2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics - Figure Skating Fashion Recap (Part 2)

Last night was a decidedly thrilling finish to the figure skating competitions in Vancouver, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. Kim Yu-Na of Korea, who has proven time and again that she is the one of best female figure skaters in history, finally capped it off with an Olympic gold medal. And she did it in commanding fashion, smashing her previous world records and besting her closest competitor by over 20 points. It was a night to remember.

 

From the moment she stepped onto the ice, Yu-Na was perfect. She put to rest any doubts as far as her consistency in the free skate, conquered her nemesis the triple flip and, while racking up the points with huge jumps, managed to remain an artist and interpret her music beautifully (something that top competitors often struggle with). She was the perfect package, and is literally unbeatable.

She also scored big in my book by wearing two of the best skating dresses in the competition. Her free skate gown was a striking sapphire blue, embellished with hundreds of shimmering beads and rhinestones. I particularly liked the lovely "collar" that finishes off the halter neckline. Truly the perfect dress, and one that would make a lovely full-length evening gown.

 

Kim Yu-Na's short program (which took place on Tuesday) was also a force to be reckoned with. She managed to break her own short program record for the third time this season, and did it in stylish fashion. Her dress was very simply structured - just a straight one-shouldered sheath with a slight slit up the sides. But the embellishments were anything but simple, creating a series of heavy, striking squares showering down the bodice, and turning the dress into a piece of art. The choker added some drama and flair to the look and made this one killer costume.

 

Mao Asada of Japan, while breaking her own records along the way and making history by becoming the first woman to land three triple axels in Olympic competition (huge), just wasn't of the same caliber as Kim Yu-Na. While her performances were quite strong, she lacked the artistic strengths of Yu-Na and failed to pull me into her performances (probably in part to the really awful music).

Although she walked away with the silver medal, she also took my award for the worst dressed of the top competitors. There were some other terrible gowns in the event, but you'd think with the star power, highly respected coach, and undoubted millions that Mao Asada posesses, that she'd invest in some good costumes. These two, while actually not as bad as some sported earlier this season, are completely unacceptable. What do you think?

 

Joannie Rochette of Canada was the most inspiring story of the week, taking to the ice for the short program on Tuesday... just two days after her mother suddenly passed away. After an extremely rough season, it was beautiful to see her quiet strength as she turned in two solid performances for the bronze medal.

Seeing her cry with relief after the short program, and then again on the podium, with her father watching her in the audience (and shedding his own share of tears)... I think it put a lump in everyone's throat. Although neither of her costumes were show-stoppers, I was thrilled with her finish. Joannie has worked hard and deserves the success.

Mirai Nagasu, the 16 year old American, was the USA's biggest hope after Rachael Flatt skated brilliantly and was, in my opinion, very much underscored (she wound up seventh). Mirai managed to skate a fabulous, clean program with flair and personality - and finished fourth. Yes, it was the first time since 1964 that a US lady was unable to make the podium, but considering the struggle that the US women have faced over the past 3 years, it was a triumph.

I already posted on Mirai's lovely short program dress during the US Championships recap, but this competition was the first time I ever appreciated her costume for the free skate. Performing to "Carmen," it was a delightful and age-appropriate choice. I think we will be seeing more great things from this girl in the future. :)

 

To finish off, I'll just give a nod to two other nice costumes. Akiko Suzuki of Japan had a delightful short program dress, in black with red accents and a striking choker design. Kiira Korpi of Finland wore a rather unusual costume, but one that I find interesting and liked, none the the less. With the sparkly blue top (which closes up the front with a stylish zipper), red undersleeves and black skirt, this dress looks very retro mod.

So... who were your favorite skaters last night? Were you pleased with the placements? And who were the best and worst dressed in your opinion? I, for one, was really bummed that NBC showed so little coverage of the skating. This is the Olympics, people! You're supposed to show everyone, not just the final group! Grr... it was a disappointment. :(

I hope you all have a great weekend! I will try my best to get out posts on the usual Tuesday and Friday, but my mum is going to on a cruise for the week, so we'll be having a crazy time in her absence (and may delay my replies to email/comments. If you want to pray that we are able to manage things and keep our sanity, I certainly wouldn't mind. ;)

God bless...


Images: Zimbio.com

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2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics - Figure Skating Fashion Recap (Part 1)

Well, it has been an absolutely thrilling winter Olympics thus far, exceeding my expectations and making for lots of dramatic and exciting moments. Every event has it's story, and none have disappointed. It has been especially exhilarating for the United States, as we are well on our way to smashing our winter Olympics medal record (please excuse the snobbish chuckle ;).

But down to the fashion of the event, in which figure skating rules as supreme fashionista. No other sport is as artistic and theatrical... or well dressed. Of course, there is a fair share of ugly and immodest skating apparel, but there are also beautifully designed and crafted pieces from which we can draw inspiration, ideas and more.

The pairs competition was an exciting one, with Xue Shen and Hongbo Zhao finally capping off their fourth Olympics with the gold medal. It was also a historic moment for the real-life couple, being the first time the Chinese have won the title and breaking the clutch that the Russians/Soviet Union has had on gold for over fifty years.

And Shen and Zhao deserved it. They were beautiful, expressive and full of power. I am so happy for them.

Unfortunately, the fashion in the pairs department was pretty blah. I feel like this discipline lacks creativity fashion-wise; most outfits were tacky and way too matchy-matchy. Especially the men. I automatically awarded a gold medal to any gent who was smart enough not to wear a unitard. Those are so ugly. :P

If the pairs event didn't turn you into a bundle of nerves, along came the men's competition, which was a real nail-biter for me. I can't tell you how thrilled I was with Evan Lysacek's gold-medal-winning performance - it just made my day. He worked so hard, has proven that he is the best on every level, and turned in the skate of his life. I know that there is still controversy surrounding his win (due to the quad-armed silver medalist Evgeni Plushenko) but, from someone who is pretty familiar with skating and has been listening carefully to the experts ;) , I believe his win was totally, one-hundred percent deserved.

Of course, the men's event is another fashion flop-fest, so kudos to Evan on his costume choices. His earlier free skate outfits were really ugly, so I'm glad that the worst he wore was a couple of huge snakes wrapped around his neck. I actually really liked his short program outfit, but my sisters assure me that it was terrible. Your thoughts? ;)

Plushenko, on the other hand, was not dressed so nicely. Stephane Lambiel looked like the hero of a ballet (and I don't mean that positively - lol). Johnny Weir (who skated brilliantly, BTW) was clearly the most "out-there" in the building. It was quite a night.

 

And that brings us to Ice Dancing, which is by far my favorite discipline in the sport. It also makes for some interesting fashion moments... including pretty much the best and the worst. The Canadians, Virtue and Moir (who are my favorite non-US team) had pretty much the only great outfits in the Compulsory Dance event. I though that Tessa's burgundy dress was a show-stopper, with the striking black embroidery, tulle and ruffles. It was one killer Tango Romantica and Virtue and Moir placed second after the compulsory.

I was disappointed that Meryl Davis didn't wear the dress she sported earlier in the season for the Tango Romantica. Her new dress suited her well, but just wasn't as pretty. Tanith Belbin's outfit looked like a spin-off of her new (ugly) free dance outfit. And Oksana Domnina was decked out in what looked like a red tuxedo jacket... worn backwards. :P

 

Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto sported new outfits in the Original Dance segment, which were supposedly more authentic for their Moldavian dance. I loved the use of trim, accents and details, but I felt that maybe it was all just a tad overpowering. The heavy coins decorating Tanith's bodice, while stunning, looked rather heavy, and I thought the full sleeves on her dress made her arm movements less precise. But a great look overall. Of course, Tanith looks adorable in anything. :)

Meryl Davis and Charlie White sported their fabulous Bollywood costumes (which I already discussed  during the recent US Championships) and were the best they've been all season. Virtue and Moir's flamenco dance was on fire (they soared to first). Domnina and Shabalin dropped from first to third with their controversial Aboriginal dance. The costumes were toned down from their previous competition, but I still found the whole thing a little wacky.

 

Two couples whom I loved in the free dance were Emily Samuelson & Evan Bates of the USA and Nathalie Péchalat & Fabian Bourzat of France. The young Americans finished a strong eleventh in their first Olympics and blew me away with their beautiful free dance. They definitely have a bright future ahead of them. I was also pleased that Emily changed her free dance dress for this competition. She tends to wear purple and lots of "transparent" lace (of course it never really is transparent), which just didn't suit her best or look modest. But this dress, in a combination of maroon and gold, was perfect. The bodice detail was pretty and I love the breezy, handkerchief hemline. Really looking forward to what this team will do at the World Championships.

The French team had one of my favorite programs, representing "time" and I really liked Nathalie's dress. Originally it had a yellow skirt, but I find the combo of the light blue bodice with the periwinkle skirt is equally stunning. Of course, it's lower cut than the best dresses, but the embroidery and details are fantastic.

The top two teams put in amazing "through-the-roof" performances. Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada carried away the gold and Meryl Davis and Charlie White of the US soared high to silver. It was a special night for the friends and training-mates... and I am so happy for them both. 

Meryl and Charlie were dressed in their great "Phantom" costumes (which I wrote about during the US Championships) and Tessa and Scott looked beautiful in white. Tessa has actually worn four other dresses this season and, while the first one was my favorite, she looked gorgeous and angelic, as always. With the exception of Domnina and Shabalin (whose costumes were just plain weird :P), it was a beautifully dressed podium. ;)

I'm looking forward to the rest of the competitions and I'll have coverage of the ladies fashion up for you on Friday. God bless!


Images: Zimbio.com

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Looking At Fashion From The Inside Out

{By A. Layne}

Hello Everyone! I am so excited to begin a new blogging adventure here on AmandaBeth. I am a small business owner and I blog about that over on my own site. It is not fashion-related, so this is definitely a new experience for me. I am in no way claiming to be an expert on this subject. In fact I would say I have much to learn. However, I have learned a few things in my endeavors to cultivate a Christ-honoring perspective on fashion, in a world that does not hold modesty and femininity as a thing of value. I have five sisters that share in this endeavor with me. They are my God-sent companions in this area of my life and I have learned much with them and from them. I would like to address some of the difficulties that many of us face when we head to the mall on a mission to find ANYTHING fashionable yet modest.

Being women who value modesty and have set boundaries on what we are willing to wear, we have very limited resources. I’m sure that this is not news to you! Learning to develop the proper outlook on this challenge can immensely affect how we choose to deal with it, and what the outcome will be.

Over the years I have come to think of what may seem like a pebble in your shoe, as a tremendous opportunity to express creativity. We have an amazing opportunity to take what we have to work with, which isn’t much, and turn it into something that can be unique and distinctive.

Being creative often means being open minded. We must be willing to try new things. Trying things that you think would never work is a great way to discover new looks and styles. Just remember that it is so important that we think of this as an opportunity not an obstacle.

In light of the fact that we have very limited resources, it can be very difficult to create that distinct style. This not only requires a creative mindset but some pretty resourceful actions. I read a quote recently that said “ impression without expression leads to depression.” I think this is a really accurate description of what a lot of us are facing when it comes to expressing ourselves through fashion. It can be so hard to take everything that leaves an impression on us and make those things part of our wardrobe. Learning how to express ourselves will help relieve a lot of the frustration. This means we must first find the things that make us unique.

Many things can influence your style. You never know were it could be coming from so always be on the look-out for inspiration. If you have trouble defining your style, here is an excellent project to try: (This technique is used by designers and artists to help them pinpoint their style.) Start a scrapbook or notebook and fill it with magazine clippings, fabric swatches, buttons, pictures - anything that can be applied to fashion. Just be sure it’s things you are drawn to. Anything that catches your attention can go into your collection. It may be hard to spot a distinct style at first, but over time you will begin to see reoccurring patters of things that depict your personal taste. I think you will find this a very effective tool in refining your unique look. Not to mention how fun it is!

Lastly, I know we all have taken to heart that beauty is internal, but the more I struggle with external appearance I notice something about this subject. Have you ever seen one of those girls that just seem like they don't have a problem in the world with being fashionably modest and put together? They make it look effortless and easy. I really believe that this is because it’s truly part of who they are. They are letting what is on the inside flow into how they express fashion.

When we are reborn into the life of Christ we become who He wants us to be. I think we should be very in tune with this as we dress everyday. This is where the real joy of fashion comes from! Let’s let Him give us our desires when it comes to fashion.

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A. Layne is eighteen and living at home with her family. She has a small crafting business that keeps her occupied when she's not involved in other hobbies. She is very interested in design and plans to pursue interior design after high school graduation. A. Layne enjoys writing and fashion and hope to utilize these interests for the glory of God and the service of others.

Images: Saltwater.net / Cabionline.com / Fashion-Era.com

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"How About You?" - Judy and Mickey Style

Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney. For me, those names bring magic. Never have I seen two young Hollywood stars so perfectly matched on screen. They've gone down in history as one of the most endearing film couples of all time. When you settle down to watch a Judy and Mickey movie, you can be sure that you will get some warm fuzzies... and probably a great laugh.

Mickey and Judy had a very special relationship. In a television interview he said, "She was my sister from the beginning. The sister I never had. I am an only child... but she was the love I had searched for." And it's obvious from every one of the ten films they made together, as well as Mickey's appearance on the Judy Garland Show in 1960s, that they truly did love each other. There's always a special smile between the two of them... and the type of laughter only shared by best friends. 

Here's a publicity still and video clip from the 1941 film Babes on Broadway, another one of their "two young kids trying to get into show business" films. Mickey is wearing a casual suit and Judy is decked out in cute and comfortable everyday wear - a dark, full skirt and low heeled shoes (perfect for spontaneous dancing) and a truly adorable top, gathered  down the front and accented with a flower applique.

Here's their wonderful song and dance to "How About You?" If you don't smile while watching this clip... I give up. ;)

Mickey and Judy have made appearances on AmandaBeth Online three times before, showcasing their 2008 holiday style, celebrating Valentine's Day last year, and seeing who would get the larger half of the wishbone at Thanksgiving. They really are perfect for any occasion. :)

Have a lovely week! I'll be having a post from a new contributor up within a few days, and also keep an eye out for some Olympic Figureskating Fashion recaps!

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Happy Valentine's Day!!!

I hope it's a lovely one! I'm planning on a low key, relaxing day (lots of colds going around the family right now) and watching some Olympic figure skating tonight. :)

If you're feeling rather down or lonely on Valentine's, you can read some of my serious thoughts about today and all that it entails by visiting my serious, non-fashiony writing space. Please take a look. :)

Hugs to everyone,
Amanda xoxo

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Dressing For Valentine's Day... (without all the usual red and pink)

Still puzzling over what to wear on Valentine's Day? You are not alone! While I absolutely love the color red and usually take any excuse to wear it, I thought it would be interesting to dig through less "holiday-ish" styles and see if we could get some fashion-y ideas by browsing some real classic looks.

First of all, you can wear any color that you want on Valentine's Day (although I'd advise against all-black, unless you are in mourning ;). Soft, muted "wintry" shades are totally appropriate - and pale grey makes a great base for any color.

If you're lucky enough to have found one - slip on that perfect dress; add a soft, flowing cardigan and some killer shoes for a great look. If you don't have a dress, two complimentary separates work just as well (see the pencil skirt in the topmost image).

Pretty much anything with a vintage touch is perfect for this holiday  (the dress shown here is so early 1930s - I love it!) and ruffles, bows and other feminine details reign supreme. Now is the time pull out any unique and lovely shoes that have been hiding away in your closet. I think these black ones, with cutouts and a ribbon tie, are so chic.

Soft and flowing looks are fabulous on this romantic holiday - and the two blouses shown above are stunners. The vintage print of the first one is charming and the neckline tie adds some feminine flare. You can get a similar look by pairing a silk scarf in a yummy color with a printed top - or the reverse. If you can find an accessory that brings out one of the colors in a printed piece, it is almost guaranteed to look wonderful.

The second example shows how black can be feminine and pretty on this holiday... without looking dark or depressing. The light shade of the pencil skirt keeps things bright and the accent of the silk flowered belt gives it a romantic touch, while defining a waistline on a loose, full top.

Be sure to remember that structured looks can be every bit as pretty and romantic as softer ones. Go with what you know suits you best. A little, structured jacket is universally flattering and feminine. Choose one with nice details, whether they are cute pockets, a yoked neckline or an interesting sleeve style. And check out the fantastic faux "necklace" look on the black top above - detail ideas are endless!

You can also add interest by making your own ruffled flower, brooch or or bejewled accessory to pin onto your jacket or blouse (as seen on both above styles). I have watched this huge trend for fashion-y feminine "brooches" all winter long - now is the time to get creative and make your own!

Don't be afraid to experiment with your jewelry and accessory choices! Sometimes it's better to go a bit crazy and pile on a lot of items... and then weed it down to the few that work and just go with those. Often our best style pieces can get trapped inside that accessory box... because we simply don't take them out and try them.

I love the details on these pieces. The ruffled bracelet is so unique and trendy (I may try and make one of these myself) and a seemingly simple belt holds an unexpected rose design. In fact, pieces like these can easily be made on your own. I suggest that you check out fabulous blog Ruffles and Stuff for some inspiration. :)

What are you planning to wear on Valentine's Day?  Do you already have your outfit picked out or did this post give you any ideas?

Most importantly, do you even like the holiday? I've seen a lot of lashing out against this event on the web recently, mostly from singles who feel it is a sad time. I have never felt this way (I get excited about pretty much any holiday ;) but I would love to hear your thoughts. Maybe I can get my act together and post something on the subject on Sunday. We'll see...

Have a fab weekend! :)

Images: Newport-News.com - Flirt With Fashion

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Simply Crazy for Simply-Bags

There are few fashion-y things more satisfying than a great bag. It travels with you everywhere and carries all your most important things. If it makes its own fashion statement along the way, that a bonus. :)

This uber awesome Plaid Lunch Duffle Bag was sent to me by the owner of simply-bags, a fabulous company that specializes in personalized tote bags in a myriad of lovely and practical designs.

One of the neat things about my new personalized plaid duffle is that it's insulated to keep food either warm or cool, depending on its temperature. And it's cute! The "Burberry" plaid and my monogrammed initials sure make this more stylish than nearly any other food "cooler" out there. :) Not to mention that it can be used in so many different ways. The duffel is the perfect size in which to put a bunch of my important items, allowing me to carry just one bag, and free up my hands a bit. Last night, when going to vocal rehearsal, I put my whole purse inside, a water bottle, my iPod, some important papers... and there was still room for more! How much more practical and efficient can you get? :)

After browsing simply-bags.com I became even more excited about their products - which are very reasonably priced. I'm going to share a couple of favorites, but I suggest you check them all out!

 

For starters, this is one gorgeous carpet bag! I don't know about you, but bags like these aways make me think of Anne of Green Gables or Mary Poppins. ;) They are still a favorite with travelers today and make a great carry-on for a flight. Both of the these bags evoke the romance of days gone by and make me want to take a trip to some ethereal destination...

 

This lunch tote is very cool. Not only is it  lovely design and a great size, but it has a neat, zippered compartment for storing beverages, fruit, or whatever comes to mind. Pretty clever! The messenger laptop tote is also stylish and practical (and a style I personally recommend - my dad got me a laptop messenger bag last year and I've used countless times).

 

There's nothing like some great travel fashion bags! This first one is extra long but folds to half the size - with two nice carrying handles. I love the black and white print - so classic and chic. The little cosmetic bag makes a great bridesmaid gift... in fact, simply-bags has lots of customizable bridal party items. Definitely a lot of fun!

 

Dance forms have a very special place in my heart and the artist Degas' depictions of ballet are just perfect. This gorgeous tote is the perfect gift for a dancer or a fan - so lovely! And I just adore collectible items -  anything to do with "Lucy" just takes the cake! This second bag features some of the most memorable scenes (and expressions!) from the classic television show I Love Lucy. Laughter is good medicine... and this bag makes me smile. :)

Do you have a favorite bag, a special style or design that fits your needs and personality the best? Tell me about it! For myself, I am looking forward to some adventures with my new "Burberry-ish" bag... so European. ;)

Have a blessed, fashiony day!

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