Cannes Red Carpet 2013 - Part One

Red Carpet Fashion
Cannes Film Festival 2013
Part One

The 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival kicked off to a stylish start earlier this week, where couture gowns and international celebrities graced the French Rivera with great aplomb. This is Part One of my Cannes Red Carpet Coverage. Click on the image for a larger view.

True Colours

'The Great Gatsby's' Isla Fisher was ravishing in a crimson red Oscar de la Renta gown featuring a layered skirt with wavering frills. Zhang Yuki stood out in an avocado green Ulyana Sergeenko gown with plunge neck bodice. Freida Pinto was vibrant in a cerise pink halter-neck dress by Gucci, featuring an embellished belt. French actress Vahina Giocante picked out a cobalt blue gown with sheer side panels and winged sleeves by Elie Saab.

Star Dust

Paz Vega sizzled in a sexy sheer tulle beaded gown with nude body suit by Roberto Cavalli. Naomie Harris glittered in a silver bugle-beaded Calvin Klein column gown. Ahna O' Reilly was elegant in a fully beaded ivory one-shouldered dress with cut-out sides by Elie Saab. Freida Pinto showed off a high-slit in this silvery beaded dress by Sanchita.

In The Dark

Cara Delevingne represented Burberry in an alluring black gown with see-through lace long-sleeves. Zhang Ziyi was painted in black and silver, wearing a capacious strapless gown by Carolina Herrera. 'Les Mis' actress Samantha Barks was simply demure in a modest black long-sleeved Christian Dior dress with full skirt. 

Scene Stealers

Sonam Kapoor stunned in a custom-made gown by Dolce & Gabbana, featuring a voluminous pink flower printed ballroom skirt. Nicole Kidman went for a tea-length dress with neon floral embroidery by Christian Dior, adding coral pumps to her outfit. Bérénice Bejo made an impact in a frothy white frilled gown, with tailored navy blazer by Alexis Mabille Couture.

A Sweep of Blush

Upcoming actress Claire Julien looked beautiful in a blush toned Emilio Pucci gown with elaborately ruffled train. Dutch supermodel Doutzen Kroes wore a pastel pink Atelier Versace dress with shimmering sequined cut-out bodice. Carey Mulligan kept things classic in a frosted Christian Dior Couture gown with low V-neck and full skirt. 

Fan Fiction

Fan BingBing brings her own blend of glamour to Cannes, pictured left in a delicate lemon chiffon Elie Saab gown with embroidered three-quarter top. She then picked out a powder blue satin dress with mermaid skirt and off-the shoulder plunge-neckline by Ulyana Sergeenko. Fan attended the opening ceremony in a rose pink strapless duchess satin gown by Louis Vuitton.

Gold Thread

Solange Knowles stepped out in a sandy Stephane Rolland Couture dress, with slitted long-sleeves and fringed detailing on the swishy skirt. Eva Longoria was attractive in a matt gold embroidered long-sleeved gown by Zuhair Murad. Bollywood beauty Sonam Kapoor displayed a more traditional look in a white Anamika Khanna lace sari with opulent gold beadwork.

Black on White

Emma Watson was sophisticated in a minimalist Chanel Couture dress with black bustier bodice and white fitted skirt. Liya Kebede wore a dainty diaphanous white Alberta Ferretti ensemble with sheer top and textured layer skirt. Belarusian model Olga Sorokina emphasized her chic white dress with oversized black ruffled shoulders. French actress Sara Forestier kept things interesting in a white shorter-length Giambattista Valli dress featuring an asymmetrical hemline, with contrasting black velvet panel and red ankle-strap pumps.

Who impressed you the most during the first 3 days of the Cannes Film Festival?

*Part Two of my Cannes Red Carpet Coverage is to follow in the coming week.

Friday Frills

Today I can complain because the weather is rainy,


Or I can be thankful that my garden is getting watered for free. 

Today I can feel sad that I don’t have more money, or I can be glad 
that my finances 

encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. 

Today I can grumble about my health, or I can rejoice that I am alive. 

Today I can lament over all I didn’t have whilst growing up, 


Or I can feel grateful for not being spoilt. 

Today I can whine because roses have thorns, or I can celebrate that thorns have roses. 

Today I can mourn my lack of friends,
 or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. 

Today I can be annoyed because I have to go to work, 
or I can appreciate that I have a job to do. 

Today I can complain because I have to go to class,
 

Or I can eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new tidbits of knowledge. 

Today I can murmur dejectedly because I have chores and housework to do,


Or I can feel honoured because I have a shelter for my mind, body, and soul. 

Today stretches ahead of me, waiting to be shaped,
 and I am the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. 

Today, my attitude is the difference. 

I get to choose what kind of day I will have.

*Author unknown, edited. Image via Pinterest.

The Saturdays - Hairstyle Inspiration

I've been listening to The Saturdays and admiring their trendy style since they first arrived on the scene with their 2008 debut album 'Chasing Lights'. Much has evolved since then but their combination of punchy pop tunes, infectious personalities, stunning looks & amazing wardrobes have ensured them a place on the world music map. Besides for the chart-topping hits and co-ordinated clothes, I think some credit should be given to their impressive hairstyles too.

Una Healy

Irish beauty Una Healy is noticed more for the dazzling colour of her hair rather than the cut. Her glossy multi-tonal reddish locks perfectly compliment her pale skin and icy blue eyes. Auburn isn't a shade we could all easily pull off, but Una does so with radiance. Get a similar style by asking your colourist for copper and auburn highlights placed around the mid-lengths. Use a large round barrel brush when blowdrying your hair, and set in place with a shot of cold air. Pile on the shine with a high-gloss serum.

Vanessa White

Vanessa White's exotic looks come from her half-English, half-Filipino heritage. The 23-year-old songstress proudly wears her hair in natural, healthy voluminous waves. She is also isn't afraid to experiment with colour, going from licorice black to burgundy and then golden blonde. She looks just as beautiful with sleekly ironed locks as she does a curly coif. If you also have curly locks, try a leave-in-conditioner to attain maximum moisture and place any type of product on wet hair, and then scrunch. Opt for air-drying your hair to avoid frizziness.

Frankie Sandford

Frankie Sandford initiated the supremely chic haircut that received an instant cult following. Her chocolate brown asymmetrical bob has an undercut on one side, highlighting her cheekbones & perfectly angular jawline. Frankie wears her modern cropped coif with an extreme side-swept fringe that's been layered for more movement & body. She has also tried out this style with honey blonde highlights. This is a cut that requires some effort, with trims needed every few weeks. Use hair wax to texturize & set into position with a mist of spray.

Rochelle Wiseman

Rochelle Wiseman is one of those very lucky girls who can wear any type of hairstyle & hair length and still look incredible. She has gone from a short straight bob to wavy medium-length tresses to sweeping long locks, each of them suiting her beautifully. Having sparkling brown eyes & a great face shape also aids the versatility of her haircuts. If your hair is naturally wavy, don't completely rinse out your conditioner - this will add to the sheen when it's dry. Try a Vitamin E serum or capsules and use a weekly masque to maintain a healthy mane.

Mollie King

 Mollie King stands out from the group with her shiny blonde locks. Her signature look is a middle-parted style with bouncy waves, that make the most out of her fine hair. To get Mollie's hairstyle, use a volumizing spray on towel-dried hair and then flip your head over and blow-dry upside down. Use a flat iron or curling tong to achieve waves. Then separate curls with your fingers for a softer, more tousled look. Avoid greasy hair build-up by using a clarifying shampoo once a week or try a rinse with apple cider vinegar.

Which of 'The Saturdays' hairstyles would you most likely try out?

Poca & Poca Spring/Summer 2013

I was excited to hear that one of my favourite European brands have extended their fashion influence to the Emirates, with a charming display dedicated to their range in Galeries Lafayette, Dubai Mall. For Spring/Summer 2013, the poetic Polish clothing label indulges our nostalgic side with a saccharine collection called 'Loved Memories'. 

Known for their fairy-esque dresses, swirling tulle skirts, whimsical blouses and well-taliored trousers, Poca & Poca captivates in a candied palette of turquoise, rose pink, caramel fudge, luminous yellow, peach sundae, plumberry and electric cobalt blue, with whispers of white. 

Keeping in with current trends whilst maintaing their unique story-book appeal, Poca & Poca create decadently feminine outfits that are not meant to blend in. Delicate satin and viscose tops are graced with oversized ruffled necks & fluttery sleeves. Multi-layered peplum tops and organza skirts maximize on the dreamlike effect that the label has become associated with.

This is a glance into Poca & Poca's head-in-the-clouds Spring 2013 collection.

Set 1

Set 2

Set 3

Set 4

Set 5

Set 6

Has Poca & Poca woven its magical style spell on you?


*All images found via http://pocaandpoca.com.

The Savvy Girls Guide to Vintage Style

I have always admired vintage style, but knew little about it achieving it. That's when I decided to get some expert advice in the form of a dear blog friend and vintage virtuoso, Nicole Danielle Warr.

Nicole is the creator of South Africa's first ever online vintage magazine, Vintage Lifestyle, which highlights everything from fashion to decor, travel, literature, music, art and design. 
This dynamic 22-year-old has a passion for all things vintage, as well as fashion and drinking lots of tea. Nicole's magazine attains a perfect balance, featuring good quality, affordable labels and also luxury vintage inspired brands. This virtual publication looks at how vintage elements enhance our modern lifestyles - the old with the new - all culminating in a unique look and experience. Amidst running a successful magazine, compiling articles & styling and organizing exquisite photo shoots, Nicole also impressively finds time in between to run her own blog, Diamonds & Dust. And to guest post for Frills & Thrills. Take it away Nicole....

Nicole's Essential Vintage Items

The High-Waisted Skirt

High-waisted skirts look best with a well-fitted blouse or a jersey and a statement waist belt. Popular vintage colours at the moment are ivory white, mint green, dusty pink and maroon. Good news is that they work well for the fuller figure too, and if worn in a darker shade, such as black or navy blue, it will compliment the shape in more ways than one.

The 50's Style Dress

Floral print never seems to go out of fashion. One could put together images of people wearing floral from every decade. For the vintage look however, it has to be the 50's style floral dress. Conservative top, a cinched waist and a wide knee-length skirt (the bigger the skirt, the better!). Remember when wearing floral not to overdo it. My advice would be to wear one floral item at a time and to refrain from mixing florals with other patterns such as stripes and polka dots. It’s best to pair your dress with a cardigan for those chilly evenings out.

The LBD or “Little Black Dress”

This is yy absolute favourite item of clothing. The origins of this dress date back to 1920's designs of Coco Chanel. I’m sure you all know by now that a LBD is an essential to have. If you’re standing in front of your cupboard one day and you have absolutely no clue as of what to wear, take out your LBD, put on some heels and you’re good to go. What’s also great about wearing a plain black dress is that you have the option of accessorizing however you like, and with whatever colour you like. The classic LBD is a look that works for many women time and time again. For those chilly evenings out, pair your LBD with a classic beige trench coat.

Vintage-Style Sunglasses

Some of the greatest vintage-style sunglasses have to be wayfarers, aviators, Jackie O’s and cat’s eye. You might have thought that these styles are modern, but fashions have a way of resurfacing. Remember Audrey Hepburn’s wayfarer style sunglasses in Breakfast at Tiffany’s? Tom Cruise’s aviator sunglasses in Top Gun? Jackie Onassis wearing her signature oversized, round sunglasses (this style was named after her), and the cat’s eye sunglasses worn by every housewife in the 50s and 60s?

Vintage-Style Earrings

I have a pair of clip-on earrings that are very dear to me. They belonged to my grandmother and anyone who knows me knows that I wear them all the time. What I love about them is that they compliment any outfit. If you can’t get hold of your grandmother’s vintage clip-on’s, don’t worry too much as many of the vintage stores and markets still sell them. If you want to go for a more classic style, try vintage pearl earrings with a matching necklace.

Mary Jane Shoes or Classic Round Pumps

Shoes have a way of rounding off a look. When it comes to vintage, a pair of Mary Jane’s or classic round pumps will do just that. My advice would be to start off with a neutral colour, such as tan, black, navy blue or ivory white. This is to ensure that they’ll match with all your outfits and then, when you’re ready, perhaps start experimenting with bold colours and prints.


Vintage Hair & Make-Up

Personally, when it comes to hair and make-up, I always keep it simple.

Delicate, wavy hair, with a winged liner on the eyes and a nude lip. 

Or, all my hair pulled back into a sleek bun with soft eyes and dark red lips. 

I’m also a huge fan of plaits or braids as they tend to soften a look quite nicely.

Nicole's Thrifting Tips

A

• Always check the fabrics for holes and stains. Unless it's really worth sewing up or bleaching (if it's white), then don't buy it.
• Check the label. This gives you an indication of what it’s worth and whether the selling price is reasonable. If it’s Gucci, you’re going to pay a bit more.
• TRY THE ITEM ON! I’ve made the mistake before of not trying the item on and then going home and drowning in it.
• If you’re new to vintage, try and mix one vintage item with modern items. For example; wear your new shift dress with your vintage clutch bag.
• I recommend hand washing most vintage items, especially lace. Older fabrics may be damaged in very hot water.
• Have fun! Thrifting can soon become a great hobby of yours.

A Special Thanks to Nicole for taking the time to guest post and for defining 'Vintage Style'. 

I hope you have enjoyed her retro fashion tips and thrifting tricks as much as I have. 

Is 'Vintage' something you would try out?

*Images sourced via Tumblr, Polyvore and Nicole's blog, Diamonds & Dust.

Looks of the Week - 11/05/13

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

Black & White

Diane Kruger exudes elegance in a slinky black fringed Alessandra Rich dress with three-quarter sleeves. Her look is tied together with a white belt and strappy Louboutin shoes.
Blake Lively looked swanky in a white leather jacket and side-split skirt while being photographed for Lucky magazine. A pair of black biker zipped boots, mirrored sunglasses and a Giuseppe Zanotti clutch complete her modish look.
Olivia Palermo styled up her little black dress with a tri-tone Tibi tuxedo blazer, statement necklace and tribal beaded sandals by Pikolinos.

Chic & The City

Alessandra Ambrosio brightened up her beige Kymerah skirt with a vivid orange tank top by Lovers + Friends. She accessorized with a Gerard Darel bag and wedges by Chloe.
Beyonce keeps things refined in a tailored green blazer, styled with a white top and landscape photo-printed pants in shades of blue, both by Barbara Bui. A pair of see-through striped Christian Louboutin pumps fit her feet.
Victoria Beckham exemplifies sophistication in a black wool twill coat, crisp white shirt and and tangerine trousers, all from her own label...naturally. 
Jessica Alba is animated in a printed Dolce & Gabbana dress, savvily styled with a sunny yellow leather Burberry biker jacket and eye-catching Sigerson Morrison sandals.


Night Sky

Alexa Chung represents Christian Dior in a strapless midnight blue and black swing dress, worn with black ankle-strap heels and a bold red lip.
Heidi Klum looked rock chic in a sexy navy blue leather dress by Thomas Wilde.
Kate Bosworth is on a roll. The actress dazzled once again in a silver and white embellished top with blue-grey structured trumpet skirt by Miu Miu. Her metallic silver heels by Prada.


La Dolce Vita

Bianca Brandolini was striking in a red lace dress with voluminous sleeves by Dolce & Gabbana. Beaded flats sandals accompanied her outfit.
Constance Jablonski wears the black and white striped trend with ease. The supermodel looked dashing in the Dolce & Gabbana ensemble, adding an orange clutch for a flash of colour.
Italian magazine editor Giovanna Battaglia went all out an arresting red satin embossed dress with flaired out skirt and dazzling embellished shoes, both by Dolce & Gabbana.
Nicky Hilton whisks together two popular trends in Dolce & Gabbana attire, featuring a floral peplum top paired with a striped pencil skirt. Royal blue Manolo Blahnik shoes and a Proenza Schouler clutch finalize her outfit.

Enchanted

Emma Roberts was beautifully romantic a pastel peach Jonathan Saunders gown with chiffon tiered skirt, pink waistband and ribbon-detailed bodice.
Jordana Brewster stunned in a slim-fitting strapless Jenny Packham gown, fully encrusted with shimmering beads.
Sarah Jessica Parker makes a print splash on the red carpet in a purple Vintage gown.
Hayden Panettiere stood out in a silver and white linear sequined halter-neck gown by Rafael Cennamo. She carries a glittery box clutch by Edie Parker.
Katy Perry has festival fever in a cropped grey bustier top with matching brocade maxi skirt by Suno. A lilac floral crown, lace booties & rose pink Chanel bag wrap up her eclectic look.

Who is your favourite 'Look of the Week'?

Friday Frills

A strong woman works out every day to keep her body in shape… 

But a woman of strength uses the power of kindness to keep her soul in shape. 

A strong woman isn’t afraid of anything… 

But a woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear.

A strong woman won’t let anyone get the best of her…

But a woman of strength gives the best of herself to everyone. 

A strong woman makes mistakes and avoids doing the same in the future…

A woman of strength realizes life’s mistakes can also be a blessing

in disguise and capitalizes on them.

A strong woman knows how to walk on a tightrope in high heels...

But a woman of strength masters the art of walking tall after stumbling over. 

A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face…

But a woman of strength wears grace. 

A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey … 

But a woman of strength has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong… 

A strong woman is one who gets her heart broken time and time again and still has the strength to gather the pieces to create a new life for herself. 

This is a Salute to you, dear friends, each of whom is a Woman of Strength.

*Author unknown, edited by me. Image via Larazo.

Harper's Bazaar - A Fling with Ruffles

Harper's Bazaar en Español
May 2013 Issue

If runways trends and fashion editorials are anything to go by, (and they usually are), ruffles are going to be hugely in vogue this season. Photographer Benjamin Kanarek captures new top model Sasha Luss in an alluring editorial for the Latin American version of Harper's Bazaar magazine. The Russian beauty takes center stage in an array of frilly designer wear, persuading even the toughest critiques of this theatrical trend.

This is possibly one of the most beautiful and cinematic studio shots I have seen so far this year. Sasha is spellbinding in a flamboyant scarlet red ensemble by British designer Gareth Pugh. Her flowering tier-ruffled flamenco skirt encircles a pair of chicly tailored trousers and is accompanied by a high-neck top with frilled bell sleeves.

Marni brings us the more toned down version of the ruffled trend in a midnight blue low-neck peplum dress with flaired skirt.

Retro meets ruffles in a cafe-au-lait shaded sheath dress by Marc Jacobs, the neckline is fitted with a cream frilled button-up bib.

Sasha strikes a pose in a two-tone asymmetrical black and metallic grey dress by Lanvin, with a sophisticated set of ruffles placed strategically on the shoulder and back.

Balenciaga are always at the forefront of innovation, mastering the art of architectural folds and flounces in this arresting black and pink dress with 3-dimensional peplum waist. 

Gucci serves up the ruffled trend in XXL for Spring 2013. Sasha models a cobalt blue pants suit with high-neck tunic featuring oversized ruffled sleeves.  

Sharp tailoring at Saint Laurent is perfectly contrasted with the frivolity of ruffles, in this white silk frilled shirt, worn under a slick black tuxedo.

With frills, come romance, as seen on the Spring 2013 runway of Italian designer Francesco Scognamiglio. He presents an ethereal ice blue diaphanous gown, gently caressed by soft ruffles lined along the sleeves, bodice and skirt.

Are you in favor of the Ruffled Trend, is this something you would wear?