Vanity Fair Presents Hollywood's Pastel Princesses

Vanity Fair Magazine

Hollywood Issue March 2012



Vanity Fair celebrates the upcoming Academy Awards by placing not one, but an amazing 11 leading ladies on their latest cover, spanning 3 pages. 'The Hollywood Issue' features the biggest rising stars in the industry, each gracefully adorned in satin, sorbet shaded designer gowns. Famed photographer Mario Testino brilliantly captured the individualistic beauty of each of these starlets, who are portrayed in a glamourous vintage style boudoir setting. 

From Left: Rooney Mara, Mia Wasikowska , Jennifer Lawrence, Jessica Chastain, Elizabeth Olsen, Adepero Oduye, Shailene Woodley, Paula Patton, Felicity Jones, Lily Collins and Brit Marling.

The starlets were one of the prettiest trends for Spring/Summer 2012 - pastel shades. Sleek, glossy gowns in soft sugary tones have made a sweet transition from catwalk to cover. I couldn't locate some of the runway gowns, as a few of them were custom made by the designers.

Rooney Mara ('The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo') wears a rosé pink halter neck keyhole cut-out gown by Ralph Lauren. Mia Wasikowska (from Jane Eyre) looks fetching in a minted green Ralph Lauren gown. Jennifer Lawrence (from the upcoming 'Hunger Games') stuns in a lustrous silver dress made by Donna Karan. Jessica Chastain (from 'The Help') is dressed in a strapless powder blue frock by Giorgio Armani.

Elizabeth Olsen (from the critically acclaimed movie 'Martha Marcy May Marlene') is elegant in an ice blue Salvatore Ferragamo gown. Nigerian born Adepero Oduye (from 'Pariah') shines in a silver one-shouldered Carolina Herrera gown. Shailene Woodley (from 'The Descendants') is ultra-glam in a petal pink Ralph Lauren gown.

 Paula Patton (Mission Impossible 4) wears a silky white L'Wrenn Scott dress with feather boa. Felicity Jones (from 'Like Crazy') is alluring in a glossy grey Burberry gown. Lily Collins (from the forthcoming Snow White movie, 'Mirror Mirror' channels a young Liz Taylor, wearing a peach Calvin Klein dress with fur shrug. And lastly, newbie Brit Marling ('Another Earth') wears a beautiful baby blue halter-wrap neck gown by Tommy Hilfiger.

With so many stunning, talented actresses in the same shot, it's hard to pick a stand out star. I like the stylings of Elizabeth Olsen, Felicity Jones & Lily Collins. Who do you think looks most glamourous on the cover of Vanity Fair?

Taylor Swift Rocks in Rodarte for Vogue

Cover Girl Taylor Swift

Vogue US February 2012



There isn't a persona Taylor Swift can't play. She has portrayed many different types of characters in her music videos and for magazine shoots, proving that she is adaptable to any style. The 22-year old shows off her versatility once again in the February 2012 issue of Vogue magazine. Taylor is transformed into a 70's style Rock Star for the shoot, photographed by the legendary Mario Testino. Interestingly, Taylor wears focal pieces from US design label Rodarte throughout the editorial. It's almost as though this was intended as a campaign to promote the brand, with Taylor Swift as their ambassador.

On the cover, Taylor wears a purple and yellow hand-knit basket stitch Rodarte sweater with a camel coloured floppy felt hat. To the right, she wears a marigold and blue flower print paneled top, from Rodarte's Spring 2012 range.

A psychedelic background frames Taylor, who is dressed in a cream leather and wool trimmed jacket and hand-knit top from Rodarte's Fall 2009 collection, teamed with Rag & Bone tights and rose embroidered cowboy boots by Miu Miu.

Continuing with the seventies boho vibe, Taylor is decked out in a floaty navy and lime brushstroke print Rodarte dress, worn over Levi's jeans and Miu Miu boots. She dons a floppy Patricia Underwood hat, with Rayban's and a fringed Andrew Marc bag. I prefer her belted look compared to the one on the runway.

Even in black and white, this bronze beaded lamé leather 2009 Rodarte dress shimmers on Taylor. Her black thigh-high boots are by Michael Kors.

Taylor is hippie chic in an off-white embroidered prairie coat, paired with a marbled wool mini, both by Rodarte, once again. The look is styled with floral cowboy boots by Miu Miu and a tasseled Carlos Falchi bag. Don't you love her straight locks and new blunt fringe?

If this dress looks familiar, it's the same one Elle Fanning wore to the Critic's Choice Awards two weeks ago. This mint green Rodarte silk chiffon dress is imprinted with yellow sunflowers and has a sheer peasant style neckline. Taylor wears white cut-out boots by Jil Sander.

Do you think the focus of this photo shoot was to put Rodarte back on the fashion map, using the star power of Taylor Swift? Well, we can expect to see much more from the brand after this exclusive feature in Vogue.

Gisele Colours The Pages Of Vogue

Spreading the holiday cheer and sprinkling some colourful confetti over the land of Vogue is the world's number one supermodel, Gisele Bundchen. The 31 year old Brazilian beauty stars in a kaleidoscopic fashion editorial for the December issue of British Vogue. 



Gisele is styled in a colourful array of outfits and wears an extensive mix of designers for the shoot, which is photographed by Mario Testino. Leather and lycra team up for the sporty, street savvy theme. Her look is all about fearlessly combining brights with bold accessories. Is this the start of a 'carrying-around-two-cluches-at-a-time' trend?  

Left: On the cover, Gisele wears a satin georgette Gucci blouse with psychedelic metallic lycra leather leggings by Pam Hoggs. Her disco diva look is complete with a Diane von Furstenberg belt and gorgeous gold cap-toed pumps by Christian Louboutin. Gold cuffs by Stella McCartney and Louis Vuitton.

Right: Tennis goes glam in a shiny gold dress by Stella McCartney for Adidas, with black leggings by Hervé Leger for Max Azria. A silk wool Marni jacket tones the look down. She carries a chain-strapped leather bag by Prada and smaller studded purse by McQ. Cuffs by Vionnet (gold), Alex Bittar (red) and Hermés (orange). 

Left: A stylish and sporty Gisele wears a turf green Mugler sweater, pink Diane von Furstenberg mini and black and white McQ leggings. The white leather pocket belt is by Michael Kors. Scarlet clutch and yellow pumps both by Jimmy Choo. On her arms, a yellow Hermés cuff and wooden lacquered Jimmy Choo bangles.

Right: Hot in pink, Gisele wears a scuba-inspired neoprene zip-up top by Michael Kors, a bright blue Jimmy Choo clutch bag and perspex bangles by Celine, Vionnet & Cornelia Webb.

Left: Athletic wear a la mode. Gisele is florescent in a mandarin orange Nike top with a green and blue Jonathan Saunders/Escada Sport skirt. The neon yellow leggings are by Cyberdog. Her look is accessorized by a black Hugo buckle belt and clutch bags by McQ and Michael Kors. Yellow cuffs by Hermés & Alex Bittar, gold studded bangle by Tom Binns.

Right: Gisele dons a navy blue skater girl dress by McQ, paired with crimson cycling shorts by Diane von Furstenburg. Her white belt is also by DVF, the black belt by Sonia Rykiel. She carries two clutches - a lime leather one by Michael Kors, red clutch by Jimmy Choo. Bangles by Hermés (yellow), Alex Bittar (pink) and Stella McCartney (gold).

Left: Gisele tries on a motorcycling cheerleader look in a fitted dark blue Zara top and silk-crépe pleated Gucci skirt. Cotton and leather patch leggings by Ground Zero. Belt and white studded purse by McQ. Mustard clutch bag by Burberry, with shoes by Christian Louboutin.

Middle: White cropped cotton jacket by Mugler, worn over a navy zip-up swimsuit. Sunny yellow DVF mini worn over Hervé Léger/Max Azria tights. Lime green leather bag by Emilio Pucci and pink purse by McQ.

Right: Baseball just got stylish with a black & orange raffia top by Roksanda Illincic. Canary yellow silk-crepe dress with pleated skirt by Gucci. She holds a bugglegum pink purse by McQ and black Michael Kors clutch. Her red hot heels are by Jimmy Choo.

Amidst the icy cold winter weather, a copy of this color-blocked concoction is bound to brighten things up. Do you think these vivid outfits would translate well in reality, and most importantly, would you wear any of them? 

Gwen Stefani for InStyle Magazine 2011

Cover Girl Gwen Stefani

InStyle Magazine November 2011



With her signature platinum blonde locks and cherry red lipstick, Gwen Stefani is an iconic presence on the cover of Instyle magazine's November 2011 issue. The 42-year old singer and designer is photographed in glamourous and colourful gowns for the mag, where she dishes on family, fashion and fame. She also has a new clothing line out called 'Harajuku Mini". If it is anything like her primary label, L.A.M.B, we can look forward to more trendsetting styles. 

Gwen looks relaxed on the cover in a fuchsia gown by Marchesa with full tulip skirt and exaggerated strapless sweetheart neckline. I wish we could see more of the dress on her, as it's such a striking piece. Those outstanding bangles are by Lorraine Schwartz.

Gwen wears a Grecian style white gown with gold chain detail on the neckline and gathered waist. The dress is from Yves Saint Laurent's Fall 2011 collection.

Only Gwen could make fern green velvet look this good. Her cap-sleeved silk panne velvet dress with high neck and keyhole cutout is by Ralph Lauren.

Gwen's black floral sleeved dress is by Miu Miu. I like that this photo shows the voluminous sleeves in all their glory. The runway look doesn't have the same effect.

A heavily beaded rose pink silk jacket by Giorgio Armani is paired with teal charmeuse silk knickers. I'm more interested in those spectacular Jimmy Choo heels. The purple 'Marlene' sandals are garnished with deep turquoise feathers and drizzled with crystals.

This tribal print dress in Autumny colours is from her own line, L.A.M.B.

The exquisite detailing on this ruby red dress by Francesco Scognamiglio is beautifully visible in this photo. On the runway, we usually miss out on seeing those finer details. 

Gwen sparkles like a sapphire in a fully sequined wrap dress by Diane von Furstenburg. Her ornate 1970 Estate Chrysoprase necklace is by Van Cleef & Arpels. She wears a chunky diamond cuff on her hand by MCL (by Matthew Campbell Laurenza).

Gwen wears all these looks with such panache, which is your favourite?

15 Cover Girls for Latina Magazine's 15th Anniversary Issue

Latina Magazine

15th Anniversary Issue

October 2011



Latina magazine celebrate their 15th Anniversary issue by placing 15 of the world's most beautiful and influential Latin leading ladies on the cover. The special October 2011 issue features gorgeous actresses, singers and presenters of all ages, from different Latin American backgrounds. 



The fifteen Spanish speaking beauties strike a dynamic pose on the magazines' three-page cover, all wearing ravishing red evening gowns. It took 9 months to rally these starlets together and 7 photo shoots to achieve the perfect cover picture, with this final result:

 From Left: Columbian songstress Shakira, Disney singing-star Selena Gomez, Mexican actress Salma Hayek (wearing a Gucci gown), Dominican actress from Avatar, Zoe Saldana and Desperate Housewives' Eva Longoria. 

 From Left: Cuban music star of the 80's, Gloria Estefan, Dominican actress Michelle Rodriguez, stylish star Jessica Alba (in Valentino), Cuban TV host Daisy Fuentes and Ugly Betty's America Fererra (looking pretty in an Herve Leger dress).

From Left: Puerto Rican actress Rosario Dawson, Mexican actress Ana de la Reguera (wearing Oscar de la Renta), news anchor Natalie Morales, TV presenter La La Vasquez (in a Mario Schwab dress) and Puerto Rican actress of the 90's, Rosie Perez.

With a 100 different designer dresses, and more than $10 million worth of jewellery, I wonder if there were any cat fights on set. Who has the best dress? You decide...

Miley Cyrus' Makeover for Prestige Magazine

Cover Girl Miley Cyrus

Prestige Magazine September 2011



I was awestruck when I saw Miley Cyrus completely transformed on the cover of

Prestige Asia. The 18-year-old starlet has been primped and polished for her appearance in the magazine's September 2011 issue. For the shoot, she shakes off her tween image for a more sophisticated look. I can honestly say I've never seen Miley look this good, ever. I had become used to her unkempt hairstyle, tomboy-vs-risque outfits and minimal makeup. 



This is a welcomed change for the actress, she looks sensational in this photo shoot (I can't believe I just said that, but it really is true). Miley wears a mix of gorgeous designer gowns and a few sassy outfits that are more close to home. She may not be able to keep the clothes, but I do hope she keeps the sleek, straight hairstyle.

 On the cover, Miley poses in a scarlet silk chiffon gown by Gucci, which has a ruffled petal halter top, with tie-up bow and sheer black skirt.

 Miley is veiled in an aqua blue and black star print gown by Dolce & Gabbana. The floaty chiffon dress has long-sleeves and a tie-up neck bow. She wears black and gold statement star shaped earrings.

To the left, Miley rocks an embellished corset by The Blonds. Right: She wears a black satin and lace bodycon dress by Dolce & Gabbana, with peep toe heels by Christian Louboutin. The fitted silhouette is contrasted by an umbrella sized hat. 

 Purple, peach and pink are stirred into a pretty watercolour gown by Escada.

 Miley strikes a fierce pose in this intrepid ensemble. She wears a mammoth feathered coat by Yves Saint Laurent, over a black satin and lace lingerie set by Dolce & Gabbana. She seems more confident with this look.

 This is my favourite outfit, a cherry red Temperley London dress, with a ruffle-draped shoulder. She looks quite innocent in this pic, especially with the rose tiara.

 Miley relaxes in a forest green printed maxi dress by Emilio Pucci. Very demure.

The Disney star wears two outfits by Lloyd Klein. On the left she sparkles in a multicolored sequin gown with fishtail skirt. Right: Miley is dressed in a long leopard print coat with bright purple lining. Her high black boots are by Gio Diev. How cute are the puppies?

What do you think of Miley's new and sophisticated (albeit temporary) look?

Lea Michele for Harper's Bazaar

Cover Girl Lea Michele

Harper's Bazaar September 2011



The musical comedy series Glee has transformed Lea Michele from a little known Broadway actress into a TV superstar. She graces the September 2011 cover of Harper's Bazaar, with a stunning fashion pictorial inside. Lea is styled in fabulous designer gowns for the floral fantasy photo shoot, which is a far cry from the cute preppy style of her on-screen character, Rachel Berry.

 On the cover, Lea shows off the daring back of a white Yves Saint Laurent halter-neck gown with gold chain detail.

 Lea dreamily gazes off in a blush toned Valentino dress, adorned with floral appliqués.

 Her dramatic red gown with massive tulle skirt is by Giambattisa Valli.

Lea stands amidst a rose garden wearing a beautiful black and white floral print gown by Moschino Cheap & Chic. Love the addition of the large black fabric rose.

 The colourful floral backdrop does not distract from her gorgeous turquoise silk chiffon Gucci gown. It has a cross-over bodice, sheer skirt, tie-up halter neck and extravagant floral shrug. Her heels are by Fendi.

Everything's rosy: Lea wears a rose print dress, with black leather gloves and ankle-strap heels, all by Lanvin. Her winsome fascinator is by Louis Green Millinery.

Rachel Bilson for InStyle Magazine

Cover Girl Rachel Bilson

InStyle Magazine 2011



InStyle Magazine chose vivacious star Rachel Bilson to cover their special 'Makeover' issue this month. The brunette actress is noted for her off-screen style and will soon be seen on the new TV series, Hart of Dixie.

 On the cover, Rachel wears a kaleidoscopic top and skirt by Proenza Schouler. Her graphic halter-neck dress was also worn by Liv Tyler earlier this year at the CFDA Awards.

 Rachel takes on Audrey Hepburn's elegant style in this splendid Moschino dress. The two-tone black crepe dress is adorned with an oversized white ruffled collar and waist flounce. Her high chic bun and pearl earrings combine to recreate Audrey's classic look.

 Rachel bears an uncanny resemblance to a young Cindy Crawford in this photo. She wears a caramel coloured Hervé Léger bandage dress. Isn't her hair so 80's?

Rachel is casually sophisticated in one of her favourite brands, Chanel. She wears a deep red tweed jacket with wrinkle-effect black pants. Her suede black flats with tortoise shell buckle is by Roger Vivier. 

Camilla Belle for Tatler Russia

Cover Girl Camilla Belle

Tatler Russia August 2011



Camilla Belle's claim to fame has more to do with her exotic good looks than her acting talents. I barely made it through her last movie, From Prada to Nada. But nonetheless, I admire her savvy style on and off the red carpet. 



The Brazilian-American beauty stars in a photo shoot for the August 2011 issue of Russia's Tatler magazine. Camilla adorns the casual home & garden setting in exquisite designer wear. 

Left: On the cover, Camilla lounges poolside in a navy blue off-the-shoulder buttoned top and multi-layered skirt. Her hair is elegantly set to the side in gentle waves.

Right: Playing a game of table tennis, she wears a black leather and lace jumpsuit by Chanel.

Left: Relaxing on the bed, Camilla dons a sheer black Fendi blouse sprayed with Swarovski crystals, with white Salvatore Ferragamo trousers. A gold clutch bag, diamond leaf earrings and glittered heels accessorize her look.

Right: Camilla models a white feathered Versace dress, with an Elie Tahari blouse.

Left: Camilla wears a black sequined tuxedo jacket by Dolce & Gabbana, with a white Moschino shirt and satin bow tie. Her drop diamond earrings are by Judith Ripka.

Right: Taking on the masculine trend, Camilla is sleek in a white suit by Yves Saint Laurent with black Sergio Rossi heels.

Left: One of my favourite looks, Camilla sparkles in a gold sequined jumpsuit with bow belt by Zuhair Murad. Her outfit is paired with a white Salvatore Ferragamo suit jacket, black and gold clutch and gorgeous jewels by Chopard.

Right: A simple lunch date is glamorized by a gold chainmail top with embellished sleeves, by Tom Ford. Her makeup for the shoot is kept simple, with a focus on berry red lips.

Cover Girls - August 2011

From Catwalk to Cover

Fashion Magazines August 2011



There have been so many interesting magazine covers for August 2011, I couldn't help but share my Top Ten. It makes me wonder, if all these magazines were on the same newsstand...which one would I pick up first?

Kate Moss for Vogue UK. The newly-wed model gazes off in a coral wool dress by Miu Miu, which is covered in an embroidered floral design. The hazy cover shot has a retro feel to it, as does Kate's hair. Marni resin-drop earrings, a brass Diane von Furstenberg cuff and bold red lips add weight to Kates look. 

Katie Holmes for Vogue Spain. Katie takes on a fierce but feminine military persona for the cover of Vogue España. Her black long-sleeved lace dress with polo neck is by Lanvin. Black nail varnish, smokey eyes and a leather army cap complete her valiant look.

Mia Wasikowska for Harper's Bazaar, Australia. The actress wears Louis Vuitton for the vintage-styled cover. She poses in a sheer black and white dress with high collar, puff sleeves and a black buttoned corset. Pulled back hair and barely-there make up play off against the complexity of the outfit. She looks so beautiful compared to the 'tortured' runway look.

Olivia Palermo for Shop Til You Drop magazine. This has got to be the most eye catching cover for August 2011. How adorable is Olivia's Sass & Bide dress? It features dozens of layered leather cutouts in warm autumn colours. She wears the dress back-to-front for the cover and minus the belt.

Megan Fox for Elle China. The sultry star wears an all black crepe-wool ensmeble by Emporio Armani. The jumpsuit fits much better on Megan than he runway model. I think the outfit would have had more of an impact against a clean white background, rather than this grassy one. Windswept hair and red-hot lips complete a very polished look.

Miranda Kerr for Cosmopolitan, Australia. The model wears a sexy purple plum bandage dress with v-neck and zip-front, by Herve Leger. The bright turquoise background and Miranda's radiant smile makes this a fun and energetic cover. She looks amazing seven months after she had her baby.

Sarah Jessica Parker for Vogue. The 'Age Issue' sees a smiling SJP on the cover. Her white embossed coat with black accents and leather belt is by Burberry Prorsum. Her hair is pulled back with a hairpiece to the side. I'm finding this cover to be the most insipid. I prefer the runway styling.

Lily Allen for Elle UK. The British singer wears a dress from my favourite Winter collection of 2011, by Dolce & Gabbana. Her star-printed charmeuse dress is contrasted by panels of black lace. Her hair is worn in retro waves and make-up kept minimal. SA's Candice Swanepoel (right) wore the dress on the runway with  a zebra print bag, black socks and white shoes.

Mila Kunis for Flare, Canada. The Russian-American actress wears a salmon coloured dress by Lanvin with volumized neckline and fitted skirt. Her hair is worn completely to the side. The dress on the runway seems over-accessorised compared to Mila's look. Also, the beauty of the neckline is shown off better on the magazine.

Selena Gomez for Elle Mexico. She wears a midnight blue stretch knit tunic and pants by Altuzarra. The bronze belt with plaited detail and tassels is by Gucci. Her wavy locks are covered by a cute Scala Pronto floppy hat. The cover is simple and sophisticated, it's also is more mature look for Selena, which I like.

Which is your favourite cover for August 2011?