Who Dressed Best At Cannes?

I've never been so excited to conjure up a best-dressed list. You know why? Because Cannes is glamour, elegance, class, and little bit of rebellion personified. It's a place so classy that being dressed to the nines is a must (whether you're a regular person or a celebrity). Though they all have stylists, these celebs still deserve credit for rocking these beautiful looks. Even the ones who usually make odd red carpet choices looked drop-dead gorgeous at Cannes this year. I'm talking to you Anna Kendrick (though I love her anyway). Some women like Kristen Stewart, Blake Lively, and Kendall Jenner had a few rockstar looks at Cannes and one can only imagine the difficulty of selecting just one. However, I approached the task with fervour and I have come up with a list of mouth-watering, eye gaping, choices. Ready?

NUMBER 10

Naomi Watts in Armani Prive

 Although Naomi Watts always seems to be rocking the same strapless form-fitting Armani Prive look at every event, she consistently looks stellar doing it. This is a woman who knows her body and what works for her. Consequently, she is also always a best-dressed contender.

via tomandlorenzo.com

NUMBER 9

Barbara Palvin in Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini

Anyone who wears Philosophy is immediately on my best-dressed list. Barbara Palvin looks feminine, pretty, and super on trend in this pale pink ruffled gown. My girly side is beyond excited about it.

via barbarapalvinme.tumblr.com

NUMBER 8

Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen

Though Jessica Chastain looked stunning in her yellow Armani dress, this has to be my favourite. From the tassled waves to the embellished gown, Chastain is so 1920s chic with a mix of old Hollywood. I'm completely obsessed.

via justcurious.co.za

NUMBER 7
Karlie Kloss in Marchesa
If you're going to wear black, it better be va-va-voom. Take a hint from Karlie Kloss. THIS is how you rock black at Cannes.

via telegraph.co.uk

NUMBER 6

Jourdan Dunn in Ralph & Russo

Who doesn't look stunning in a full-skirted floor length gown? Obviously, Jourdan Dunn got it right in this beautiful Ralph & Russo that can't be described in any other way but dreamy. 

via eonline.com

HONOURABLE MENTION: Ruffled black Dsquared
I'm simply in love.

via telegraph.co.uk

NUMBER 5

Blake Lively in Vivienne Westwood

Apparently princess gowns were popular at Cannes this year. Though Blake Lively wore an abundance of beautiful gowns/jumpsuits that showcased her slight baby bump, I'm a sucker for a Cinderella dress. How can I resist those cake-like ruffles?

via nuevamujer.com

NUMBER 4

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Alexandre Vauthier Couture

Don't you want to swing around in that dress? I know I do. I think it's clear to see that red is Rosie's colour. Though she looks gorgeous in almost everything, she shines even brighter in red. Also, that flower at the neckline is simply perfect.

via eonline.com

NUMBER 3

Amal Clooney in Atelier Versace

Can Amal Clooney do any wrong on the red carpet? The answer you're looking for is no. Though this dress is simple, she looks like a greek goddess and the slit is the perfect way to showcase her super classy shoes (not shown here). Breathtaking.

via arabia.style.com

NUMBER 2

Kendall Jenner in Cavalli Couture

This has got to be my favourite naked dress of all time (and there have been many). There is so little going on here yet so much at the same time. I'm not even sure how that's possible, but I'm flabbergasted. This is STUNNING (caps intended).

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 1

Bella Hadid in Cavalli Couture

Clearly, Cavalli won Cannes this year. I can't even imagine a more perfect dress on Bella Hadid. From the very expensive looking diamonds ornamenting her neck to this body-hugging gown, this look is red carpet gold.

via eonline.com

Which look was your favourite this year at Cannes?

Ponder it,

Bella

The Golden Globes: Who Did It Better?

It's that time of year again. A time when you can no longer step out of the house without worrying your fingers might fall off. But also, awards season. It began last night with the 73rd Annual Golden Globes. The evening started awkwardly enough with Ricky Gervais claiming he won't be offensive which was, of course, a lie, or a joke (whichever you prefer to believe). From a borderline inappropriate comment about Caitlyn Jenner to a severely inappropriate comment about Jodie Foster, Gervais knew no limits. Though I may have missed the last hour of the show, I managed to catch the full red carpet and that's where all the excitement lies anyway. Am I right? Apparently, a few people had similar ideas this year and nobody consulted each other. Though in some cases, this may be an unfortunate mishap, in my book it's a chance to compare and contrast. I may have been less than impressed with the selection of dresses, but I had much more fun because of it. Here are my style awards for the evening.

BEST GOLD (half-naked) DRESS
CANDIDATES:
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley in Atelier Versace
Brie Larson in Calvin Klein

WINNER: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. For the sexy cut.

via celebmafia.com

BEST BLACK VELVET
CANDIDATES:
Lady Gaga in custom Versace
Kirsten Dunst in Valentino

WINNER: Lady Gaga. For tastefulness (coming from the lady who wore a meat dress...)

via peopestylewatch

BEST LADY IN WHITE
CANDIDATES:
Alicia Vikander in Louis Vuitton
Laverne Cox in Elizabeth Kennedy
Taraji P. Henson in Stella McCartney.

WINNER: Alicia Vikander. Though a close tie, Alicia Vikander chose a much more romantic look, which won her the spot above Laverne Cox.

via popsugar.com

BEST RED
CANDIDATES:
Natalie Dormer in J. Mendel
Emmy Rossum in Armani Prive
Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Couture

WINNER: Jennifer Lawrence. Minus the cutouts.

via indianexpress.com

BEST BLACK GLITTER
CANDIDATES:
Uzo Aduba in Talbot Runhof
Taylor Schilling in Thakoon

WINNER: Taylor Schilling. Because pants always win.

via vogue.com

BEST PRINCESS DRESS
CANDIDATES:
Gina Rodriguez in Zac Posen
Amy Schumer in Prabal Gurung

WINNER: Gina Rodriguez. But Amy came close.

via popsugar.com

BEST DEEP PLUNGE
CANDIDATES:
Jaimie Alexander in Genny
Olivia Wilde in Michael Kors
Jenna Dewan Tatum in Zuhair Murad

WINNER: Jaimie Alexander. Because of her eyes.

via eonline.com

BEST GIRLY GIRL
CANDIDATES:
Leslie Mann in Monique Lhuillier
Amber Heard in Gucci
Kate Bosworth in Dolce and Gabbana

WINNER: Amber Heard. For those floral appliques.

via vogue.com

HONOURABLE MENTION:
Julianne Moore in Tom Ford

via indianexpress.com

Though there were several other memorable dresses last night, these are my top picks. What are yours?

Ponder it...

Bella

Sneakers And Dresses: A Revolutionary Combo

I have a confession to make. I hate flats. I can't for the life of me see the pleasure in wearing this type of shoe on any occasion. I understand that the pointy-toed version looks lovely on Alexa Chung. I'm also impartial to the Chiara Ferragni collection of whimsical flats with little cat faces. However, I will never find them flattering. They don't elongate your legs, nor do they do anything for your figure. I like to refer to them as the "useless" shoe.

via cosmopolitan.com.au

Unfortunately, summer is a season that inspires a lot of walking. From a casual stroll in the park to simply a walk on the beach, 'tis the season to let go of the vehicle and opt for a more eco-friendly leg-strengthening oxygen-inhaling mode of transportation.

I, for one, am a huge advocate of walking. Perhaps it's the winter months of isolation and hibernation that make me want to walk everywhere come summer, but I just can't resist taking the longer route to my destination.

As a woman who loves her heels more than anything else in her closet, it pains me to admit that my favourite shoes are NOT walking friendly. So, when the sneaker trend took over the fashion world, I was beyond pleased. Believe it or not, I can fancy myself in a sneaker much more than a ballet flat. It's an inexplicable attachment that makes me want to wear them with absolutely everything. Though my heels will remain my favourites, I will sometimes intentionally choose a pair of sneakers for style purposes rather than mere practicality. It's beyond comprehension.

I can't seem to figure out why I prefer a sneaker. Maybe it's the little tomboy inside of me trying to inch out. Either way, what I once believed to be a shoe reserved for sport is now a fashion piece I actually enjoy wearing. As sneakers continue to gain popularity amongst fashionistas like Man Repeller, Leandra Medine, and top models like Cara Delevingne and Jourdan Dunn, they have become increasingly more versatile. Worn with skinny jeans, skirts, and dresses alike, it's clear that anything goes.

My favourite pairing of the moment? Sneakers with a summer dress.

via thetrendspotter.net

If there's one thing I love in the summer time, it's putting on a simple dress for a walk in the park. Choosing to wear it with a sneaker makes it a fashion statement I simply cannot resist. After all, sneakers with pants are way too conventional for me.

Will you be wearing sneakers with your dress this season?

Ponder It,

Bella

Why Dresses Are The Key To Surviving Your Summer

When the weather heats up and the layers come off, the best part about summer shines through. We finally get to throw something on and head out the door without a fuss. Winter coat? No thanks. Gloves? See you later. A hat? Maybe for style purposes. While winter may have been about the accessories you NEED, summer is about the ones you want, the ones that are there #forthesakeoffashion.

A prime example of this easy-going way of dressing is a dress. Whether a loose hip hugging maxi, a flared floral mini, a fitted deep-v style, or a 60s inspired shift, there is such a wide array of dresses that you can officially discard your pants this season. Dresses are the best for a number of reasons. Allow me to list them for you.

NUMBER 1

Your legs can breathe.

Pants are constricting. Shorts can ride up your butt in an unflattering way. Dresses never let you down and you can always feel the breeze pass through your legs.

via ellecanada.com

NUMBER 2

It's just one piece.

Who has the time to think of a complete outfit? With a dress, you just need to choose your shoes. No matter how many pairs you have, this is a much easier feat.

via barefootblonde.com

 NUMBER 3

They're ultra feminine.

Winter was so cold, you forgot what it was like to be a woman. Pants may be great, but it's time to wear something flirty and prepare yourself for a summer fling.

via glamradar.com

 NUMBER 4

Matching who?

Again, it's just one piece. Matching doesn't get any easier than that.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 5

It's just more comfortable.

If it's floating on your body, you're guaranteed comfort. Nothing says chill and low-maintenance like a light summer dress.

via whowhatwear.com

Could this be your new summer wardrobe?

Ponder it,

Bella

The Ultimate Best-Dressed List: Oscars 2015

Last night was the biggest night of the year in cinema and in fashion. Celebrities of the highest caliber walked the Red Carpet in the most luxurious dresses and tuxedos to celebrate film, and of course, show off their designer garbs. As per usual, I have decided to indulge in one of my favourite hobbies: creating a best-dressed list. Though you may have already seen an abundance of lists on websites like Glamour, Vogue, and Harper's Bazaar, this one will provide commentary on my picks for best-dressed of the night. If you're even the slightest bit curious, take a look at my choices below.

NUMBER 10

ANNA KENDRICK in THAKOON

Though Anna Kendrick is one of my favourite people in Hollywood (seeing as we are soul sisters), I tend to dislike her fashion choices. For once, I was impressed. One of the first people to walk the Red Carpet, Anna shocked onlookers by wearing something surprisingly elegant (no offense, Anna). This peach Thakoon dress with a neckline made of diamonds took everyone's breath away and her hair was Oscar perfect if I do say so myself. Finally, I can say "bravo, Anna". You have mastered humour and fashion alike. I like you even more now.

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

NUMBER 9

CHRISSY TEIGEN in ZUHAIR MURAD

Chrissy Teigen looked like a goddess in this baby blue Zuhair Murad dress (doesn't she always?). Though I'm not usually a fan of the deep V combined with a slit, somehow she pulled it together without crossing the line after sexy. The dramatic berry lip and retro waves made it an even more striking look and since she isn't in the film business, we can rest assured that her goal was to make the best-dressed lists. Mission accomplished.

via nenacarvalho.com.br

NUMBER 8

FELICITY JONES in CUSTOM ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

While some celebrities prefer the understated, others opts for something slightly more jaw-dropping. Usually, the fresher faces. Take Felicity Jones, for example. This celeb took the diva route with a custom Alexander McQueen dress/ball gown to assert her princess status. Since she looks like a munchkin in bangs, she pulled it off. But don't be fooled by her angelic demeanor. This dress says: I'm here to win, bitches.

via mirror.co.uk

NUMBER 7

JENNIFER LOPEZ in ELIE SAAB

Though J.Lo always exposes her cleavage, this time it was in a more tasteful way and I applaud her for it. She kept it sexy with the deep V neckline and naked colour, but rather than opting for a deep slit, she went for the heavy tulle princess dress like Felicity. She may have been just a presenter, but when it comes to fashion, she was clearly there to impress and it's safe to say that she did.

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 6

LUPITA N'YONGO in CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION

As always, Lupita makes the best-dressed list because she knows exactly how to assert her icon status. The starlet chose a custom Calvin Klein dress composed of 6,000 pearls. Not bad for a Hollywood beginner. Looks like we'll have to be on the lookout for this leading lady, because her fashion choices prove she's a force to be reckoned with.

via economicworld.net

 NUMBER 5

MARION COTILLARD in DIOR HAUTE COUTURE

Of course, Marion Cotillard wore Dior on the Red Carpet and looked beautiful in it. This may look like a simple white dress, but the texture and train take it to another level of stunning that only a french woman can master. And just wait until you see the back.

via www.reveal.co.uk

NUMBER 4

ROSAMUND PIKE in GIVENCHY HAUTE COUTURE

Though Rosamund Pike scared the bejesus out of me in Gone Girl, I was absolutely obsessed with this red Givenchy dress and was able to look past my psycho path image of her. I expected something a little more revealing and was pleasantly surprised by her classy choice. From the texture, to the slit, to the sheer panels at the sides, I was completely smitten with her look.

via carlyleobserver.com

NUMBER 3

EMMA STONE in ELIE SAAB

Though many disliked Emma's dress for its yellowish tint, I likened it more to gold and found that it sparkled against her porcelain skin perfectly. Emma knows that the key to winning at the Oscars Red Carpet is by wearing a sparkly Elie Saab dress, but rather than keeping it safe, she chose a unique colour that was unseen elsewhere on the carpet. I salute her for it. Go Emma!

via mirror.co.uk

NUMBER 2

GIULIANA RANCIC in MIREILLE DAGHER

Another lady in red who rocked the Red Carpet last night was Giuliana Rancic. She may not be known for her films, but she is widely recognized for her fashion sense. By default, she always ends up on my best-dressed lists because she has exquisite taste and somehow, I find myself wanting every single thing she wears. Can I steal your wardrobe, please?

via eonline.com

and the NUMBER 1 goes to...

GWYNETH PALTROW in RALPH & RUSSO COUTURE

Everyone's talking about Gwyneth Paltrow's giant Carrie Bradshaw flower. From the moment I spotted this pale pink Ralph & Russo dress, it was love at first sight. Before knowing it was Gwyn, this look was already my favourite and since this woman knows her body more than anyone, she obviously made it onto every best-dressed list. Every time she hits that Red Carpet, she gets it right. This was definitely one of her shining moments.

via eonline.com

HONOURABLE MENTIONS:

Dakota Johnson in Saint Laurent

via Vogue.com

 Kerry Washington in Miu Miu

via eonline.com

What do you think of last night's Red Carpet? Which dress was your favourite?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

A Golden Globes Best-Dressed List? Oh My.

Last night was an evening of fun and games with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey as well as a night of sparkle. Literally. Many celebs like Dakota Johnson, Julianne Moore, and Reese Witherspoon wore their glittery Christmas rejects, while others opted for lemon yellow. That's right. Lemon yellow was a popular choice for stars like Jenna Dewan Tatum, Leslie Mann, and Naomi Watts. And the sorbet dessert theme did not end there. Strawberry was even more widespread on ladies like Heidi Klum, Allison Williams, Lena Dunham, Taylor Schilling, Catherine Zeta Jones, and Viola Davis. Have I forgotten anyone? Bold was obviously the trend because many appeared in cobalt blue including Amy Poehler and Cindy Crawford. The battle of the cleavage proved that it is no longer all about the booty this year. It was a close tie between J.Lo and Kate Hudson. Who came out victorious? That's for you to judge. And let's not forget the men of the evening who looked dapper as usual. Mr. Clooney, Adam Levine, and Eddie Redmayne were amongst my favourites. Now, let's get down to the true business of this awards show. As we all know, it's not about the destination, but rather the process. Let's rate fashion.

NUMBER 10

Dakota Johnson in Chanel Haute Couture

This was my favourite piece of glitter to grace the red carpet. I am partially more excited for 50 Shades of Grey because of this dress. One may have nothing to do with the other, but that slit sure packed a punch.

via Elle UK

NUMBER 9

Amy Adams in Atelier Versace

Versace won the night and deserves an award for the abundance of stunning gowns she created on that Red Carpet. Amy Adams looks like a goddess of the seas in a periwinkle dress that hugged her curves. Clearly, her great bod made the dress and not the other way around.

via Elle UK

NUMBER 8

Giuliana Rancic in Maria Lucia Hohan

Of course, Giuliana Rancic, queen of fashion, looked adorable in a pale pink strapless with a flared princess skirt. I'm assuming she was inspired by Jeremy Scott's barbie collection, but who knows? In the world of cinema, it's just a pretty dress.

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 7

Kate Hudson in Versace

I hate (love) to say it, but Kate did it better than J.Lo. I'm usually not a big fan of the deep V cleavage, but Kate has never looked better. Then again, I say that at every Red Carpet event. Does anything look bad on her really?

via Elle UK

NUMBER 6

Lupita N'Yongo in Giambattista Valli Couture

This may seem like an odd choice and I had some trouble wrapping my head around it at first, but there's something charming about it that I just can't get over. Maybe it just reminds me of the lovely gardens of yore or maybe Lupita is just amazing, but I'm slightly obsessed with this on her.

via Elle UK

NUMBER 5

Amal Alamuddin Clooney in Dior Haute Couture

This may be the beginning of a series of best-dressed appearances for Amal. THE Mrs Clooney has proven herself worthy of the fashion scene by dressing for success at every occasion. She may have been the classiest lady at this ultra classy event in long gloves we might just like. Will this accessory appear at the Oscars? If she is the trendsetter I think she is...

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 4

Jenna Dewan Tatum in Carolina Herrera

Something I learned at the Golden Globes? Jenna Dewan Tatum looks amazing in yellow. She looks like spring sunshine in a field of sunflowers and it doesn't her to have a gorgeous manccessory.

via usmagazine.com

NUMBER 3

Heidi Klum in Versace

Once again, Versace wins the race on Heidi Klum. She may not be a film star, but she looks as glamorous as Monroe herself with her wavy blond locks and bold red dress. She definitely knows how to match the Red Carpet and stand out simultaneously.

via Elle UK

NUMBER 2

Kate Beckinsale in Elie Saab Couture

When is Kate not on one of my best-dressed lists? The answer is NEVER. She always looks breathtaking and I want to hire her as my new best friend. She pulls off that effortless Hollywood glamour I dream of and her bun is divine.

via Elle UK

And the NUMBER 1 is...

Emma Stone in Lanvin

Was this not obvious as soon as she walked that Red Carpet? If anyone can pull off pants at the Globes, it's Emma Stone. Matched with a charming sense of humour, we're all pretty much in love with her.

via Elle UK

And of course, I'd like to honourably mention the two runners up:

1. Reese Witherspoon in Calvin Klein

2. Julianne Moore in Givenchy

Did you watch the Globes last night? If so, what did you think of those Red Carpet looks? Which one was your favourite?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

In Memoriam: 10 Oscar de le Renta Gowns That Made Your Jaw Drop

Oscar de la Renta passed away last night at the age of 82 and the whole fashion world erupted in tears. Yet another legend has left us too soon and we can only look back at his legacy with nostalgia as we peruse through each of his previous collections. Oscar was a man who knew what women wanted. His designs always conveyed elegance, glamour, femininity, and that wow factor we all yearn for when award season comes along. Any celebrity wearing an Oscar gown knew she'd be on a best-dressed list in a heartbeat because Oscar knew how to make everyone fall in love with his designs. To commemorate this iconic designer, let's take a look at some of the best Oscar dresses that graced a red carpet in the last few years.

NUMBER 10

Lea Michele was a vision in pink at the 2011 Golden Globes. The intricate folds of the dress enhanced its feminine appeal while the fitted bodice highlighted her curves. This was the ultimate girly dress and it embodied the essence of Oscar.

Golden Globes

via www.popsugar.com

NUMBER 9
Back in 2012, Carrie Underwood wore the famous cloud dress, named for its fluffy skirt and misty colour. This dress may be reminiscent of a stormy night, but it was probably a romantic one from a Harlequin novel. Oscar's dresses had that mystical effect on us all.

Billboard Music Awards
via www.popsugar.com

NUMBER 8
The expression "fit like a glove" probably came from celebrities wearing dresses like these. Alba's mermaid gown from the 2013 Golden Globes was one of her most memorable looks due to the gorgeous colour and elaborately pleated skirt. Simply looking at this dress, you knew that it had to be Oscar's work.

Golden Globes

via www.zadenrow.com

NUMBER 7
Kerry Washington ALWAYS looks amazing, but at the NAACP Awards back in 2013, she looked breathtaking. Of course, she wore Oscar. The lovely lace detailing and long elegant train instantly give it away.

NAACP Awards
via www.glamazondiaries.com

NUMBER 6
Remember when Amy Adams wore this to the Oscars and you were completely dazzled? Remember when she won an Oscar in this very gown? Knowing that you're up for an Oscar is always the perfect indication that you MUST wear Oscar.

The Oscars

via www.aloversanthology.com

NUMBER 5
Sarah Jessica Parker was the belle of the ball at the 2014 Met Gala. Every aspect of this dress was reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw from the long white gloves to the full skirt. Though the black and white made it a classic look, the design was anything but simple. Oscar knew how to take classic elements and transform them into a drop-dead-gorgeous gown.

Met Gala
via www.glamazonsblog.com

NUMBER 4
For the Noah Premiere, Emma Watson decided to go gothic chic in this stunning Oscar de la Renta gown. Though the long sleeves and full skirt are conservative, the deep V at the back gives it that sexy wink to complete the look. Oscar knew that overt sexuality is not always the key to a beautiful dress, but rather, subtle sex appeal.

Noah Premiere

via uk.lifestyle.yahoo.com

NUMBER 3
Taylor Swift looked pretty in pink at the 2014 Met Gala. The deep V at the back and fabric manipulation at the tail are typical of Oscar de la Renta. You can tell that this man LOVED beautiful fabric.

Met Gala
via www.popsugar.com

NUMBER 2
Natasha Poly killed it at the Cannes Film Festival in this gothic, yet feminine, Oscar de la Renta dress. One of my favourite pieces from that collection, she gave it all the attention it deserved with pulled back hair and minimal jewelry. Everyone knows that an Oscar dress has to be the centre piece.

Cannes Film Festival
via www.fashionvent.com

NUMBER 1
Finally, who can forget the most recent tribute to Oscar: Amal Almuddin's wedding gown. This very picture was taken at her fitting with the designer himself. That had to have been magical.

Wedding
via nypost.com

R.I.P Oscar de la Renta. You'll always be remembered as the man who knew how to dress a woman in a way that made her fall in love.

XOXO,

Bella