the wishes that danced around my head as I watched the livestreams of these shows and flipped through the lookbooks on Vogue Runway. As Robert Fripp once said “In strange and uncertain times such as those we are living in, sometimes a reasonable person might despair. But hope is unreasonable and love is greater even than this. May we trust the inexpressible benevolence of the creative impulse.” We must continue to embrace our creative and optimistic sides as we take in the news daily. So with that being said I am going to try and post a little more regularly. I am still trying to work out what content will look like moving forward, but it will all be focused on bringing a little bit of fantasy and escapism to my readers. As we are self-isolating and social distancing now is a great time to engage with posts and start conversations. If you don’t want to comment here drop me an email at tjmstylingstudio@gmail.com or send me a DM on any of my social media accounts Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. I love engaging with my If I Was A Stylist Community so if you just want to chat or have an idea for content please do not hesitate to reach out to me!