Happy Thanksgiving from Fashion Nexus!

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The best way I can think of, to truly say HAPPY THANKSGIVING, is by compiling a fun list of what I consider to be Thanksgiving-inspired attire. And by that, no I do not mean apparel that has turkeys or falling leaves on them. When I think of proper Thanksgiving attire, I go more to colors or prints. And the hues that I think best say THANKSGIVING are varied shades of brown, taupe, muted gold, burnt orange, crisp burgundy, olive green, and perhaps even mustard yellow, if it’s the right shade!

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So here is my list to help get you thinking about what to wear for Thanksgiving! You might not have time to shop, but perhaps this list will serve as inspiration or a starting point. I have it all, looks to wear to fancy affairs or down home gatherings. Looks from go-to shops to more high fashion brands. I have separates, formal/informal dresses and the like. So enjoy! Get inspired! And most importantly, get ready to be thankful, eat, and enjoy time with friends & family!

**FRANCESCA’S**

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Jun & Ivy Metallic Dress

Romita Sweater Dress

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Elsie Floral Dress

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**HILTON HOLLIS**

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Copper Degrade Dress

**MODCLOTH**

Sights to Season Dress

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Collar it a Day Dress

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Pine all Mine Dress

Feathers Too Much Fun Dress

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**H&M**

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Printed Flared Skirt & Knit Cowl-Neck Sweater

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Short-sleeved Jumpsuit

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**KOHL’S**

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Indication by ECI Chevron Shift Dress

IZ Byer California Lattice Back Top

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**REBECCA TAYLOR**

Beaded Dress

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Flight Feather Blouse

**DESIGUAL**

Desigual Sacha Skirt

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Desigual Berta Blouse

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**TRACY REESE**

Inverted Pleat Skirt

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Washable Herringbone Pullover

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**CHARLOTTE RUSSE**

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Textured Scuba Knit Skater Dress

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Slub Knit Tunic Sweater

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**EXPRESS**

Cowl Neck Sweater Dress

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Contrast Piping Portofino Shirt

Best Dressed at the 2014 AMAs

And it’s safe to say with my list, entirely black ensembles ruled with more than half of my Best Dressed contenders in all black get-ups. But nonetheless, this Best Dressed list was still top-notch, with a great deal of shining stars, dynamic duos, and looks brimming immaculate details. Check it out & ENJOY!!

KATE BECKINSALE 

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In my eyes, it seems Kate can do no wrong. She always looks phenomenal. And this white plunging V-neck Kaufmanfranco ensemble is no exception. It’s sexy, chic, and fitted to perfection. Kate is for sure rockin’ this look! Coordinating perfectly with her outfit is her silver Lee Savage clutch and diamond serpentine Bulgari necklace.

JULIANNE HOUGH

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Julianne has had me questioning some of her more recent red carpet looks, but with this bright tangerine Zuhair Murad gown, there is no doubt this look is an A+! I love the details, the flowing train, the thigh-high slit, and the intricately detailed triangular cut sheer bodice. She completed her look with a gold Lee Savage clutch and gold Tamara Mellon sandal heels.

2014 American Music Awards - Arrivals

Actually, one other stunning detail for Julianne’s bright get-up was her edgy gold Jacquie Aiche jewels! Her entire styling team deserves some major props for this job well done — hair stylist Riawna Capri with Nine Zero One Salon, Spencer Barnes for Make-up, Anita Patrickson for styling, and Kristy Sowin for running the show!

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DANICA MCKELLAR

I am still head over heels with how gorgeous Danica looks in this emerald lacy gown by Mac Duggal. She looks breathtaking & I’m in love with this look!

FERGIE  fergie-amas-red-carpet-2014-getty__width_580

Fergie made a major comeback with a new single at the AMAs, but with the red carpet, it’s a double comeback! She knocked it out of the park with this sexy thigh-high slit number from Halston Heritage complete with gold detailing at the waist and neckline. She kept up the overall sexy vibe with some fierce accessories, including black Versus Versace ankle-strap heels & Loree Rodkin jewels, namely a killer serpentine ring.

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SELENA GOMEZ

As I said, entirely black looks ruled my list, and Selena’s demure open back Armani Prive gown is at the top of that list. She looks so classy and sophisticated, yet this number still has a hint of sexiness to it.

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Clearly I think it looks great from every angle!

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And to give the all black look just a little bit of color, the necessary amount of sparkle, are some exquisite pieces of jewelry, such as these burnt red & gold Neil Lane danglers.

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I’m not sure of the designer for Selena’s performance look, but she also looks just as stunning here, a very soft number to go with her heartfelt performance.

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MEGHAN TRAINOR

Every red carpet attendee doesn’t need a full on gown to still look amazing and Megan proved that point very well. She looks super elegant in this black Ted Baker London cocktail dress. The lacier top portion provided just the right amount of red carpet appeal to land her as Best Dressed! I’m also head over heels for her sparkly red lips clutch, if only I knew where it was from!

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BAILEE MADISON

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Bailee could have worked a more younger piece, but I still think she looks so prim, proper, & perfect in this eye-catching Walter Collection by Walter Mendez frock. I just had to include her on my list! She looks happy & if she wants to go the ladylike route, fine by me since she looks as great as she does here.

LUKE BRYAN & CAROLINE BOYER

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Even outside of the country music awards scene, almost any best dressed list of mine would not be complete if I don’t include Luke Bryan and Caroline Boyer. As long as these two are at the show, they never cease to amaze me. They are a dynamic fashion red carpet duo for sure. I’m never quite sure who Caroline is wearing, but she still deserves Best Dressed recognition, especially in this beautiful strapless red gown with a black lacy belt at the waist.

ARIANA GRANDE 

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I am so sad that I couldn’t see a red carpet look from Ariana! I guess I will have to settle for this gorgeous black lacy number she wore while performing. I mean come on, she looks stunningly beautiful right! I just wish we could have seen her on the red carpet, let her rack up those best dressed red carpet numbers because I think she could have had an overall best dressed night had we seen her on the red carpet. But I do love this black gown!

2014+American+Music+Awards+Arrivals+eWQ82OTWG5hl  CARLY STEEL

Another black gown, another knockout! Carly looks divine here. This sparkling lacy gown is perfectly fitted for her and perfectly fitting for the night!

CHARLI XCX 

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With so many black looks on my list, you would think I would tire of them or be bored. But I can’t be when they all look so different, so great, and bring something new to the table. Charli XCX blew me away with out elegant and sophisticated she looked in her head to toe Vivienne Westwood ensemble. So yes, Vivienne Westwood black draped gown and gold Vivienne Westwood jewelry pieces.

2014 American Music Awards - Arrivals BECKY G

I must include on my Best Dressed list a few short, sexier numbers. Becky G’s white sheer long-sleeved mini is the perfect example and the perfect addition to my list. I love how hot she looks, but still somewhat understated and not over-the-top.

And what about that gorgeous makeup, the poppin’ pink lip and smoky eye, all courtesy of CoverGirl, NEW Colorlicious lipstick and Bloom mascara!

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MORGAN STEWART

Another sexier, short number, but I literally couldn’t take my eyes off of Morgan’s nude long-sleeved mini. The dress had so many eye-catching details, it was definitely more than basic!

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ONE DIRECTION

One Direction has a whole always looks handsome and dapper. Loving their mix of looks from eclectic hipster to refined gentlemen!

JENNY MCCARTHY  jenny-mccarthy-290

At first glance you might think Jenny is donning a plain black dress. But take a gander at it from the back, an open back trimmed with pearls, I’m adoring this lovely detail! This is just a gorgeous dress from Cushnie et Ochs, no doubt. She gave her look a little extra sparkle & bling with adorable Kotur clutch.

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In addition, for even more special touches to Jenny’s gorgeous look, there is a statement making beaded necklace by Erickson Beamon and Graziela Gems earrings. Her overall look is just spectacular, including her luscious waves courtesy of Justin Presnell of the Rossano Ferretti Salon in Beverly Hills.

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KANDI BURRUS & TODD TUCKER

And finally, one last great looking pair with Kandi & Todd. Todd looks laidback and relaxed, but still very handsome and well put together. It’s a modern spin on a suit, leather pants as a substitute, sans tie. And then Kandi looks smokin’ in her fitted white bodycon dress!

Best Dressed Round-Up!

Red carpets are always ongoing. Here is a list I put together of some best dressed looks that caught my eye over the past week or so! ENJOY!!

Jessica Alba  jessica-alba-290

Jessica looks like a princess in this Andrew Gn ballgown while attending the Baby2Baby event. The gold leaf printed bodice is quite captivating. And adding some more perfect gold speckles of color are her Brian Atwood clutch and Tiffany & Co. jewelry.

Elizabeth Banks

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It’s as if Elizabeth is wearing a work of art in this exquisite Elie Saab plunging V-neck gown. She was attending the London premiere of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1. 

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Her gorgeous dress had flickers of sparkle all over, but were not the only bits of shimmer for her look. Diamond Suzanne Kalan earrings and Casa Reale rings certainly added the right amount of additional sparkle to top of Banks’ look!

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Needless to say, this ensemble is a stunner from all angles!

Kate Hudson  kate-hudson-1-290

Can you say Gucci from head to toe!?! Well that is exactly what Kate is rockin’ with this breathtaking look for the 2014 LACMA Art + Film Gala, which was honoring Barbara Kruger & Quentin Tarantino. She is glowing in a fitted blush pink Gucci gown. She paired perfectly with her outfit a sparkling silver Gucci clutch, as well as Gucci heels, which you really can’t see, but they are there! While not Gucci, her Chrome Hearts jewelry pieces were great touches to pair with her overall look.

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olivia-wilde-290  Olivia Wilde

Simplistically minimal looks can still be spot on & great red carpet looks. Take for example this chic, fitted black Michael Kors dress, complete with sparkling embellishments and a sexy side cut-out. She sure made for some hot arm candy to support her husband Jason Sudeikis while attending the UK premiere of Horrible Bosses 2 in London.

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Jennifer Lawrence

Jennifer makes for another great looking attendee on the red carpet for the London premiere of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1. This floral embroidered Dior high-low dress was a good choice for her, elegant, sweet, and flirty! Perfectly coordinating with her look were Norman Silverman Diamonds earrings.

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Jennifer Aniston

I’m all about some lace and I love this sexy lacy, floral-embroidered Zuhair Murad dress Jen is rockin’ while she was attending The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Governors Awards. She went subtle with her jewelry choices wearing a lovely gold Melissa Kaye bracelet.

jessica-chastain-290  Jessica Chastain

Back to back stunning red carpet looks for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ Governors Awards. Jessica looked divine in this ivory Nina Ricci dress. The look is understated, but I still love the details, such as the lace on the plunging neckline. She made use of some great accessories to complete her look — silver Nicholas Kirkwood shoes, silver Ivy ring, and diamond Le Vian earrings.

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Uma Thurman  uma-thurman-290

Uma is sportin’ a great black dress at The Bambi Awards, always a staple on almost any red carpet. Her fitted strapless number is Atelier Versace. She had just the right accessories — black Jimmy Choo sandal heels and lots of exquisite diamond Chopard jewelry.

Katie Holmes  katie-holmes-290

Lookin’ chic & fashionista-esque while attending a screening of Miss Meadows in N.Y.C. This is a more laid back event look, but it’s perfection to me. I love this LWD, coordinating well with this black leather moto jacket.

keri-russell-290  Keri Russell

Keri is pulling off another more laid back red carpet look, but she nonetheless looks smokin’! While attending the Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards she rocked a mainly black leather J. Mendel jumpsuit, paired perfectly with black Gianvito Rossi heels and Jacob & Co. jewelry.

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Reese Witherspoon

Reese went with a great pop of bold color at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences’ Governors Awards. Her bright pink Ralph Lauren collection dress was gorgeous. And I love the sheer textured neckline. The nude sandal Manolo Blahnik heels were a great finishing touch, as were her diamond Harry Winston jewelry pieces.

Every detail of a best dressed look deserves recognition, the make-up to the hair to the overall styling! Lauren Andersen truly complimented Reese’s overall look here, especially with a spot-on perfectly pink lip! Her locks were severely straight & amazingly styled that way by Adir Abergel. And of course I can’t leave off the list Reese’s talented stylist, who put this whole look together, Leslie Fremar.

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Julianne Moore  julianne-moore-290

And finally, take a look at another excellent looking attendee for the London premiere of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1. Julianne looked awesome in her fitted black Balenciaga dress and black Balenciaga sandal heels. This dress has so many eye-catching details, sheer side ruching and a textured caged neckline. And to top off her sophisticated and polished look were some diamond and silver Jessica McCormack jewelry pieces.

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Best Dressed — 2014 CMA Awards

Always fun being able to sift thru the surplus of red carpet imagery post any award show! In fact, some of my most fave moments since doing my best dressed lists have been from the country music scene. So of course, it’s always a pleasure when it’s a country music award show night! And the 2014 CMA Awards were no exception!

What mostly caught my eye for the night were the more understated looks, the great fits, interesting cuts, and the intriguing little details. I also was drawn to many entirely black looks, all with such a regal and luxe quality. So here are my faves, ENJOY!

Danielle Bradbery

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I instantly fell in love with this black floor-length dress from Danielle. She is young, but this plunging V-neck look with a train was very much age appropriate. It had just the right amount of a sexy, mature vibe, but done very tastefully.

Bradbery’s head to toe look is stunning, every detail, from the jewelry to the slight smoky eye to the dress! So kudos to Danielle’s stylist, Amber Lehman, and her make-up artist/hair stylist, Tarryn Feldman. I’m a huge fan of a side-braid and I love seeing it done here so elegantly. Her styling & beauty team did an excellent job here, PERFECTION!

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1415231185_lucy-hale-560  Lucy Hale

Hale was certainly sizzlin’ in this fitted and belted boldly bright red Romona Keveza gown. As you can see below, this dress is amazing from all angles, especially the back, love the cutout! She spiced her look up with a black and silver fringed clutch from Inge Christopher.

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Every detail was thought out with this look, including some amazing jewelry pieces — Black Diamond Drop Earrings by Norman Silverman’s Diamonds, and rings from both Melissa Kaye Jewelry — Cate Ring, and Porter Lyons — Midi-Crypt Ring. From Melissa Kaye there is also the Ellie Large Earrings.

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Kimberly Perry  1415234826_kimberly-perry-560

At first glance, I thought this was the 1st of the many all black looks on my best dressed list. But upon further observation, I now know it’s a navy blue Gustavo Cadile gown, with a sheer sweetheart neckline. Kimberly always looks gorgeous, this look obviously being no exception. I’m convinced any look she chooses will never not be anything but SHEER brilliance, full pun intended!

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Brandy Clark

Black fitted gown + shimmery & sparkly + sheer effects =’s A hands down best dressed look for sure! With all of these elements it would be hard to go wrong on the red carpet. And Brandy certainly didn’t! This dress is glittering gorgeousness and I love the partially sheer long sleeves. I’m very happy she chose this stunning number from Pamella Roland.

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Luke Bryan & Caroline Boyer

The number of times this dazzlin’ duo has graced my best dressed lists, couldn’t even tell you. I never know the designer details, but that doesn’t stop me from giving these two a nod. Luke of course looks handsome, hard to go wrong with a black suit with a black tie. But Caroline always catches my eye. This gal knows how to pick red carpet looks. I love her choice for this event, stark white, high slit, and slight embellishments!

Kimberly Williams-Paisley

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Designer talent Romona Keveza is pulling double duty for this red carpet as Kimberly is also donning one of her phenomenal pieces. Kimberly made an excellent find with this navy blue lace gown with a train. It has a great fit and she is workin’ it!

Thomas & Lauren Rhett

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This pair is another dynamic duo who look great together on the red carpet and know how to stun us all. In fact, I feel like these looks could work as if Thomas was the President and Lauren as the 1st lady. Lauren’s red gown is the perfect example of old-school glamour. Thomas too looks quite dapper in his classic black tuxe.

Phillip & Rebecca Sweet

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So many great duos for this red carpet, and this pair I could not overlook! The two coordinated well, but not in a too cute, matchy-matchy sort of way. His ivory jacket, her eggshell dress, looked great together. The detailed sheer shoulders for Rebecca’s look didn’t go unnoticed either. This understated look is breathtaking!

1415234857_chaley-rose-560  Chaley Rose

I’m a huge Project Runway fan so seeing that Chaley is donning a look from the brand Johnathan Kayne of course made me super excited. The designer talent behind this brand is Kayne Gillaspie and if I’m not mistaken, Joshua McKinley also co-designs, making the two a powerful design team!

I think Chaley looks unbelievable in this printed gold floor-length gown. There is a bit of vintage appeal in the look, but the overall vibe is still very modern. I’m happy Chaley discovered this dynamic design duo and went with this dress.

Aubrey Peeples

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There is boho chic, well this is boho glam. Aubrey found the perfect balance of mixing casual and elegant pieces into one great red carpet look. Her stylist, Tara Williams, did a fantastic job putting this entire look together, the outfit and the accessories.

Her luscious waves were courtesy of Sam Wade. And her wonderful make-up beauty look is by Laura K. Godwin.

Lily Aldridge  1415235105_lily-aldridge-560

There is always room on the red carpet for a full-on sexy hot number, such as this black dress with not only black all over, but also sheer effects. It’s by Calvin Klein paired perfectly with black Stuart Weitzman heels. Lily’s diamond jewelry is from Jen Meyer.

Lily’s styling & beauty team is red hot, which is to be expected from this scorchin’ look — styling by LaMarque NYC, makeup by Quinn Murphy (perfectly bronzed), and hair by Bryce Scarlett, flowing waves!

1415229380_cassadee-pope-560   Cassadee Pope

There was something about Cassadee’s look I just couldn’t shake. I love it! It’s a great red carpet look, simplistically minimal black top paired perfectly with full shimmery metallic silver floor length skirt. It appears to be separates, but is indeed a lovely dress by Aidan Mattox. Cassadee said her statement-making Stella & Dot necklace was the perfect piece to tie her whole look together, and I agree! It’s the right bit of embellishment to dress up the top, provide a little extra sparkle!

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Maddie Marlow & Tae Dye

Romona Keveza was not the only designer pulling double duty on this red carpet. Actually, in this case, it’s more like triple duty. Kayne Gillaspie & Joshua McKinley of Johnathan Kayne created these wonderful pieces for Maddie Marlow & Tae Dye. Marlow looked retro glam in this belted navy blue number with a sweeping train. Dye went a little softer with a long-sleeved lace column dress. Though not coordinating, both still looked great!

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Lennon Stella & Maisy Stella

While Lennon chose a black Free People mini, her little sister chose a LBD with a statement collar and a ruffled pink hem, actually made by her mom, Marylynne Stella.

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Hunter Hayes

And what best dressed list would be complete without a solo number from a handsome young gentleman. Great modern twist with this dark navy blue tuxe, sans tie!

Tribute to the Late, Great Oscar de la Renta

The fashion community and industry has certainly been in mourning this past week with the passing of acclaimed and renown fashion designer Oscar de la Renta. It’s such a shame that a lasting and long-lived career, surpassing the 50-year mark, has now sadly come to an end. The list of his many fashion achievements could go on and on. And his work will not soon be forgotten.

JACKIE KENNEDY

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He has dressed numerous 1st ladies, Jackie Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, to name a few. He was highly sought after by A-list celebs for various red carpet events, including Amy Adams, Sarah Jessica Parker, Taylor Swift. High profile brides wanted their special day to include a de la Renta gown, such as Amal Clooney, Huma Abedin & Kate Bosworth. His work is certainly deserving of tribute and the highest accolade.

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He did it all, from stunning and breathtaking dresses/gowns, of a more formal or eveningwear capacity, to that of daywear/RTW. Even his more day-type looks were of the highest luxurious quality. Oscar de la Renta built his legacy on a commitment to a value system constructed and maintained over time. He believed in hard work and the importance of appearance. He believed in beauty, not for beauty’s sake, but because he understood confidence could arise from merely wearing a garment.

NANCY REAGAN

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In paying homage to this phenomenally talented designer, here are some of my most fave looks from de la Renta, past to present, many images above & below!

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EMMA WATSON — 2011 Premiere for Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

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SARAH JESSICA PARKER — 2014 Met Gala aka Met Ball

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AMY ADAMS — 2013 Oscars

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CARRIE UNDERWOOD — 2012 Billboard Music Awards

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MICHELLE DOCKERY — 2014 Golden Globes

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NICOLE KIDMAN — 2013 Omega Event in Vienna

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AMY ADAMS — 2013 Academy Awards Vanity Fair Afterparty

ISLA FISHER — 2014 SAG Awards

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CAMERON DIAZ — 2010 Oscars

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TINA FEY — 2011 SAG Awards

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LEA MICHELE — 2010 Emmys

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EMMA WATSON — 2014 Noah Premiere — NYC

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JESSICA ALBA — 2013 Golden Globes

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PENELOPE CRUZ — 2011 Met Gala

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MICHELLE WILLIAMS — 2011 — Screening for My Week with Marilyn

Back to Back Best Dressed Lists — Up Now, the 2014 Emmys!!

That’s right! It’s been a major week for red carpets, first up with the 2014 MTV VMAs, and now, the 2014 Emmy Awards. It’s always exciting looking thru all of the images, coming across looks and accessories that are so phenomenal! And joining me again for this best dressed list, my fellow guest fashion/beauty blogger, Lexi Taylorbeautychatwithlexi.

I recently discovered her site and I’m still amazed that at 13 she is doing what I’m doing at 30! So her best dressed for the VMAs, again, was Miley Cyrus, with her best beauty look going to Beyonce. So who did this young eye pick for the Emmys??

IMG_2492     NATALIE DORMER!!

(also Lexi’s Best Makeup/Beauty look!!)

“The Emmys are the biggest award show around so you have to bring your A game to the red carpet. Normally I would love an all black dress but I actually loved Natalie Dormers pop of color on her J Mendel dress. The orange made the dress stand out and compliment her skin tone beautifully. Not to mention her makeup was gorgeous. A natural flawless face with a light peachy lip color.

Now onto my Fashion Nexus picks!!

julianna-margulies-290          JULIANNA MARGULIES

Black gowns are a traditional and classic staple for most red carpets. Of course Julianna adds a bit of a twist with her black ombre, backless Narcisco Rodriguez gown. And very sublte, but she is donning 20 carats of diamonds borrowed from both FD Gallery and Hemmerle.

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LIZZY CAPLAN      lizzy-caplan-495

Solid black and solid white looks are all over my best dressed list, and as per usual the colors were major trends for the Emmy’s red carpet. Lizzy was smart to just utilize both colors in her glamorous look, a black Donna Karan Atelier gown with a white back & train. The side cut-outs and haltered neckline were just added design details to ensure this was an A+ look! She also paired with this look a black Judith Leiber clutch.

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And keeping with a more minimalistic look, she wore a few understated jewelry pieces from Neil Lane.

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Lizzy’s makeup artist was Sabrina Bedrani, for Dior Beauty. With creating this beauty look, a main focus was to showcase Lizzy’s stunning eyes, thus we see a perfectly bronzed smoky eye. To achieve this modern cat-eye, Sabrina used the Dior 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette in Cuir Cannage and Diorshow Fusion Mono Eyeshadow in Hypnotique for this bold beauty look.

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ANDREA ANDERS & MATT LEBLANC

Words can’t express how excited I was to find out who Andrea was wearing — none other than Under the Gunn designer, part of Team Nick Verreos, Natalia Fedner!! When looking thru red carpet images, the designer info is not always there. But as soon as I saw this stunning and luxurious black knit gown, I knew it had to be on my list, regardless if I ever found out who designed it! The neckline is breathtakingly gorgeous, the fit is great, and there is just no denying how beautiful Andrea looks.

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Needless to say, I’m happy to know that it was Natalia and I’m so happy for her!! Matt also looked great in his classic black tuxe with a white tie.

Hair & make-up were done by Kate Hollinshead. The vibe for her beauty look was very 1940s, very subtle, clean, natural looking.

Here are some additional images of Andrea’s look provided from Natalia herself!! She knows she has a true fan with Fashion Nexus!!

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Pictured above is a custom hand-crafted chain made for Andrea to match her dress.

Here are some additional exclusives on this look from the talented designer Natalia Fedner!! She said Andrea was a dream to work with and Matt was too a fan of this dress! The dress was made from 14 yards of black lurex silk chiffon fabric and 175 feet of real rhodium silver chain. It is lined with nude fabric.

The underlying theme for the overall look was giving Andrea a new take on a classic silhouette. Job well done!

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169_3337_350       AMANDA CREW

This is a dress not to be missed and I’m glad I not only came across it, but I’m pleased to name it as one of my best dressed looks! Amanda is donning a white floor-length gown by Maz Azria Atelier with shimmery detailing around then neckline and down the sides, stopping at the waist. Perfectly coordinated with this look was this pearl clutch, oddly enough from Amanda Pearl!

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Amanda’s jewelry pieces were from Neil Lane. And helping to achieve such a gorgeous beauty look was her pre-Emmy facial, at-home skincare products from Renee Rouleau.

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Keeping with white gowns as a trend for this Emmy’s red carpet, it’s a must to include Padma’s immaculate white couture gown by Ralph Rucci — great fit, shimmers down the back — What more could you ask for!?! This is simplistic minimalism at its best, inclusive of some very under-stated pieces of silver jewelry from Fred Leighton.

And just as stunning was Padma’s natural make-up look, courtesy of make-up artist Kathy Jeung.

169_3295_350    ANNA CHLUMSKY

Anna is the perfect segway to take me from my streak of white looks to the next lovely lady on my best dressed list, Heidi Klum, who is wearing Zac Posen, just as Anna is. Radiance abounds for sure in this bright white gown with a slight train and pleating detail at the bust and on the back.

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Anna’s accessories choices provided some perfect pops of color — a gold Lanvin clutch and orange jeweled earrings from Stephen Russell. Her nails and beauty look (bold smoky eye & dark peach lip) were created by Michelle Toma Olson of Tini Beauty.

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Heidi is wearing one of her fellow Project Runway judges looks, none other than Mr. Zac Posen. He described this custom design for Heidi as “effortless and vibrant.” It’s a much needed pop of coral color for this red carpet, with a cape and train that really amps up the overall design. For her nails, she went clean & clear, with help from Tom Bachik — nail technician.

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Her luscious wavy tresses are courtesy of Christian Wood.

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Her statement-making jewelry selections were from none other than Lorraine Schwartz, who is fast becoming the jewelry designer go to for red carpets! And finally, her sunkist beauty look was done by Linda Hay, make-up artist extraordinaire.

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ALEXANDRA DADDARIO

Alexandra is really working this shimmering nude Reem Acra gown with black floral detailing along the side. A fitted look that really is “a perfect fit”! Kudos to her talented stylist, Jenny Ricker!

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Her awesome jewelry selections were from Neil Lane. And her long wavy locks were courtesy of Michael Long, gorgeous bold beauty look (daring red lip!) courtesy of Lottie S!

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There is something about Debra’s look that I can’t let go of, so with that, I must include it on my best dressed list! She is wearing Angel Sanchez. I’m just mesmerized by the intricacies of the sheer slivers all over this gown – immaculate work, design, & craftsmanship! To complete her look are some just as amazing accessories – a Judith Leiber clutch and diamond jewelry from Chopard.

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Debra’s hair is always on its A game and there is no doubt Robert Vetica did a great job here. For her make-up look, Debra went with a bold eye, nude lip, and here is what her make-up artist Jeannia Robinette had to say — “She had a classic midnight long blue gown, so I wanted to do an intense smoky eye using midnight blues mixed with black in the lids. To add even more drama and definition she used Benefit Cosmetics — They’re Real Push-Up Liner and They’re Real Mascara.”

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UZO ADUBA

Wowzer! Uzo is full on glam in this boldly red mermaid gown by Christian Siriano. Fitting with the color red is a romantic sweetHEART neckline – PERFECTION!!

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Uzo’s team did great work here — stylist Cristina Ehrlich; hair creator, from Identity Salon, Jamika Wilson (creating this tight twist with a slight quiff up top); and make-up artist Jessica Smalls, creating such a bold eye with help from Cargo Cosmetics!

169_3351_350    SARAH PAULSON

A lot of my best dressed looks are basic in nature, various spins on minimalism. But here is my truly avant garde pick for the night – Sarah in a red polka dotted Armani Prive look, with tulle flying around all over the place!

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But all this tulle still can’t hide some lovely pieces of Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

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I don’t think I’ve ever had someone who’s been pregnant on my best dressed list. And it’s not about the size of a person. I really am just focusing on the garment at hand. I was immediately captivated by Hayden’s sparkling choice from Lorena Sarbu – all the shimmer, the plunging neckline, and just how stunning she looked – What a glow! Major props & congrats for this mommy-to-be!!

Her accessories were perfectly coordinated for this look — a shiny silver Judith Leiber clutch and lovely diamond & silver Fred Leighton jewels.

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Celeb makeup artist and Neutrogena brand ambassador Amy Oresman can take credit for this bronzed beauty look of perfection. She describes the look as an inspiration being “a romantic smoky eye using mauves and metallics,” She used Neutrogena’s Stay-Put Plum on the lid, Forever Platinum in the crease, and Stay Golden to highlight under the brows. To define the Nashville star’s eyes, Oresman used Nourishing Eyeliner in Cosmic Black and finished with Healthy Volume Mascara in Carbon Black. And finally, her sophisticated up-do was by Clyde Haygood.

169_3416_350         DEREK HOUGH

Not sure of the suit designer here, but I can always get something from Just Jared!! So while Derek looks quite dapper & handsome in his classic tuxe and bowtie, he is certainly adding some shine with his Louis Leeman black dress shoes.

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LAUREN PARSEKIAN & AARON PAUL

And lastly, a power couple, another dynamic duo on the red carpet, Lauren & Aaron. Lauren always looks phenomenal! I’m not sure who she is wearing, but her white gown with embellishments and sheer netting along the neckline and down the side, was just 1 white look I couldn’t leave out! So many white looks, a major trend of the night, so why not, right!

The Breaking Bad actor looked handsome in a black kid mohair tuxedo with velvet trim, white smoking silk shirt, black bow tie, and black lace-up shoes, all by Prada.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014 MTV VMAs – Best of the Best for the Red Carpet

Creating Best Dressed lists are always super fun! But what makes this one even more fun, I’m adding in contributions from a fellow guest fashion/beauty blogger, Lexi Taylorbeautychatwithlexi. Why the excitement!?! Ummmmm how many of you bloggers out there are only 13!! That is ridiculously cool, such determination, ingenuity. Fashion Nexus is happy to have her picks included with mine for the 2014 MTV VMAs!!

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LEXI’S BEST DRESSED PICK — MILEY CYRUS!!!

“My favorite outfit from the VMA’s is from someone I thought I would never pick, Miley Cyrus. Miley’s outfit was surprisingly sleek for the red carpet. She was all dressed out in Alexandre Vauthier, from a black bandeau top to high waisted leather pants. This outfit describes my fashion style to a tee. Simple, black, and modern.”

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But…… LEXI’S BEST MAKEUP/BEAUTY LOOK — BEYONCE!!

“It’s a fresh faced glam look with the perfect brownish nude lip color. Absolutely love it!”

Lexi’s top beauty look is the perfect segway to my own Best Dressed list!!

beyonce-290                   BEYONCE

Beyonce had the award of the night, Video Vanguard, on top of an AMAZING closing performance. But for me, she clearly also had one of the best looks of the night. She looked elegantly glam in this black lace & beaded Nicolas Jebran floor-length gown.

beyonce-black-dress-vmas-2014-04Not that she needed the over-sized sparkle, but hey! Why not!?! It was her night so she rightfully chose to escalate her wow-factor with some gorgeous over-sized Lorraine Schwartz earrings.

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Beyonce’s high style fashion continued on into the press room, where she could showcase her latest “Moonman”. Here she wore a fitted burgundy gown by Zuhair Murad, which also incorporated a sheer effect with paneling down the side and across the neckline. She again accessorized with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry, earrings and a ring.

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And just how cute is Blue Ivy – keeping great fashion all in the family!! She is wearing a metallic dress by Bonpoint.

167_3258_350           NINA DOBREV

Nina, again going the right way on the red carpet, added the perfect pop of color with her choice of this coral and black silk draped gown from the Zuhair Murad 2014 resort collection. The waistline was immaculately stunning – black leather cross detailing. She also coordinated perfectly with her accessory choices for the evening – black Jimmy Choo sandal heels, a teensy multi-colored Michael Nelson clutch, and David Yurman jewelry. For Nina’s hair, a chic high ponytail, LOVE!! — styled by Riawna Capri of Nine Zero One Salon. To achieve height around the bangs, she put her hair in rollers and sprayed with Garnier Fructis Volumizing Anti-Humidity Hair Spray. Capri then gathered the hair into a high pony, wrapped a braided piece of hair around the elastic and curled the ends vertically.

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LUCY HALE — Lucy gets 2 nods from me for this red carpet! First up, her look as she conducted live red carpet arrival interviews. She looked welcoming, fun, girly, and flirty in this strapless printed dress by Oscar de la Renta. She completed her look with jewelry from Vita Fede and Renee Sheppard (a pave diamond star cuff).

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For Lucy’s 2nd Best Dressed ensemble, her red carpet arrival look, she stuck with black, but this time went with a floral print on this Zimmermann slit-cut midi skirt. Her black crop top was from Sachin & Babi.

And let’s not forget Lucy’s gorgeous beauty look, courtesy of celeb makeup artist Kelsey Deenihan. She applied darker shades from the Mark On the Dot Neutral Eye Color Compact on the outer corners and the lighter hues on the inner part. To define the eyes, Deenihan smudged a darker color on the bottom lash lines, applied waterproof eyeliner in black and finished with Mark Lash Act Mascara in Blackest Black.

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She completed her fashionable prim & proper look with metallic Stuart Weitzman sandal heels, a Jimmy Choo clutch, and jewelry from both Graziela Gems (earrings) and EF Collection.

167_3226_350              KESHA

There were quite a few more formal looks on the red carpet this year, but Kesha struck the right amount of balance with not being too formal – VMAs are not the Grammys! She looked simply beautiful in this strapless white, jewel embellished gown by Johanna Johnson.

167_3249_350    HOLLAND RODEN

Red looks were certainly popular on the red carpet, but so to were white numbers. Holland went right in white! Her bright white Milly cut-out dress was so chic and she stunned in it. And silver accessories were definitely on point – silver mirror Rupert Sanderson pumps, shimmering silver Kotur clutch, and Tacori stud earrings.

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CHER LLOYD

I think I read that Cher was in a slight accident before arriving to the awards show. So to arrive after that kind of stress and drama, and to look so smokin’ hot, that’s well-deserved of a best dressed nod. She sizzled in this red leather mini by Ina Soltani. And of course, I’m happy she was okay and able to attend the event!

Jamie-Chung-2014-MTV-VMAsJAMIE CHUNG — Jamie also donned a red look for the evening, keeping up with that as a trend on the red carpet. Jamie’s red dress, a deeper red hue for an embellished bodycon mini, was paired perfectly with nude Stuart Weitzman sandal heels. She also had a fresh beauty look, spending time at the Calvin Klein lounge, makeup applied by Hung Vanngo — subtle eyes, pop of pink lip!

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FIFTH HARMONY — Fifth Harmony is again gracing one of my best dressed lists and I will say it again – I always favor some looks in the group more than others, but the looks combined, as a whole, SCREAM BEST DRESSED!! There is always an underlying theme and each lady can then put in her own take or stylish viewpoint.

Camila went a bit more formal in a black Jad Ghandour dress with a thigh-high slit, complete with black gladiator heels by Givenchy.

Dinah went sexy chic with a BCBG Generation black crop top, paired perfectly with a white Misha Collection skirt, with black stripes, and then strappy Versace heels.

Normani chose a bodycon black and white Stella + Jamie dress with side cut-outs. She kept it simple with her heels, basic black Manolo Blahniks. Her stylist for this sexy look was @allantannexman. Beauty by Alexis of My Pure Finds created her chic makeup look. And for her new Aqua blue hair look, Cesar Ramirez of Cesar 4 Styles, Rayd Hair, and Patricia Morales.

Lauren covered chic sophistication with this fitted black Misha Collection dress. She too went for strappy heels, but hers were Jimmy Choo! She can give major kudos for her bold smoky eye to Allan Avendano. She too was styled by @allantannexman and her hair look of luscious waves was also by Patricia Morales.

And finally, Ally went total pop-star diva with a black fringed Nines jacket, shimmery gold Amen leggings, and black peep-toe booties from ShoeMint. Similar overall styling team, stylist — @allantannexman; more wavy locks by Patricia Morales; & golden beauty look by Allan Avendano & Beauty by Alexis of My Pure Finds.

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BIANCA SANTOS — Bianca is a relative new-comer to the red carpet, or at least to my best dressed lists! But she definitely deserves a nod as she was “gold perfection” in this embellished Naeem Khan knee-length dress. Her silver dangling earrings are from One Jewelry.

167_3229_350     ASHLEY RICKARDS

Ashley I’ve seen on the red carpet several times, but I’m happy to finally have her on my best dressed list. There is no way this royal blue Stella + Jamie mini with side lace detailing was going to escape my attention! Great look! Here beauty look was a shimmered shine, natural look from the CK lounge, by Kayleen McAdamsCK One Color.

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DYLAN O’BRIEN — Dylan gets my best dressed male celeb by leaps & bounds. Can we please go out on a date now, right! I mean he looks great in this all black look, looking even cooler with his black shades. Always a fan of Dylan’s comedic talent, but he is working those looks and his sense of style now – LOVE IT!!

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NICK JONAS & OLIVIA CULPO

Nick & Olivia are my best dressed duo or couple for the night. They are not matching, but oh well!! Each looks great and there was no need to coordinate. Olivia looks graceful and elegant in her black and white look, with a plunging neckline. And Nick is working some plaid with his jacket, very handsome and well put together look!

 

Creating that Perfect Look!!

And for reference, here is one of mine that I consider the “Perfect Look”, where everything comes together!! Take a look at my thoughts on how I put it all together, creating this look and some amazing details about specific individuals who deserve some major recognition here!

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So first, you have to look at the occasion, the event, where is it that you are going? For me, in this instance, I was attending NYLS’s annual Barrister’s Ball aka “law school prom”! The event was held in NYC — Battery Gardens. I knew I needed something more on the formal side, something very special for my last year in law school and my 1st time attending a ball. I prefer shopping for more of a special event at an actual store or boutique. Online shopping is fine for the everyday, but with a need of a more custom look, the computer is not my go-to. Luckily for this specific event, I knew I had a one-of-a-kind designer to literally help with the creation of my perfect look!

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Joyce Penas Pilarsky for JPP Daring Collections last year during Fashion Week, Fashion Week Brooklyn to be specific. Her spring collection runway presentation really caught my eye and it was even more of an honor to cover it for Fashion Nexus! Each of her looks to me represent being one-of-a-kind, unique, special, and so much more! Joyce was so very kind to offer to design and create for me a high-fashion, couture dress. I had a great time collaborating with Joyce on the look and I knew it would be just right for my event!

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Joyce’s designs are all about the details, the embellishments, the intricate beading, the silhouettes. Her aesthetic is imaginative and sensual, creating sexy pieces of high fashion that showcase the art of being couture.

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Check her page on Facebook for even more amazingly stunning examples!!

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After you have your base for an overall look, and for me that is always the dress, the best place to start, it then becomes about the accessories. What I like to look at first is jewelry! You don’t want to over-accessorize, so I try to work towards that perfect balance. And so for this event, I knew I wanted at least 1 statement piece and mix it all in with some more understated pieces. Again, lucky for me, Joyce Pilarsky took part in providing the bold and statement making bracelet to really coordinate with this look!

dsc00451   Check out this custom, unique, Joyce Pilarsky bracelet — the intricacies, the details!

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She also designed a statement necklace to go with the bracelet. It wasn’t needed for my overall look for my law school ball, but both pieces are very stunning, very worthy of some recognition!

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pic6 Here is another great example of Joyce’s jewelry design work!

But for my overall look, I needed more than just the bracelet. However again, I knew I needed some more subtle pieces, yet still elegant!

dsc00452  Being that my hair was a chic up-do, I was very pleased to showcase my floral nOir jewelry studs. They were the perfect color, nude & brown mix, just the right amount of shine.

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And to complete my jewelry selections, I chose a smaller diamond bow ring from American Eagle. It was just the right amount of needed sparkle to complete the jewelry I wanted for this look! Keeping with accessories, I also needed a clutch for the event. Sometimes a larger handbag might do, but for this event, a smaller clutch was the right call.

Francesca’s is a lovely boutique brand that not only has versatile apparel options, but a vast amount of accessories that can certainly provide a bit of luxe one might need for a more formal event. I was happy to have this mint green rectangular clutch on hand, courtesy of Francesca’s!

Accessories are not the last call for a look, sometimes it must extend to beauty. As you can see above, I created a bit of a fun nail regime for this look, rotating my nail color between Finger Paints color from Sally Beauty Supply, in gold, & butter LONDON in nude or yummy mummy!

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Sometimes an event might call for more than an at-home do, a blow-out, special cut/color combo, etc. I have to say, as excited as I was about my couture look for the evening, I was equally as excited for my customized hair look — this bold, detailed up-do, all courtesy of Rosalinda Biddle! It took some time to create, but it was all well worth it! Rosalinda was so kind to collaborate with me on the concept. But what I loved about working with her was that I knew I could provide an idea and she could make it flourish!

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Rosalinda is the hair stylist who can do it all — she can do elegant up-dos, she can create looks that are literally works of art!

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She still works with more practical looks, but that will still scream high fashion, more than just your average everyday cut or blow-out!

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She’s professional, and will do what she can to work with you and give you the look you want! If any of my Fashion Nexus readers would like the opportunity to work with such a talent, please contact me and I will make sure you are put in touch with Rosalinda!

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So again, a few last details that complete my look and of course are always aspects of a look one should consider. Hair & nails are not all that say “beauty look”. For my make-up regime, I was so thankful for Revlon to create that perfect smoky eye, It Cosmetics to provide that needed shine, and Cover Girl, to create that perfect lip color shade!

And jewelry/handbags are not all that are needed for accessories. You of course need a shoe and for me, it was a dramatic heel, here courtesy of Lauren Conrad’s exclusive collection at Kohls. The blush pink was the perfect color to make this look pop! And finally, it was a bit nippy out so I wanted a little leg coverage and was very lucky to have some great go-to tights, my dark nude tights are xhilaration from Target.

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So look complete, all aspect choices made. Sometimes you have those go-to wardrobe items that are right on hand. And if you don’t, maybe you have your go-to shops that you can easily visit. Giving time to make the choices you need always is an added benefit. Start with your base and work to coordinate from the bottom to the top. And with that, you can create your own PERFECT LOOK!

2014 TCAs Best Dressed — What Looks Ruled the Red, Oh Sorry, Blue Carpet?!?

The 2014 Teen Choice Awards aired Sunday night. And NO, I am not a teen, but my interest in the award show was mainly for the red (blue?!) carpet looks on these rising young stars and starlets! Right off the bat, I was a little worried at actually making a list. Some of the first looks I came across seemed too mature for this award show, or were prints I just didn’t care for. But no worries! After going thru as many images as I could find, I’m happy with the many great looks included on my list. So here are my top picks — ENJOY!!

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ARIANA GRANDE

 

 

No prob in keeping a look basic and simplistically minimal! And what better way to do that than with a LWD! Ariana’s fitted white Georges Chakra Couture mini is beaded perfection. The beaded details at the neck and hemlines really brought out some sparkle to make her look pop! Great job Ari!!

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          NINA DOBREV

 

 

What so many others got wrong, Nina got right! Her look had a great use of color. The print was imaginative and fun, very eye-catching. There was just no denying how stunning she looked in this artsy Vionnet crop-top & shorts look. She coordinated perfectly with hot pink Kurt Geiger pumps and her “Elsie” nude Michael Kors clutch. She also made use of some very luxe jewelry from both Ippolita & David Yurman. And finally, she played up her eye color with Air Optix contacts in Gemstone Green.

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SHAY MITCHELL

 

 

I’ve seen this look before, ahem Kim. K.! But I’m so glad to see it look the way it should, namely that it appropriately fits the person wearing it! Shay looks like a sexy angelic siren, if that is even possible?? She is rockin’ a lacy white 2-piece Misha Collection number — crop top and knee-length skirt. Her accessories look was very much minimalistic — metallic Jimmy Choo heels, tan Rodo clutch, and silver jewelry pieces from Logan Hollowell.

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RITA VOLK — Rita definitely won the award for the best “Pretty in Pink” or “Material Girl” look of the night! Now it never escapes one of my best dressed lists that I don’t have all of the designer details for a given look. But regardless, that will never keep someone off my list! So no clue who Rita is wearing, but she still looks stunning — eye-catching neckline & cutouts! However, I do know that her lovely little diamond studs are from Janet Deleuse!

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JANA KRAMER

 

 

Learning that Jana had a last minute wardrobe change and still looks this radiant, I mean that’s impossible right?!? Props to her phenomenal stylist Lo Von Rumpf for a job well done! Jana looks like a sexy country darling in this black and white lacy Alexis romper. Coordinating perfectly are her white Sergio Rossi pumps. And not going too over the top, Jana has added in some silver jewelry pieces from both Dionea Orcini and Jacob & Co. And one more additional “Job well done”, for adding to Jana’s radiance, goes to her makeup artist Dave Stanwell.

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CANDACE CAMERON BURE

DWTS did wonders for Candace!! She looks so amazingly beautiful and still in such great shape, very happy for her!! LWDs were certainly a trend on the red/blue carpet & for my best dressed list. So Candace didn’t disappoint in her white knee-length frock by L’Agence, complete with a sexy side slit.

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        SARAH HYLAND

 

 

Sarah was the co-host of the evening’s festivities, so more than 1 of her looks has made my list. First up, her blue carpet appearance look, a sparkling Marc Jacobs slip-dress. Paired with this look are Jimmy Choo black sandals and Lorraine Schwartz jewelry.

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Sarah looks elegantly chic in this on-stage look, a mint green Emilio Pucci dress, paired with Bionda Castana heels and even more Lorraine Schwartz jewelry!

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And Sarah makes it 3 for 3 in another on-stage look, blush pink Emilio Pucci top and shorts, metallic Nicholas Kirkwood heels, & again, more Lorraine Schwartz jewelry!

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Alex & Sierra were a dynamic duo on the X-Factor, but are also clearly a force to be reckoned with on the BLUE carpet! Sierra wore a sexy white AQ/AQ dress with jewelry from Jacquie Aiche, Gorjana, and Jennifer Zuener. Alex wore a fun thermometer-printed DSquared2 shirt with waxed Saint Laurent denim.

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Ciara Bravo, of Big Time Rush, is a bit of an unknown to me, but still looks great on this blue carpet. She went with a fun tangerine fit and flare Ted Baker dress and nude Steve Madden sandals.

jennifer-lopez-290              JENNIFER LOPEZ

Not a teen, but as always, glamorous and fabulous! J. Lo rocks this lacy emerald Elie Saab mini. And as always, is sportin’ some major bling — Neil Lane jewelry.

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BELLA THORNE

 

 

Bella Thorne is another who was definitely a hit with a particular type of look, floral print, where others were a miss! She looks chic, fun, and flirty in this sculptural blue FLORAL dress, made just for her — Johnny Wujek for Candies Couture. The “blue” theme continues on with her matching Dior pumps. And keeping it simple, are a few elegant pieces of jewelry from both Suzanne Kalan and Le Vian.

Teen Choice Awards 2014 - Arrivals

Emily Osment is another rockin’ a LWD, but sadly, also another look I’m not sure of the designer details. But this white knee length dress with a structured bodice looks great on her. I also love her pops of color from her tangerine heels, nails, and lipstick color.

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I can ‘t say I love all of these looks equally, but what Fifth Harmony does well is that combined, they all look great together! Standing as a group, I see no bad looks and thus as a group they scream BEST DRESSED! So going left to right, here are the details —

Camila wore a black Balenciaga dress with Fendi shoes.

Dinah wore a fitted black Jovani top, Theory pants, and Giuseppe Zanotti heels.

Lauren wore a 3 + 1 black top, leather Jovani skirt, and Christian Louboutin heels.

Ally wore a sheer McQ by Alexander McQueen top, Balenciaga skirt, and Christian Louboutin heels.

Normani wore a fitted look, a Karolina Zmarlak top, Balenciaga skirt and Christian Louboutin heels.

Teen Choice Awards 2014 - Press Room

Teen Choice Awards 2014 - Press Room

Gregg Sulkin looks quite sexy in this brown Armani leather jacket — Congrats also on the Faking It win, love that show!!

Teen Choice Awards 2014 - Arrivals

Tyler Posey is another handsome gentleman gracing the blue carpet and  was also the other co-host for the awards show! He looks great in this John Varvatos suit, a more casual look and quite fitting for the night!

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Kellan Lutz is the concluding member of my list! He looks sexy hot as always! Not sure who all he is wearing, but love it all, especially the jacket!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

To Wear White or Not to Wear White?? — That is the Question!

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 (featured bridal image — Marchesa)

Ahhhh, the ever-popular, age-old question, that is still heavily debated today — should you wear white to a wedding?!? Summertime is definitely “wedding season”! And thus, I’ve been asked/invited by Lover.ly to weigh in on this ongoing debate. Lover.ly is a one-stop shop for wedding planning. It’s a site where brides & grooms can search/find wedding ideas, hire people for their wedding, and make purchases.

Lover.ly polled their own team of experienced wedding editors & more than 250,000 Lover.ly readers. Needless to say, there was not an agreed upon verdict. But here is Fashion Nexus’ take on this great debate — NO!! I do not think you should wear white to a wedding and it comes down to 2 simplified reasons.

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(featured bridal image — Irina Shabayeva)

1) Do not detract attention from the bride — It’s the bride’s big day!!

From what I see, attending actual weddings & viewing bridal collections, white is most likely the color the bride will be in. It’s been a tradition for the longest time that no one else should then wear white to a wedding. Call it tradition, dress code etiquette, being respectful, but I still say don’t wear white. It’s not that someone is going to mistake you for the bride, but if the bride is the only one in white, plain & simple, she stands out.

It’s not likely a big deal if 1 or 2 guests happen to wear white. But think what would happen if this concept were to vanish. Twenty or thirty guests all of a sudden think it’s okay to wear white. It’s less likely the bride will still feel as special and be the focus on her big day.

The point is to not detract attention, right? If you are the only one, or 1 of 2 wearing white, people might start talking about it or the bride could become upset. This could all lead to unnecessary commotion and distractions from the event at hand — THE WEDDING! I would just say, why risk it? You don’t know who it might upset, a member of the wedding party, the bride, her family, etc. And you never know where or what these upset feelings and gossip might lead to.

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(featured bridal image — Monique Lhuillier)

If you are enjoying checking out some of my featured bridal images, definitely visit Lover.ly’s bridal gowns’ page & see what they have featured!

There is really no need to take this risk, which leads me to my 2nd reason —

2) Logic — You don’t need to wear white. It’s not like it is your only option!

There are so many events and holidays which call for limits as to what you should wear, specifically the color schemes. For a funeral, you should wear black. For Valentine’s Day, you should wear red. For Christmas, you should wear red or green. Or for the 4th of July, you should wear red, white, or blue. You might be attending an event or a party where preselected colors have been chosen.

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Bailey 44 tribal dress

But a wedding is completely different. It’s an event where color options are limitless with one bright line rule — DO NOT WEAR WHITE! And really it’s just all white that I feel is the essence of this rule. You could wear white as part of a print or if it’s not predominant in a color-blocked dress. But with all of the other color options and prints, there is no logical reason for someone to end up wearing a white dress. If you happen to have a white dress that you love, I’m sure there is another occasion on which you could wear that dress. If you are out shopping, it’s not like stores are packed to the brim with only white dresses — just pick something else!

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Paper Crown lace dress

 

Do you need some other ideas of what to wear as a guest? If so, check out Lover.ly’s specific page, featuring dress options for wedding guest attendees.

**Exception to this Rule!!**

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(featured image Elaya Vaughn Bridal)

With pretty much every rule, there is always an exception. I say you can wear white to a wedding if (a) the bride is not wearing white, or (b) you asked the bride and she said it was okay.

This is of course just my opinion, the Fashion Nexus take. But definitely let me know you think! Would you wear white? Why or why not?

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Carol Hannah bridal

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(Jenny Packham)

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(Vera Wang bridal)