World Championships Figure Skating Fashion Recap

The big story of the 09 Worlds was Yu-Na Kim of South Korea, who busted her own short program record by 4 points and became the first woman to break a total score of 200, which she did by over 7 points. It was historic weekend, to be sure, and I was so happy for her. Kim is probably my favorite international skater, due to the fact that she can combine breathtaking artistry with unbelievable, out-of-this world athleticism. There's few who have accomplished so much. She's a legend in the making...


Not only did Kim run away with the gold medal, she also had the distinction of being the best-dressed lady on the ice (IMHO). While there has been a trend over the years for colorful, wacky costumes that often cover less than they reveal, she kept it classy and feminine - and I love these looks!

Yu-Na Kim's short program dress is a sleek combo of silver embroidery and sequins over lovely black fabric. Long, sheer sleeves, a high neck and the delicate chiffon skirt add elegance - so chic! Her long program dress fits her music (Sheherazade) beautifully; the brilliant red setting off her skin tone. I love how the crossover on the bodice wraps around her neck, enhanced by dozens of beaded golden blossoms. The asymmetrical skirt and little golden cuffs add the perfect touches. Let's hear it for the Ice Queen!

The majority of the ladies failed to toe the fashion mark and there were some fun disasters. A few did make some nice choices, but the only other woman who was consistently stylish in the short and long was Canada's Joannie Rochette.

It's clear that Joannie knows what works best for her, and both her dresses were made in a very similar style. The short program dress is a fun pink color and features dozens of pink and yellow "feathers" cascading down it, enhanced by white, "sparkly" beading. Her long program costume starts in a deep royal blue and becomes brighter as it moves towards the hem. Green accents and lots of rhinestones create a swirling design (almost like a paisley) and make me think of "Starry, Starry Night". Truly beautiful...

The pairs and ice dance competitions seemed to be lacking in the classy fashion department (in fact, most of the top teams wore the ugliest outfits), but one did stand out. Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto of the USA did a delightful original dance in a really cute ensemble. It was actually a great original dance competition, as all the music was from the 20s-40s (my fave eras ever!) and brought out some cute looks.

I absolutely love the use of red and white here! The beret, cummerbund and embroidered accents really make Tanith's ensemble special. The ruffle at the neckline and scalloped hem add such a cute touch - and check out the ankle socks! I love the fullness of the skirt and the tulle pleating underneath. This outfit is just adorable sophistication. And Ben looks pretty snazzy, despite his goofy hair... ;)

I don't usually follow the men's competition and fashion as closely as the others, but I just want to say that I was thrilled to pieces at Evan Lysacek's stunning win! This is the first time since 1996 that a US man has carried away the title, and if any of our skaters deserved it, he's the one. And on the fashion side, the "tux" went very nicely with his "Rhapsody In Blue" program. Bravo!


P.S. Anyone else agree that he looks like Richard Armitage? ;)


Image Credits: ESPN Sports, AP Photos/David J. Phillip

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Amy Adams and 1940s Glamour

Amy Adams has been a favorite of mine ever since her wonderful performance Enchanted. She's got such a natural beauty that shines through in her wide smile and bright eyes (not to mention that redheads are always lovely :). So when I stumbled across this photo shoot from a few years ago (I think it was featured in Vogue or something) I just had to share some favorites.  There's nothing more glamorous that a sweet girl and some 1940s inspired fashion! 

What better way to be a wartime spy than in vintage trench coat and black leather gloves? Amy's on the case and ready for action - but she's never too busy to style her hair and add a splash of red lipstick - feminine to the core.

Oh those wartime letters; read over and over again and treasured throughout the years! But while Amy's waiting for her sweetheart to return, she does what she can to help others. The sight of her crisp white cap, uniform and signature red fingernails is guaranteed to soften the heart of the modest hardened old war-hero.

Amy works hard at her most unglamorous jobs in true "Rosie the Riveter" style. A navy jumpsuit is practical and easy to clean and her hair is kept up and out of the way in a kerchief. (but it must be admitted that the platform wedges are a wonderful pick-me-up when things are at their hardest). And always, even when serving long hours as a WASP, decked out in brown leather, a cap and goggles, she never loses her signature laugh.

Remember, in any time or situation (war, peace, work, home) laughter is one of the best sorts of medicine. Maybe we should pass around an extra dose...

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - Season Two - Part III

Costumes are listed in order of appearance, although some images may be from later episodes of the show. May contain slight spoilers. Click HERE for Parts I & II.
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Green "Castle" Gown
Marian and Robin search for the most import document in Nottingham...




The under dress of this ensemble is made from the same fabric used in Marian's Red "Casino" Skirt, although here it is a muted shade of brown. The raised areas of the material have a velvety look while the main body of the fabric appears very light and sheer. The under dress has long, fitted sleeves that end just below the wrist. The skirt of the gown appears very full and sweeps the floor. We never see the bodice of the gown. (Another theory is that the sleeves may be actually sewn in to the "vest" piece and the skirt is separate.)




The vest fabric is striped in various shades of green and has a subtle bit of "shine" to it. Both the neckline and the front of the vest end in a V. The back of the neckline is high and circular and the vest laces down the back. The vest appears to be constructed using princess seams (like most of Marian's garments) and the front lacing is purely decorative. It's difficult to see clearly, but a narrow cording seems to run through small brass rings (or hooks), lacing up over a green inset piece (which looks like the same fabric as the Marian's "scarf").



The olive green scarf looks appears to be made from a long, wide strip of fabric, which is run through two thread/cording loops on the shoulder of the vest. This creates the "draped" look at the front and the excess scarf fabric hangs down the back of the gown (I can't quite see how far it goes, but I'm guessing it's around fingertip length).
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Peasant Disguise
There's a "plague" in Nottingham, but Marian has her own suspicions...




This sweet "peasant" dress is nearly identical to the cream and blue costume in Part I. The real difference is in the fabric - here it's a small circular pattern in charcoal grey, probably made in a light cotton blend. The bodice has a scoop neckline with elastic/gathering around it, creating a tiny ruffle. There is also a bit of ruching/gathering over the bust. The strange thing here is a small piece of fabric on the left side of the bodice in a different shade. It looks like a "patch".

The sleeves have a slight fullness, ending below the elbow with elastic and a ruffle. The dress is high-waisted, and appears to be about ankle length. A very interesting detail is the side lacing that runs down the sides of the "skirt" part of the dress. Thin cording runs through tiny little loops, revealing a placket of the same fabric as the dress. From one picture it looks like this placket ends at the knee, leaving an open slit to the hem (any thoughts on this?) 

The cape is made from a grey material with little fabric "nubs" all over it - raised bumps that add texture. It has a hood and ties at the neck. I can tell from future episodes that it is mid-calf length (trying not to spoil future costumes by showing the images now!). Marian wears adorable, black leather flats, which lace up over her ankle with a wide ribbon or strap.

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Well, this brings us about half way through season two! Some really great ensembles still to come!

Screencaps from Robin Hood 2006

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Going Gucci For Spring 09

OK, so I don't endorse this company or recommend their website at all, but I always seem to find some cute, classic pieces in Gucci's newest collections. Their Spring/Summer 09 looks were no exception, although (sadly) there weren't any great dresses (too short and skimpy by far). Fortunately, I was pleased to find some great "pant" looks that I think are very classy. I could just do without the model's "pout"... 


These different ensembles showcase some fun new trends for spring but also pull great looks and details that have stood the test of time. Even if you are a "dresses and skirts" girl all the time, you'll probably find a piece that grabs you, whether it's a jacket, handbag or a pair of shoes. Just make sure you seek out a lower-end version. Nobody should pay Gucci prices.

• White - There is never a better time to showcase a lovely, paper-white outfit than in the Spring. It gives an impression of sweet cleanliness - you just can't beat a white suit for a crisp, confident look.
  
• Colorful Accents - Add a splash of color to your neutrals with a few special pieces. The teal blue blouse and shoe accents keep things from looking too stark and the bold brown stripes on the jacket catch the eye.
• Statement Shoes - Heavy, chunky-clunky wedges have been the "it" shoe for a couple of seasons now, and they don't look like they're going anywhere. Personally, I love fun shoes that tell something about the wearer's personality (make sure you're only telling good things!). And if anyone tries to attack you, they make a great weapon...

• Black - Although it is usually associated with Winter, black is also a great color for the transitional months, and very forgiving. All-black ensembles are super chic, but make sure you break it up with a bit of color or an interesting design.
  
• "Military" Jackets - These double-breasted looks are flattering on any figure type. Make sure you find the perfect length for you (wherever the jacket ends, it will cut you in half horizontally and add width) and go for little details that make you feel perky!
  
• Tote Bags - They've never been so cool before. "The bigger, the better", they seem to say. This is fabulous for those who have lots of stuff to lug, but for someone like me who can never find their keys... I'll just stick to my little handbag.

• Bold n' Bright Prints - It's not ALL about neutrals! A fabulous print can be the centerpiece of any outfit and should be given the attention it deserves - make sure that no other details clutter it up. If you are wearing mostly neutrals - throw on a bold scarf for an instant face lift.
  
• Ladylike Leather - I believe that it is appropriate to wear leather, as it is no longer so closely associated with being a "rebel". (And we are kind of different, aren't we? :) An unusual or ladylike cut adds class to this wardrobe staple - just make sure it's not too "shiny".
  
• Wide Leg Jeans - I am so glad that these are back! Wide leg pants remind me so much of Katherine Hepburn and other stylish ladies from the 30s and 40s. Get them in a nice, dark denim and you can't go wrong. These just say, "sophistication".

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All this talk of spring trends has got me in the mood for a wardrobe gutting session. Hmm...

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It's a great day for the IRISH... and for everyone else, too!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

Today, it is tradition (whether you are Irish or not), to take a stand by "the wearing of the green" (this was once illegal in Ireland during the Irish Rebellion of 1798 - read more here). But, as with any popular color and trend, make sure it is done tastefully. There's no need to walk around looking like Kermit the Frog, so think twice about that bright sweater and make sure it's perfect for you.

When wearing green (or any other color), you want to make sure that the shade suits your skin tone. By default, I would advise pale shades for fairer skin tones (make it warm or cool, depending on your season) and dark forest or bright emerald greens for those with more dramatic coloring. There's no need to overdo things - put only one green item in your ensemble. A blouse; a set of jewelry; a pair of shoes (grr...wishing I had those green pumps from Penelope right now!).

I'll have to admit that this is probably my favorite "little holiday" (although I like almost any time where I have an excuse to make the day extra special ;) - and I am so extremely proud of my Irish heritage (probably too much so ;). It always reminds me of my amazing Papa (grandfather), who passed away just a little over a year ago. I wish he was still here so I could wish him the best O' Irish Luck in this new year. Do they wear green in heaven?

Don't forget to bring out your Irish music and those dancing shoes - Éirinn go Brách!!!

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Q: What is a beatiful, flattering, timeless, readily available, and FREE accessory?

A: A smile!

"A smile is an inexpensive way to change your looks." ~Charles Gordy

"You're never fully dressed without a smile." ~Martin Charnin

"Of all the things you wear, your expression is the most important." ~Janet Lane

"I've never seen a smiling face that was not beautiful." ~Unknown

Many trends will come and go, and someday I may look at something that I now think is lovely...and wonder what I was thinking. But smiles have been around since the beginning...and I'm pretty sure they are never going to go out of style...though, as scarce as they seem to be in pictures, on billboards, or passing someone on the sidewalk these days - one can only wonder.

It's interesting even to look at a picture of several movie stars or models together. If only one of them is smiling, your eyes are automatically more drawn to that person's face, and they really do appear more lovely. That's one reason I don't really understand why girls these days are all into the "depressed" or "moody" looking pictures of themselves...or the "pouty lip" ones.

What ever happened to an old-fashioned smile? The genuine kind that lights up a room. Who wants to strike up a conversation with someone who looks like they are about rip someone's head off...or dissolve into a muddled puddle of emotions? I know when someone smiles at me, it makes me feel special - like they genuinely care about me, and I quickly feel more comfortable around them.

So, as you ponder what to wear on Sunday...or the trip to the mall, just don't forget to don a smile!

Below are a few more interesting facts about smiles:

• Studies show that a happy person can live up to 9 years longer than a depressed person.
• 72% of people think of those who smile frequently as being more confident and successful.
• 86% of people say that they are more likely to strike up conversations with strangers if they are smiling.
• Bosses are 12% more likely to promote people who smile a lot.
• The effects of a smile are so powerful that even a smile on the telephone produces positive results.
• When someone comes into a room, people are automatically drawn to their face, and a smile provides a warm greeting.
• Studies show that happiness is a by-product of smiling, not the other way around as most people assume.
• A smiling person is judged to be more pleasant, attractive, sincere, sociable, and competent than a non-smiling person.
• Smiling is the only human facial expression that can be recognized at a distance of 300 feet.
• A smile is the most frequently used facial expression; it takes as few as five pairs of facial muscles and as many as all 53 to smile.
• Regardless of the precise number of muscles used, smiling causes far fewer muscles to contract and expand than frowning.
• Smiling releases endorphins and makes us feel better.
• A newborn shows a preference for a smiling face over a non-smiling face.
• There are 18 different kinds of smiles used in a variety of social situations.

Try it out and see for yourself! You may just discover that almost every person you smile at will smile back. The hardest part is usually being the first person to smile, but it's well worth the effort for this timeless fashion accessory!

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Maid Marian's Wardrobe - Season Two - Part II

Costumes are listed in order of appearance, although some images may be from later episodes of the show. May contain slight spoilers. Click HERE for Part I.
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Red "Casino" Gown
Marian tries to her best to avoid the sheriff, and his new friend...




Although this is one of my least favorite ensembles in the series, it has some very interesting details, some of which are hard to find, due to a lack of really good shots. The main fabric for the bodice is some lightweight, stretchy red stuff, with a swirly pattern through it. The sleeves are not lined, and so are slightly transparent. They come down fitted till the wrists, where there is a small, slightly ruffled piece of red lace. The main red fabric is used again to make a draping collar around the neckline, a long piece that is folded lengthwise for volume. The center front and back of the collar are sort of "ruched" together with a smaller strip of fabric.

The main bodice of the dress uses the same red fabric, but appears to be lined. It's interesting how each piece of the bodice appears a different shade, depending on how many layers there are. There is also a (nearly invisible) seam that runs round the bodice just over the bust line, making me wonder if the "corset" part of the top is indeed a separate piece. Regardless, it comes to a slight point in the front and a more drastic one in the back, where it laces up with red ribbon through 20+ eyelets. The lacing on the front of the bodice is purely decorative, made by applying two seamed pieces of the red lace (as used on the sleeves) down the front, attaching 10 gold rings to the piece and lacing through with red cording. The bodice appears to be boned.

It is hard to see much of the skirt (there will be better shots of the fabric, used on another costume, later in the season), but it is a basic "straight" shape and has a velvety drape. The low "V" shape in the skirt is made using the same red lace as a fabric piece and gold eyelets (threaded with more red ribbon), run round the seams for decoration.

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Riding Jacket and Skirt
Marian must support Robin in his daring plans, while trying to avoid unwanted attention...

 

  

 

Here's another on of my favorite costumes - I think this would work so well for everyday! The jacket appears to be made out of red suede, with a sweetheart neckline. It is seamed at the waist (which is usually covered by her belt), comes to two small points at the front and is straight across the back, with two pleats that add some "flare". Both the front and back of the jacket have princess seams, which have large decorative "X"s sewn over them, giving the appearance of lacing. The pointed collar stands up and appears to be of the same or similar fabric as the jacket. It is accented with large sequins. The front of the jacket closes with three metal "horseshoe" clasps.

The sleeves are fitted and come to just above the wrists, finishing with two large, pointed cuffs (same fabric as collar) and are closed with identical clasps. The sleeves also have a seam on the outside of the arm, which has more decorative lacing applied over it.

The skirt is really a sort of loose pants, running down the ankle and very full at the hem. The fabric is a light, brown suede and two extra panels run down the front, accented with small, tiny leather buttons, all the way to the bottom. There are roomy pockets at the side seams.

Marian wears a thin red, leather belt with buckles and an elaborate clasp. Her red, leather gloves come to just above the wrist (where they split) and have tiny decorative cut-outs. Her hat (which I love!) is a small, round cap with a large "feather" attached. Her boots are brown and have a brass ring on the outside.

  

 

 

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Black "Gambling" Dress
Marian and the Count are aiding Robin Hood in a very dangerous game...

 

This ensemble is extremely similar to the Red "Casino" dress in design, although the fabrics and details are different. The front of the bodice is interesting. It seems to be made of leather(?) but there are some unusual narrow pieces or cutaways showing the the velvet over the bust and center. There appears to be a waistline seam. The collar is in the same style as the red one, made from a heavy velvet, and down the front are more brass rings and lacing. The front of the bodice ends in the same shape as the red one so, although we can't see the back, I think we can assume that it is also the same. The sleeves are made from a stretchy black fabric that is sort of ruched - it appears like a netting. The sleeves come down over the knuckles and have a heavy ruffled piece at the bottom (more lace?).

The skirt is fitted up top but appears to flare below the knee (sort of a "mermaid" style). It's hard to tell from the few pictures, but I'm going to bet that it has brass rings running up each side seam which are laced through with more black cording.

 

 

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We'll be having a great new post from Tai coming up over the weekend - be sure to check in again soon! :)

Screencaps from Robin Hood 2006

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