Heidi Klum Vs Versace - A Supermodel Showdown

If you watched the 'MTV European Music Awards' over the weekend, you would have noticed the hostess with the mostess, Heidi Klum's 8 amazing wardrobe changes during the show; plus another for the after party. Unlike other presenters, Heidi's entire showtime closet comprised of specially handpicked dresses by Versace. The German supermodel has left little to the rest of Versace's celebrity fans to choose from for future events. 

Here's a look at Heidi's 9 outfits right off the Versace runway, and from one supermodel to the next, does Heidi outshine the runway girls?

Look 1: Heidi kicked off her EMA night in a gold studded denim blue one-shouldered gown with daring criss-cross lace-up detail on the bodice & thigh high split. Heidi kept the look as on the runway, opting for the same strappy boots. At Versace's SS13 show, Estonian model Katlin Aas wore the dress. Heidi's look is a bit too va va voom for me, I pick Katlin.

Look 2: Walking the red carpet, Heidi picked a sleek little black dress with metallic-stitiched mesh detail, from Versace's Fall 2012 collection. Silver grey platforms complete her look. Jasmine Tookes wore this dress on the catwalk. I think here Heidi wears it better.

Look 3: My absolute favourite dress of the night, a serene white woven bodice with voluminous chiffon layered skirt. Heidi stuck to the circus theme of the show, adding a black top hat and fingerless gloves. Polish beauty Kasia Struss wears the gown on the Atelier Versace Fall 2012 runway. Its a tie, they both look sensational.

Look 4: Heidi rings up the evening in a saffron orange crushed silk dress with black lace accents and knee-high gladiator heels. On the Versace Spring 2013 runway, the dress is worn by Danish model Nadja Bender. Another tie, they both look fetching.

Look 5: Heidi is elevated in a slinky black bohemian dress with beige lace trims and nude gladiator sandals. On the catwalk is Russian dame Anna Selezneva in the same dress. I'm giving this round to Heidi, I prefer her colour of heel.

Look 6: Heidi dons a sky blue tie-dye gown with cut-out bodice, gold waistband and super high slit. Anna Selezneva wears it on the catwalk. Again, I think both supermodels do great justice to this look.

Look 7: Heidi changed up into something more 'comfortable' for the after party, choosing a lavender blue mini dress with embellished skirt from Atelier Versace Fall 2012. I am going with Aymeline Valade from the runway on this occasion.

Look 8: Heidi wears another Versace SS13 outfit - a black leather coat with a beige lace and leather insert skirt. Dutch model Bette Frank wears it on the runway. I am not a fan of either. 

Look 9: And finally, Heidi showed off her best assets in a sunset canyon shaded tie-dye gown with risqué low cut-out neckline, leather studded belt and ultra high bordering-on-illicit slit. I much prefer Kel Markey wearing it on the runway.

Which of Heidi's Versace looks is your favourite or least favourite...and do you think she wears it better than Donatella's Glam Squad?


*Images via mtv.com and style.com

Charlotte Olympia Bridal Shoe Range 2012

Forget the dress...London shoe label Charlotte Olympia will ensure that you walk the aisle in spectacular style in one of their dazzling bridal heels. Designer Charlotte Dellal has got every type of bride covered in her enchanting 2012 'Runaway Bride' collection - dainty and elegant, playful or pretty, graceful or whimsical, with a feisty touch of leopard in between.

Sumptuous silk satin, feminine lace, leather and suede coalesce to form this exquisite range, expertly crafted with the signature Olympian almond toe platform. If the alluring ivory or white pairs don't tickle your fancy, why not indulge your eccentric side with a quirky red lip-kissed pair or an unconventional lace-up ankle boot. Charlotte has also transformed her highly prized and publicized 'kitty-flats' into bridal worthy condition, making it the perfect option for a countryside or beach bride. Or for a quick change-up to dance the night away. 

Charlotte Olympia's Bridal shoe collection adds the conjugal cherry on top of your special day with their uniquely glamourous pairs. And even if you're not in the marriage market, these beguiling heels are far too irresistible to pass up on.

Ranging from £520 - £860, these distinctive designer heels can be purchased online via Charlotteolympia.com. Whether you're the bride, matron-of-honour, bridesmaid or just a general shoe lover like me, this collection is sure to steal some hearts. I've already set mine upon 'Love Me' and Polly Lace', what about you?


*All images courtesy of www.charlotteolympia.com

Looks of the Week - 10/11/12

The weekly roundup of celebrity style on and off the red carpet.

Darling Dresses

Ashley Madekwe enchanted in a Camilla & Marc cream georgette and mint brocade dress with ruched waist and tiered skirt. A snazzy pair of green Topshop sandals and sparkly hair brooch finalize her lovely look.
Walking the red carpet for their new movie 'Ginger and Rosa', Elle Fanning & Alice Englert both opted for pretty classic print maxi dresses. Elle donned a fine striped mint green Oscar de la Renta gown, while Alice picked out a rosé pink checkered Louis Vuitton dress.
Amy Adams was delightful in a black & green floral print Dolce & Gabbana dress with full bell skirt & draped bodice. Roger Vivier ankle strap sandals complete her twilight fairy look.

Street Sense

Miranda Kerr's fashion forward street ensemble features a black Givenchy coat, rubberissed tweed mini by Alexander Wang, Givenchy duffle bag & killer thigh-high boots by Hermes. 
Kate Beckinsale takes her glazed leather leggings out on the town, teaming them with a printed Stylestalker blazer, blue blouse and Yves Saint Laurent booties.
Fergie was spotted out in LA looking suave in an ombre print and fringed Ann Demeulemeester jacket, worn with a sexy black mini, fingerless gloves, an Alexander Wang leather clutch and a pair of studded 'Battle' boots from her own shoe line.
Kourtney Kardashian glamorizes daytime wear with a flowing greige shirtdress with pleated bodice and front-slit skirt. A statement collar necklace, snakeskin clutch bag and nude peep-toe sandals complete her look.

Two-Tone

Kristen Stewart showed off her edgier side in a risqué Balenciaga jumpsuit with white cut-out bustier top and high-waisted black trousers. Her heels are by Christian Louboutin. 
Taylor Swift looked polished in a trim black and white Kate Spade dress, paired with black tights, Christian Louboutin pumps and red hot lips.
Marion Cotillard wears a clean-cut and modern Christian Dior gown, featuring an off-white halter-neck overlay & high slit, revealing a short black mini underneath. 
Cameron Diaz exuded elegance in a monochrome Stella McCartney dress with black low-cut top & ivory silk skirt. A black clutch & classic black ankle strap sandals complete her look.

Glitzy Glam

Berenice Marlohe strikes yet another a high style note this week, in this exquisite gold sequined Oscar de la Renta gown with shimmering tulle skirt.
Jessica Alba personified prettiness in this romantic pale pink and green floral embroidered Valentino gown, with sheer sleeves and satin bow belt.
Olivia Munn sparkled in a gold tonal sequined gown by Temperley London, modelled on a vintage hourglass silhouette. 

Prima Donnas

Pixie Lott kept her evening look relatively simple in a streamlined black Dolce & Gabbana off-the-shoulder dress, placing all the attention on her sunny yellow rose halo.
Cat Deeley went all out in a white feathered frou-frou frock by British stylist Charlie Brear. She toned it down with a matching tailored blazer.
Delta Goodrem playfully styled this hot pink Christian Dior tulle and lace dress with a floral hair wreath and ballet flats...for comfort over height.
Keira Knightley displayed grace and refinement in a demure midnight blue Valentino lace gown with sheer floral embroidered sleeves.

Who is your favourite 'Look of the Week'?

Friday Frills

May you have enough.... 

Enough happiness to keep you sweet,

Enough trials to keep you strong,


Enough sorrow to keep you human,


Enough hope to keep you happy;


Enough failure to keep you humble,


Enough success to keep you eager,


Enough friends to give you comfort,


Enough wealth to meet your needs;


Enough enthusiasm to look forward,


Enough faith to banish depression,


And Enough determination to make each day 

Better than yesterday.

*Author unknown. 

Image via weheartit.com, edited.

Iconic Bags Named After Iconic Stars

The style makers, the trendsetters, the game changers, the icons of our time. You have to make a glittering splash on the fashion radar in order to have a designer brand name a bag after you. I thought it would be interesting to compare the very stylishly accomplished and modish ladies that each have a famous bag named after them.

Arguably the most famous of all namesake bags, The Hermés Birkin bag is also the most expensive, ranging anywhere from $10 000 to $150 000. The famous leather tote was named after French singer-actress Jane Birkin in 1984.

Lancel designed this bohemian suede and tassel 'Bardot' shoulder bag for 60's French actress Brigitte Bardot. It is said that the design was meant to mimic the curvaceous star.

Jason Wu was inspired by the 'classic-with-a-twist' Dutch model Daphne Groeneveld, and constructed a chic and modern crossbody bag after her. Forming part of his Fall 2012 collection, the leather framed bag retails at $1495.

It was only a matter of time before the world's highest paid supermodel was given her own handbag. Luella conceptualized the pretty and feminine 'Gisele' bag in 2002, along with leather heart motifs, an ode to the stunning Brazilian model.

Another Hermés favourite is the regal 'Kelly' bag, named after exquisite Hollywood actress turned royal princess, Grace Kelly. The design was incepted in 1935, and since then it still remains one of the most eminent bags of all time.

Leaving the last millennium of famous bags behind, there was a new It-Bag named after a new It-Girl. Alexa Chung was honoured with a luxurious leather satchel bag by British brand Mulberry in 2010, which became an instant bestseller at £750 each.

Although the Hermés Constance Bag was not initially named after Jackie O' Kennedy, as soon as she was spotted wearing it in 1969, it was given the nickname, the 'O Bag'. Gucci also designed a bag for the famous 60's fashion icon called the 'Jackie' bag.

A favourite of Lady Diana, the 'Lady Dior' bag by Christian Dior embodies class and refinement with a quilted leather design and metallic charms. Created in 1995, this illustrious top-handle case is still coveted by millions of fashion lovers around the world.

Most recent to join the list is songbird Lana Del Rey. This year Mulberry named a bag after 'Del Rey' with a classic inflated design that will never date. This one will set you back $1250.

Marc Jacobs encapsulated the charm & beauty of Canadian model Jessica Stam with a quilted leather creation in 2006. The 'Stam' bag, which features a brass chain handle strap & quaint vintage design, has been seen under the arms of many a celebrity and retails for about $1275.

Salvatore Ferragamo created the 'Sophia' bag in tribute to the enchanting Italian actress. Its elegant and simple design has become a favourite with many celebrities and Sophia herself. The approximate cost of the medium sized bag is $1690.

Which of these legendary leather keepsakes is on your wish list?
And who do you think the next It-Bag should be named after? 
I'd love to hear your insight...

*All collages by me with pictures via Google Images

Things You Should Know Before You're 30

I recently came across the book "Thirty Things Every Woman Should Have and Should Know", published by Glamour Magazine, which provides snippets of valuable wisdom every girl should be familiar with before they turn 30. I've written down some of my own 'Things I'd Like To Know Before I'm 30', along with a few excerpts from the book itself.

         

Before You Turn 30, You Should Know...

1. How to fall in love without losing yourself.
2. How you feel about marriage and having kids.
3. How to quit a job, break up with a man & confront a friend without ruining the friendship.
4. When to try harder and when to walk away.

5. How to pick a dress that flatters your shape, not hides it.

6. How to cook a winning three course meal.

7. And throw a dinner party that people will talk about the morning after.
8. The names and speed dials of a really good hairdresser, beautician and tailor.
9. How to live alone, even if you don’t like to.
10. Where to go - be it your best friend’s couch, the country inn spa or a yoga mat - when your soul needs soothing.

11. How to pack a bag in a hurry.
12. That you can’t change the length of your legs or the width of your hips.
13. How to write an exceptional resumé without any exaggerations.

14. When it comes to applying makeup, less is more.

15. That bad hair days are just a part of life, not a level 8 on the Richter Scale type-of-crisis.

16. What you would and wouldn’t do for money or love.
17. That your youthful years may not have been perfect, but it’s over.

18. How to get rid of a spider, change a light bulb or a flat tyre...or know someone reliable you can call at 3am to do either.

19. That sometimes letting go is easier than holding back.

20. How to make an entrance and how to exit gracefully.

21. Who you can trust, who you can’t, and why you shouldn’t take it personally.

22. You don't have to please everyone all the time...it's okay to say 'No' sometimes.

23. The moment when you should leave an argument...before you say something you may not be able to take back later.
24. Not to apologize for something that isn’t your fault.
25. That life doesn't end at thirty, it only begins...hopefully ;)

I would love to hear what you would like to add to this list.

*All images found via weheartit.com

A Swash Autumn 2012

Swash London
Fall/Winter 2012-13

The latest collection by trailblazing brand Swash London is an imagery explosion of enchanting prints and enticing colours, set in a fantasy world where your every fashion dream is answered in the most outlandish display. The inventive duo behind the label are couple Sarah Swash and Toshio Yamanaka, who's combined creative minds have yielded an impressive clothing range for Autumn/Winter 2012, entitled 'Phantastes', modeled after the 19th century novel by George MacDonlad.

What sets Swash apart are their intricately hand-painted fabrics and whimsical digital silk prints that tell a story each of their own. This season, the garments illustrate a tale of unhinged antique clocks, romantic rose scented gardens, a forest filled with fauna and exotic flora, vintage mirrored wardrobes and chaise lounges, deers and dogs, partridges and pinecones. Now that sounds like the type of imaginative story that I would like to read.

The equestrian theme is coloured into life by sweet pastels, lush teals and mustard and energetic oranges. Argyle coats, knitted sweaters, swish skirts over patterned pants, embroidered bomber jackets, the sway of a fringed hem and beautifully printed scarves all make up this Regency-roused range. Adding to the quirk and curiosity are pom-pom topped hats, matching hosiery that seemingly blend into their printed surroundings, leather gloves and an assortment of handheld bags. Take a dive into the animated world of Swash London with their fascinating A/W 2012-13 collection...Click on image for a larger view.

Swash London is available at many different boutiques and stores around the world, as mentioned on their stockist page via their website Swash.co.uk. I urge you to visit their remarkably designed site, its something to satiate your digi-senses.


P.S The lovely Ivana from Macarons & Peals interviewed me on her blog, which you can read here.

Looks of the Week - 03/11/12

The weekly roundup of celebrity style, on and off the red carpet.

Colourific

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley modelled an apple green column gown with ruffled neckline, straight off the Gucci SS13 runway.
Florence Welch beautifully complimented her flame red locks in a rich sapphire blue Gucci gown with sheer billowy sleeves, plunge neck and belted waist.
Emily Blunt shows off her toned shoulders in a sleek-fitting tangerine Alexander McQueen gown, which has a colourful bejewelled neckline.
Amy Adams was prettily poised in a sunflower yellow strapless Gucci gown with embellished waistband and studded clutch bag.
Krysten Ritter made a striking appearance in a fuchsia Salvatore Ferragamo dress with tautly draped bodice and flowing side-slit skirt.

In Black & White

Nicole Scherzinger exuded confidence in this form-fitting white Bibi Bachtadze dress, complete with a pair of hot pink Giuseppe Zanotti heels for colour.
Amber Heard kept all the focus on her elaborately decorated gold beaded neckline whilst wearing this black Gucci mini with matching strappy sandals.
Lucy Hale was stunning in sequined display of black and white by Moschino.
Gwyneth Paltrow amped up the edge in an urbane leather dress by Hugo Boss.
Bella Heathcote sparkled in a white and gold paillette covered Gucci dress, featuring an ornate floral cut-out neckline.

Chic On The Street 

Reese Witherspoon shows off her boho chic pregnancy style in a loose cream frock with tier-folded hem, teamed with a tan Mulberry bag, suede Rag & Bone boots and a cute fedora.
Miranda Kerr styles up her skinny jeans with a Christopher Kane leopard print top, a tailored black blazer by Stella McCartney, a Celine tote bag, ballet flats and Miu Miu sunnies.
Alessandra Ambrosio's ideal black daydress is accessorized by a tri-colour Celine Trapeze bag, tan skinny Valentino belt and T-bat flat sandals by Ferragamo.
Kate Moss takes her favourite leopard print coat out for a stroll, styling it with a Bella Freud top, black skinny jeans, lace-up ankle boots and a bright yellow clutch bag.

Green Peace

Emma Roberts was engaging in an emerald green self-striped Vena Cadena maxi skirt, paired with a fitted black t-shirt, heavy gold circle necklace, a glossy Kate Spade clutch and black heels by Brian Atwood.
Amber Valetta picked out a ruffled forest green foliage print gown by Gucci.
UK X-Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos looked pretty in a teal green Ariella Couture dress with black lacquered lace cut-out bodice and flaired silk skirt. Jeweled Miu Miu sandals complete her look.


Glitz & Glamour

Carrie Underwood channeled Grecian Barbie in this ravishing white Reem Acra gown with gold embroidered illusion bodice.
Berenice Marlohe was radiant in a gleaming molten gold Elie Saab gown with belted waist.
Taylor Swift sparkled in the spotlight, wearing a romantic cream lace Jenny Packham dress, which is specked with red floral beaded motifs.
Karolina Kurkova was a picture of elegance in an ivory chiffon Carlos Miele gown, featuring a satin panelled bodice.

Who is your favourite 'Look of the Week'?