Jimmy Choo Winter 2011

Jimmy Choo Bags & Shoes
Fall/Winter 2011 Collection

Jimmy Choo's Fall/Winter 2011 collection has already made countless red carpet appearances, thanks to shoe-loving socialites and actresses. The latest range is every bit as glamourous as we could expect, citing a 70's French film noir inspiration. A balance is maintained between wearable winter boots and staggeringly high heels. There are even a few ballet flats thrown in for good measure. 

The craftsmanship is exquisite; beautiful shapes are sculpted from luxurious fabrics like velvet, suede, leather and lace. Metallics and leopard print are also a common theme. Besides for the conventional black and nudes, there are sumptuous sandals present in opulent jewel tones. I've been spellbound by the embellished evening sandals, which glitter with crystal covered mesh. Each gorgeous pair of heels is accompanied by a matching belt and handbag. I like the red and black box leather quilted ones. Which are your favourites from this collection?

Have you gotten your cheque book out yet? These heavenly pairs of heels are available for purchase from jimmychoo.com

Friday Frills

“You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you.” 

Sri Ram

Reluctantly Reunited

This weekend I attended a terribly organised high school get-together. I say 'terribly' organised, because there were no invitations sent out for the event or, if there were, most of us didn't get one. Unless that was the point...hmmm. I ended up going anyway, sans misplaced invite; where a meagre 25 out of our entire class of 150 students turned up.

I heard about the gathering from a few friends – some of which refused to attend, claiming that they “didn't want to see those people again”. I see that high school politics don't just stay in school. It can follow you through life long afterwards. Initially, I didn't plan on going, but at the last minute, curiosity got the better of me as I wondered what everyone from our class had gotten up to in the past few years. It took me ages to walk the short distance from my car to the Sporthius (sports centre). I must have stopped at least five times on the way, freezing in 5 degree weather; thinking, “Should I go? Should I turn back? I haven't seen any of these people in ages. How awkward is it going to be?"

By the time I made it there (after much debate), most of the folks were merrily punch drunk, so if any of them didn't recognize me, I'm assuming it's because they had blurry vision. I must also admit that I (in my completely sober state) could barely recognize anyone either. Who would have thought that people I'd known my whole schooling career could change so much in such a short time. The ones you'd least expect (and who used to slack off at school) have established high-powered, successful careers, and the ones I never thought would settle down are now married, with kids. Some are living their big city dreams, while others found contentment in the simplicity of small town life. No one was surprised to find out that I am still somehow 'involved' with fashion. 

It was marvelous catching up with good old friends, and even better to see that they have remained as warm and wonderful as I remembered. It was also unfortunate to see that the people who thought that they were better than everyone else back then, still do. Every high school cliché that you watch in the movies truly does exist; each person I met at the reunion is living proof of it. It's funny how certain titles stay with you for the rest of your life.

I'm actually glad that I went, it made me look back and appreciate how easy and uncomplicated things were. All we lived for were those 30 minute lunch breaks and school holidays; and the most stressful thing we ever had to encounter was the next maths exam.
All those awful Accounting lessons, Physics extra class and Shakespeare essays were almost worth it in the end. Almost. High school was just a drop in the ocean of life...we all have so many more seas to swim, paths to travel, storms to face and rays of sunshine to bask in.

Milan Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part Two

Milan Fashion Week
Spring/Summer 2012

This is the second chapter of my favourite runway picks of Milan Fashion Week. Some of the major trends that came out of Italy this year are: the bare midriff, pleated skirts, crocheting, bold floral prints, sheer fabrics, flowing floor-length gowns and the pencil skirt. 

Dolce and Gabbana 

Only Dolce & Gabbana can make vegetable prints look seriously sexy. Spicy chillies, red onions, yellow bell peppers, plum tomatoes and purple aubergines were printed onto the 50's style silhouettes. The idyllic Italian summer collection advanced into coquettish cocktail wear, with sheer full-skirted dresses delicately cast over frilly bustier tops. Knee-length frocks were garnished with colourful gems and floral motifs. To further enforce the food-inspired theme, models wore farfalle and macaroni shaped earrings, and strings of pasta around their necks. The colourful straw baskets are suited for an outing to the local fruit & veg market.

Ermanno Scervino

 Ermanno Scervino's Spring 2012 collection was misted with a delicate spray of romance. Shades of pistachio, sea sand, blizzard blue and whipped cream gently washed across the stage. Satin negligées edged with lace stood-in as daywear. Courtly coats were coupled with pencil skirts. Tiered ruffles unfolded onto gossamer skirts. A beautifully feminine and refined collection for a modern day princess, royal or not.

Antonio Marras

Antonio Marras was inspired by French writer Jean Genet's 1947 play, The Maids, when putting together his Spring range. His colours of choice: a splash of cerise, violet, intense teals and greens, all underset by pale ivory and jet black. But it was the luminous yellow pointed heels that solicited most of my attention. Colour blocking collided with silky floral prints. Simple t-shirts were worn with generously cut skirts. There was also a good measure of leather and drapery. A striking collection that will look as good off the catwalk as on.

Giorgio Armani

Giorgio Armani's Spring collection swims in a deep blue sea of inspiration. He takes us on an underwater excursion with sophisticated designs soaked in pearlescent satin. Lacquered indigo cigarette pants were cropped with slits up to the knee. There are fitted silk jackets for the day, and shimmering beaded cardigans for night. Strapless evening gowns are molded to resemble seashells. Armani always interests me with his customary use of layering, in this case, fluid blue fabrics tier down to create a waterfall effect. This is an aquatic adventure that ripples with elegance and maturity.

Roberto Cavalli

Roberto Cavalli's Spring showcase oozes with gilded glamour and exuberance. It is a head turning collection that is entrenched in excessiveness. An overindulgence of floral and animal prints and an abundance of beads. There was a surplus of lustrous gold jackets, two-toned pleated skirts, impeccably fit trousers and multi-strap drop-waisted dresses. Black and white tuxedo jackets were cleverly used to modulate the ornate looks. I love the sheer tulle embellished gowns. Simply breathtaking.

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferregamo's Spring range is sustained by charismatic evening gowns in opulent colours. Saturated shades of turquoise, magenta, cherry red and tangerine covered spray-tanned models with side swept waves. Exotic tropical prints furnished handkerchief dresses, tulip-wrapped skirts, jumpsuits and loosely fit pants. Thigh high slits and key-hole halter necks were incorporated into the silk scarf gowns. I like designer Massimiliano Giornetti's refreshing take on colour blocking. A trip to the tropics has never been this glamorous.

Milan Fashion Week Favourites 2011 - Part One

Milan Fashion Week
Spring/Summer 2012

Milan Fashion Week started out spectacularly, showcasing Italy's most talented designers from 21-27 September. What I like about this fashion week is the diversity of the collections, each designer has such a unique vision and signature style. These are some of my favourite ranges thus far. Click on the pictures for a closer view.

Alberta Ferretti

Sexy slip dresses wrapped in silk were at the forefront of Alberta Ferretti's Spring 2011 range. The tropical theme was conveyed by palm-leaf prints and floaty gowns in a rainforest of colours. Sheer linear cut-outs and satin-block panels kept the simple sheaths from being monotonous. Crochet knits and intaglio printing added a bit of texture. Models sported natural sun kissed make-up, tousled beach waves and stunning strappy sandals.

Gucci

Gucci provided a modern twist to a roaring 20's styled collection. A handful of bold tones coloured in strong lines - green, gold, black and white made up a sophisticated range; inspired by the architectural lines of New York's Chrysler Building. Masculine suits were glamorized with high-waisted pants, and gold-trimmed collarless coats. Fringed flapper dresses with drop-waists glimmered with bugle beadwork. Each look is individually striking, and all together it forms a compelling range that we can be sure to see on many celebrities next Spring.

D&G

 The younger and more cosmopolitan D&G brand will merge with it's founding label, Dolce and Gabbana after this final Spring 2012 showing. Models were whirled in a sea of what looked like Hermés scarves, in a potpourri of prints. Even wedge-heel sandals were wrapped with printed scarves. There was a multitude of long, billowing gowns, fit for an exotic seaside vacation. Polychromatic prints covered everything - denim shirts, luxurious satin suits, clutch bags, jackets and mini dresses. D&G's swan song was a cheery farewell to a well-loved brand, one that will be pleasantly remembered.

Prada

I've never seen a cartoon car print on a designer dress before, but Prada does so with unusual elegance. Miuccia's 50's style silhouettes that were edged with exhaust flames made for interesting viewing. The automative masculine theme was toned down by soft pastel pleated dresses in sweet pink, mint green, sky blue and lemonade. Leather skirts echoed the interior of a car. Fern green, brick-red and navy floral appliqués were crocheted onto oversized felt coats. The little-boy-pajama-print may not be to everyone's liking, but this will surely be one of the most recognizable collections of the forthcoming season.

Emilio Pucci

It was all about the bare midriff at Emilio Pucci's Spring 2012 showcase. Designer Peter Dundas introduces the enigmatic gypsy girl - decked in paisley printed peasant tops, lacey circle skirts and floaty bohemian gowns. On the casual side, wide-leg trousers and shorts were paired with printed blouses, making use of scarves as belts. The lingerie-inspired aspect was visible through the delicate bustier tops, sheer skirts and gentle frills. Models wore sultry smokey eyes and loose hair with a side swept fringe.

Blugirl

Aimed a more youthful market, Blumarine's trendier line, Blugirl, presented a sweet dose of femininity for Spring 2012. Endearing candy coloured dresses were coated in flowers, bows and frills. Wafty, sheer printed gowns resembled a beautiful spring garden. Charming cardigans accompanied flirty little dresses, slim bowed belts nipped in waists and flowery necklaces adorned necks. Colour-blocked heels and clutch bags supplemented the spritely ensembles. I like the variety in this collection - theres stylish workwear, dreamy day dresses and alluring cocktail frocks. 

Frankie Morello

The most fun, witty and whimsical collection I've seen all Fashion Week is by Frankie Morello. His 'Souvenir of Italy' Spring range takes you on a Vespa ride through the country's most iconic landmarks - The Tower of Pisa, ancient buildings of Rome, the statue of David, Venetian gondolas, the Trompe-l'oeil, Amalfi Coast and streets of Milan. The tourist-influenced pieces are accessorized with camera necklaces and topped off with outlandish head pieces. Models with a sense of adventure carried backpacks instead of predictable clutch bags. Cycling shorts peeked from under flaired mini skirts, printed pleated fans decorated strapless tops and catchphrase t-shirts are worn with long glossy skirts. It may all be satirical, but you have to admit it is cute.

15 Cover Girls for Latina Magazine's 15th Anniversary Issue

Latina Magazine
15th Anniversary Issue
October 2011

Latina magazine celebrate their 15th Anniversary issue by placing 15 of the world's most beautiful and influential Latin leading ladies on the cover. The special October 2011 issue features gorgeous actresses, singers and presenters of all ages, from different Latin American backgrounds. 

The fifteen Spanish speaking beauties strike a dynamic pose on the magazines' three-page cover, all wearing ravishing red evening gowns. It took 9 months to rally these starlets together and 7 photo shoots to achieve the perfect cover picture, with this final result:

 From Left: Columbian songstress Shakira, Disney singing-star Selena Gomez, Mexican actress Salma Hayek (wearing a Gucci gown), Dominican actress from Avatar, Zoe Saldana and Desperate Housewives' Eva Longoria. 

 From Left: Cuban music star of the 80's, Gloria Estefan, Dominican actress Michelle Rodriguez, stylish star Jessica Alba (in Valentino), Cuban TV host Daisy Fuentes and Ugly Betty's America Fererra (looking pretty in an Herve Leger dress).

From Left: Puerto Rican actress Rosario Dawson, Mexican actress Ana de la Reguera (wearing Oscar de la Renta), news anchor Natalie Morales, TV presenter La La Vasquez (in a Mario Schwab dress) and Puerto Rican actress of the 90's, Rosie Perez.

With a 100 different designer dresses, and more than $10 million worth of jewellery, I wonder if there were any cat fights on set. Who has the best dress? You decide...

London Fashion Week Favourites 2011

London Fashion Week

Spring/Summer 2012

Fashion Week spread it's stylish wings to the UK for 16-20 September 2011. I found that the British collections showed more restraint than the fanciful ones we saw in New York. These are a few of the shows that made a memorable impression on me.

Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum's Spring 2012 collection had a very rustic, country feel to it, accredited by an assortment of handiwork. Christopher Bailey made use of decorative elements like crocheting, wooden beadwork, raffia trims and basket weaved knits. African inspired wooden beads in colourful, geometric shapes were tacked onto tops. Classic leather trenches and cropped parkas were seen in spice-rack shades and tribal prints. Raffia wedge heels, Burberry Whipstitch carrier bags and pom-pom topped caps harmoniously fit in with the cozy theme.

Mary Katrantzou

Electric colours and dizzying prints were showed off at Mary Katrantzou's Spring 2012 fashion show. The Greek designer took a no-holds-barred approach when it came to mixing imaginative digital prints with shocking shades. There wasn't a single monotoned outfit in sight. The graphics in this collection were inspired by two contrasting themes - the splendor of nature and the metallic aspect of spray cans and car-crushed sculptures. Green, orange and blue lipstick mirrored the colourful clothes. Katrantzou has a vivid vision, which she blooms to life with this collection.

Matthew Williamson

 Shades of sunset ruled the runway at Matthew Williamson's Spring 2012 show. Ochre, apricot and mango chiffon gowns were patterned, feathered and flowy. Sarong style skirts were paired with matching printed blouses. Tailored blazers framed folksy evening gowns. I love the two-toned Charlotte Olympia ankle-strap pumps worn by the models.

Jonathan Saunders

It was South Beach Central at Jonathan Saunder's Spring 2012 showing. The Scottish designer was inspired by the soft, summery shades of Miami - pool blues, yellow rays of sunshine, palm greens, Florida oranges. Saunders, who's talent lies in silk-screening, submitted a string of 50's style dresses in a pretty paisley-print brocades. Each sugar-coated outfit congruously merged into the next. Gorgeous tie-up wedge heels were worn by virtue of La Louboutin. 

Paul Smith

Paul Smith provided a welcomed break from all the prints with his Spring 2012 collection. I like the relaxed sophistication conveyed by the outfits and the models; who were simple in flat moccasins, floppy hats, wind-swept hair and sunglasses. The hands-in-pockets approach was underpinned by cropped trousers, drop-waist dresses, casual buttoned-down shirts and comfy-looking tees. Looks were commonly threaded by skinny leather belts. I am coveting those flat yellow ankle boots pictured second from last on the bottom row.

Erdem

Turkish-Canadian designer Erdem Moralioglu delivered a floaty and feminine range for Spring 2012. Wispy lace dresses were printed in powder blues, lemon chiffon and blanched almond. Beautifully pleated skirts swayed their way across the Savoy ballroom, where the show was held. Fitted dresses suited for a high society summer afternoon high were knee-length with three quarter sleeves. I like the use of unusual accessories like printed gloves and straw boater hats.

Michael van der Ham

Michael van der Ham has rightly earned his place at London Fashion Week. The Dutch novice reiterated his signature look with 3D colour collages and a juxtaposition of fabrics and textures. What looks like strips of fabric that is randomly pinned onto garments, is in fact, a result of van der Ham's carefully deliberated creative process. He showed off silk blouses, cropped cigarette pants and pencil skirts wrapped in chiffon. I like the freshness and blithely vibe that this collection offers. The models were accessorized with printed sunglasses and Christian Louboutin T-bar sandals.

Antonio Berardi

I am completely spellbound by Antonio Berardi's Spring 2012 range. This is my favourite collection of Fashion Week thus far. Fabrics in muted tones were animated by lavish beading. I love the fully sequined skinny pants and cropped bejeweled boleros. Ingenious. Billowy chiffon tunics had high necks and rise-and-fall hems. The warrior-inspired theme is manifested through structured jackets and metallic patent leather, while air light empire-waist gowns brought out a softer side. A truly gorgeous and glamourous collection...I must've bumped my head and went to fashion heaven.

Friday Frills

"There is so much good in the worst of us, 

And so much bad in the best of us, that it 

ill behaves any of us to find fault with the rest of us."

James T Adams

Atelier Versace Fall 2011

Atelier Versace have released a magnificent range of couture gowns for Fall 2011. The collection finds its roots in Asian and baroque influences. Floor-sweeping gowns are lavishly adorned with crystal and sequin embellishments, while others bear the vintage Versace print. The different silhouettes are draped, cut-out, architectural and flowing.

I like the lack of cohesion in Atelier Versace collections. Each piece isn't a continuation of the next, but instead is a unique depiction of the brand's originality and ingenuity. Polish model Kasia Struss beautifully exhibits these looks; donning a blond beehive, dark smokey eyes and nude lips.

I like the pairing of teal and purple. The surprise element of this gown is the embellished detail upon the triangular cut-out on the back.

Unique and distinctive patterns are imprinted on dresses. The first one boldly shows off the Versace emblem, while the second one has an oriental-inspired dragon design.

You will recognize the light blue Mandarin-collared dress as the one Katy Perry wore to the MTV Movie Awards. The intricate beading seen on the close-up photo is exquisite.

Silk satin, chiffon and silk mousseline form the basis for these glamourous gowns.

These structured gowns amaze with their complexity and intricate leather engraving.

Tuesday Thrills - FitFlop Frou

FitFlop Footwear

'Get a workout while you walk'

Getting fit for summer does not require any effort thanks to FitFlop. The wise minds behind this footwear brand have created shoes that tone and tighten your legs as you walk. The secret lies in the 'Microwobbleboard' technology that is placed in the wedge-shaped sole of the shoe, which causes a 'floating' effect called the 'Freefoot360'. This assists in improving and maintaining good posture, and also reduces pressure and exertion on your knees and ankles. 

It's no wonder FitFlop was awarded the 'Footwear Brand of the Year' at the Drapers Footwear Awards in London earlier this year. 

The FitFlop provides me with the perfect excuse to skip the gym. Walking around in a pair helps burn more calories than an ordinary shoe. It's also exceptionally comfortable, just like walking on air. The ideal antidote to a day of stumbling in heels. 

The latest stylish and trendy addition to the FitFlop range is the Frou:

The Frou sandal will fit perfectly into your summer wardrobe with it's pretty floral design and functional colours. It has layered suede ruffles and contains the same unique toning technology as all the other shoes in the FitFlop range. The fashionable Frou will work well with a jeans and t-shirt or a feminine dress or skirt. It is available in a versatile, beige shaded Pebble, a deep pink Fuschine and jewel toned Indigo. The recommended retail price is R899.

For more information on this lovely pair and others, visit www.fitflop.co.za or contact 
(021) 510 4428. FitFlop's are available nationwide, you can find a store near you by clicking on the 'Find Retailers' tab on their website. Getting fit has never been easier or more stylish.

Happy Shopping!

Weekend Snapshots

My blogging system has gone slightly haywire since my long weekend away on the east coast. It was nice to leave the cold behind and travel to a warmer destination. My time in Durban was fun and relaxing, but also very busy, with non-stop social visits, mall-hopping, dining out and going out. I only had a chance to take a few pictures, which I share with you below.

1. This was the beautiful view from our hotel on the beach. That was actually also the closest I went to the beach. As it was off-season, this tourist-friendly area was unusually quiet.

2. A scene from an incredibly fun ride on the Dodgems (bumper cars), which is a true testament to anyone's driving skills. Sometimes it's good to let go and relive your youth - even if it's only for 5 minutes. It wasn't surprising to see that we were not the only adults there. 

3. On Friday night, we went to watch Monte Carlo, which stars Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester and Katie Cassidy. Because the movie started only at 11pm, we had the entire cinema to ourselves, which was quite surreal and a little eerie at that time of night. It started out slow and tedious, probably because Selena's character was so lifeless. Luckily, it was Leighton who saved the movie from being a complete disaster, putting on a Blair-worthy performance. It was great seeing her & Katie (Juliette from Gossip Girl) together on screen again - and getting along too.

4. Every time I'm at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, I stop by my favourite boutique, Lady and the Punk. I always find something amazing here, it perfectly fits my style - girly with a side of punk. On this occasion, they had a great choice of boyfriend blazers, chiffon dresses, quilted sling bags, bejeweled flats, wedges and lace cardigans.

5. On Saturday night, my darling cousin Ray took me to her favourite restaurant in KZN, Bel Punto. It's a lovely authentic Italian eatery in the coastal resort of Umdloti. It was so busy, that we almost lost our reservation. Bel Punto is famous for their delicious seafood and 'pollo alla diavola'. I will hopefully be returning for the lusciously divine expresso créme brulée. 

That was a snippet of my wonderful weekend away...I hope you had a great one too!

Divas and Darlings - Emmy Awards 2011

Red Carpet Fashion
63rd Annual Emmy Awards 2011

Last night's Primetime Emmy Awards did not disappoint, with a vast range of gorgeous evening gowns worn by televisions biggest stars. It was exciting to see the multitude of different trends that emerged on the red carpet. No matter what's your style, I'm sure at least one of these gowns will enchant you as much as they have me. 

Romantic

Aubrey Plaza wears a beautiful white halter gown with ruffled neck and slight train, which is by Juan Carlos Obando. Jayma Mays is dreamy in a frilly rose-hued confection by Zuhair Murad. I like the girly combination of tulle and lace. Julia Stiles had me dazed with her stunning lavender lace couture gown by Georges Hobeika. Romantic side-swept waves completed her look. Rashida Jones is pretty in a pale pink strapless dress with belted waist by Alberta Ferretti. Cat Deeley is sensational in a gold flecked tulle ivory gown by Marchesa.

Red Haute

Kerry Washington strikes a pose in a scarlet couture gown with sheer sequined skirt by Zuhair Murad. Nina Dobrev is breathtaking in a fitted fiery red Donna Karan gown with origami upturned pleated skirt. With flawless hair and makeup, she is my choice for best dressed of the evening. Lea Michele radiates confidence in a crimson coloured Marchesa gown with rose-pleated sleeves.

Midnight Skies

Glee's Heather Morris donned a dramatic plunge-neck gown with ruffle-spun skirt. Her elevated upstyle is a tad much. Minka Kelly is poised in a navy blue long-sleeved lace dress with tiered skirt by Christian Dior. Reality star Kyle Richards takes on a modern Dynasty look in an extravagant blue pleated gown by Ines DiSanto. British actress Emily Blunt wore a textured inky blue gown with plunging neck by Elie Saab.

Embellished Earthy Tones

Mad Men's Christina Hendricks wore a curve-hugging silver Johanna Johnson gown garnished with Swarovski crystals and intricate beadwork. Mad Men's other leading lady, Elisabeth Moss opted for a nude illusion gown with ornate gold embroidery by Marchesa. Anna Faris wore a fully embellished bronze column gown. Dexter's Jennifer Carpenter glistens in a nude tulle embellished gown with thigh-high split by Tony Ward.

Simple Elegance

Bonnie Bentley is casual in a colour-blocked pleated gown by BCBG Max Azria. Katie Holmes chose a simple cobalt blue Calvin Klein dress with halter neck and metallic belt. Kate Winslet wears two major trends of the evening - red and a plunging neckline. Her dress is Elie Saab Resort 2012. Glee's Naya Rivera is sophisticated in a classic black fitted gown.

Beautiful in Black 

Game of Throes actress Lena Headey exudes elegance in long-sleeved belted gown with high round neck. I love how her unpretentious look trumps so many of the more elaborate gowns. Broadwalk Empire's Kelly MacDonald wears a fitted black gown with sheer print bodice and sleeves. Maria Menounos sparkles in black cap-sleeved sequined Emanuel Ungaro gown. She is another star who wears the side swept hair trend. Rachel Evan Wood wears a dress that's quite similar to Maria's. Her beaded gown with bateau neck is by Elie Saab.

Bedazzled

Claire Danes wears a sparkly tonal blue gown by Oscar de la Renta. Emmy Award winner Julie Bowen's silver and black beaded dress is also by Oscar de la Renta. TV anchor Brooke Anderson is dressed in a forest green one-sholdered gown sprinkled with sequins. Is that side swept waves yet again? Charlie's Angel's Rachel Taylor wears a dusky pink gown by Giorgio Armani, which is adorned in pearlescent sequins and beaded fringing. It's refreshing to see a star on the red carpet with a short bob.

Asymmetrical

Modern Family's Sarah Hyland is gorgeous in a salmon silk organza pleated gown with crystal encrusted waistband by Christian Siriano. The Big Bang Theory's Kaley Cuoco is cute in a Romona Keveza cocktail dress covered in sheer printed net. She added red accessories with Giuseppe Zanotti peep-toes and a Judith Leiber clutch. Sofia Vergara knows how to work a mermaid silhouette. The Latin beauty displays a stunning coral crepe Vera Wang gown with pleated draped detail. Aimee Teagarden's black silk shantung taffeta gown with asymmetrical neck and hem is by Romona Keveza.

Brights

Cobie Smulders stood out in a serene aqua gown with knotted sleeves by Alberta Ferretti. The How I Met Your Mother actress wears a major trend of the night - pleats. Olivia Munn's glaring green jacquard gown with matching leather belt is by Carolina Herrera. Dianna Agron's brazen blue silk dress with high draped neck and flowing train is by Roksanda Ilincic.

A Plum Affair

Friday Night Lights actress Jurnee Smollett is alluring in an aubergine Pamela Roland gown. She follows the night's trends by wearing side-swept waves and pleats. English actress Michelle Dockery wears a well-fitting long-sleeved eggplant gown with key-hole cut-out. Charlie's Angels actress Annie Ilondzeh chose a strapless silk gown in a luscious plum colour. She wears a popular designer of the night, Romona Keveza. Melissa Rauch from TV's Big Bang Theory dons an interesting violet ombre tulle gown. Kelly Osbourne's burgundy fishtail gown is by J.Mendel. A great fit on her but the lavender hair ages her by years.

Clouds Amongst the Stars

Paz de la Huerta - her peach chiffon gown could have been passable if you eliminate the extreme tan, disheveled hair-do, lilac lipstick and sinister stare. Padma Lakshmi - I would have liked to see in any other colour besides olive oil. Gwyneth Paltrow's dress feels like it's missing something - like a middle. This would have been a pretty look had it been complete. Julianna Margulies - I'd prefer her white column gown without the strategically placed crystal baubles, which somehow cheapen her look. Heidi Klum - I get that her dress is avant-garde but it looks like she's carrying a coral reef around with her.