Nick Verreos's Blog, page 31

ICE STYLE.....2018 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: MEN!

Man of Europe: Spain's Javier Fernandez performing his Free Skate to "Man of La Mancha" in his new costume--2018 ISU European Figure Skating Championships, Moscow Russia


In my last ICE STYLE post HERE , I talked about the LADIES of this past weekend's 2018 European Figure Skating Championships. There were several COSTUME CHANGES (Hello Carolina Kostner!), but new costumes isn't just a female phenomenon...the MEN are doing it too--well Javier Fernandez is and that's news enough!

Here's my MEN'S "Ice Style" 2018 European Figure Skating Championships Costumes Recap including Javi's new costume (at end of post!):









Mikhail Kolyada Free Skate to to Steamroller Blues, Can't Help Falling In Love, Rip It Up by Elvis Presley--Mikhail did Elvis proud with an interpretation of one of his famous costume looks (seen above, from his 1972 concert). I liked the details, the obvious homage to the original costume including the front torso sequined details, scarf (in different color). I also loved the super slim fit. 







Alexander Samarin of Russia Free Skate to La Naissance de Yaha by Saint-Preux, The Unforgiven III by Metallica and House of the Rising Sun performed by Dave Evans--Russian men's figure skater Alexander Samarin wore this rather "kooky" costume above for his "rocker" Free Skate. The music was hard rock/metal and his costume reflected this in a, shall we say, "unusual" costume way. The top had orange colored "fire" accents (?), a nude illusion with black tribal tattoo sleeve (just one) and for the Rocker/Headbanger Cherry on the Cake...take a look at that skull belt buckle! I know, it's a lot of costume madness.









Dmitri Aliev of Russia Short Program to Masquerade Waltz by Aram Khatchaturian--I loved this costume worn by Russia's Dmitri Aliev of Russia for his Short Program. The "Admiral"-like costume featured a red/maroon colored double-breasted snug-fitting stretch jacket, gorgeous collar and cuffs with sequined appliques and those great frilly epaulets. With the accompaniment of the sweeping music and this costume, I was almost transported to a fabulous ball in Imperialist Russia. 





Free Skate to To Build A Home by Cinematic Orchestra, The Winner Is (from "Little Miss Sunshine" soundtrack) and How It Ends (from "Little Miss Sunshine" soundtrack) by Mychael Danner & DeVotchKa--I have said this before and it bears repeating: I do love when a male figure skater wears a draped top/costume. Full stop. I love that they are strong enough in their so-called masculinity to wear a soft, draped look, usually reserved for umm...the ladies. So, yes, I do like this purple draped top costume worn by Russia's Dmitri Aliev. I also liked the little details, such as the side sequined "buckle" and his purple stretch chiffon-covered hands. 







Alexei/Oleksii Bychenko Free Skate to Pagliacci by Ruggero Leoncavallo--For his Free Skate, Alexei donned this costume above for his "Pagliacci" skate. I have to say that this costume above looked more appropriate for "Hava Nagila" than "Pagliacci" (he skated to "Hava Nagila" for his Short Program). This was a bit "Village Extra in a Period Movie" and not really worthy of the opera. The "bloody" pant hems were a little...odd, to say the least. In general, I'm just not a fan of a BEIGE and black costume. Well, if there's any consolation...








At least he didn't go full-on Pagliacci costume clown






Deniss Vasiljevs of Latvia Free Skate to Put the Blame On Mame by Doctor 3, Anyone to Love and Sway by Michael Buble--For his Free Skate, Deniss went for a "Lead Singer of a Las Vegas Band"-look with his shimmering costume. The look had tuxedo-like pants, dress shirt and a bi-colored jacket featuring one gold lace side as well as a blue one. Even though it was a bit Eastern European-like Eurovision "kooky", this was a "costume" that I could totally see Michael Buble wear in one of his concerts so it seems appropriate that this was Deniss' choice so...I'll give him that! 







Michal Brezina of Czech Republic Free Skate to Human by Jamie Hartman, Rory Graham performed by Rag'n'Bone Man; Stand by Me by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller

Human (MJ Cole Remix) performed by Rag'n'Bone Man--Michal skated his Free Skate to the soul/hip-hop/pop song  "Human", wearing this modern look above. The "costume" consisted of skin-tight black pants, a lose gauze draped top and white t-shirt underneath, accessorized with a thick silver necklace. The look was "Euro Hipster at a Club" which I guess was appropriate for the music. I just wished that he would lose the necklace and instead, maybe add some silver crystals onto his shirt. 











Javier Fernandez of Spain Short Program to Modern Times (Charlie Chaplin soundtrack): Spaniard Javier Fernandez brought back his "Charlie Chaplin" program (as many of the skaters are doing for this Olympic Season) from the 2012-2013 Season. Back then, it was his Free Skate and now, it for his Short Program. And as much as I liked his "Chaplin" costume back then, I am happy that he didn't wear it again. This season's costume was a sleeker-and-sexier Charlie Chaplin look comprised of snug gray pants, a second-skin black stretch velvet jacket and white shirt. The jacket had nice details like sequined trim, satin lapels and a fab flower-like lapel "rosette". It was sharp and fit him well yet still had elements of the character he was playing.









**NEW COSTUME ALERT** Free Skate to Man of La Mancha: For his Free Skate at the 2018 European Figure Skating Championships, Javier wore a new costume. This "Conquistador"-style costume was still appropriate for his music, featuring a very "Man of La Mancha" style. The new design featured a beautifully pleated blouse with ruffled neckline and sleeve cuffs, as well as high-waisted pants...







Blouse Boy: While I'm not necessarily a fan of the beige-and-black costume color story (so not exciting), it was fine for the theme of his skate and at least, that blouse had those gorgeous details of the mini-pleating and I LOVED how the sleeves billowed during his jumps and turns. I also liked the front neckline lacing. Speaking of details and lacing...








I REALLY LOVED the small, almost blink-and-you-might-miss-it detail of the lacing (with gold tips) in the back of his pants. #MuyBien


And in case you had forgotten what Javier wore previously to this Program, it was...well...slightly more "Period" Costume-y:






15th Century Doublet Man of La Mancha





Congratulations to the Top Three Men of 2018 European Championships--(L to R) Silver medalist Dmitri Aliev of Russia, Gold medalist Javier Fernandez of Spain and Bronze medalist Mikhail Kolyada of Russia, all three will go to next month's Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Good Luck!




**UP NEXT: The PAIRS and ICE DANCE COSTUMES HIGHLIGHTS from the 2018 European Figure Skating Championships!

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Spring 2018: Christian Dior Haute Couture

Surrealist Dior--Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018


WHAT: Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018. Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri showed her latest Haute Couture collection for the French house of Dior.



INSPIRATION: Surrealism, Avant-garde Argentine-French artist Leonor Fini:








  Leonor Fini Paintings


COLORS/TRENDS: Lots of black and white; gold; sheer; fitted and full; Surrealist art; Feathers; Polka dots; Stripes.



COLLECTION HIGHLIGHTS:




 Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018







  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





  Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018





Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018


Click here to watch Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2018:

ICE STYLE.....2018 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: LADIES!

New Carolina: New Costume for Carolina Kostner of Italy--2018 ISU European Figure Skating Championships, Moscow Russia


This past weekend were the very important 2018 ISU European Figure Skating Championships, which were held in Moscow Russia, in advance of the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. Lots of top European figure skaters competed for the medals--several of which also showcased new costumes.







I'll talk about the MEN, PAIRS, ICE DANCE, but first up, it's time to discuss the LADIES:









Evgenia Medvedeva of Russia Short Program to Nocturne by Frederic Chopin--For her Short Program, Evgenia has worn this gray, blue and ombre lilac costume throughout this entire 2017-2018 Season. It is a gorgeous costume that reflects the "nocturne", night-lit sky through the design, colors and sprinkle of star-like crystals. I also liked the subtly asymmetrical/handkerchief hem and strappy neckline.









Free Skate to Anna Karenina (soundtrack) by Dario Marianelli: For her Free Skate, Evgenia debuted a brand new costume at the 2018 European Figure Skating Championships, in advance of the 2018 Winter Olympics.  The costume was similar to what she had been wearing before in style and sequined applique but while the previous one was black, this new one was in a rust/Cabernet red-like color. I thought the costume was very luxe, reflecting the Upper Class Russia "Anna Karenina" era, and I loved the blood-like red caviar beading throughout the design. If there was any critique, it would be that it was verging on being a little too busy and too intricate; she could have done with a couple less sequined applique flowers for sure and still made a nice costume impact. 

And in case you were wondering, this was her previous costume for the same Free Skate:










Old Anna Karenina Costume--Which one do you guys like best? The black one above or rust/red-ish colored one?






Maria Sotskova of Russia Short Program to Swan Lake by Petr I. Tchaikovski--Maria wore this pink sequined costume for her Short Program and it was beautiful. In the beginning of the season--at 2017 Skate Canada International , she was still wearing an older costume (from the previous season) and I wondered if she was going to change it or if a new one was being made and it wasn't ready yet. Well, yes and yes were the answers to my questions. I loved this elegant costume featuring a pink chiffon base with 19th Century-like design details reminding me of a Romanov Russian Princess. The rhinestone-studded necklace, bracelets and bodice embellishment were superb! I also loved that back. 





Free Skate to Claire de Lune by Claude Debussy--Maria debuted this gray costume back at the 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals and I thought it was elegant and very pretty. The costume was a silver/gray sequined embroidered design featuring a high neck, long sleeves, appliqued bodice and clean chiffon bottom/skirt section.









Alina Zagitova of Russia Short Program to Black Swan--For her Short Program to Black Swan, Alina wore this GORGEOUS sequined and tulle design. I absolutely LOVED this costume--the hand-cut ballerina tutu, the silver and black paillettes, the sleeve/arm details...it was Haute Figure Skating COUTURE! This may be her first Senior International Season but darlings, someone is spending A LOT of money on her costumes. And very smart to do so because it rounds out her incredible skating! This young woman might be your next Olympic gold medalist!





Free Skate to Don Quixote by Leon Minkus: Another excellent costume from figure skating phenom Alina Zagitova. She looked like a Prima Ballerina in this absolutely beautiful costume. The ballet theme started with her Short Program and reached a zenith in this red and gold sequined design for her Free Skate. But I have to say, she skated so incredible that well, she probably could have put on a red and gold garbage bag...and I would have been: OK! 









Carolina Kostner of Italy: Italy's Carolina Kostner is BAAAACK! And I for one, am very happy! For her Short Program to Ne me quitte pas by Jacques Brel, performed by Celine Dion, she wore this Cabernet red colored costume that was romantic and feminine...just right for the iconic song. This, by the way, was a BRAND NEW COSTUME, and featured lovely volants/ruffles at the neckline, an illusion front, a gathered waist and a smattering of hand-sewn crystals throughout. And in case you are wondering, this is what she wore at 2017 Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia:












Which one do you guys like better? The Ruffled new design or silver jeweled strappy one above? I love the straps but I'm more inclined to say that my favorite is the newer one.


Now speaking of NEW COSTUMES and COSTUME CHANGES....Carolina Strikes Again:





Free Skate to L'apres-midi d'un faun by Claude Debussy: For her Free Skate, Carolina debuted this NEON GREEN JUMPSUIT at the 2018 European Figure Skating Championships. When I first saw her--and this--I was like "WOW! Ummm, OK!". This was definitely  something that one had to stop and take in because well, it was A LOT! The apple green colored costume was completely covered in sequins and had nude illusion panels down the sides and through the upper torso. it was definitely A STATEMENT...












While I thought it was kind of pretty and she did evoke some kind of Flora & Fauna "Nymph"-like creature...it was a bit "Too Mucheey" and distracted from her beautiful skating. With all that said, at least we know she's being consistent with her love of sequined JUMPSUITS:








 Carolina Kostner at the 2012 ISU World Figure Skating Championships



And...by the way (in case you were wondering)...this is what she wore for her Free Skate previously: 




Lilac Bird--Which one do you guys like better?  The neon green jumpsuit or this above? 

WHO WORE WHAT?.....2018 SAG Awards Red Carpet: Yara Shahidi in Custom Ralph Lauren

Jumpsuit Divine--"Black-ish" Actress Yara Shahidi in Custom Ralph Lauren at the 2018 SAG Awards Red Carpet




Yara Shahidi in Custom Ralph Lauren--"Black-ish" Actress Yara Shahidi made a FAB red carpet statement last night at the 2018 SAG Awards wearing A JUMPSUIT (Mon Dieu!). The black strapless jumpsuit was made for her by Ralph Lauren...








The look was Tuxedo/Le Smoking-inspired (very Yves Saint Laurent BTW!) as you can tell from the satin Tuxedo band in the outseam of her pants. It was cut to perfection with a slight misstep in the length of the pants (although I do love that it covered her shoes). This jumpsuit featured side pockets and a detachable bow/train. She looked chic, fabulous and so modern. 






Oh and yeah, that bow/train was EVERYTHING! Brava Yara!

WHO WORE WHAT?.....2018 SAG Awards Red Carpet: Alison Brie in Peter Dundas

Stardust Alison--Netflix "Glow" Actress Alison Brie in Peter Dundas Pre-Fall 2018 at the 2018 SAG Awards








Alison Brie in Peter Dundas Pre-Fall 2018--Netflix "Glow" star, Alison Brie, wore this red one shoulder gown at last night's 2018 SAG Awards. The dress was from designer Peter Dundas and his Pre-Fall 2018 collection. The collection is described as a "Ziggy Stardust lightning bolt embroidery" 70's-inspired collection, as you can see from the sequined trim on her gown. I thought this was a fun gown choice since it also had a slight homage to her "Glow" costume/leotards. The jersey knit dress also featured a cut-out side, one long sleeve and high side slit that was closed slightly for Alison (notice how open it is on the model, photo above). The gown style was very 70's sexy...





Dundas, by the way, has designed for many brands and designers in the past including Christian Lacroix, Roberto Cavalli, Emanuel Ungaro as well as Emilio Pucci, to name a few. He's a go-to-designer for many fashion houses. This dress is from his own namesake line.






Alison walked the 2018 SAG Awards red carpet with her husband Dave Franco, brother of actor James Franco

SASHES AND TIARAS.....TOP 25 BEST OF 2017 PAGEANT GOWNS!

Best of the Best: Best Pageant Gowns of 2017: (L to R) Miss Venezuela 2017 Sthefany Gutierrez, Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarp, Miss International 2017 from Indonesia Kevin Lilliana, Iris Mittenaere Miss Universe 2016, and Stephanie Del Valle Miss World 2016


Time for MY FAVORITE "Best of 2017" BLOG: BEST PAGEANT GOWNS OF 2017! As you know--if you read my BLOG and especially my "Sashes And Tiaras" Blog here--I love discussing Pageant Gowns as well as Pageant National Costumes...heck, I even wrote a "Pageant Coloring Book" to honor my love and to have others out there who enjoy it too have some Pageant Gown Sketching Fun!






Pageant Illustrator: Nick Verreos sketches of (L to R) Miss Grand International 2017, Maria Jose Lora; Miss International 2017 Kevin Lilliana; Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere; Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle



So...yes, I love me some pageants and now, following my BLOG tradition of doing "Best Of" Lists, here is my BEST OF 2017: Pageant Gowns Edition. These are my TOP 15 BEST GOWNS from some of the top beauty pageants across the world, including Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss International, Miss Supranational, Miss Grand International, Miss Earth, Miss Venezuela, Miss Universe Philippines/Binibining Pilipinas, and Miss USA.



Let's begin with my No. 1 BEST OF 2017 PAGEANT GOWN:



1. Miss International 2017, Kevin Lilliana Miss International Indonesia: Miss International Indonesia, the beautiful Kevin Lilliana, wore THE BEST GOWN of the Miss International 2017 Finals and No. 1 FAVORITE of the entire year! I absolutely loved her aquamarine sequined gown designed by Ivan Gunawan. The dress--entitled "Thallasa: Mother of Sea" featured exquisite textured sequined applique on a slight fit-and-flared column gown and beautiful silk chiffon sleeve capes...









Indonesian Sea Queen: The gown was inspired by the blue water surrounding Indonesia and it was impacting even if she didn't have a fan blowing the chiffon, like in the staged studio photos above! This was a SUPERB gown!







2. Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarp: When Maria entered the stage in this midnight blue shimmering gown at last month's Miss Universe 2017 Finals, I just about fell off my chair and started shouting "COUTURE DAHLEEENG COUTURE!!!". I LOVED this stunning gown designed by Asava Thailand . This design had DRAMA, chic style, elegance, stage-impact (the beautiful blue and silver sequins!) and an homage to traditional Thai dresses with those GORGEOUS shoulder "flaps" and back tulle capes. Maria looked like an imaginary FASHION Empress of Thailand!







3. Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle:  When Stephanie came out in this glorious blue gown, I literally was screaming at the TV: BRAVISIMA! Del Valle was last year's winner of Miss World and therefore, this was her "Giving Up Her Crown" Gown at this year's Miss World. This gown was EVERYTHING: The dress, created by Puerto Rican designer Carlos Alberto, featured a light blue-over-nude sequined slightly fit-and-flare gown with azure chiffon back capes and thousands upon thousands of the MOST EXQUISITE crystals in deep blue, turquoise, and silver.





The off-the-shoulder style gown fit her to perfection and was OUTSTANDING at any angle! It was THE DEFINITION of a fabulous 360 degree gown. From the looks of it, the gown was inspired by the iconic Miss World crown. He used thousands of Swarovski crystals to create the very impacting jeweled details and embellishments that really made this gown ONE OF THE BEST IN A LONG TIME when it comes to pageant gowns.









4. Miss Venezuela 2017--Sthefany Gutierrez, Miss Delta Amacuro 2017 (eventual winner): Of all the 24 gowns during the Miss Venezuela 2017 Evening Gown Competition, this strapless sequined gown was my top favorite, and now, one of my TOP BEST of 2017! The crinoline based gown, designed by  Alejandro Fajardo , was completely covered in crystals and featured a sweetheart neckline. It was stage-impacting, fit gorgeously and looked like Gown Couture Art! ESSSSSSStunning.





5. Miss Grand International Maria Jose Lora, Miss Grand Peru: It isn't normally the case that the eventual winner of the entire pageant wears MY FAVORITE gown but...it happened at this year's Miss Grand International.The golden/nude/blush sequined gown was designed by Maritza Mendoza Atelier of Lima Peru and fit her to PERFECTION, skimming her figure like a very thin second skin. It looked effortless, sexy, well-made and the stage impact provided by the stunning Maria Jose was the icing on the gown cake! This was my top "Nude"-style gown at an international pageant in 2017.











6. Miss Venezuela 2017--Miss Distrito Capital 2017 Sofia Santa Rodriguez: This silk gazar ballgown--designed by Alejandro Fajardo (same designer as the winner's gown)--was my second BEST gown choice from the Miss Venezuela Pageant--a pageant which this year had A LOT of stunning designs as part of their iconic "Desfile de Trajes de Noche"/Evening Gown Fashion Show. This gown, worn by the contestant representing the Capital of Venezuela, featured a plunging neckline and conic/godet shaped pieces that formed the architectural shape of this incredible dress. I also loved the contestant's styling of her swept-back chic hair and also her beautiful earrings. The dress made such an impact that even one of the hosts gasped while describing the gown, saying how "spectacular" it was. And it WAS!







7. Binibining Pilipinas/Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Pageant--Contestant #39 Elizabeth Clenci: This was by far my FAVORITE gown of the Binibining Pilipinas/Miss Universe Philippines 2017 Pageant, and therefore I had to include her in my Best of 2017 TOP 25 Gowns List. I thought this ivory one shoulder column gown was sleek, chic and super-fabulous! The look was perfect enough for the red carpet of a top awards show and so not "Pageant Betty". It was refreshing to not see a sequined/over-applique'ed gown in the pageant; it was almost like a breath of fresh air! She also was vibing a little bit of Minorka Mercado "Miss Venezuela" at the "Miss Universe 1994" with this look. Classy and supremely elegant!







8. Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere: While taking her Final Walk at this year's Miss Universe Pageant, the outgoing Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere wore this gorgeous red sequined gown from Dubai-based Filipino Designer  Michael Cinco Couture . I was there in the theater in Las Vegas and let me tell you, the ENTIRE audience gasped! The strapless ombré red sequined gown featured a very plunging sweetheart neckline, a column base gown and attached crinoline-backed overskirt. She looked fabulous! The gown fit beautifully and was Couture Perfection! All I kept thinking was "THIS Ladies and Gentlemen, is how you look when giving up your crown: FIERCER and more Haute Couture than ANY of those other Miss Universe contestants!





9. Miss Universe Thailand Maria Poonlertlarb: This was by far the most Haute Couture-looking gowns of all the 92 contestants vying for Miss Universe 2017. Miss Universe Thailand chose a white shimmering gown from Thai designer/brand Surface by Joe Surface and wore it during the Miss Universe 2017 Preliminary Competition. The strapless gown was custom made for her and featured a sequined crinoline/tulle fabrication and folded cascade drapes with a back overskirt. It was dramatic, stage-impacting and Paris Runway Fab.





10. Miss Universe Venezuela Keysi Sayago: During her entire time in Las Vegas for the Miss Universe 2017 Pageant, Keysi was a fashion Diva...looking always styled to perfection at every event, rehearsal and restaurant photo-op. For the Miss Universe 2017 Preliminary Competition, she wore what turned out to be one of my TOP 25 BEST PAGEANT GOWNS of 2017. This silver/white sequined crinoline strapless design from Venezuelan designer Alejandro Fajardo. Alejandro also designed her national costume which I loved. The dress fit perfectly, hugged every part of her flawless figure and the shimmering white color stood out against her naturally tanned skin. I also loved the bun and earrings as well.













11. Miss World Indonesia Achintya Holte Nilsen: Achintya wore this beautiful creme colored gown from Indonesian brand and designer, Provocate by Melta Tan. to the Miss World 2017 Designer Dress Fashion Show/Top Model Competition, and not surprisingly, it was judged to be the BEST design. The gown was gorgeous and very Haute Couture in its style, design and perfect fit. The dress featured that very popular "nude dress" look with a see-through ivory colored silk tulle base with gold sequin applique/embroidery. The design was topped off with a stiffened overskirt that had a sweeping train and the same gold applique that was featured in the main dress. It was pretty much THE PERFECT Miss World gown and one of the Best of 2017.









12. Miss World Venezuela Ana Carolina Ugarte: Miss World Venezuela Ana Ugarte made the Top 40 at this year's Miss World and while we didn't get to see much of her, I couldn't take my eyes off of her while on stage in this beautiful pink sequined gown! The dress featured a strapless rhinestone-studded column gown with a pink duchesse satin attached overskirt. There were touches of that pink overskirt fabric in the base gown itself, as well, in draped details at the midriff and bust. I loved all of it. It was classic, elegant, looked very Haute and overall, so perfect for Miss World! Bellisima!





13. Miss Grand China Xuejia Chen: Xuejia gave you DRAMA, runway Diva and Pageant gown style when she wore this to the Miss Grand International 2017 Finals. I loved this golden/nude/blush colored sequined gown. The dress featured a "Nude"/golden base dress filled with cascading gold paillettes and a nude illusion back. She accessorized it with a dramatic sequined feathered cape that really "stole the gown show!". In fact, the judges at Miss Grand International 2017 voted this THE BEST GOWN of the night! And for all those above reasons, she is my No. 13 out of 25 Best Pageant Gowns of 2017.





14. Miss Universe Colombia Laura Gonzalez: Laura did her country proud at this year's Miss Universe, coming in second. She made me proud by wearing this stunning silver sequined dress as her final evening gown. The dress was designed by Hernan Zajar  and featured an off-the-shoulder neckline, and was completely covered in sequins (50,800 of them--all hand-sewn!) shaping her figure vertically and diagonally. The flower applique in the upper torso gave extra detail that was also nice for the close-up shots. I also loved that there was no too-high slit and the length was just right and her center-parted sleek hairstyle was perfect. Muy chic y muy linda! 













15. Miss World Philippines 2017 Pageant--Contestant No. 15 Laura Lehmann (eventual winner): As one of the many contestants at this year's Miss World Philippines, Laura Lehmann (who eventually won the pageant!) wore this beautiful red gown for the Evening Gown Competition. The strapless silk satin gown was designed by Filipino designer Mark Bumgarner and featured asymmetrical draping/pleating at the bustier and gorgeous triple folds/volants that formed an overskirt at the dress/skirt portion. It was beautifully made, looked very "Italia Alta Moda" and fit her perfectly. It was almost as if whoever "assigned" her this gown, already knew that she would win the crown. 







16. Miss World Philippines Laura Lehmann: Laura Lehmann--as well as designer  Mark Bumgarner  --do it again: Two for two. Laura, who went on to Sanya China to represent the Philippines at the Miss World 2017 Finals, chose to wear another red gown from Bumgarner...and why not? It was SUPER GORGEOUS! This was by far one of the BEST GOWNS worn by a Miss World 2017 contestant at this year's Finals and now of the entire year. This fabulous strapless ballgown featured a coral colored silk satin organza ballgown shape with exquisite side fold draping and an open side front slit. This reminded me of those Good Ol' Days of Angel Sanchez/Guy Melliet Miss Venezuelas. 







17. Miss World Cote D'Ivoire Mandjalia Gbane: Mandjalia wore this SUPER FAB gown above at the Miss World 2017 Designer Dress Fashion Show/Top Model Competition and darlings, she SLAYED IT! She was not only beautiful but supermodel fab, especially in her runway presentation. The brick-red colored gown itself also was great, featuring lots of drama with that outstanding cape and gold detail and the fit was impeccable. The design itself reminded me of a fabulous vintage Azzedine Alaia Diva Gown I could see Grace Jones wearing! 





18. Miss International Lithuania Patricija Belousova: THIS GOWN. Was. Everything! I thought Miss International Lithuania's dress was so chic, so Haute Couture Refined. Loved it. The design featured that popular column gown-with-attached-overskirt design but done in a clean, modern way. The dress--I think--is made of neoprene, which would be fabulous! I love that one can achieve the same kind of elegant drama, fit for an international beauty pageant, without using a single sequin!





19. Miss Venezuela 2017 Pageant--Miss Zulia Mariangel Galban: Miss Zulia came at the end of the Miss Venezuela 2017 Evening Gown Fashion Show and it did not go unnoticed by me! After a slew of endless all-over sequined/crystal, nude/gold/blush colored gowns, this GORGEOUS vision of red appeared and I literally got up from my couch and clapped! This "Valentino Red" silk ziberline dress was designed by designer Joan Delgado and looked dramatic, elegant and architectural on the lovely Mariangel. And I even loved those UBER large earrings. Fabulosa!













20. Miss Universe Ghana Ruth Quashie: I absolutely LOVED this canary yellow gown worn by Miss Universe Ghana at the Miss Universe 2017 Preliminary Competition. It made such an impact that I had to add it to my TOP 25 BEST PAGEANT GOWNS of 2017! This dress was designed by Pistis Ghana by Kabutey Dzietror  and Sumaiya Mohammed and featured yellow duchesse satin with hand-beaded Kente-style embellishments. I thought the color, style and fit were PERFECT! And the gown made Ruth a stand-out in a sea of Nude/Silver/Gold gowns at the Miss Universe 2017 Preliminaries. I was also VERY HAPPY that she wore the correct shoes and not those platform ones that too many of the contestants wore.





21. Miss USA 2017 Pageant--Miss Ohio USA 2017 Dinaleigh Baxter: This black and fuchsia dress worn by Miss Ohio USA 2017 was probably my favorite of all the gowns at the Miss USA 2017 Pageant. One of my all-time favorite color combinations are black and fuchsia mainly because Cristobal Balenciaga utilized this combination in a lot of his super stunning Haute Couture creations back in the day, so when Dinaleigh came out, I was like "Bravo!". Her gown had a very fitted black velvet base gown with plunging sweetheart neckline and a GORGEOUS satin cape that was precariously knotted and twisted into these tiny shoulder straps. It was dramatic, entrance-making and yes, VERY fashionable and Cristobal Balenciaga-like. 







22. Miss Earth Vietnam Le Thi Ha Thu: Even though Miss Earth Vietnam got the Bronze (3rd Place), during her group in the Miss Earth 2017 Preliminary Evening Gown Competition, her golden gown was my favorite of this group and memorable enough to make it into my Best of 2017 List here. The halter neckline gown--designed by Joli Poli Vietnam--featured that VERY POPULAR gold/nude/blush coloring and had golden sequin applique designs along panels of iridescent organza. It also had a dramatic and quite fabulous cascade draped overskirt. The gown design was regal and stage impacting. 









23. Miss Universe Indonesia Bunga Jelitha: Another fashionista at this year's Miss Universe was the tall and fabulous Miss Universe Indonesia. Bunga chose this pink silk chiffon draped gown from Indonesian designer Andreas Odang which she wore at the Miss Universe 2017 Preliminary Competition. I LOVED the bubblegum pink color and the "Old Hollywood Glamour"-meets-Grecian Goddess style of the gown, as well as that gorgeously draped/gathered bustier section. I was just bummed that she didn't get to show this off on the "big stage" of the Miss Universe 2017 Finals since she didn't even make the Semi-final round. But, she made MY TOP 25!









24. Miss World Thailand Patlada Kulphakthanapak: I LOVED this elegant and classic gown design worn by Miss World Thailand to the Miss World Dress Designer /Top Model Competition. The golden silk design featured a sheath/column gown style with a dramatic "Queen of Siam"-like cape and gold sequined embellishment on the neck and back of the cape at the hem. This was one of those perfect examples of a unique gown that had "hints" of its Thai origins but still did not look like a costume and remained Runway Fab! Simple, chic and architectural. Patlada looked like a Thai royal greeting ambassadors at her royal residence!



Finally, my No. 25 BEST PAGEANT GOWN of 2017 is...



25. Miss Universe Jamaica Davina Bennett: The DIVINE Miss Universe Jamaica Davina Bennett causes many a senstation at this year's Miss Universe--and for all the right reasons: Her fabulous Afro hairstyle was EVERYTHING! She had incredible poise and answered her questions intelligently and all the while looking FAB-U-LOUS in this canary yellow gown! Normally, I would have said that this was a CRAY-CRAY-LICIOUS gown: There's A LOT going on including the sheer iridescent fabric, the oversized "Flaura & Faura" appliques, the back capes...the bright "Highlighter Yellow" color...But, Davina WORKED IT OVERTIME and made me drink the CRAY-CRAY Gown Kool-Aid! 







The gown was designed by  Uzuri International , and I bow down to them, but especially Davina for bringing everyone at "The AXIS"/Planet Hollywood to their feet when she came out in this gown during the Miss Universe 2017 Finals and worked those capes OVERTIME! Every drag queen in the room was almost crying huney! And for all of that, this gown makes my Top 25 Best pageant Gowns of 2017 List. Bravo!





Which Gown was YOUR FAVORITE Pageant Gown of 2017??



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

WHO WORE WHAT?.....BEST OF 2017: 25 BEST RED CARPET Looks from Cannes & Met Gala

Cannes Divas and Met Gala Goddesses: Best of 2017 Red Carpet Moments of 2017 Cannes Film Festival and 2017 Met Gala (L to R) Araya A. Hargate, Aishwarya Rai, Sonam Kapoor, Zendaya, and Tracee Ellis Ross


I have already discussed my picks for Best of 2017 Red Carpet at the Academy Awards and Golden Globes HERE, Best of 2017 Emmy Awards and SAG Awards HERE and now, it is time for my last BEST OF 2017 RED CARPET BLOG Installment: 2017 Cannes Film Festival and the 2017 Met Gala! These two red carpet events are BIGGIES when it comes to FASHION with a capital "F"! For some reason, actresses, models...you name it...go above and beyond on the red carpet when it comes to what they wear! I get the Met Gala (it's all about GIVING FASHION of course!) but Cannes...it's like these actresses feel a certain sense of Fashion Freedom when it comes to what they wear at the French Icon of Red Carpet events. And I LOVE that they do it!



Here are my TOP 25 RED CARPET LOOKS for 2017 Cannes and Met Gala:





Aishwayra Rai in Michael Cinco Couture Fall 2017: Aishwarya Rai looked like an Empress of her own nation with this stunning baby blue silk organza/applique gown from Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco and his Couture Fall/Winter 2017 "Infanta Maria Theresa". The off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline ballgown featured a powder blue crinoline-backed fabrication and was completely embroidered by hand. It was A MOMENT, dear kids! Bow down to Aishwarya for giving us this moment.









Aishwarya Rai in Ralph & Russo Spring 2017 Couture: Oh yes...everyone bow down to Queen Aishwarya...AGAIN! She wore this glorious red strapless ballgown to the "120 Beats Per Minute" Premiere at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. I love that she basically showed up to this year's Cannes Film Festival to show everyone in the world why she was crowned...Miss World many, many years ago. This gorgeous actress/model/Bollywood Diva has still got it (not that anyone thought she lost it!). DIVA of 2017.











Araya "Chompoo" Hargate in Alexis Mabille Couture Fall 2014: Araya wore this entrance-making gown from French designer Alexis Mabille Couture Fall 2014 to "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere. This style may be from a 3-year-old collection, however, it was still SO NOW, and SO RED CARPET FAB! The strapless design featured an off-white column gown with a gorgeous lipstick red quilted overcape attached in the bust line with volants and an Empire-waist bustier. In case you needed a reminder: All that stitching you see on the overcape was done BY HAND; it's Haute Couture after all. Araya sure knows how to make an entrance. Oh and yes, she was five months pregnant at the time. 











Araya "Chompoo" Hargate in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Spring 2017: This is another fabulous gown that Araya wore to the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, this time to the Premiere of "120 Beats Per Minute" (120 Battements Par Minute). This UBER Princess gown is from Zuhair Murad Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture and it was EVERYTHING. The ballgown featured multi-layered silk tulle and a silk satin one shoulder draped bow top. Araya has learned that if there was ever a moment to wear SUPER HUGE ballgowns...it's Cannes. 







Araya "Chompoo" Hargate in Olivier Theyskens Spring 2017: This is a third look I loved from British-Thai actress Araya Hargate at this year's Cannes Film Festival. Can we say she had a Cannes 2017 Fashion Trifecta??!! With  this black strapless gown from French designer Olivier Theyskens she was very much on the 90's Prom Trend. I thought she looked quite elegant, sexy and dare I say, vampy--the gloves, the shape of the gown...the necklace...it was all Cannes Fab! And one of the BEST of 2017.











Sonam Kapoor in Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring 2017: Bollywood actress and L'Oreal Paris Ambassador wore this golden gown from Elie Saab Haute Couture to "The Killing of a Sacred Deer" Cannes 2017 Premiere. The gown featured gold and crystal hand-cut lace applique over nude tulle column gown with overskirt and a plunging sweetheart neckline. She looked DIVINE. The gown was the finale "Wedding Gown" look of Saab's Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture collection shown in Paris in January of this year. The gown--as seen on the runway--was a tad bit more "revealing" as seen in the photo above: For Sonam, there were more golden appliques added to cover her up and the sequin work was changed so it didn't look so much like palm trees in a Dubai dessert oasis. Overall, this was a FIERCE red carpet gown and by the way...soooooo many beauty pageant contestants tried to copy this gown this year in international pageants, it was INSANE! So, not only was this one of the BEST of 2017, you can also add One of the Most Copied....or "Inspired" Gowns of 2017.







Sonam Kapoor in custom Elie Saab Couture: Yes kids, Sonam Kapoor is now TWICE on my Best Dressed Cannes 2017 List--as well as BEST OF 2017. This Bollywood Diva SLAYED it! I loved this pink sequined-and-organza-crinoline gown that she wore to "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere. The gown had a gorgeous column base dress with a soft silk georgette overskirt. It was belted and she accessorized it with FABULOUS jewels including those incredible finger-to-wrist bracelets. Oh, and by the way,  did I mention that her gown was CUSTOM? So, yeah, not just Haute Couture but really, really, really...made JUST FOR HER. Gorgeous. This was another style that many an international beauty contestant tried to replicate, but never achieving this fabulosity!





Andie MacDowell in custom Roberto Cavalli: Actress Andie MacDowell looked gorgeous at "The Meyerowitz Stories" Cannes 2017 Premiere in this black and violet gown from Italian fashion brand Roberto Cavalli. The gown was elegant, chic, and sexy and MacDowell looked AMAZING in it. I loved the shape, the dramatic bow, the draped bodice and side front slit. I love a fab FASHION moment and this gown was that!







Lana El Sahely in Ralph & Russo Couture Fall 2016: Freelance stylist and founder of LArmoireDeLana Blog, Lana El Sahely wound up wearing one of my Best Dresses from Cannes 2017 as well as one of my Best of 2017. She wore this gown to "The Killing of a Scared Deer" Cannes 2017 Premiere. The style featured a white silk crepe gown with pale blue silk organza overskirt with multi-tiered ruffles. The main gown itself was embellished with lilac/blue silk thread-work, crystals and glass bead embroidery. This was simply gorgeous and one of the Best of 2017 Red Carpet.







Deepika Padukone in Brandon Maxwell: Styled by  A-list celebrity stylist Elizabeth Salzman (who styles Gwenyth Paltrow and Uma Thurman), Denmark-born Bollywood Indian actress (and another) L'Oreal Global Ambassador) Deepika Padukone, wore this teal green gown from designer Brandon Maxwell at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. The one shoulder gown was daring and sexy, featuring a high side-front slit opening and beautiful back drape "fall" detail. She looked clean, elegant and made a fab statement.











Naomi Campbell in Atelier Versace Spring 2017: Leave it to Miss Naomi Campbell to make it onto my Best of 2017 Red Carpet, and this time for this gown. She wore this super sexy Atelier Versace Spring/Summer 2017 gown at the "Cannes Fashion For Relief" fundraiser gala. The blush colored silk georgette dress featured an intricate Swarovski crystal encrusted web over the base of the gown, as well as side front slit to show off Campbell's iconic legs. This was a perfect choice for Naomi and she, naturally, wore it fabulously. It's a gorgeous blush/nude colored gown that stood out in a year FULL of those...Nude/Blush colored Gowns.







Sara Sampaio in Zuhair Murad Spring 2017: Portuguese model (and Victoria's Secret Angel) Sara Sampaio, dazzled at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival in one of my favorite gowns of the year--this fire-red design from Lebanese couturier Zuhair Murad and his Spring/Summer 2017 Couture collection. The ballgown featured sequins sewn by hand to look like fireworks (the collection was in fact, inspired by the Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in Japan) over a silk organza and crinoline tulle base with a full A-line shape skirt and semi-plunging neckline. As you can see, the silk satin draped waist piece was removed to create a cleaner, seamless look. Along with Aishwarya's red ballgown at the top of this post, this was one of THE BEST red gowns of the 2017 red carpet.







Elle Fanning in Vivienne Westwood Couture: Actress (and yet another L'Oreal Brand Ambassador) Elle Fanning, looked marvelous and so 90's Prom Fab with this white strapless ballgown from Vivienne Westwood Couture. The gown was custom-made for her and the artwork was hand painted, naturally.  Westwood's team said that it took 10 people to work on the dress and it took more than 300 hours to finish over the course of 10 days. Add all that up and that comes to A TON OF MONEY! Luckily for Fanning, she didn't have to pay for it. I think she looked very pretty and Grace Kelly-esque. 








Uma Thurman in Atelier Versace Fall 2016: What U.S. actress Uma Thurman is wearing on the 70th Annual Cannes Film Festival Opening Night "Ismael's Ghosts (Les Fantômes d’Ismaël)" Screening Gala ended up as one of my favorite Red Carpet Looks of 2017. This was one of my most-loved gowns from that Atelier Versace collection and so it was wonderful to see it being worn on the red carpet, with slight changes. Notice how the original runway version has a one-side ruffled peplum but Uma's gown does not. Also, the original one had these "peek-a-boo" black Swarovski crystals--all hand sewn--under the volants/ruffles. In Uma's gown, they are not there. Regardless of the changes, Thurman's gown was elegant, chic and made her figure look AMAZING!







Fan Bingbing in Christopher Bu: One of my favorite Fashion Divas is actress Fan Bingbing and she was ON-POINT throughout her time at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival and this is the first of three fabulous red carpet looks she gave. In the photo above, at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere, she wore this printed silk gown from her longtime stylist, Chinese designer Christopher Bu. I loved this design because of its bold sequined applique "print" (the print is actually ALL SEQUINS!), sculpted silhouette and the "Watteau"-back like cape.  I loved all of it! Bingbing gave you DRAMA and STYLE darlings: Definitely one of the BEST of 2017.









Fan Bingbing in Elie Saab Spring 2017 Couture: Let's continue with the fabulous Fan Bingbing since she kept giving fabulous COUTURE at this year's Cannes Film Festival and therefore, I had to include her in my BEST OF 2017 LIST.  I absolutely love this Elie Saab Haute Couture aquamarine colored silk chiffon dress. The delicate torso hand pleating is gorgeous and I was a big fan of the attached gathered neckline cape. Fan Bingbing looks like the queen of a country at a black tie official dinner event, greeting ambassadors from all over the World!







Fan Bingbing in Atelier Versace Spring 2017: Oh Fan Bingbing, you make me smile! And you make my BEST OF 2017 RED CARPET List THREE TIMES! Bingbing wore one of Donatella's Haute Couture designs for the Cannes 2017 Closing Ceremony and it was one of my favorite looks of 2017. The gown followed in the "Naked Dress" trend with see-through details juxtaposed with Swarovski crystal-encrusted boning that were strategically hand-sewn throughout the gown, forming a mermaid-like caged silhouette at the bottom. The gown was covered in silk tulle with fan accents. Yes...FAN ACCENTS, for Fan Bingbing!









BEST OF 2017 RED CARPET: 2017 Met Gala







Zendaya in Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Haute Couture Fall 2015: Zendaya showed up to the Met Gala 2017 to slay it. And she did. I loved this over-the-top printed silk SUPER ballgown from Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda Fall 2015 collection. Dolce & Gabbana's Alta Moda collection is their Haute Couture arm, so yes, every garment is (mostly) hand-made and yes, each garment can set you back about $100,000, if not more! Zendaya (and her stylist) very wisely knew that the Met Gala is THE red carpet event to show up in a MAJOR gown like this one. This look is unforgettable, fashionable and Diva-like. It may have had nothing to do with the Met Gala's Exhibition of Rei Kawakubo and Comme des Garcons but...WHO CARES when you looked like that!











Solange Knowles in Thom Browne Fall 2017: I know that many people out there will think "Oh No Nick!" but...YASSSSSSSSS!!!! I thank Solange for GIVING ME Puffy Queen! Thank goodness this wasn't a basic creme or "Nude/Blush" colored gown. But then again, I didn't expect Solange Knowles to show up in what everyone else is wearing...especially to a Met Gala. I loved this black puffy jacket with train and those faux ice skating shoes...TO DIE!! I want those for when I attend next month's 2018 U.S. Figure Skating Championships in San Jose ! #NotKidding







Lily Collins in Giambattista Valli Haute Couture Fall 2016: Actress Lily Collins wore this strapless ballgown from Giambattista Valli Haute Couture Fall 2016 to attend the 2017 Met Gala and it was GORGEOUS! The gown features an exquisite and delicate combination of gathered silk tulle,  duchesse silk satin and hand applied crystals. It's sweet and perfect for an Heiress Sweet Sixteen bash like the Crillon Ball but...Lily made it fresh and more modern with that cropped black wig, honoring Rei Kawakubo's iconic hairstyle. 













Jennifer Lopez in Valentino Spring 2017 Haute Couture: It wouldn't be a BEST of 2017 Red Carpet Wrap-up without La J. Lo huney! Here, this aquamarine silk chiffon "caftan" gown was DIVINE and Miss Lopez served you some Elizabeth Taylor-like fabulousness. The original gown on the runway was in "Valentino Red" and featured a plunging neckline and more un-fitted tunic shape. Jennifer Lopez' design was in that gorgeous blue and had a more fitted inner dress and non-plunging neckline. She looked like an heiress on a yacht in Mykonos ready to have Ouzo and some Feta Cheese Aperitifs. DEEEEVA.





Tracee Ellis Ross in Comme des Garcons: I LOVED this bold blue coat on Tracee Ellis Ross. She gave you fabulous; she gave you Fashion Diva, she gave you QUEEN huney! I admired the simple cocooning-like effect and what a fabulous statement it made. I have never seen Miss Ellis Ross look soooo CHIC. This jacquard coat had the same effect as an Haute Couture Gown!







Zoe Kravitz in Oscar de la Renta: Zoe Kravitz wore this Millenial Pink gown from Oscar de la Renta designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia. The duchesse silk satin gown featured an overcape and bust accented with black ruffled embellishments. Kravitz looked regal and supremely chic, especially with that bleach-blond pixie hairstyle. I loved the juxtaposition of her almost-punk severe look and the Alta Moda "old school" style of this beautiful gown. 





Lily Aldridge in custom Ralph Lauren: Model Lily Aldridge gave her best avant-garde Fashion Diva look at the Met Gala 2017 with this white silk jersey gown with skin-revealing peek-a-boos from---of all brands--Ralph Lauren! This sexy-licious gown has NOTHING to do with Ralph Lauren (seriously was this "Ralph Lauren by Donatella Versace??!!) but I am willing to give it a pass only because she looked AMAZING! That's why I put her in my Best Dressed  and this design in my BEST OF 2017. 





Lastly...



Lily-Rose Depp in custom Chanel: I absolutely loved this bubblegum pink strapless Chanel ballgown on Lily-Rose Depp that was made especially for her. The drop-waist design seems simple and classic and yet, there is the added detail of the sequined roses (for Lily-Rose perhaps?) and raw hem. Her makeup (those fab cat-eyes!) and hair were GORGEOUS! I loved the color and classic shape of this design...enough to make it into my BEST OF 2017 RED CARPET List!



Which one of these was YOUR FAVORITE of 2017??



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on Amazon.com:

WHO WORE WHAT?.....BEST OF 2017: 15 BEST RED CARPET Looks from Emmys & SAG Awards

BEST of 2017 Emmys and SAG Awards Edition: (L to R) Thandie Newton, Nicole Kidman, Priyanka Chopra, Mckenzie Davis and Viola Davis


In my last "WHO WORE WHAT? Best of 2017" Post HERE , I talked about my TOP 25 BEST RED CARPET LOOKS of the 2017 Academy Awards and the 2017 Golden Globe Awards. Now,  for my second installment, it's time to discuss my TOP 15 BEST RED CARPET moments of the 69th Annual Emmy Awards and the 23rd Annual Screen Actors Guild/SAG Awards. There was lots of color and enough "interesting" designs to keep a fashionista like myself happy...



Let's begin with MY FAVORITE LOOKS from the 2017 Emmy Awards:



Priyanka Chopra in custom Balmain by Olivier Rousteing: I had four words when I first saw the former Miss World and "Quantico" actress in this gown at the 2017 Emmy Awards: She Shut It Down. Leave it to Priyanka Chopra to show up looking like a Modern and Chic "Game of Thrones" Queen of Winterfell! She looked HOT in a sequined and feathered gown from the French fashion house of Balmain custom designed for her. The design featured silver crystal fan-like details, HUGE jeweled sequins across the neck and armholes and a gown skirt which ended up in a semi-mermaid shape of white feathers. I loved this look, loved the dress and loved everything else Priyanka did--make-up, hair and styling-wise. 







Thandie Newton in custom Jason Wu: Thandie was almost a "palate cleanser" in terms of a red carpet look--when compared to the elaborate fabulousness of Priyanka Chopra, and I loved it! The English actress wore this strapless ballgown and looked ethereal, Princess-like; simple, elegant, classic. The gown had this sequined tulle Point D'Esprit-like detail that added the right amount of sparkle to her dress. I also loved the modernity of what looked like a no-seam bustier (was it stretch Neoprene?). As a total look, she looked gorgeous.





Viola Davis in custom Zac Posen: The new "Haute Couture" is Custom for big red carpet events and we saw lots of these "custom" gowns this year. Viola Davis wore this beautiful terracotta colored gown designed just for her by Zac Posen and she was one of the Best Dressed of the night! The gown featured a fitted top section, small high-hip yokes and softly flaring godet insets on the skirt which gave a nice dramatic sweeping effect. Loved the diamond bracelets and the gold clutch as her accessories. This was a perfect example of effortless elegance with just the right amount of "Fashion".





Mckenzie Davis in Delpozo Resort 2018: Speaking of FASHION...Canadian actress Mckenzie Davis made a definite STYLE STAR statement at this year's Emmys with this neon green-and-white dress from the very HOT Spanish brand of Delpozo. I absolutely LOVED this dress, the color and gorgeous subtle draping. The tea-length dress was SOOO Delpozo and I am so happy Davis went there...in terms of choosing this. This is chic, architectural, modern yet retro...and perfect for her tall, lithe model-like figure. Definitely ONE OF THE BEST red carpet moments of 2017!









Mandy Moore in Carolina Herrera Resort 2018: "This Is Us" star Mandy Moore wore this black and white gown from Carolina Herrera Resort 2018 collection to the 2017 Emmys. The strapless gown featured a three-tiered skirt section of fan-pleated tulle. I thought she looked quite elegant and pretty. I loved the fit of the bustier and how the tiers lengthened her already tall frame. I also loved the "pop" of color in her bubblegum pink lipstick. 









Angela Sarafyan in Elizabeth Kennedy Resort 2018: "Westworld" actress Angela Sarafyan looked gorgeous in this chartreuse colored gown from NYC-based designer Elizabeth Kennedy and her Resort 2018 collection. I adored the color (naturally!) and the fit was exquisite. But one of my favorite details were those voluminous sleeves with "Elizabethan" smocking details. Sarafyan here was one of the BEST of 2017 Red Carpet.





Millie Bobby Brown in Calvin Klein By Appointment: Styled by Thomas Carter Phillips, 13-year-old "Stranger Things" actress Millie Bobbie Brown looked like a PRINCESS on the 2017 Primetime Emmy Awards Red Carpet in this custom Calvin Klein By Appointment dress. The vanilla colored dress featured a strapless bustier and tea-length full tulle skirt. She looked "50's Hollywood Glamorous" in this. It was age-appropriate and pretty. I loved the sequined shoes and the fun touch of a printed silk scarf at the waist. Oh, and the black nail polish was pretty cool too. All in all, she reminded me of a delicate--yet fun--ballerina! One of the BEST looks of 2017. 













Jessica Biel in Ralph & Russo Fall 2017 Couture: When I first reviewed this look Jessica Biel wore at the 2017 Emmy Awards, I was 80/20 in terms of Like/Dislike. I loved the sexy Pageant-like statement (the super high vampy slit, the great draping, the dramatic chiffon, the on-trend nude/blush/metallic colors, the strappy heels), but I just wasn't a fan of her hair and earrings. Since those two things have nothing to do with the dress...overall, this was a FAB look and worthy to make my Best of 2017 Emmys List!







Jane Fonda in Brandon Maxwell Spring 2018: The DIVA arrived at the 2017 Emmy Awards..and she was in bubblegum pink! The one and only Jane Fonda wore this pink colored gown from Brandon Maxwell's (he is Lady Gaga's fashion director) Spring 2018 collection. The gown featured slightly bell-shaped sleeves, a fitted waist, a column/fitted skirt section, as well as an open back (bra-strap friendly), and back "fall"/train for a little bit of drama. I liked this gown and especially the color. The hair, however seemed a bit too "severe" for her. She claimed to have been inspired by Gwen Stefani and I think with the hair she took the influence one step too far. But, I still think this was a definite 2017 Red Carpet Moment!









Now, onto my BEST RED CARPET PICKS of the 2017 SAG Awards:



Nicole Kidman in custom Gucci by Alessandro Michele: Now I know that this may be a controversial choice but I loved this look on Nicole Kidman and thought it was such a definite "Fashion Moment", it was worthy of being in my BEST of 2017 Red Carpet List. God Bless Nicole Kidman for taking fashion chances; while other actresses might say "Ummm, I don't think I want to wear parrots on my shoulders", Kidman was ALL IN BABY! I loved this emerald green sequined gown and yes, I even loved the shoulder Macaw paillette-and-feathered embellishments. The gown reminded me of those 1930's designs from the beginning of the Hollywood Glamour days--it was very Schiaparelli and something the UBER stylish Wallis, Duchess of Windsor would have GAGGED over! Done and done.





Sarah Paulson in custom Vera Wang Collection: Actress Sarah Paulson wore this black and white ensemble from Vera Wang Collection and looked DIVINE! I especially admired the nod to the Yves Saint Laurent "Le Smoking" in its design. The outfit included a perfectly fitting black column gown featuring a waist-cinching band, peplum detail with pocket flaps and a very Haute Couture center front seam. For a designer to create a style with a so-obvious center front seam, that seam needs to be PERFECT...and here it was. To finish it off, she had this severe white cape/coat. Overall, Paulson looked elegant and almost too-chic for all the red carpet nonsense around her





Thandie Newton in Schiaparelli Couture by Bertrand Guyon: This sequined dress was one of my favorite red carpet looks of 2017 and definitely, of the 2017 SAG Awards. This Haute Couture gown was all hand-made and included thousands of hand-sewn crystals and stunning horses, birds and even a Ferris wheel--all in crystals! And that silk velvet shoulder panel was the "Cherry on the Couture Cake". This gown should be in a museum...and I would stare at it for HOURS!









Sophia Bush in Marchesa Pre-Fall 2017: As you may know, I love color and I especially love bubblegum pink! And so when I saw this dress on Sophia Bush, she made me smile. The tea-length dress was more "Cocktail" but had the same fab red carpet effect as a full-length dress. I loved the bright color (of course!) and the "blooming"-like side drape detail. This was pretty, elegant and fashion-forward.







Yara Shahidi in Naeem Khan Spring 2016: "Black-ish" actress Yara Shahidi looked GORGEOUS in this colorful Naeem Khan Spring 2016 gown at the 2017 SAG Awards. The collection was inspired by Mexico and the Mediterranean, according to the designer and you can those influences in the colors of the gown. This horizontal "striped" gown grabbed my attention immediately when I first saw the actress on the red carpet. I thought it was the perfect choice for her, and I especially admired the top section. Now, you might have not noticed this but the gown's multicolored "stripes" are actually all sequined paillettes. 



Finally...



Natalie Portman in Custom Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2017: A very pregnant Natalie Portman wore this off-white gown from Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 at the 2017 SAG Awards. The dress was part of Maria Grazia Chiuri's first Haute Couture collection for the French fashion house. I thought Portman looked radiant, monastic...almost like a Renaissance painting of an angel. I loved the drama of the drop-shoulder pouffy sleeves and billowing Alta Moda silhouette: One of the BEST of 2017.



**UP NEXT: BEST OF 2017 RED CARPET: Cannes and Met Gala! 



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on Amazon.com:

WHO WORE WHAT?.....BEST OF 2017: 25 BEST RED CARPET Looks from Academy Awards & Golden Globes

Best of the BEST: Best Red Carpet Looks of 2017--Academy Awards and Golden Globes


An end-of-the-year tradition is to look back at the BEST of the Best. And here on my BLOG, I have already talked about the Best National Costumes of International Beauty Pageants HERE, and will do a BEST GOWNS as well soon! But for now, it's time for my Best of 2017 Red Carpet "Who Wore What?" Posts. I'll discuss some of the top red carpet events like Cannes, Met Gala, SAG Awards, but now it's time to begin with two BIGGIES: The 2017 Academy Awards and the 2017 Golden Globe Awards Red Carpet.

Here are my TOP 25 BEST Red Carpet Looks from those two A-list red carpet events, beginning with the 89th Annual Academy Awards:







Janelle Monae in Elie Saab Haute Couture Fall 2016: Actress and singer Janelle Monae chose this Elie Saab Haute Couture Fall 2016 Gown to wear to the 89th Annual Academy Awards. Janelle is always a fashion risk-taker, and this certainly is quite a statement! Back when I first reviewed it I thought it was a STUNNING gown but maybe it was too much of a look for her. Well, kids, I was wrong: I LOVED THIS! I think that these are those "fashion moments" I personally live for and Thank You Janelle for doing it! I now think it is one of the BEST of 2017.





Charlize Theron in Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2017: The statuesque and gorgeous Charlize Theron attended the 2017 Academy Awards in this golden Christian Dior Haute Couture gown. Theron is a long-time spokesmodel for the French fashion house so it was no shocker that she would wear Dior. The fan-pleated golden lame/black tulle gown featured a full skirt, plunging neckline and fitted waist. While the design was almost straight-off-the-runway, in terms of style, there were two slight changes to the bodice, with the addition of black tulle for more coverage and a cross-over effect at the center front. The dress evoked a 1950's Old Hollywood Glamour sensibility and was Classic, Elegant and one of the Best of 2017. 







Taraji P Henson in custom Alberta Ferretti: Taraji looked super sleek, vampy and curvaceous in this midnight blue gown custom-made for her by the Italian fashion house of Alberta Ferretti. While there was nothing extraordinarily "High Fashion" about the design, it definitely made a statement and fit her to perfection and I do kind of love the "Pageant Gown" look to it. Chic, sleek and sexy.





Jessica Biel in KaufmanFranco Pre-Spring 2017: Jessica Biel looked RAVISHING in this golden sequined gown from KaufmanFranco Pre-Spring 2017 Collection at the 2017 Oscars. I loved the simple sheath silhouette, long raglan-seamed sleeves, small train, and especially the "Devore"-like sequined fabrication. In terms of accessories, that Tiffany & Co. necklace was EVERYTHING! I also loved how she styled her hair in that chic center-parted chignon. She looked elegant and regal. Definitely one of the BEST of the Academy Awards and 2017!

















Chrissy Teigen in Zuhair Murad Spring 2017: Chrissy Teigen looked every bit of an A-List Hollywood Diva when she walked the 2017 Academy Awards red carpet in this ivory and gold gown from Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad. The gown is from his Haute Couture collection of Spring/Summer 2017 inspired by the famous Miyajima Water Fireworks Festival in Japan. You can see the firework-like detail in the hand-sewn sequins of the gown. Teigen was PERFECTION in this $100,000-costing all-handmade gown!





Viola Davis in custom Armani Prive: Viola Davis looked stunning in this scarlet red gown from Armani Prive. It was custom made for her (naturally) so it fit her beautifully (check out that PERFECT length!). While this wasn't a very Haute "fashion statement", it was safe and definitely gorgeous. The draped halter neckline, the striking color and the figure flattering shape all united to make this look a RED CARPET WINNER!







 



Brie Larson in custom Oscar de la Renta: Now, speaking of a definite Haute Fashion Statement, I present to you Brie Larson in custom Oscar de la Renta. The dress was designed by Oscar de la Renta's design duo Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia and featured a sculpted silhouette, cinched waist and ruffled volants trailing into a hem. The neckline was directly inspired from one of the runway looks (the pointed bustline jumpsuit in the right photo--middle, above) from Oscar de la Renta Fall 2017. Larson reminded me of a modern "Madame X" from the famous John Singer Sargent painting (above) and looked almost too Upper Class for even the Academy Awards!









Priyanka Chopra in Ralph & Russo Spring 2017 Couture: Stunning Priyanka went simple and column-like in this Ralph & Russo Couture gown for the 2017 Academy Awards. I thought the ivory color was perfect for her and the long and lean silhouette was clean and modern. I also loved the sequined "blocked" details of the fabric, which by the way, is all hand-done; it's COUTURE darlings! The gown may look simple but if you were to order it, it would set you back an un-simple $80,000+.





Nicole Kidman in Armani Prive Spring 2017: Nicole Kidman was PERFECTION in this blush/nude colored halter style gown from Armani Prive. The design featured hand-sewn sequins in circular and scroll-like motifs and had beautiful gold jeweled crystals, and a back silk chiffon godet piece. The gown was customized for her from this runway style as you can see in the photo comparisons above. Nicole was very on-trend with the "Nude/Blush Gown" style and looked elegant and chic. While this may not have been a "wow" gown in photos, trust me, close up (or even from the balcony where I was covering the Academy Awards Red Carpet for ABC!) this was AMAZING!



Last but not least (for the Best of 2017-Academy Awards)...



Debbie Matenopoulos in NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos & David Paul: Since this is my blog and I co-designed (along with my partner David Paul) this beautiful gown for TV presenter/host Debbie Matenopoulos--and she did look SOOOO GORGEOUS!--I had to add her in my Best of 2017 Red Carpet List of course. David and I custom-designed designed this fabulous NIKOLAKI gown for her which featured a blush colored silk sequined tulle, silk satin crepe lining, plunging neckline and silk chiffon one shoulder cascade cape. It was FASHION, Drama and she looked totally on-trend with the "Nude/Blush Gowns" that we saw during 2017. 









Now, time for my BEST RED CARPET Picks of the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards:



Blake Lively in custom Atelier Versace: Blake Lively tops my Best of 2017 Golden Globes Red Carpet List, with this stunning gown custom-made for her by Atelier Versace. She looked DIVINE in this black silk velvet gown, featuring a fit-to-flare silhouette, a long dramatic train, Swarovski crystal chain-mail neckline, top and pocket embellishment and a front bust cut-out for a (slightly) plunging neckline view. It was elegant, high fashion and a chic, powerful fashion statement. #Love








 


Hailee Steinfeld in Custom Vera Wang: Actress Hailee Steinfeld wore this lilac colored ballgown from designer Vera Wang. The iridescent silk tulle gown was custom-made and featured a full "Princess" skirt, cold shoulder sleeves, gathered details, a center front slit opening...and a back cape/train. Normally, all of those components would probably come out a big ol' Pageant Beauty Queen mess but...here this gown looked ethereal, beautiful and made for a definite red carpet moment worthy of my Best of 2017 List!







Anna Kendrick in Vionnet Spring 2017: Anna Kendrick wore this gown from the French fashion house of Vionnet, designed by Goga Ashkenazi. The Grecian Goddess-style gown featured a one-shoulder neckline, hand-pleated silk chiffon cupped busts and full silhouette, and gave me a 1930's/40's "Old Hollywood Glamour" vibe. Sublime Best of 2017.













Naomie Harris in custom Armani Prive: English actress Naomie Harris was one of the BEST DRESSED at the 2017 Golden Globe Awards in this strapless golden column gown from Armani Prive. She said that she had to lay down in the car on the way to the awards show, and not eat (and barely breathe!) because the gown was made to an 1/8" of her body...and it looks it! The gold silk mikado gown featured hand-sewn rhinestones and sequins as well as a mini nude colored panel down the center front. Harris looked STUNNING and Diva-like in this gown. Sorry that she couldn't eat but at least, she was one of the BEST of 2017 Red Carpet.  







Mandy Moore in custom Naeem Khan: Mandy Moore wore this midnight blue silk chiffon gown from Naeem Khan, featuring an attached cape, flowing A-line flared gown and plunging neckline. I think she looked modern and regal and I LOVED the dramatic cape and subtle thin belted waist. It was simple, elegant, architectural and oh-so chic!







Natalie Portman in Custom Prada: Speaking of chic...Natalie Portman looked absolutely STUNNING in this chartreuse colored Custom Prada gown at the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards. Portman was nominated for her role of the former First Lady Jackie Kennedy in the film "Jackie" and I love how she vibed the former First Lady's iconic elegance. The gown was very 1960's Alta Moda Couture in its shape, 3/4 sleeves and minimalist embellished detail; Portman looked like the wife of an Ambassador...in 1965. But still, so very now! Molto Bella! 







Viola Davis in Michael Kors Collection: Continuing with the canary yellow colored gowns, I wanted to add Viola Davis in this Michael Kors Collection dress. The one shoulder sequined gown looked great on Davis, especially the bold color and chic one shoulder silhouette. It's not very "UBER" high fashion but she looked every bit a "Red Carpet Diva". 







Emma Stone in custom Valentino: Styled by Petra Flannery, Emma Stone was giving "subdued elegance" in this star-studded nude-and-silver sequined gown from the Italian house of Valentino.The gown featured a simple shape of a semi-full flared gown with plunging neckline but it was the silver star embroidery in the gown that became the "Star"--as it were--of the gown. She looked ethereal, ingenue-like and delicately pretty in this. She also continued the "Nude/Blush Gown Trend" so popular of 2017.





Sofia Vergara in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Fall 2016: Actress and Colombian bombshell Sofia Vergara wore this golden gown from Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2016 that featured gold and silver metallic hand-sewn sequined applique over nude tulle. The style also had open "cold" shoulders and open front, revealing a little cleavage (of course!). She gave a little bit of a Gladiator Couture Goddess look with this and I loved it. The dress fit her perfectly (it's COUTURE huney!) and she was on-trend with ...yes, the "Nude Gown" look. Sofia was Golden Globes Bellisima!







Lily Collins in Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Fall 2016: Actress Lily Collins wore this beautiful ballgown from Zuhair Murad Haute Couture for the 2017 Golden Globes and it was one of my TOP BEST of that red carpet as well as 2017! The lilac/raspberry colored gown is all handmade (it's Haute Couture!) and features hand-sewn metallic lace applique throughout with a nude silk tulle base/top. Collins looked like French aristocracy from back in the Louis XIV days! For such a petite actress, this soft ballgown was surprisingly perfect for her.









Ruth Negga in custom Louis Vuitton: Three things come to mind when I see this look from actress Ruth Negga:  Chic; Column Diva; and Fashion Statement. I loved this golden column sequined gown worn by Negga custom-made for her by the French fashion house of Louis Vuitton. It was modern, directional and gave me hints of scuba-wear (very Chanel 1991--see photo above of Linda Evangelista!). The whole look was effortless...even though we all know a lot of effort was put into this.









Naomi Campbell in Atelier Versace Fall 2016: Only the one-and-only Naomi Campbell would show up to the Golden Globes SERVING YOU Diva Supermodel Style since after all, she IS a SUPERMODEL! Campbell wore this lilac and black colored silk duchesse satin gown from Atelier Versace Fall/Winter 2016 Couture collection. This $100,000 costing gown (if one were too actually order it and buy it!), featured a one shoulder neckline, bias-cut twisted bands, hand-sewn sequin encrusted panels and dramatic cascade draped back, and Naomi SERVED IT TO Y'ALL! One of the Best of 2017 Red Carpet Looks from the 2017 Golden Globes. Model Diva. 





Brie Larson in custom Rodarte: Actress Brie Larson wore this fire-red colored gown from Rodarte and she looked super beautiful--one of the BEST looks of the 74th Annual Golden Globe Awards! The strapless gown featured sequined and gathered chiffon bustier details and a full gathered skirt...soooo pretty!








Evan Rachel Wood in custom Altuzarra: Actress Evan Rachel Wood was giving Marlene Dietrich in her tuxedo ensemble from NY-based designer Joseph Altuzarra at this year's Golden Globe Awards. The "Le Smoking" ensemble was VERY Yves Saint Laurent/Helmut Newton photo-inspired (lower photo above) and I thought she made a definite FASHION statement. This is the ULTIMATE in CHIC darlings! 





                               


And lastly...I had to add the gorgeous Debbie Matenopoulos in our NIKOLAKI gown:


Debbie Matenopoulos in NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos & David Paul: The ever-so-fabulous Debbie Matenopoulos, co-host of  Hallmark's "Home & Family" TV Show, wore one of our NIKOLAKI gowns at the 2017 Golden Globe Awards Red Carpet and naturally, I think she was one of the BEST DRESSED of the Golden Globes as well as 2017! The gown was a color-blocked column style gown in black/golden creme/raspberry colored silk/wool ziberline and featured pleated sides, a plunging neckline, as well as side pockets: Fabulous!



**UP NEXT: BEST of 2017 Red Carpet "Who Wore What?--2017 SAG Awards and 2017 Emmy Awards"!



And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com:

ICE STYLE.....2017 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals: COSTUME CHANGES!

New & Old...Costume Changes from (L to R) Tessa Virtue of Canada  (Ice Dance) and Russia's Maria Sotskova (Ladies)


This past weekend were the very important 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals, held in Nagoya Japan. I have covered all the Grand Prix of the season here on my ICE STYLE BLOG so just search whichever one you want in the "Search" tab here on my blog and you can see (and read) my thoughts on the skaters costumes--no matter what principle (Ladies, Men, Pairs and Ice Dance). It would be redundant to go through all the skaters and what they wore for the Grand Prix Finals since I've already discussed ALL OF THEM, so I was very happy to find out that some did a COSTUME CHANGE--from what they had worn during the previous Grand Prix this season leading up to the Finals) and therefore gave me reason to write a new "Ice Style" blog for the Grand Prix Finals. So...let's begin discussing:



The first "Costume Change" actually involves a "Costume Throwback" and that is...





Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot of Germany: The "Costume Throwback" in question involves this German pair (well, she's actually Ukrainian-born and he's French but just got his German citizenship, in time for the Olympics!) and what they wore for their Short Program to That Man performed by Caro Emerald. First, I was like "Wait! THIS is their Short Program??" The entire 2017-2018 Grand Prix season, they skated their Short Program to Ameksa-Fuego by Taalbi Brothers and wore this:






This is what they wore to Skate Canada International 2017 and Skate America 2017 where their Short program was to Ameksa-Fuego by Taalbi Brothers


But, I guess they decided to change it up and go back to LAST SEASON'S Program (yes kids, these costumes and music were from last season's Short Program) and for this weekend's 2017-2017 Grand Prix Finals, they made the decision to go back to it. It was so "What the heck?" that even her Wikipedia page, has the other Short Program, listed as the one for this season. And yes, in case you're wondering I spend lots of hours looking up all this info, thank you very much! (I do try and do my research!). Anyhow, this is what they wore at the 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals and their "old-is-new-again" Short Program:








These costumes were cute, simple and right for the music. Her powder pink sequined-and-chiffon dress was jazz-dancer pretty (going along with the music) and very "The Great Gatsby". In terms of Bruno, I was happy that he matched her costume (kind of) with his powder pink colored tie. 


If you are still wondering the "Costume Throwback"-ness of it all, this is what they wore at...




2017 European Figure Skating Championships in January 2017


And...




Trophee de France 2016, November 2016


Apparently, her zipper broke during the skate. I guess it really was an OLD costume! LOL! Can you imagine Aliona's closet full of skating costumes throughout the years?! She could have a museum at this point...looks like they'll have to go through all the costumes first and check for broken zippers!







Next...









Meagan Duhamel and Eric Radford of Canada: For the 2017-2018 Grand Prix Finals of Figure Skating, Meagan Duhamel changed her costume for her Free Skate to Neutron Star Collision by Matthew Bellamy, I Belong To You (Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix) from "Samson and Dalilah" by Camille Saint-Saens, and Uprising by Matthew Bellamy performed by Muse. She wore this sequined gold design that was very much on-trend with the "Nude/Golden" gowns seen on the red carpet as well as beauty pageants. The costume featured beaded gold embroidery over a nude illusion base with a very mini "skirt"...







Golden Girl: Meagan's golden costume was exquisitely beaded and looked expensive. This was a change from what she had been wearing for the previous Grand Prix for her Pairs Free Skate at...








Skate Canada International 2017 (as well as Skate America 2017)--As you can also see, Eric's "costume" didn't change. He was still in a black shirt/black pants "Ross Dress For Less" Male Figure Skating 101 Look.








Next up, it's a LADIES Costume Change:






New (L) and Old (R): Maria Sotskova of Russia and her Free Skate Costumes during the 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Season






Maria Sotskova of Russia: Maria debuted a new costume for her Free Skate to Claire de Lune by Claude Debussy at this past weekend's 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals. This new costume was a gray sequined embroidered design featuring a high neck, long sleeves, appliqued bodice and clean chiffon bottom/skirt section... 








I LOVED the upper torso detail and scroll-like embroidery and rhinestones. It was a nice, clean and very elegant look. In case you were wondering, this...







Is what she wore for the same Free Skate at Skate Canada International 2017 (as well as to the  Internationaux de France Grand Prix France 2017). I liked this lilac twist-knot draped criss-cross design but I have to admit, the newer Grand Prix Final one, is better! What do you guys think?








Lastly...it's time to discuss Tessa Virtue and her Costume Change:







Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada: When Virtue and Moir first stepped on the ice at this weekend's 2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals for their Short Dance, I thought that something was different. And my Costume Eagle Eye knew it: She had changed her costume! For their Short Dance to Samba: Sympathy for the Devil by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards performed by The Rolling Stones; Rhumba: Hotel California by Don Felders, Don Henley, Glenn Frey performed by Eagles; and Cha Cha: Oye Como Va by Tito Puente performed by Santana, she changed her dress to this Zebra-printed purple-and-black hued costume featuring GORGEOUS black/silver/violet colored sequined jewels at her neck:










Animal Dance: Tessa Virtue (top) and Scott Moir (lower top) and close-up's of their animal-inspired sequined costumes--2017-2018 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Finals


Tessa's costume was a change from this:








Black cheetah-printed costume with gold jeweled neck embellishment--worn at Skate Canada International 2017 (as well as to the NHK Trophy 2017)--Which costume do you guys like best? Personally, I love both but...the latest one (zebra printed, purple/violet sequins) is my favorite.

Which costume will she wear to the PyeongChang Winter 2018 Olympics? Stay tuned.




And don't forget about my NEW "The Pageant Coloring Book"! Where you can create your very own Evening Gown Competition with 25 of my hand-drawn Pageant Queen illustrations. Click HERE to purchase NOW on amazon.com: