RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Chanel Couture Spring 2017

January 25, 2017, 2:22 pm

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Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

WHAT: Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017. Karl Lagerfeld said that he envisioned a "stripped down" Chanel, his designs and models resembling fashion sketches. There was no over-the-top staging; no huge golden lion; no supermarket, just Art Deco-like mirrors resembling the Chanel salons and STUNNING designs, impeccably sewn with INCREDIBLE sequin embroidery...all the hallmarks of Chanel Haute Couture. For the finale, Lily-Rose Depp wore a pink ballgown as the Bride:

Karl Lagerfeld with Lily-Rose Depp--Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

TRENDS: Fitted 80's-esque silhouettes, pouf sleeves, FEATHERS!, slim gowns.

COLORS: Pink, mint green, silver, light peach, lavender, yellow.

Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

DETAILS:

Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

Click below to watch FULL video of Chanel Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017:

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RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Maison Margiela Spring 2017

January 25, 2017, 2:45 pm

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Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2017

WHAT: Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2017. John Galliano has been Creative Director for the fashion house since 2014 and has since created a unique and original "Maison Margiela" stamp on the Couture world with his flamboyantly deconstructed designs. Unfinished beauty has always been a theme of Galliano's--from his own designs to his time at the House of Dior and at Maison Margiela, it really is coming to wondrous fruition.

John Galliano--Creative Director at Maison Margiela

THE LOOK: Raw edges throughout, purposely unfinished clothes..."Artisinal Couture". Bolivian-looking hats, unfinished words embroidered into the clothes; adding "filters" to the clothes (as in netting, laces, semi-see-through yarns) and yet, also taking them away at the same time.

Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2017

DETAILS:

Maison Margiela Spring/Summer 2017

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RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Elie Saab Couture Spring 2017

January 26, 2017, 10:39 am

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Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

WHAT: Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017.

THEMES: Middle East Divas; Sheikha Couture; Mini Turbans; Sailing Boats; Ballgowns; Jeweled Sequins Galore! No Daywear...All Red Carpet Glam. The only question is how many of these gowns will we see at the Academy Awards next month?! A LOT!!

Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

DETAILS:

Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

Click here to watch full video of Elie Saab Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017:

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RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Guo Pei Couture Spring 2017

January 27, 2017, 10:23 am

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Guo Pei Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

WHAT: Guo Pei Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017. Guo Pei--famous for thatcoat worn by Rihanna at the Met Gala 2015 honoring the "China: Through The Looking Glass" Exhibition, as well as her infamous One Thousand and Two Arabian Nights Collection showed her latest Haute Couture collection in Paris at the same location Marie Antoinette was imprisoned before being sent to the guillotine. Supermodel Carmen Dell'Orefice was the "surprise" Finale.

THEME/INSPIRATION: The St. Gallen Cathedral (above) in St. Gallen Switzerland. Religious Princesses in Couture. Lots of gold, opulent applique, embroidery, ballgowns, incredible museum-quality designs (the collection, supposedly, took two years to make). The Lady Gaga of yesteryear would be proud.

Guo Pei Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

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RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Jean Paul Gaultier Couture Spring 2017

January 27, 2017, 10:39 am

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Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

WHAT: Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017.

Jean Paul Gaultier

THEMES: 1940s-meets-1970s-meets-1980s (follow that!) inspired collection; turbans, sharp suits; flowery dresses; Disco; intricate hand-sewn applique; One-shoulder fab; Strong shoulders; Sexy Gaultier Couture.

Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017

Click below to watch FULL video of Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017:

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition EVENING GOWNS: Top 15 Best Gowns!

January 27, 2017, 8:29 pm

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Universal Gowns: Contestants for Miss Universe 2016 compete in Evening Gown--Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition

Last night was the 65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition for Miss Universe 2016, held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila Philippines. The Preliminaries are the most important pre-Finals competition since this is were the Top 12 Semi-finalists are picked for the Final Night this upcoming Sunday. All 86 contestants competed in Swimsuit as well as Evening Gown in front of judges, which included Dayanara Torres, Miss Universe 1993 and Riyo Mori, Miss Universe 2007.

Which One Was my No. 1 Gown? (L to R) Miss Universe Vietnam Le Hang, Miss Universe Ukraine Alena Spodynyuk, Miss Universe Venezuela Mariam Habach--Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition

There were lots of shimmering beautiful gowns (as well as a couple of CRAY-CRAY ones!) But if there were themes, they would have been A) More Is More, B) The 80's Are Back! and C) SEQUINS SEQUINS SEQUINS! Well, now that we got that out of the way, it's time for my Top 15 Best Evening Gowns from the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition!! And stay tuned for my Number 16-30 Runners-Up Gowns Post!

Let me begin with my No. 15...

15. Miss Universe Cayman Islands Monyque Brooks: Monique wore this canary yellow lace gown at the Preliminaries. The gown was designed by Indonesian designer Anaz Khairunnaz of Anaz Couture. He also designed a gown that Miss Universe Indonesia wore at the Governors Ball Gala. I loved the color, the unusual style and drama--good drama! I also appreciated the fabulous back draped flourish.
Score: 8.90

14. Miss Universe Belize Rebecca Rath: Rebecca wore this blush colored gown with back overskirt. The style featured zebra-print like sequin detail on the column gown and the overskirt was iridescent organza. It was chic, fit beautifully and I thought was one of the Top 15 Best of the night.
Score: 8.99

13. Miss Universe Brazil Raissa Santana: Raissa is one of the strong favorites for the crown and her performance at the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries only solidified her standing. In terms of the gown, it was this very intricately sequined sheath. The gown featured an off-the-shoulder style and very expensive-looking flower embroidery that we only see from Couturiers like Elie Saab or Zuhair Murad; it was stunning! It wasn't designed by any of those designers but by Alexandre Dutra and Kudos for the amazing sequined applique work! He also designed the $19,000-costing gown that Leila Lopes wore when she won the Miss Universe 2011 title. With that said, I wasn't a fan of how she wore her hair; it was clunky and dated. But since her hair has nothing to do with the gown, she still made my Top 15.
Score: 9.15

12. Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina: Maxine wore this emerald green gown from Filipino designer Rhett Eala. Maxine has been wearing many of his designs for her time during the 65th Miss Universe. She's his muse, one would say. This gown featured a sequined top section and "Chicago: The Musical"-worthy fringed bottom half. the gown was not as dramatic or had the "Oh No She Didn't!" effect as some of the other contestants (Hello "Miss Venezuela" and "Miss Thailand"!), but it was stage-effective and looked nice on her. I have a feeling she might "bust out" with a more "You Go Girl!" gown for the Finals...we'll see.
Score: 9.25

11. Miss Aruba Charlene Leslie: I thought Charlene was one of the Top Standouts of the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries. She looked FABULOUS in both Swimsuit and Evening Gown. In terms of the latter, she wore this white column gown that featured bands of sequins juxtaposed with bands of satin. It fit her perfectly and she looked like a Top International Beauty Queen who already had her (Fill in the blank) crown; elegant, classy, on-point. Oh, and her chignon hairstyle was EVERYTHING darlings...so "vintage" Miss Venezuela. Someone trained this woman right!
Score: 9.30

10. Miss Universe Colombia Andrea Tovar: Andrea wore this golden gown from Colombian designer Alfredo Barraza. I have been reading some of the Pageant Fan Blogs on the web and many are thinking it was not a good pick (I'm being nice). Personally, I thought she looked beautiful and the gown was STUNNING. The strapless sequined applique design was fitted with a flared bottom section and featured scalloped stiffened tiers beginning at the hip. It was very Haute Couture in its silhouette and fabrication. Muy Bella.
Score: 9.45

Now, even with that...I still wished she would have worn THIS:

Alfredo Barraza gown Andrea Tovar wore to win Miss Universe Colombia 2015-2016.

9. Miss Universe France Iris Mittenaere: Iris wore this sunburst yellow sequined off-the-shoulder gown and she looked like a movie star from head to toe! I LOVED her side swept hair, her delicate accessories (just earrings and a bracelet)...her PERFECT choice of strappy shoes (Look Ladies: NO TACKY PLATFORM HEELS!!). The "Mermaid Lite" shaped gown fit beautifully, looked exquisitely made and stood out marvelously with that color. Definitely one of the BEST Gowns (and contestants) of the night!

Score: 9.55

8. Miss Universe Indonesia Kezia Warouw: Kezia wore this strapless gown for last night's Miss Universe 2016 preliminaries. She looked like an actress at the Cannes Red Carpet. I loved this gown for its simplicity and clean elegant silhouette. It reminded me of a Couture creation from Armani Prive. It was actually designed by Indonesian designer Ivan Gunawan and featured a stiffened bustier and full skirt with high side slit and thousands of Swarovski crystals:

Close up Detail of Miss Universe Indonesia's Preliminaries gown

It was one of the best gowns and therefore made my Top 15 List.
Score: 9.55

7. Miss Universe India Roshmitha Harimurthy: The minute Roshmitha walked onto the stage in this red gown, I gasped; The gown was so elegant, beautifully made and perfect for her. The lipstick red silk crepe gown featured gorgeous bead work, side front slit, long sleeves and plunging neckline (but not too plunging). I loved the shape and especially the solid softly draped overskirt. In case you are wondering, it designed by "Project Runway" Season 14 designer Swapnil Shinde. Congrats to Swapnil for such a gorgeous design.
Score: 9.60

6. Miss Universe Jamaica Isabel Dalley: Isabel is one of the MOST BEAUTIFUL women of the Miss Universe 2016 pageant. She looked resplendent in this red sequin, tulle and feathered gown. The jeweled applique work was out of control gorgeous and the manner it was placed throughout the dress was strategically impressive. Normally, I might not been a fan of the plumage but I LOVED it; it was used delicately and like a quiet "exclamation point" for the dress. Perfection darlings.
Score: 9.65

5. Miss Universe Georgia Nuka Karalashvili: Nuka is a working print and runway model and well, if you had any doubt, all you had to do was witness her performance and entrance in the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries Evening Gown Competition. I LOVED her ivory gown so much that it made my Top 5. The dress featured multi-jeweled silver and blue sequins and paillettes--heavily beaded at the top but then delicately placed throughout the rest of the dress. It also had a cascade draped overskirt that was not overwhelming and worked seamlessly with the rest of the design. A GORGEOUS contestant wearing a GORGEOUS gown!
Score: 9.70

4. Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane: Chalita wore this original gown design from Thai designer Adhit Dhirakittiwat "Joe Surface". The minute she stepped on stage, Chalita got my attention with this dramatic Couture Runway-worthy style of a gown. It was a bit over the top, but just RIGHT over-the-top! I loved the silver applique over clear organza crinoline, the fitted halter-style bustier and exploding tulle netting back overskirt. This is the kind of gown that makes little boys dream of being A) Fashion Designer or B) Drag Beauty Queens (smile!)
Score: 9.75

I also loved that it reminded me a little bit of this...

Madonna in 1995 Atelier Versace Mario Testino ad

Now, speaking of Beauty Queen/Drag Queen Fabulousness...

3. Miss Universe Venezuela Mariam Habach: One word--WOW! Mariam--who is a BIG FAVORITE to win the crown--entered the stage in what first looked like a ballgown with a sequined top and feathered bottom skirt. Then...slowly but surely, she looked to the right and then to the left and VOILA: Time for the REVEAL darlings! : She unsnapped the feathered white/blue ombre shaded feathered skirt and...

With a twirl, showed the inner sequined column gown hiding underneath. It was a MAJAH Pageant Moment. And if you don't believe, go watch the Preliminaries and hear the "Oh No She Didn't" gasps and hootin' and clapping from the audience. This gown was designed by Venezuelan designer Nidal Nouaihed, who also created her National Costume. For all the sequins, feathers and THAT reveal...
Score: 9.80

2. Miss Universe Vietnam Le Hang: We're down to my Top 2 Favorite Gowns. At number 2, it's Miss Universe Vietnam. This gown was INCREDIBLE! The Mermaid shaped gown featured nude backing, silver sequin applique, fitted long sleeves, scooped and squared neckline and finally, a very dramatic train. She looked like the Queen of a COUNTRY and that anyone five feet close to her should bow down (I would!)--and that gown. Seriously, this needs to be in a fashion museum, like yesterday! In addition, it was very smart for her to do her hair sleek and pulled to the back, clean and chic and keep the accessories to almost nothing--except earrings. When you are wearing a gown like this...who needs anything else...except a crown perhaps?

Score: 9.90

Finally...

1. Miss Universe Ukraine Alena Spodynyuk: I literally got up off my couch and started doing my own "pretend Pageant Gown Runway Walk" when Miss Universe Ukraine entered the stage with this red sequined silk gazar gown. First off, she looked GORGEOUS and reminded me of last year's "Miss Universe Ukraine" and her well-chosen Zuhair Murad Haute Couture gown. The coral-like sequin detail was exquisite, the fit: perfection. I loved the slightly pouf'ed sleeves, open back and to top everything off, her hair and makeup were FLAWLESS. I'd swear this was another Zuhair Murad Couture gown but I couldn't find it in any of his collections (and trust me, I looked!). Maybe it's a knock-off and a VERY GOOD ONE at that! Whether it was a real Zuhair Murad or not..it was still--hands down--THE BEST GOWN of 2016 Miss Universe Preliminary Competition.
Score: 9.95

**UP NEXT: My No.s 16-30 Runners-Up Evening Gowns of Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries!!

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition EVENING GOWNS: 16-30 Next Best Gowns!

January 28, 2017, 4:32 pm

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Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition

In my previous post HERE, I gave my TOP 15 BEST GOWNS picks from the 65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition and promised there would be more of my favorites so...here are my "Preliminary Competition Evening Gowns Runner-ups", as it were. Since my last post were the Top 15, here are numbers 16-30, beginning with #16...

16. Miss Universe Germany Johanna Acs: Johanna wore this baby blue lace gown from Indonesian designer Anaz Khairunnas of Anaz Couture. He also designed the gown worn by one of my Top Favorites, Miss Universe Cayman Islands--a yellow lace gown with back overskirt. I LOVED the shape; it was THE PERFECT Mermaid silhouette. the fit was right as well as length (no tacky platform pumps visible!). I also loved the top section which incorporated the nude illusion with the lace applique that was strategically hand-cut. if there was any criticism, I wished the color was not this pale blue since it makes it a little too "Prom & Pageant" and her hair was a bun mess. But, the gown:
Score: 8. 85

17. Miss Universe Nicaragua Marina Jacoby: Marina looked radiant, sexy and fabulous in this red sequined gown with back chiffon "falls" from Peruvian designer Eduardo de las Casas. The design was HOT HOT HOT but not tacky vulgar. She looked Miss Universe right!
Score: 8.75

18. Miss Universe Haiti Raquel Pelissier: Raquel is a stunner, let's just begin there. I think it was wise to not weigh down the already 5' 11" beauty with anything overwhelming. I liked this golden column gown that was designed 28 year-old Colombian designer Diego Fernando Marin Mendoza. The style featured crystals throughout--in rose gold and yellow gold--with nude illusion panels. It was reminiscent of Atelier Versace gowns of the past, and I admit, just a teeny tiny "Figure Skating Costume"-like--especially at the top. Yet still, I liked it!
Score: 8.60

19. Miss Universe Malaysia Kiran Jassal: Kiran chose a gown designed by the same team--Rizman Ruzaini--that created her Petronas Twin Tower-inspired national costume. This gown had silver sequined applique over nude tulle with a fit-and-flare silhouette. The applique work was quite stunning but I have to say, one has to always be careful when placing the detail since an emphasis on the front crotch area can be a little...awkward. Here, it's still OK, but it's really close to that "I'm-uncomfortable-looking-at-it" territory. But, overall, it was a nice gown.
Score: 8.55

20. Miss Universe Bahamas Cherell Williamson--Cherell wore this golden gown from Bahamian designer Theodore Elyett. This was the first time in 13 years that a Miss Bahamas has worn a gown from a Bahamian designer (Congrats to Elyett!). The gown featured a very heavily beaded applique design with a very full and stiffened horsehair-trimmed hem. It was dramatic, fit beautifully and made Cherell look like a Gown Goddess.
Score: 8.55

21. Miss Universe China Li Zhenying: I love Li Zhenying. She looks like a Supermodel, walks like one, acts like one...if I was ever having a runway show in China, I'd try my darnedest to get her to model in my show because she WORKS IT! I have a feeling that even if she was wearing a paper bag, she would make it look like Haute Couture! Now, for her evening gown, thank goodness she did not choose a paper bag, and instead she wore this nude-colored tulle gown with gold sequin details and lace embroidery. The full silhouette was dramatic but not over-the-top. It looked like an Elie Saab-like gown but without the 200 yards of tulle petticoat underneath it. It was pretty, elegant and still impressive.
Score: 8.50

22. Miss Universe Dominican Republic Sal Garcia: Sal wore this white-and-nude column gown to the 2016 Miss Universe Preliminaries. The gown had heavy sequin and lace applique embroidery perfectly placed throughout the nude backing fabrication finishing with a neck-and-shoulder piece accentuating her giraffe-like long neck. I loved her center-part hair style and clean chic makeup. I've said that she reminds me of Venezuelan model/actress/beauty pageant winner Patricia Velasquez but I also think she is the tall twin sister of Puerto Rican actress (and co-host of last year's
"Miss Universe") Roselyn Sanchez.
Score: 8.45

23. Miss Universe South Africa Ntandoyenkosi Kunene: Miss Universe South Africa wore this red gown from Quiteria & George. I thought Ntandoyenkosi looked statuesque and very glamorous in this "Mermaid"--like design. I loved the asymmetrical neckline, mini peplum and heavy beading at the bust and waist. And that shocking red color was PERFECT for her!
Score: 8.42

24. Miss U. S. Virgin Islands Carolyn Carter: Carolyn is a fashion blogger and throughout the few weeks in the Philippines, she has been working her outfits at every event she attends so, I was looking forward to her gown choice for the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminary Competition. She wore this raspberry colored gown from Puerto Rican designer Harry Robles. I loved the color and interesting satin/crystal bandings and panels; there was a "feeling' of those Herve Leger bandage dresses from the 90's. This gown was sexy and impacting.
Score: 8.40

25. Miss Universe Puerto Rico Brenda Azaria Jimenez: Several "Miss Universe" contestants this year donned a fringed gown--Philippines for one and now, Miss Universe Puerto Rico. Brenda looked like a Vegas Showgirl with a Red Carpet twist in this Gustavo Arango-designed dress. The gown was completely covered in silver sequins and was very impacting on stage. There was nothing extraordinary about it and while yes, it took me back to the Pageant 90's, it still looked great on Brenda.
Score: 8.35

26. Miss Universe Sierra Leone Hawa Kamara: Hawa seems to be a "sentimental favorite" to many of the fabulous Filipino Pageant Fans and I can see why. She's always looking fabulous, exudes confidence, is always smiling and looks like she's having A BLAST and seems to be very humbled to be the first ever contestant from her African nation competing at Miss Universe. I liked this shimmering gown that she wore for the Miss Universe Preliminaries. The "Mermaid-Lite" shape was dramatic and just right for the "petite" contestant (she's 5' 7"--petite maybe by Miss Universe 2016 contestant standards!). I also liked the scroll-and-leaf like embroidery. I just wished that it was longer so I wouldn't have to see those nude platform heels.
Score: 8.35

27. Miss Universe Mexico Kristal Silva: Kristal wore this silver gown featuring a very high side front slit opening and fitted halter neckline. This was very "Retro 90's Pageant" but she still looked great and I LOVED those silver strappy stacked heel shoes!
Score: 8.25

28. Miss USA Deshauna Barber: Deshauna wore this red sequin column gown from Miss Universe sponsor, Sherri Hill. The gown fit her perfectly, had the correct length and was stage impacting. While this might not have been Haute Couture fabulous and made a true pageant fan squeal with delight, it was a good showing. I just felt bad for her when I noticed the white hang tape peeking out from her gowns armhole while she was onstage. This happens to all of us: I've sent models out on the runway after triple checking everything...and lo and behold I get the photos back and that darn hang tape makes an unwanted appearance! Next time Deshauna: CUT THEM OFF before going out!
Score: 8.20

29. Miss Universe Curacao Chanelle de Lau: I have to admit that I LOVED Chanelle's catwalk performance more than this gown choice. And I think that she's mostly here in my 16-30 List because of that fabulous skirt flipping walk. The gown was nice and I did like the interesting top sequin detail and all that sweeping fabric but...in terms of the style: It seemed more store bought than Custom Couture.
Score: 8.10

Finally...

30. Miss Universe Panama Keity Drennan: Keity made quite an impact during her onstage catwalk performance at the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries. At first, I was like "You GO GIRL!" because she was such a Diva, exuded such confidence and drama that I think many Pageant Fanatics and Panamanian Drag Queens back in her homeland must have been CRYING with excitement! But because of all that, I almost missed the gown: I liked where this gown style was going--the chic cape, the UBER fitted column nude/sequined gown...all the details to create something FAB were there but...it went into slightly "Hoochie" territory. First, I didn't like that her underwear was showing (they looked like "Grandma Panties"!), as well as her bust pads. And then, she wore those awful nude platform pumps...Ayyy Keity!! Por Que??? Well, I still put her here for that FIERCE DIVA attitude and walk!
Score: 8.00

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe National Costumes Show: Top 20 Best Costumes!

January 28, 2017, 11:03 pm

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Queen Chalita: Miss Universe Thailand in her Queen Sirikit-inspired costume--Miss Universe 2016 National Costume Show

Pageant fans (myself included!) are excited for the Finals of the 65th Miss Universewhich are happening tomorrow LIVE from Manila Philippines. The show will be televised at 7 PM EST US time which in Manila Philippines will be 8 AM Monday morning. 86 of the world's most beautiful women are competing for the coveted title. Events leading up to be the big finale Crowning Night have been occurring for the past three weeks in the Philippines, including the most-important Preliminary Competition which happened 2 nights ago. Along with that, there was the fan-favorite National Costume Show, where the contestants showcased their "National Costumes".

Andean Goddesses, Wicker Basket Diva and a Folies Bergère Showgirl--Miss Universe 2016 National Costume Show in Mall of Asia Arena Manila Philippines

The term "National Costumes" has been used very flexibly during the last few years at Miss Universe. Instead of those traditional "Happy Hands at Home"-looking ensembles of the past, there have been more and more contestants being inspired by "Victoria's Secret Angels". This year, there were lots of "Supermodel/Beauty Pageant Birds", Pre-Columbian Goddesses, an homage of sorts to Julie Andrews/"Sound of Music", a Folies Bergère Showgirl and even Pippi Longstocking. Here are my TOP 20 Favorites from the 65th Miss Universe National Costume Show (plus a bonus!). I judged in terms of impact of costume, uniqueness, head-to-toe quality, and the kind of overall tribute it represented to the contestant's nation. My Number one Best Costume Pick goes to...

1. Miss Universe Myanmar Htet Htet Htun: I really can't explain these photos above if you have not seen the actual "performance"--which you can view below on YouTube (her part begins at 1:37):

Miss Universe Myanmar came out with her own background stage! Let's just begin there. She already receives 50 points from me with that! Then she proceeded to do a traditional Burmese puppet dance! She literally brought the house down! The "costume" was created by the same designer who made her competition evening gown and was showing traditional Yoke thé Burmese marionette puppetry. Unbelievable. Whoever is judging the Miss Universe 2016 National Costume Show, please give her the Best Title. And Some prize money to her designer. ASAP!

2. Miss Universe Vietnam Le Hang: The Miss Universe Vietnam Organization held a contest throughout the country to have designers come up with Miss Universe Vietnam's costume (a nice way to get these costumes made for free: Hello--It's called Marketing 101). Anyhow...The top 5 designs were chosen and the above was the one chosen. It was inspired by the art of making wicker baskets highlighting the agricultural history of Vietnam. It was STUNNING--from head to toe. I love when a designer of these national costumes also thinks of the SHOES! So many of these ladies show up in these fabulous costumes --and then wear Chinese Laundry platform pumps. Ayyy Dios Mio! But Miss Universe Vietnam did not. Bravo.

3. Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane: This glittering costume is entitled the "Jewel of Thailand". It features a gold long sleeve top with a sabai, and matching skirt. It was inspired by a type of traditional Thai dress named "Siwalai", which Queen Sirikit of Thailand used to wear decades ago...

The designer won 20,000 Thai baht (about $560 US dollars at today's exchange rate) for his winning design entry; I'm thinking he should have gotten much more! The design is spectacular and worthy of being in a Costume Museum and certainly more than a $560 prize; Creating that costume alone--sewing, fabric, pattern, fittings and design fee...well, any designer worth their design resume would charge about $10,000. It was designed by culture scholar Hirankrit Pattaraboriboonkool and is decorated with 100,000 Swarovski crystals. Insane!

4. Miss Universe France Iris Mittenaere: It's not a shocker that Miss Universe France decided to look like a Folies Bergère Showgirl for her national costume. But, what is a surprise is that this was actually A Folies Bergère Costume loaned out to her. And this was one of the first times the iconic French Showgirl company has done so. These costumes rarely--if ever--leave Paris. She looked FABULOUS and perfect! I honestly can't think of a better ensemble for a Miss France to wear!

5. Miss Universe Indonesia Kezia Warouw: This gorgeous golden costume was designed by Dynand Fariz, president of the Jember Fashion Carnaval as well as the JFC creative team. It took two months to create. The theme was "Unity Nation" and the inspiration is the iconic Garuda Bird. The Garuda bird represents sovereignty of Indonesia and symbolizes grandeur and glory with its golden color.

6. Miss Universe Nicaragua Marina Jacoby: Miss Universe Nicaragua wore one of my Top Favorite of the very popular "Bird Costumes". This one was entitled "Guardabarrenco: Brother of Wind, Song and Light", representing Nicaragua's national bird in photo above-- known for its colorful plumage which can be found throughout the country. The costume was designed by Nicaraguan designer Neftali Espinoza and weighed over 20 pounds. I'm surprised that is all it weighed!

7. Miss Universe Venezuela Mariam Habach: Mariam caused a big "WOW" from the audience during the "Miss Universe 2016 National Costume Show for various reasons. First, it was a MAJAH costume! Designed by Venezuelan designer Nidal Nouaihed who also designed her evening gown, it was entitled "Enchanted Queen of the Sea". The costume is inspired by the mythology of the mermaid of Guaica. She was a mestiza indian named Guaricha Guaica from the Guaiqueries tribe. She disobeyed the rule of not entering the ocean, especially on Good Friday. After searching and searching for her, she was never found and eventually, they were told that she had been lost to the sea and in fact, had now become the virginal mermaid "Enchanted Queen of The Oceans".

If that wasn't enough, it was also inspired by the Venezuelan coastline and its beaches and featured 120 meters of fabrics, hundred of pearls and crystals. At least it wasn't inspired by the fact that many of Venezuela's population can't even find food or feminine hygiene products. But that's a whole other matter. Overall, this was an incredible costume. The only negative was that when Mariam took the stage, she could barely walk and stumbled miserably. I would have put her costume higher if only it was created with her in mind--and the fact that she was going to actually WALK in it!

8. Miss Universe Mauritius Kushboo Ramnawa: Kushboo's National Costume was designed by a Filipino designer Kirsten Regalado and assisted by 4 high school students from Bacolod City Philippines. The ensemble was inspired by the volcanic eruption that created her island nation and it is made of recycled materials. The headdress is made of red fabric petals representing the volcanic eruption and also the flora of Mauritius after the volcanic eruption. The detachable cape made of eco-fabric material is hand painted to show the volcano on the outside of the cape and then the volcanic eruption inside...

The three-piece custom made gown is constructed using different materials. The upper gown is covered with recycled corded red lace and sewn with sequins for sparkle. The upper gown reflects the colors of the lava from the volcanic eruption. The skirt is made of recycled corrugated cardboard boxes, cut into diamond shapes and the floor sweeping train is covered with 1,300 pieces of recycled clear plastic cups and paper mache' painted to show the hilly and amazing Seven Colored Earth of Chamarel in the island of Mauritius. Overall, this costume was pretty incredible!

9. Miss Universe Dominican Republic Sal Garcia: This colorful and gorgeous costume was designed by Dominican designer Leonel Lirio with help from Luis Rivas and hand painted by artists Maribel Pena. It's entitled "Bird Enchantress" and inspired by Dominican painter and fine artist Candido Bido (lower photo), famous for his intense colors and use of the sun and birds--among many other things. I absolutely LOVED it!

10. Miss Universe Panama Keity Drennan: This bold and colorful costume was designed by Panamanian designer Daniel Cortina. The title of the ensemble is "Flowers and Coffee: Pride of my Land" and was inspired by a traditional market in a small town where locals and travelers from all over the world can buy flowers and coffee grown in Panama's green mountain highlands of Boquete. Not sure what the human-like mannequins are there representing but...it was a very impressive costume for Miss Universe Panama.

11. Miss Universe Ecuador Connie Jimenez: Miss Universe Ecuador's national costume really grabbed my attention for being one of the BEST in the "Bird Fabulous" Category. Ecuador is known as Land of the Hummingbirds with 124 different species. The costume plays homage to all those differently colored hummingbirds that call Ecuador home.

12. Miss Universe Argentina Estefania Bernal: Estefania wore one of the BEST of those "Victoria's Secret"-like Indigenous Goddess looks for this year's edition of "Miss Universe". This costume--designed by Marcelo Pendola who has designed several of the previous "Miss Universe Argentina" costumes. It was inspired by the Pachamama Goddess revered by the indigenous people of the Andean. The Goddess is also known as "Mother Earth"--or Creator of the the Universe. I loved the entire look--from head to toe; the plumage, the exquisite sequin work...and the fact that her shoes were part of the costume! Also, she did a lift-of-the-wing thing that made the audience go WILD! She got points for that (at least from me!). Muy bien!

13. Miss Universe Hungary Veronika Bodizs: Miss Universe Hungary's national costume was designed by Peter Mero and features the prominent red color, featured in Hungary's flag and flower-influenced folk costumes. The design is adorned with 1500 of the red peppers that are used to make paprika. The costume was Couture Fab, very impacting and worthy of inclusion in my Top 20!

14. Miss Universe Haiti Raquel Pelissier: Miss Universe Haiti wore the costume above for the Miss Universe 2016 National Costume Show. The design is supposed to depict the natural beauty of Haiti, which is known as the "Pearl of the Antilles", beginning back in 1492 when it was "discovered"because of its natural beauty and uniqueness. Notice the huge pearl she is holding. I love this and thought it was one of better Pre-Columbian styles of the pageant. Once again, I admire the fact that whoever designed this, also thought of the shoes and leg details. And by the way, that headdress is STUNNING!

15. Miss Universe Austria Dajana Dzinic: Dajana's national costume for Austria is...inspired by the 1965 Academy award winning film "Sound of Music"...naturally! You can almost hear "The hills are alive...with the Sound of Music!" while the lovely Dajana twirls around. The beautifully printed costume was designed by Aviad Arik Herman, same designer of Miss Universe Sweden's costume and evening gown. I love the obviousness of this and it's very high kitsch factor, while still being quite beautiful and elegant. It was done very well. All that was missing were the Von Trapp kids. Well, probably better for that.

16.Miss Universe Bolivia Antonella Moscatelli: This festive and colorful costume was created with the help of the Association of Folkloric Ensembles of Oruro (ACFO) and designed by Monika Siles with help from Marcelo Anteza who created the feathered headdress as well as 20+ people who aided in creating the ensemble. The costume represents the allegories in the 18 types of dances in the Carnival of Oruno and is entitled the "Allegory of the Carnival of Oruro". The carnival is a religious festival dating back more than 200 years that takes place in Oruro, Bolivia. It is one of UNESCO's Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The cost of making the costume: $1500...quite cheap for such an elaborate costume! I loved the colors, the festiveness of it and that the designers/creators thought of EVERYTHING--including the footwear.

17. Peru Valeria Piazza: Peru's contestant wore a costume depicting a fabulous bird (I told you the theme was a popular one this year!). It was made by hearing impaired artisans in the Peruvian jungle and created using sustainable materials and natural items such as rice, and maize. The aspect of this design that really made me (and everyone in the audience) go "Wow!" was that she made the wings take flight:

18. Miss Universe Malaysia Kiran Jassal: This costume for Miss Universe Malaysia has caused quite a stir on social media for being so "out there"/non-traditional and yes, avant-garde. Designed by the duo of Rizman Ruzaini, the national costume is a glittery silver jumpsuit inspired by the Petronas Twin Towers, prominently featured on her shoulders and arms.The design is embellished with thousands of Swarovski crystals over a nude-colored fabric base. The crystal choker on her neck represents the sky bridge that connects the two towers. Personally, I think it's SUPERFAB and kudos to the designers for thinking outside the traditional national costume box.

19. Miss Universe Canada Siera Bearchell: Combining a bunch of different icons and symbols, Canada's costume features the iconic Maple leaf from her country's flag and its theme was the infamous Canadian Winter. The large snowflake includes the shape of every Canadian province and territory with thousands of crystals, and it's topped off with a hat and snow boots. It was designed by Canadian costume and theme wear designer Rebecca McKenzie.

Finally...

20. Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina: Designed by Filipino fashion designer Rhett Eala, Maxine's national costume was inspired by the vinta, a traditional boat from Mindanao (lower photo above). The head piece was made to resemble a large piece of coral found in the country's reefs. The headdress alone which includes sea pearls, is said to have cost more than 1 million Philippine Pesos (about $20,000) according to the designer. This look on Maxine was chic, elegant and I loved how she mimicked the waves and sails with her hands during her "performance". It was enough to get her in my Top 20 List.

A Bonus...

Miss Universe Sweden Ida Ovmar: This costume was designed by Avid Arik Herman (who also designed Miss Universe Austria's "Sound of Music" national costume). It's entitled "Dress of Dreams", which represents the vision that every child has the "opportunity to be loved and the possibility to fulfill their dreams". The strapless asymmetrical hi-lo ballgown design is quite simple and features photos of children on the dress. She added a sequined top/shoulder/sleeves piece, red braided wig, mismatched stockings and a big ol' horse and voila: She's Pippi Longstocking with Supernatural Strength!! I didn't include this as one of my Top 20 Favorites especially since the contestant used the dress for her Evening gown as well...but I will give it a "Memorable Mention" just for its "kookiness" and for its wonderful project.

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WHO WORE WHAT?.....SAG Awards 2017: My Top 10 Best Dressed

January 30, 2017, 12:41 pm

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SAG Awards 2017

Last night was the 23rd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. It was quite an unusual Red Carpet, with actresses choosing quirky and slightly more "high fashion" gowns as opposed to the classic Red Carpet looks seen often at the Golden Globes or Oscars. If there were three top trends of the 2017 SAG Awards Red Carpet, they would be Glittering Gowns, Color, and Black & White. Let's take a look at my TOP 10 Favorite Looks and who I thought were the BEST DRESSED:

10. Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton: Michelle Williams wore this silver/gold/gunmetal sequined gown custom-made for her by the French fashion house of Louis Vuitton. The column gown was simple, super chic in its sleeveless, v-neck sheath shape. There was a 70's vibe to it, especially with the addition of the paillette neck tie.

9. Viola Davis in Vivienne Westwood Couture: Viola Davis looked like a Glamour Queen in this strapless ivory Vivienne Westwood Couture silk duchesse gown. I loved the architectural shape, back "cape"/train and wrap style. Vivienne Westwood is known for intricately draped bustiers that sometimes end up looking cumbersome and tricky at times, but here, the design team kept it simple and elegant for Viola. I thought the addition of that gorgeous necklace was the perfect "cherry on top of the ivory silk duchesse cake"!

8. Evan Rachel Wood in Altuzarra: Many actresses take more style chances at the SAG Awards and Evan Rachel Wood chose the awards show to do so in this navy blue velvet Altuzarra pantsuit. I thought she looked modern, sleek and oh-so-sexy. While I might have wished the pants were longer and more "Le Smoking"-esque, I still thought this was one of the 10 Best Looks at the 2017 SAG Awards.

7. Sarah Paulson in Vera Wang Collection: Speaking of "Le Smoking", actress Sarah Paulson wore this black and white ensemble from Vera Wang Collection that was an obvious homage to the Yves Saint Laurent icon. the outfit included a dramatic white notched-collar slit-detail cape, which when she took off...

Revealed this STUNNING and 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 dress and designer to create a style with a so-obvious center front seam, that seam needs to be PERFECT...and here it is. Overall, Paulson looked severe, elegant and above all the red carpet nonsense.

6. Maggie Siff in Zac Posen: Another actress who chose to wear a black gown which I liked was Maggie Siff. This Zac Posen gown featured two important details: A pointed bustier and tri-folded side drape. I thought this was architectural, imposing and elegant. Siff reminded me of the John Singer Sargent painting "Portrait of Madame X":

5. Michelle Dockery in Elie Saab: I LOVED Michelle Dockery's multicolored gown that she wore last night at the 2017 SAG Awards. Now, I'm sure many people might not have been a fan of this... I can just hear the comments now "Oh, she just looked like she was performing at Cirque du Soleil...". To those people I say "Oh PUHLEASE!!!". I liked the burst of color among so many black and white dresses and I thought the fit of this Elie Saab gown was perfection--as well as her clean styling. I applaud actresses like Dockery who take fashion chances and are not afraid to A) Stand out and B) Make a entrance. The design is based on this look from....

Elie Saab Spring 2017

4. Nicole Kidman in Gucci: Speaking of taking chances...God Bless Nicole Kidman! Before you say anything, YES she is one of my BEST DRESSED! Get over it. I loved this emerald green sequined gown from Gucci and Alessandro Michele. I also loved the shoulder Macaw paillette-and-feathered embellishments: So fabulous! The gown reminded me of those 1930's designs from the beginning of the Hollywood Glamour days:

Elsa Schiaparelli 1930s Gown

3. Sophia Bush in Marchesa Pre-Fall 2017: One of the best in the "Color Gown" category at the 2017 SAG Awards Red Carpet was this Marchesa Pre-fall 2017 design worn by Sophia Bush. The tea-length dress was more "Cocktail" but had the same fab red carpet effect as a full-length dress. I loved the bright bubblegum pink color and the "blooming"-like side drape detail. This was pretty, elegant and fashion-forward.

2. Yara Shahidi in Naeem Khan Spring 2016: My No. 2 Best dressed Pick was actress Yara Shahidi in this colorful Naeem Khan Spring 2016 gown. This horizontal "striped" gown grabbed my attention immediately when I first saw the actress on the red carpet and it made me smile. 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:

Gorgeous!--"Black-ish" actress Yara Shahidi in Naeem Khan Spring 2016

Finally, my No. 1 Best Dressed Is...

1. Natalie Portman in Custom Christian Dior Haute Couture: A very pregnant Natalie Portman wore this off-white gown from Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017. The style was just shown last week at the Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week and was part of Maria Grazia Chiuri's first Haute Couture collection for the French fashion house. I thought she looked radiant, monastic...almost like a Renaissance painting of a Virginal Angel. I loved the drama of the drop-shoulder pouffy sleeves and there's that center front seam again: A sign of Haute Couture darlings!

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Finals EVENING GOWNS Recap!

January 31, 2017, 1:24 pm

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Sequins, Satins and See-Through: Miss Universe 2016 Top 6 in Evening Gowns--Miss Universe 2016 Finals, Manila Philippines

This past Sunday night (Monday morning in the Philippines), a new "Miss Universe" was crowned. This was the 65th Miss Universe Pageant and even though we are a full month into 2017, it was "Miss Universe 2016"as opposed to "Miss Universe 2017" lots of news outlets and blogs keep saying, incorrectly. Now...who won??

La Belle de France: The new Miss Universe--Miss France Iris Mittenaere--gets crowned by outgoing Miss Universe Pia Wiutzbach--Manila Philippines

The gorgeous representative from France, Iris Mittenaere beat out 85 other contestants for the top crown. The 24 year-old, 5' 8" (1.73 M) tall beauty is a native from Lille France and represented Nord-Pas-De-Calais at her own national "Miss France 2016" pageant. Iris represented her nation with "Showgirl" pride donning a actual "Folies Bergere" sequined and feathered boa ensemble as her National Costume...

From Showgirl...to Miss Universe--Iris Mittenaere "Miss France" during the "Miss Universe 2016" Pageant, Manila Philippines

She's a dental student at the Lille 2 University of Health and Law and supposedly, she wants to become a dentist after she graduates. If she ever does become a dentist, she might just end up being the most popular one in France! Well, for now, she will have to put that aspiration on hold since she will now move to NYC where the Miss Universe Organization is headquartered and spend a year traveling around the world.

A Big Deal for Europe: In winning the "Miss Universe" title, Iris became the second woman from France to win the coveted international title after Christiane Martel won Miss Universe 1953, breaking a 63-year title drought. Iris is also the first European winner since 2002, when Oxana Fedorova, who was from Russia, won that year's "Miss Universe", though she was later dethroned and replaced by Panama's Justine Pasek, her First Runner-up.

And the Winner Is....(L) Miss Universe Haiti Raquel Pellesier and (R) Iris Mittenaere--Miss Universe 2016 Finals, Manila Philippines

And if that wasn't enough, the last time before then that a European beauty had won "Miss Universe" was in 1990, when Norway's Mona Grundt won (I happened to be there in Los Angeles attending that year's Miss Universe!). Miss Universe hasn't been known as a beauty pageant to favor the European ladies, and instead was known as more Latina-centric with 6 of the last ten winners coming from Latin American nations/territories.

And now, let's discuss the GOWNS!!!

Gown Gorgeous: Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wutrzbach (L) crowning Miss Universe 2016 , France's Iris Mittenaere--Miss Universe 2016 Finals, Manila Philippines

If you have been keeping up with my "Sashes and Tiaras" Blog here, I've been very busy covering several of the 65th Miss Universe "Gown Events". Luckily for us Pageant fans, there were lots of events for the contestants to play "dress up" during their almost month-long stay in the Philippines: I commented on the glorious Terno Fashion Show HERE, Governors Ball Dinner Fashion Show HERE, as well as the Preliminary CompetitionHERE and HERE. But now, it's time to discuss the gowns at the Finals.

Before I discuss the Top 9 Finalist's gowns, I have to talk about the stunning Pia Wurtzbach, the outgoing "Miss Universe" and what she wore:

Pink Pia: In the beginning of the Final Live Telecast, Pia Wurtzbach "Miss Universe 2015" was introduced by host Steve Harvey and they had some semi-uncomfortable-but-fun banter regarding his hick-up from last year (which I was present for in Las Vegas!). More importantly, she made her entrance in this gorgeous bubblegum pink strapless gown from Sherri Hill. I absolutely LOVED this gown, its shape and those tri-folded dramatic side drapes. The fit was on-point and so was her hair and makeup. It's so funny how outgoing beauty queens (almost) always look so much more "Style Refined" and less "Pageant Betty" after spending a year as Miss Universe and when they are giving up their crown; it's like they've been style educated during the entire time. This was a definite Gown Winner!

Ballgown Pia: Another gown winner was this very impressive dress Pia wore in the Finale when she had to do her Final Walk and crown her successor. She chose this royal blue (same color as the gown she won in last year) super-sized ballgown from Dubai-based Filipino designer Michael Cinco, known for his UBER Couture creations. The gown featured meters and meters of sequined fabric--the sequined applique done by hand of course--and pointed bustline...

Universal Ballgown: Once again, I thought she looked amazing and this was a beautiful choice. She obviously wanted to make a grand entrance in her Final Walk and in addition, this is a fabulous "Goodbye" as well.

And now, onto the Top 9 Finalist's Gowns:

Sequined Beauties: (L to R) Miss Haiti, Miss Thailand, Miss Philippines, Miss Colombia, Miss Kenya, and Miss France--Miss Universe 2016 Finals, Manila Philippines

Golden Top Three: All top three finalists wore shimmering golden gowns (a coincidence?)-- (L to R) Miss Colombia, Miss France and Miss Haiti--Miss Universe 2016 Finals, Manila Philippines

Let's start with the Winner's Gown:

Miss Universe France (and eventual Miss Universe 2016) Iris Mittenaere: Iris wore this almost see-through shimmering gown from Vietnamese designer Hoang Hai. I thought she looked stunning in this creation that featured silver and gold sequins on a nude tulle base with long sleeves. It fit her to perfection and was "Miss Universe" right! She also wore one of my favorite gowns of the Preliminaries--a yellow design--created by Hoang Hai as well.
Score: 9.89

Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane: Chalita wore MY FAVORITE GOWN of the night of the Top 9 contestants--this one shoulder black design. When she stepped onto the stage for the Evening Gown competition, she SHUT IT DOWN! I loved the Haute Couture drama, the simplicity of the silhouette, the overt homage to traditional Thai dresses...and that back cape was EVERYTHING! She looked like a DIVA, from head to toe!
Score: 9.95

Miss Universe Colombia Andrea Tovar: Andrea was my next favorite in this strapless golden gown from Colombian designer Alfredo Barraza. She also wore this for the Preliminaries and I put her as one of my Top 15 Favorites for that. The color was perfect for her and I loved the elaborate and beautifully placed jeweled appliques. I also liked the scalloped tiered details. It was dramatic, queen-like and one of the best gowns!
Score: 9.50

Miss Universe Haiti Raquel Pelissier: Raquel wore my next favorite gown of the Top 9 in this golden design by young Colombian designer Diego Fernando Marin Mendoza. I thought she looked like a shimmering column in this gown--all six feet tall of her (and more with those heels!). I liked the scale-like design, crystal bodice and nude illusion panel. The interest at the shoulders made for a really nice 3/4 shot--from waist up. This was a non-fussy gown that still was "Pageant Right".
Score: 9.00

Miss USA Deshauna Barber: Deshauna wore this red sequined gown for the Finals, created by Sherri Hill, of course. This gown was different from what she wore for the preliminaries and I thought slightly better than that one. It just oozed a little more "Sexy Glamour", fit her nicely and the nude illusion color was on-point with her skin coloring.
Score: 8.90
But part of me still thinks she should have worn the same gown she wore at the "Miss USA" Preliminaries:

Deshauna Barber "Miss District of Columbia" and "Miss USA" at the Miss USA 2016 Preliminaries

Miss Universe Mexico Kristal Silva: Kristal wore this silver gown for the Miss Universe 2016 Finals--the same style she wore for the Preliminaries, where I placed her in my Top 30 of that Evening Gown Competition. I liked the sequined applique and how they were heavier at the hem. It was a beautiful gown and right for her. We see less and less of these super high slits (they've been replaced by see-through gowns I guess!) and while it was a nice change to see one, I wished it wasn't sooooo super high.
Score: 8.50

Miss Universe Philippines Maxine Medina: Maxine wore this strawberry red gown from Filipino designer Rhett Eala. Rhett designed most (if not all!) of her eveningwear worn during the 65th Miss Universe. The gown featured a heavily beaded bodice in silver crystals that then cascaded down the center front panel--from heavy to light. the dress had a fit-and-flare silhouette. I liked the dress but it just wasn't "Miss Universe" impacting enough; it seemed more right for "Miss Teen (fill in the blank)" as opposed to the TOP TOP Universal Queen. I don't know, I just wanted more Couture! More Drama! (See Miss Thailand)
Score: 8.45

Miss Universe Kenya Mary Esther Were: Mary Esther wore this red "Mermaid" style for the Final Night--a change from what she wore in preliminaries. While this was a much better choice than her other gown (also red!), and I liked the dramatic godet panels at the bottom, the "heart"-shaped illusion panel in front was cheesy to say the least and so un-Couture. Once again, I would have rather seen a white column one shoulder DIVA Grecian-Goddess like gown for her. This felt a little Barbie-like--which I guess makes sense since she said she was known as the "Black Barbie Doll" during her time in the Philippines.
8.25

Miss Universe Canada Siera Bearchell: Lastly, Miss Universe Canada wore my least favorite of the Top 9 Gowns on Final Night with this white "mermaid" style. The dress featured a super big "Mermaid" bottom section, fitted torso with sequins and applique, sweetheart neckline, nude illusion and (if that wasn't enough!), a neckpiece. It was A LOT, overwhelming, kind of Tacky-licious and waaaaay too 1980s Pageant Betty. These women have to think "Will this be appropriate for the Oscars Red Carpet?" And if the answer is "Helllssss No!", then re-think your gown choice. On a good note, Siera's hair and makeup (accentuating those Elizabeth Taylor-like eyes!) was perfect!
Score: 7.00

Congratulations to the new Miss Universe Iris Mittenaere from France!!!

Stay tuned for my BEST (and Uh Oh!) of 2016 (and early 2017) PAGEANT GOWNS Blog!!! WHO...will make my List???

Au Revoir for now!

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NICK APPEARANCES.....Pirate For A Day: Nick on "Squad Wars Show" Premiere YouTube Red

February 1, 2017, 10:02 pm

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Project Pirates: Nick Verreos--along with "Project Runway" Alumns Anthony Williams and Bradon McDonald become Pirates For a Day for Premiere of BuzzFeed's"Squad Wars" on YouTube Red

Last week, a new online competition show produced by BuzzFeed premiered on YouTube Red: "Squad Wars". The show involves "The Try Guys" Eugene Lee Lang, Ned Fulmer, Keith Habersberger, Zach Kornfeld taking on challenges from Olympic Synchronized Swimming to Trying Bollywood Dancing. But they are not alone in trying these challenges, in each episode they invite other "squads" to compete with them to see which team will get the Squad Wars" Trophy--or as they like to called it, the "Try-phy".

Well, kids for some unknown reason other than "I'll do (almost) anything", I was invited to be part of the first episode of "Squad Wars"which involved being a pirate in a Choreographed Pirate Dinner Show (!). But I wasn't alone, my team also consisted of other "Project Runway" Alumn including Anthony Williamsand Bradon McDonald. We had to compete against...three American Ninja Warriors: Yes, three six-pack ab'ed, perfectly fit, can-do-ten-somersaults-in-10-seconds-and-zip-line-in-their-sleep American Ninja Warriors. Along with Anthony, Bradon--and our "Try Guys" guy, Keith Habersberger, we tried to be Pirates For a Day...and well, without giving too much away, someone ended up in the water...But you'll have to watch the episode on YouTube Red to find out who.

"Project Runway" Alumn Nick Verreos, Anthony Williams and Bradon McDonald--"The Try Guys Pirate Adventure Challenge"--YouTube Red

Swashbuckling...Nick Verreos during the "Squad Wars Show: The Try Guys Pirate Adventure Challenge"--YouTube Red

Team Runway: (L to R) Bradon McDonald, Anthony Williams, Nick Verreos and Keith Habersberger

Project Runway Meets Try Guys: (L to R) Anthony Williams, Zach Kornfeld, Eugene Lee Lang, Ned Fulmer, Nick Verreos, Keith Habersberger

Who Got The Try-Phi? The Try Guys with "Project Runway" and "American Ninja Warriors"

Click below to watch the Trailer of "The Try Guys Pirate Adventure: Project Runway Designers vs American Ninja Warriors":

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ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: LADIES & MEN

February 1, 2017, 10:51 pm

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Jumping Lady: Russia's Evgenia Medvedeva during her Free Skate at the 2017 European Figure Skating Championships, Ostrava Chezh Republic

This past week and weekend, one of the most important International Figure Skating competitions took place: The 2017 European Figure Skating Championships. They were held in the city of Ostrava in the Czech Republic. All the top European figure skaters in Ladies/Men Singles, Ice Dance and Pairs competed for the medals in those disciplines. Since I love discussing Figure Skating Costumes here on my "Ice Style" blog, let's begin with the LADIES and MEN from the 2017 European Figure Skating Championships, starting with a 2014 Olympic bronze medalist, 2012 World champion and FIVE TIME European champion...

LADIES---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Carolina Kostner Germany Short Program to God of Thunder by Kitaro, Bonzo's Montreux by John Bonham (Led Zeppelin): Carolina is returning to figure skating after a two-year hiatus (and being suspended for lying about her ex-boyfriend, reportedly concealing the fact that he was using banned illegal performance-enhancing drugs--Yikes!). Well, anyhow...she's BACK! And this is about what she wore for the Short Program. This black and white costume is graphic, modern and void of the typical sparkly embellishments the sport's costumes are known for. I liked the gathered top and asymmetry of the look, as well as the chic metallic belt. It was directional (for figure skating!) and was in-line with her modern program.

Carolina Kostner Free Program to Nisi Dominus (Cum Dederit) by Antonio Vivaldi: For her Free Skate costume, she continued with her minimalist trajectory with this simple black costume with nude illusion and just the slightest amount of silver crystals. It was clean and elegant and I really liked the neckline detail and in addition, the sequin detail in that lower back area (see above photo).

Anna Pogorylaya Russia Short Program to Scent of a Woman (soundtrack - Smoku remix): Anna wore this one shoulder-like costume for her Short Program. The look featured shredded tulle at the shoulder, an illusion panel at the neckline/torso and delicate crystal sequins. While I liked it's elegant simplicity, that tulle detail was a bit of an 80's mess; all I wanted to do was get scissors to cut it off!

Anna Pogorilaya Russia Free Skate to Modigliani Suite by Guy Farley, Le Di a la Caza Alcance by Estrella Morente, Memorial Requiem by Michael Nyman: I absolutely LOVED this costume. I liked the mix of washed red with gray and the caviar-beaded sequin side-torso panel was beautiful! Anna is kind of known for sometimes being too-costume-y (and kooky) with her looks, but this verged on Runway Ready: I can see this as a floor-length gown.

Mae-Berenice Meite France Short Program to Goodness by Poddsy, Freedom by Thomas J. Bergersen (Two Steps from Hell): French figure skater Mae Berenice wore this blue sequined costume for her Short Program. It's very "Figure Skating Costume Queen", and verging on "Prom & Pageant" in its' sweetheart neckline, heavy beaded detail and the diamante-and-pearl "necklace" piece. But, with that said, I thought the bead work was kind of exquisite. I wish she could just find the right shade of nude illusion for her because here it's too dark, although I am well aware of what a challenge that is!

Mae-Berenice Meite France Free Skate to Tristan and Isolde by Maxime Rodriguez: I kind of LOVE this look on Mae Berenice for her Free Skate. It's a black jumpsuit/bodysuit with a heavily jeweled waist "corset" and shoulder details. I think the red and gold sequins are quite fabulous and keeping the extravagant details up top: A great costume idea! It reminds me of one of my favorite costumes from her, which she wore back in the 2013-2014 season:

Mae-Berenice at Skate America 2014

Maria Sotskova Russia Short Program to Butterflies Are Free by Alfred Schnittke: I actually liked this butterfly-inspired costume worn by Russia's Maria Sotskova. I know it might be a bit been there/done that to wear a butterfly costume to music called "Butterflies Are Free" but...I still think it worked. The butterfly detail in her costume was beautiful and very intricate and I liked the deep blue color as well as the look of broken butterfly wings. Also, it's not every day one sees a stiffer stretch sateen as fabric for a Ladies Figure Skating Costume so...this was a nice change of pace.

Maria Sotskova Russia Free Skate to Adagio by Alfred Schnittke: Pretty in Pink. This costume was soft, feminine and almost Junior-like in its execution. But there was still a look of demi-Couture with its delicate chiffon mini flower details and mini caviar beading.

Evgenia Medvedeva of Russia Short Program River Flows in You by Lorenzo de Luca, The Winter by Balmorhea: Evgenia wore this blue ombre-shaded costume featuring crystal and blue beading in the top section. The design made her look like she was a beautiful sea creature from the Mediterranean and I liked the ombre multicolored shading at the skirt.

Evgenia Medvedeva of Russia Free Skate to Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, and Piano Lesson with Grandma by Alexandre Desplat: This design had purple-to-lilac ombre shading and an Empire-waist look that featured sequin embroidery. There was almost a Medieval/Game of Thrones look to it and I liked it. My favorite part was that back--as well as the unusual longer length.

Laurine Lecavalier France Free Skate to Grease (musical soundtrack): Laurine really got my attention as I was watching the 2017 European Figure Skating Championships during her free skate to "Grease". Her costume seemed to be vibing Olivia Newton-John's character of Sandy--and especially the "goody-goody" Sandy seen in most of the film musical. But then...

She flipped her "Pretty Pink" costume and revealed a black layer second costume of a corset-detailed "vampy" Sandy. Was it cheesy? Totally. Did I love it? YES!

MEN-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alexei Bychenko Israel Free Skate to Pagliacci by Ruggero Leoncavallo: Israel's Alexei Bychenko skated his Short Program in this costume above. The music was "Pagliacci" yet his look was less clown and more "peasant" with this off white top and black pants look, which might have been better as an extra in Les Miserables.

Jorik Hendrickx Belgium Short Program to Broken Vow performed by Josh Groban: Jorik skated to Josh Groban for his Short Program. A lot of times when skaters skate to "contemporary" music, they feel as if they must do a "contemporary" looking costume. Here, the Belgian skater went with a simple ombre-dyed black-white shirt and black pants. I guess this works but it's such a yawn to be honest.

Jorik Hendrickx Belgium Free Skate to The Battle of Life and Death: Gods and Demons by Future World Music, Voca Me by Libera's: Thank goodness that for his Free Skate, Jorik went a bit more "costume-y". He might have kept the pants of the SP but changed his top. I liked his beaded long sleeve shirt for his unusual multicolored sequin detail. It was a bit "kooky" for sure, but at least it was something!

Mikhail Kolyada Russia Free Skate to La reve de la fiancee (from "La fiancee aux yeux de bois") by Jean Marc Zelwer, A la lune (from "La Nouba" - Cirque du Soleil): When I first saw this, I thought "he better be skating to Cirque du Soleil". And yep, he was. Thank goodness. I liked the look and especially this kooky black-and-white jacket and it's asymmetrical front silhouette. It's odd enough--and right enough--for Cirque du Soleil.

Michal Brazina Czech Republic Short Program to The Way You Look Tonight by Jerome Kern, Dorothy Fields, performed by Frank Sinatra: Elegant, sleek and oh-so-Sinatra. Loved this costume for Michal Brezina. He looked as if her had one too many Dirty Martinis after a black tie 50's party...and that's exactly how he should look!

Maxim Kovtun Russia Short Program to Bahamut by Hazmat Modine: I loved the cowl draped white/gray ombre top to this costume on Russia'a Maxim Kovtun. This top made the look. I normally would complain about those been there/done that black pants but here, they were just right for this costume.

Maxim Kovtun Russia Free Skate to Iron Sky by Paolo Nutini: I was a big fan of this "costume" Maxim wore for his Free Skate. I really liked how the costume designer created this Moto Jacket-and-white-tank look. It was all sewn in and was very effective. He looked Rocker hot and oh-so-hipster cool as well! Loved those patches and his SUPER TIGHT pants (sorry but I had to say that!).

Javier Fernandez Spain Short Program to Malaguena performed by Paco de Lucia and Placido Domingo: Javier wore this black costume of a stretch jersey long sleeve top, pants and faux leather suspenders for this skate. I liked the modernist look and not-so-obvious "Flamenco"-like costume. It was chic, if that can be said for a man (I think it can!). Now, if we can just have him work on those flamenco hand movements and make them look a bit less...stilted...I would be very happy!

Javier Fernandez of Spain Free Program to Trouble, Fever and Jailhouse Rock performed by Elvis Presley: I love me some Javier and while I think this Elvis music was good for him, well...he just needed a little more sensual rhythm to pull it off (he was a bit robotic and non-Elvis smooth for my taste--kind of like his hand movement to the "Malaguena" in his Short Program). Now, in terms of his costume, this was good. It evoked the "Elvis" look, it was 50's-esque and the bold black-and-white color blocking of his "Bowling Shirt" was effective.

**UP NEXT: The ICE DANCE and PAIRS Costumes Highlights of 2017 European Figure Skating Championships!

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ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: ICE DANCE & PAIRS

February 3, 2017, 9:03 am

≫ Next: SASHES AND TIARAS.....Best of 2016 (and early 2017!): Top 25 Best Beauty Pageant Gowns

≪ Previous: ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: LADIES & MEN

Pink Pair: Duskova and Bidar of the Czech Republic performing their Short Program at the 2017 European Figure Skating Championships, Ostrava Czech Republic

In my last post HERE, I discussed the LADIES and MEN costumes form the 2017 European Figure Skating Championships, so now it's time to talk about the ICE DANCE and PAIRS:

ICE DANCE---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France Short Dance to Blues: Bittersweet by Lene Riebau, Maxim Illion perf. by Club des Belugas and Swing: Diga Diga Doo by Dorthy Fields, Jimmy McHugh perf. by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: The fabulous Ice Dance pair of Papadakis and Cizeron wore these costumes above for their Short Dance. She wore a blue dress with gold embroidery in the top section. And sexy Guillaume donned a midnight blue jacket with gold detailed lapels, DEEP PLUNGING neckline white shirt and blue pants. These were a Costume Change--and much better looks than what they had worn previously for the same Short Program which were (at least to me) a bit too "Renaissance-y Romeo and Juliet-ish:

Papadakis and Cizeron Short Dance--back during the Trophee de France and NHK Trophy--I like the new costumes better than these above.

Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron France Free Skate to Stillness by Nest, Oddudua by Aldo Lopez Gavilan, Happiness Does Not Wait by Olafur Arnalds: I love these costumes above. Glad they didn't change these, thank you very much! I think she looks absolutely ethereal and Runway Chic Goddess in the one-shoulder gathered top ombre-dyed dress and Guillaume is a BICEP GOD in this. Sleeveless works very well on him: Tres Bien!

Ekaterina Bobrova and Dmitri Soloviev Russia Short Dance to Blues: Mercy On Me by Christina Aguilera; Swing: Sing Sing Sing by Louis Prima--Bobrova and Soloviev wore these costumes for their Blues/Swing Short Dance. His was a black jacket, white dress shirt and black pants, while hers was a sexy black knit jersey dress with jeweled sequin embellishment. I think her look was on-point with the music and his outfit--while not so creative--was right for being her partner.

Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--I love this Ice Dance couple from Italy. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances. For their Short Dance, they donned these bold looks. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit. Fun, graphic and they made me smile! A Ten in my Ice Dance Costumes Book!

Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Free Dance Limelight by Charlie Chaplin, Chaplin Medley and City Lights: Overture by Charlie Chaplin--The theme was Charlie Chaplin and Anna wore this black costume dress with white Peter Pan collar. Luca donned a tuxedo look. This was a Costume Change from what they had worn previously for this same SP. I was disappointed. Her black dress was too dark and made it look monastic. Not sure why they changed,. I liked the previous costumes much, much better:

More Fab Chaplin--Capellini and Lanotte's Short program costumes from Skate Canada and NHK Trophy

PAIRS-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anna Duskova and Martin Bidar Czech republic Short Program to LA 40 (Album: Tango Hereje) by The Mozart Tango Players: I liked these colorful pink and violet costumes from the Czech Pairs team. The colors were vibrant and fun. And I also admired how his matched hers. It's just those little things that make me say "Yep! That's a good Costume Pair"

Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres Sound of Silence by Disturbed and Maxime Rodriguez: There wasn't much to these all black "costumes" from James and Cipres of France. He wore a black top and deep gray-ish skin-tight pants. And Vanessa donned a black Lycra body suit. It was a bit early 80's Disco but I still think it reflected the music and looked slightly directional. They also looked SUPER SEXY.

Nicole della Monica and Mateo Guarise Italy Free Skate to Love Story (soundtrack) by Francis Lai, performed by Nana Mouskouri: This Italian Pair wore these black costumes with silver crystal embellishments. They were nice and had the right bit of Figure Skating stage impact to compliment the music.

Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot Germany Short Program to That Man by Caro Emerald: 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). I also liked her sequined headband accessory. In terms of the guy, I liked that Massot matched her costume's color with the tie.

Aliona Savchenko and Bruno Massot of Germany Free Skate to Lighthouse by Patrick Watson: I love these costumes worn by Savchenko and Massot for their Free Skate. They are elegant and subdued with a dash of sparkle with the beautiful over-sized crystals. Hers looks like a figure skating costume version of an Haute Couture Elie Saab gown. And his, well--I BOW to him for giving me sequins and semi-sheer.

Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov Russia Short Program to Glam (Electro Swing Remix) by Dimie Cat: I liked these costumes, especially her shimmying silver and gold fringed design. I also appreciated his semi-matching vest. My only complaint is that for a couple with such fair skin color, the light color of the costumes tended to wash them out. They didn't really "pop" on the ice.

Evgenia Tarasova and Vladimir Morozov Russia Free Skate to Music by John Miles: The music was a bit 80's and so were their costumes so...I guess that's good! They went with a blue and black theme with asymmetrical style lines and minimal silver crystal detail. Not sure how necessary those off-white "sleeves" were but who cares? They got the Gold!

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Best of 2016 (and early 2017!): Top 25 Best Beauty Pageant Gowns

February 6, 2017, 10:38 pm

≫ Next: FIDM.....FIDM Museum 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition

≪ Previous: ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: ICE DANCE & PAIRS

Best of the Caped Queens: Caped and Watteau-back Gowns at 2016 Beauty Pageants (L to R) Miss South Dakota USA Madison McKeown, Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane, Miss Venezuela Keysi Sayago, Miss World Philippines Catriona Gray

As you may know, I cover Beauty Pageant Evening Gowns here on my "Sashes and Tiaras" blog and I have written about A LOT of gowns this past year! And since the last "Biggie" of international beauty pageants occurred last week-- the 65th Miss Universe Pageant--I thought it was finally time to give my Top 25 Best Pageant Evening Gowns of this past 2016 (and early 2017) Season.

Originally I had almost FORTY gowns here but naturally I had to edit them because the blog would just go on and on, and on, and that's not cute. I've included my favorites from international beauty pageants including the most recent Miss Universe, Miss World 2016, Miss International 2016, Miss Grand International 2016, Miss Supranational 2016, Miss USA 2016, Miss Binibining Pilipinas (Miss Universe Philippines) 2016 and Miss Venezuela 2016.

Ballgown Divas: (L to R) Miss Sucre Venezuela Victoria Gonzalez, Miss World 2016 Stephanie De Valle and Miss Universe Ukraine Alena Spodynyuk

There were several Gown Themes that were popular throughout this past year's international pageants, including "Caped Queens", "Ballgown Divas", "Sequined Divas" and a "Mermaid Gal" or two. So without keeping you in Gown Suspense much further...here are my Top 25 Favorite Gowns of 2016 (and early 2017):

1. Miss Universe Ukraine Alena Spodynyuk: I literally got up off my couch and started doing my own "pretend Pageant Gown Runway Walk" when Miss Universe Ukraine entered the stage with this red sequined silk gown from Lebanese designer Ziad Nakad. The coral-like sequin detail was exquisite and the fit was perfection which is not a surprise since this was from the designer's Couture collection. I loved the slightly pouf'ed sleeves, open back and to top everything off, her hair and makeup were FLAWLESS. For me, this was hands down THE BEST GOWN of 2016 Miss Universe Preliminary Competition and so sad she didn't get to 'feature" it at the Finals since she did not become a Semi-Finalist.

2. Miss South Dakota USA Madison McKeown: Out of the 52 contestants vying for this year's 2016 Miss USA title, in terms of evening gowns, Miss South Dakota SHUT IT DOWN. When she appeared onstage, I immediately knew that we had gone into non-Sherri Hill Couture Territory! Madison wore an ivory silk crepe gown that had an attached dramatic cape and was hand-painted dip-dye of blue and silver. It fit her perfectly and she brought the Miss USA 2016 Evening Gown Competition to a new Haute level during the Finals. The dress is from Tony Ward Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2015/2016 Collection. Ward is one of those Lebanese Couturiers that are favored by the Gulf State Ladies as well as European Awards Show Red Carpets such as Cannes. This dress was a MAJAH "Bravo!" gown moment.

3. Miss Sucre (at Miss Venezuela 2016) Victoria Gonzalez: This gown design by Venezuelan designer Alejandro Fajardo was probably the most impacting, chic, Haute Couture-like gown of the night. I loved the striking design and silhouette which featured a fitted column with attached ballgown overskirt. The fit was also amazing and the silver Baroque-like sequins over the ziberline base was EVERYTHING.

4. Miss Venezuela 2016 Keysi Sayago: I loved this gown ensemble worn by Keysi Sayago "Miss Monagas" who was eventually crowned "Miss Venezuela. The ivory silk crepe gown was designed by Hugo Espina and it had a gorgeous and dramatic hi-lo short sleeve cape. It was heavily--and beautifully--embroidered with silver sequins throughout. The only thing I didn't like were the gloves and TOO-platform'ed pumps (Can you say "Tacky-licious!?). But, I will overlook those little accessories details when a gown like this is so Alta Moda perfect.

5. Miss WorldPhilippines Catriona Gray: Miss World Philippines made the Top Five at last year's Miss World wearing this very beautiful dusty rose pink-colored gown. I love everything about it: The gorgeous sequin work, the style, the back "Watteau"-like cape detail. This was a "Get Your Crown" gown! Unfortunately, she didn't...but almost. It was still, one of my Top Favorite Gowns of the "Miss World 2016" Finals and of this past year!

6. Miss Universe Vietnam Le Hang: This gown was INCREDIBLE: The Mermaid shaped gown featured nude backing, silver sequin applique, fitted long sleeves, scooped and squared neckline and finally, a very dramatic train. She looked like the Queen of a COUNTRY! Seriously, this needs to be in a fashion museum, like yesterday. In addition, it was very smart for her to do her hair sleek and pulled to the back, clean and chic and keep the accessories to almost nothing--except earrings. When you are wearing a gown like this...who needs anything else...except a crown perhaps? Stunning.

7. Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane: Speaking of stunning...Chalita Suansane wore MY FAVORITE GOWN of the recent 65th Miss Universe Pageant. When she stepped onto the stage for the Evening Gown competition, she SHUT IT DOWN in this gown from Thai fashion brand Asava Group and its Creative Director Polpat Asavaprapha. I loved the Haute Couture drama, the simplicity of the silhouette, the overt homage to traditional Thai dresses...and that back cape was EVERYTHING! She looked like a DIVA. On a minor negative note, I wished she would not have worn those nude platform shoes with this black gown! What was she thinking? Oh well, I'm trying to ignore that shoe faux pas!

8. Miss Miranda (in Miss Venezuela 2016) Rosangelica Piscitelli: Rosangelica was one of the favorites to win the crown. She surprisingly ended up getting Fourth Runner-up but did get the "Miss Elegance" and "Miss Photogenic" titles. In terms of her gown, she was very on-trend with this caped design by Venezuelan designer Hugo Espina. The blush/nude gown featured lots of gold, silver and copper sequin applique work. She looked like she was worth A MILLION BUCKS!

9. Miss Universe Colombia Andrea Tovar: Andrea wore this golden gown from Colombian designer Alfredo Barraza. She looked beautiful and the gown was STUNNING. The strapless sequined applique design was fitted with a flared bottom section and featured scalloped stiffened tiers beginning at the hip. It was very Haute Couture in its silhouette and fabrication. Muy Bella. Bella enough to almost become Miss Universe. Almost.

10. Miss World 2016 Stephanie Del Valle: Stephanie--who represented "Puerto Rico" wore this pale pink ballgown made of silk organza and 24,000 Swarovski crystals. The tiered design was created by Puerto Rican fashion designer Carlos Alberto who named Stephanie as his Muse (I would too!). It was STUNNING, beautiful, and very "Miss World". It was one of the BEST gowns of the pageant and one of my Top 25 Favorites of the Year!

11. Miss International Indonesia Felicia Hwang: The beautiful Felicia won the "Miss Best Dresser" Award during the entire competition, as she was very much the perfectly styled fashionista throughout the pre-finals events. Her gown--created by Indonesian designer Anaz Couture--for the final night was STUNNING. The royal blue and ivory halter-style gown featured intricate sequined embroidery that almost made her look like a priceless Ming Vase. To add major drama to the design, it featured a gorgeous satin cape attached to the back. Felicia was coming to win with this gown--and she almost did, since she got the 2nd Runner-up crown in this fabulous and dramatic design.

12. Miss Universe India Roshmitha Harimurthy: The minute Roshmitha walked onto the stage in this red gown, I gasped; The gown was so elegant, beautifully made and perfect for her. The lipstick red silk crepe gown featured gorgeous bead work, side front slit, long sleeves and plunging neckline (but not too plunging). I loved the shape and especially the solid softly draped overskirt. In case you are wondering, it was designed by "Project Runway" Season 14 designer Swapnil Shinde. Congrats to Swapnil for such a gorgeous design which was one of my favorites of this past Miss Universe and made it onto my Top 25 Beauty Pageant Evening Gowns List.

13. Miss Universe Georgia Nuka Karalashvili: Nuka is a working print and runway model and well, if you had any doubt, all you had to do was witness her performance and entrance in the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries Evening Gown Competition. I LOVED her ivory gown which featured multi-jeweled silver and blue sequins and paillettes--heavily beaded at the top but then delicately placed throughout the rest of the dress. It also had a cascade draped overskirt that was not overwhelming and worked seamlessly with the rest of the design. A GORGEOUS contestant wearing a GORGEOUS gown!

14. Miss Universe Venezuela Mariam Habach: One word--WOW! Mariam--who was a BIG FAVORITE to win the crown but didn't even place into the Semi-Finals--entered the stage in what first looked like a ballgown with a sequined top and feathered bottom skirt. Then...slowly but surely, she looked to the right and then to the left and VOILA: She unsnapped the feathered white/blue ombre shaded feathered skirt and...With a twirl, showed the inner sequined column gown hiding underneath. It was a MAJAH Pageant Moment and kudos to Venezuelan designer Nidal Noauihed for the design! Watch this video below to see the Gown Moment that I was talking about (and hootin' and hollerin' from the audience!):

15. Miss Universe Thailand Chalita Suansane: Chalita already made this list with the black sequined cape-back one shoulder gown I included toward the beginning of the blog and here, she makes my list once again! I loved this original gown design from Thai designer Adhit Dhirakittiwat "Joe Surface" for the Miss Universe Preliminary Competition. The minute she stepped on stage, Chalita got my attention with this dramatic Couture Runway-worthy style of a gown. It was a bit over the top, but just RIGHT over-the-top! I loved the silver applique over clear organza, the fitted halter-style bustier and exploding tulle netting back overskirt. This is the kind of gown that makes little boys dream of being either A) A Fashion Designer or B) Drag Beauty Queens. Just fabulous.

16. Miss Supranational Philippines Joanna Eden: Miss Supranational Philippines Joanna Eden wore this beautiful teal-colored gown from Filipino designer Mark Bumbarner. The custom-made gown featured an off-shoulder draped neckline/top section and split-front skirt, as well as a dramatic overskirt. She looked flawless and so did this gown and that's why I included it in my Top 25 of 2016!

17. Miss Universe Jamaica Isabel Dalley: Isabel is one of the MOST BEAUTIFUL women of the Miss Universe 2016 pageant yet she didn't even place as a Semi-Finalist. Nevertheless, she looked resplendent in this red sequin, tulle and feathered gown. The jeweled applique work was out of control gorgeous and the manner it was placed throughout the dress was strategically impressive. Normally, I might not been a fan of the plumage but I LOVED it; it was used delicately and like a quiet "exclamation point" for the dress. One of the BEST red gowns of the season!

18. Miss Supranational 2016 Srinidhi Shetty: The eventual winner from India, Srinidhi wore this gold gown featuring leaf-like "fringe" sequins that fluttered beautifully as she walked. I thought the design had a strong gold color and stage presence. The gown fit well and looked perfect for her and was one of the best of the Golden Gowns of the year.

19. Miss Universe 2016 Iris Mittenaere: The gorgeous Miss France wore this almost see-through shimmering gown from Vietnamese designer Hoang Hai. I thought she looked stunning in this creation that featured silver and gold sequins on a nude tulle base with long sleeves. It fit her to perfection and was "Miss Universe" right--so right that SHE WON!

20. Miss Universe Indonesia Kezia Warouw: Kezia wore this strapless gown for the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries and I liked it so much, I placed it as one of Top 25 Best of the 2016 Pageant Season. She looked like an actress at the Cannes Red Carpet. I loved this gown for its simplicity and clean elegant silhouette. It was designed by Indonesian designer Ivan Gunawan and featured a stiffened bustier and full skirt with high side slit and thousands of Swarovski crystals.

21. Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber: I loved this golden gown worn by Miss District of Columbia USA Deshauna Barber who eventually became Miss USA 2016. She wore this gown for the Preliminaries and it was designed by Juan Carlos Pinera. The design featured a nude organza base with gold metallic criss-cross detail and had an iridescent organza attached overskirt. This was one of the most outstanding gowns of 2016!

22. Miss Universe Aruba Charlene Leslie: I thought Charlene was one of the Top Standouts of the Miss Universe 2016 Preliminaries but once again, she didn't even make the Semi-Finalist Top 13. For the gown moment, she wore this white column gown that featured bands of sequins juxtaposed with bands of satin. It fit her perfectly and she looked elegant, classy and on-point. Oh, and her chignon hairstyle was EVERYTHING darlings...so "vintage" Miss Venezuela.

23. Miss Binibining Pilipinas #16 Vina Openiano: Out of all the gowns at the 2016 Binibining Pilipinas (Miss Universe Philippines) 2016 Pageant, this canary yellow gown worn by Vina Openiano was my favorite and it was beautiful enough to make my Best of 2016 List. I loved the color, the sequin applique and the shape fit her very well. She looked like a Pageant Goddess. Her hair and makeup were DIVA-licious, as well.

24. Miss Grand International 2016 Ariska Putri Pertiwi: Ariska represented Indonesia and won the entire pageant. The gown she wore was one of the most stunning ones of the pageant. Her gown was inspired by the Javan hawk-eagle and was completely handmade, featuring 800 emerald crystals and 3,000 Swarovski golden crystals. The entire gown took 1200 hours to create. In other words, this was true Haute Couture and probably would retail in the $80,000-$100,000 range, if you were wealthy enough to be able to order it. It was a stunning mermaid-shaped gown and probably THE BEST of that silhouette of the entire past year!

Lastly...

25. Miss Supranational Malaysia Julylen Liew Gizelle: I absolutely LOVED this silver sequined gown worn by Miss Supranational Malaysia. Not only is the design outstanding and Couture-worthy, I love the perfect fit, her chic center-parted chignon hair as well as choice of earrings. Normally I would criticize these too-high platform heels (these are a but TOO HIGH!), but I'm glad she chose to wear gold/metallic ones as opposed to nude or Lucite "Stripper" styles. I just loved the style, the silver sequined fabrication and overall, she looked beautiful.

**UP NEXT: The "Uh OH" Pageant Gowns of 2016 (and early 2017)! Stay tuned...

↧

FIDM.....FIDM Museum 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition

February 7, 2017, 10:12 pm

≫ Next: SASHES AND TIARAS.....Top 20 Worst Gowns in a Beauty Pageant of 2016 (and early 2017)

≪ Previous: SASHES AND TIARAS.....Best of 2016 (and early 2017!): Top 25 Best Beauty Pageant Gowns

Silver Anniversary: Nick Verreos attending the Opening Night Reception of the 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

This past Saturday, I had the honor of attending the Opening Night Reception of the 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition at FIDM Museum. The exhibit salutes the creativity of costume designers for film with a museum show of outstanding costumes and Oscar nominated designs. There are over 100 costumes from 20+ films showcased in this year's exhibition, including Oscar-nominees for Best Costume Design "Allied", "Fantastic Beast and Where To Find Them", "Florence Foster Jenkins"and "La La Land".

Costume Fabulosity: 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

All photos except second to the right, top, courtesy of ABImages

If you love costume design and fashion, enjoy Hollywood films, and are a big fan of anything related to the Academy Awards...this is the "Quadruple Threat" of Fab Exhibitions: A Must-See! It opened this Tuesday and runs through April 22nd, but here's the best part!, it's FREE! (scroll to the end for all the details!)

Nick Verreos filming interviews with ABC7-LA Adrienne Alpert--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

For Saturday's Opening Night Party, as the Official Fashion and Museum Spokesperson, I also had the pleasure of doing some press and TV interviews as well as meeting several of the incredible costume designers whose work is being showcased at the exhibition. Below are some photos from the Party as well as some of the Films and Costumes showcased in the Exhibition!

With my NIKOLAKI Better Half: Nick Verreos and David Paul--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

Runway Couple: Nick Verreos with "Project Runway" Season 14 Finalist Candice Cuoco--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Nick Verreos and "La La Land" Costume Designer Mary Zophres--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photos courtesy of ABImages

Costume Designer Sanja Milkovic Hays of "Star Trek Beyond" (top) and "Fences" Costume Designer Sharen Davis (lower photo)--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photos courtesy of ABImages

"Captain Fantastic" Costume Designer Courtney Hoffman (L) and Costume Designer Arianne Phillips of "Nocturnal Animals" (R)--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photos courtesy of ABImages

Some of the Oscars-nominated Best Costume Designs at the 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition:

"La La Land"--Costume Designer Mary Zophres--Did you know that Emma Stone's dress for the dancing scenes where all made for the film and that as the film progresses, the volume of her skirts get more and more "voluminous"--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Lower photo courtesy of ABImages

"Allied"--Costume Designer Joanna Johnston--For "Allied", Johnston had to design for elegant "Old Hollywood Glamour" scenes in Casablanca, as well as WWII war-torn London--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them"--Costume Designer Colleen Atwood--The film takes place in 1920's "Jazz Age" NYC and the costumes reflect this--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Florence Fostern Jenkins"--Costume Designer Consolata Boyle--Boyle had to create a padded bodysuit for actress Meryl Streep and then the costumes were designed to fit that. In addition, she wanted the dresses to be as "outrageous" as Florence Foster Jenkins' voice--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

Here are some of the other wonderful costumes on display at this year's Exhibition:

"Alice Through The Looking Glass"--Costume Designer Colleen Atwood--Atwood has FOUR films showcased in this Exhibition, and these "Alice" costumes are some of my favorites!--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice"--Costume Designer Michael Wilkinson--Here's some Costume Dish: Wonder Woman's costume was inspired by Greek and Roman Gladiators and there are (supposedly) about 40 "WW's" initials in the costume. Go to the Exhibition and try and find them!--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Top photo courtesy of ABImages

"Captain Fantastic"--Costume Designer Courtney Hoffman--Viggo Mortensen's red checkered shirt in the costume above was actually the shirt he wore to his wedding (Yikes!)--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Fences"--Costume Designer Sharen Davis--Davis wanted to make sure she was respectful of author August Wilson's work through her costumes--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Hail, Caesar!"--Costume Designer Mary Zophres--Zophres (who also designed "La La Land") said that where most of the costume budget was spent was on actress Tilda Swinton's super chic costumes (second from the left in top photo, and lower photo)--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Top photo courtesy of ABImages

"Hidden Figures"--Costume Designer Renee Ehrlich Kalfus--Costume designer Renee Ehrlich Kalfus research included NASA archives as well as back issues of Ebony Magazine, in order to get the costumes just right--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"Zoolander 2"--Costume Designer Leesa Evans--Evans's imagined male model "Derek Zoolander" and how he would dress 15 years after his fame had peaked and used his icons as Yves Saint Laurent and Paco Rabanee. Go figure!--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Photo courtesy of ABImages

"The Huntsman: Winter's War"--Costume Designer Colleen Atwood--The main section of actress Charlize Theron's "Queen Ravenna" (lower photo) costume is made of leather that has been gold foiled and done to resemble Venetian blinds. Seriously!--25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition, FIDM Museum

Top photo courtesy of ABImages

Click below to watch a great segment from ABC7's Adrienne Alpert:

Here's all the INFO. on the Exhibition:

Photo courtesy of ABImages

WHAT: 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition

WHERE: FIDM Museum & Galleries--On the Park, 1st Level
919 So. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90015 (Corner of Grand Avenue & 9th Street)

WHEN: Open from Tuesday February 2017 until April 22, 2017; 10 am-5pm Tuesday- Saturday; Closed Sundays & Mondays.

ADMISSION: Free!

FOR MORE INFO: Call 213-623-5821 ext. 2224

FOR MEDIA: Contact Shirley Wilson 213-624-1200 ext. 2625

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SASHES AND TIARAS.....Top 20 Worst Gowns in a Beauty Pageant of 2016 (and early 2017)

February 9, 2017, 9:05 pm

≫ Next: FIDM....San Diego Open House 2017: RECAP, Photos!

≪ Previous: FIDM.....FIDM Museum 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition

That's A LOT of Gown!--Did Miss Universe Kazakhstan Make my Top 20 Worst Gown in a Beauty Pageant List? Maybe...

In my last "Sashes and Tiaras" post HERE, I blogged about my list of Top 25 Beauty Pageant Gowns of 2016--and early 2017-- since I had to include the most recent "Miss Universe" Pageant. So, now is the "UH OH Sister" of that list: My Top 20 "Oh No Huney! Gowns of 2016/early 2017". As always, there's always some not-so-good that come along with the FABULOUS...

Too Muchey and Too Tacky: Worst Gowns in an International Beauty Pageant 2016

These are gowns that pageant contestants--from "Miss Grand International 2016", "Miss Supranational 2016", "Miss USA 2016", "Binibining Pilipinas/Miss Universe Philippines 2016", "Miss Venezuela 2016", "Miss Universe 2016"and several others--left me wondering "What the Heck?"..."Do You Have a Pageant Glam Team/Best Gay friend?" and "What Were You Thinking?". I am sure that many of them may have had no other choice or might have been "ill-advised" to wear these styles but in any case, these were Beautiful Women Wearing the Wrong Gowns.

I have narrowed my list to 20 and here are the Worst Dressed Pageant Offenders:

1. Miss Grand International Czech Republic Monika Vaculikova: Well, well, well, look what we have here. Monika wore this ivory tulle and lace applique gown that featured feathers (if the tulle and sequins and applique were not enough!). This is a big ol' mess. Plain and Pageant Simple. It's like a tacky stripper wanted to get married and she decided to wear this. She needs to give this to a thrift store in the Czech Republic. ASAP.

2. Binibining Pilipinas Contestant No. 17 Priscilla Kimberley dela Cruz: Well, where do I begin with this one? Priscilla wore this silver gown with what seemed like Christmas ornaments stuck to her shoulders and all around her gown. It's a bit of a mess. The design was like Star Trek-meets-Christmas...and that's not a good thing. And then, someone gave her the unfortunate advice to actually ADD those too-big earrings and a necklace. This was the definition of TOO MUCHEEY.

3. Miss Supranational Slovak Republic Lenka Tekeljakova: If I can say something nice, it is that she looks ethereal--or like she belongs in a flower garden. Other than that, this is just a Flower Mess. Pink tulle, flower pedal appliques all bunched together in her breasts...what would make her think this was A) Elegant; B) Cute; C) Gown chic; and D) Appropriate for an international pageant contestant? I can see this on a Flower Day Parade (if there is such a thing) or a Spring Dance Recital but for the Evening Gown Competition of "Miss Supranational"? Nope.

4. Miss Grand International Ethiopia Genet Tsegay: Oh No Genet! I just have one question: Did you look in a mirror before going out--or at least, when you chose this gown? Here's the thing--those bra cups/pads SHOULDN'T BE SHOWING. EVER. It's so tacky I don't even know where to start. I feel bad for her since she is quite pretty. The tacky-licious bra-pad exposing gown just ruined her.

5. Miss World Philippines Contestant No. 9 Jan Helen Villanueva: Two words: Oh Dear! OK, let me start with the good: I liked the bright canary yellow color of this gown and liked the semi-one-shoulder neckline but after that, it all went No-No. The gathering at the bust looks bulky, the sequin applique looks cheap--and also heavy. And then WHAT IS THAT IN FRONT OF HER CROTCH!? Who, in their right fashion design mind, would place a pointed sequin applique THERE? It's like a big sign saying "Hey! Take a look at my Cha-Cha!" Nope, I won't.

6. Miss Supranational Germany Anja-Vanessa Peter: I don't even know where to begin with Miss Supranational Germany and this gown. Maybe I'll start with the obvious: THAT "Peacock"-inspired sequined top! First of all, the fit is awkward; it's way too low and makes her look as if she has "Sagging Boob Syndrome". I also think it's a bit too "Showgirl/Las Vegas". And then (yes, there is more!), IT'S A SEQUINED LEOTARD/BODYSUIT...with an attached ivory double-front split skirt. There are so many things wrong with what I just typed, I am shaking! But God bless her, she is a trouper: Smiling through it all.

7. Miss Grand International Moldova Alina Staicu: I had to Google her and her age because, in this photo (and this Mother-of-the-Bride gown) she looked like she was 50. In case you are wondering, she is only 27 years-old. The whole look is a mess: Too much hair, too much makeup and too 1992-like tacky gown. Oh, and in case you might have missed it...check out her BLACK PLATFORM HEELS. Someone PLEASE give this girl a GAY Fashion-savvy Bestie. ASAP!

8. Miss Supranational Gibraltar Aisha Ben Yahya: When you combine Cha-Cha Drag Queen, Figure Skating Costume and "Folies Bergere", this is what you get. While it is super fun and she's probably a hoot at a party, this is just the kind of gown that will get people talking...but for the wrong reasons. #Gurl #YouAreNotAShowgirl

9. Miss Universe Canada Siera Bearchell: Miss Universe Canada wore this white mermaid-style gown for the Miss Universe 2016 Finals Evening Gown competition. In front of MILLIONS of viewers! The dress featured a fitted torso with sequins and applique, sweetheart neckline, nude illusion, full mermaid-style organza skirt section and (if that wasn't enough!), a neck piece. It was A LOT, overwhelming, kind of Tacky-licious and waaaaay too 1980s Pageant Betty. Compared to many of the "Miss Universe 2016" Semi-finalist's gowns, this was just unacceptable. On a good note, Siera's hair and makeup (accentuating those Elizabeth Taylor-like eyes!) was perfect!

10. Miss Supranational England Angelina Kali: While I give her points for "Sexy Drama", this white lace gown was Tacky Sexy--in a "Virgin Elvira" sort of way. First off, the fabrication looked like a doily. There were many things wrong with this: The style was just way too revealing; the side front slit, the side midriff cut-out, the shoulder...and then, she had a look of "How Mucheey?" that took it to another Tacky-licious level.

11. Miss New York USA Serena Bocaj: Miss New York USA was a gorgeous contestant who made a wrong gown choice. When her name and state was called during the Evening Gown portion, I could not believe that she walked out in this golden-silver gathered gown mess. She looked MUMSY, like the mother-of-the-bride. Why would she allow herself to be swallowed up in this concoction? And to add insult to style injury, the fit was awkward at best: It is high-waisted and therefore cutting her body off, it is too heavily ruched at the waist and front (it should have been FLAT with no ruching at the front), and the sequin top didn't help at all. I hope she gave this to Goodwill or Out of the Closet.

12. Miss Universe Myanmar Htet Htet Htun: Htet Htet won the Best National Costume Award for the 65th Miss Universe Pageant--and for good reason! Hers was my favorite!--but she's not getting any trophies for this gown from me! This highlighter yellow nude organza, chiffon, sequined dress is just too tasteless and tacky. There's too much going on, too much "boob-age", too much of everything. It's like a gown the wife of a nouveau riche Russian Oligarch would pay thousands of dollars for because she thinks it "looks expensive". Nope, it looks TACKY.

13. Miss Carabobo 2016 at Miss Venezuela 2016, Frinddy Bocaranda: Oh Frinddy! What Mardi Gras Carnival float are you riding in with this get-up? This emerald green colored gown featured jeweled sequins down the front, an iridescent overlay, nude illusion bodice and naturally, if that wasn't enough, there was a tiered back overskirt. This was a Ticky-Tacky, Figure Skating Costume Meets Carnival Hot Mess. Ayyy Dios Mio! #Mija

14. Miss Earth South Africa Nozipho Magagula: I liked the color of Nozipho's gown but after that, she lost me. This look was cheap-looking and off-the-rack. The fabric looked like it came from Downtown L.A. Santee Alley and it was too short where you could see her super tacky sequined platform pumps (right photo above). This gown choice was a miss, and a shame, for such a pretty contestant. Sorry Nozipho.

15. Miss Supranational Guadeloupe Jenifer Geran: File under "Bless Your Heart". I am sure Miss Supranational Guadeloupe probably does not get the same amount of pageant funding a "Miss Venezuela" or "Miss Philippines" does. And so, I try and cut her some slack but...this iridescent gown is just Tacky-licious. It looks inexpensive and a bit "Happy Hands at Home"--like if her cousin or grandma made it. I used to excuse these things but, when you are competing in such an international pageant stage, these ladies need to bring it! At the very least: Read a Vogue Magazine or look at Vogue.com for Runway/Red Carpet Gown suggestions and see if anyone in that gorgeous island of hers can copy it! Otherwise, please don't even think about packing such a mess of a dress.

16. Miss Supranational Nigeria Adaeze Obasi: Not sure why anyone did not tell the lovely Adaeza that the inner dress of this gown was WAAAY too short. This could have been nice if the skirt didn't stop 1/4" below her CHA-CHA and if the inside wasn't pink and...well, I could just go on and on. This was "Housewives of (fill in the blank)" tacky.

17. Miss Ohio USA Megan Wise: First off, I think that Megan was one of the most impacting and beautiful contestants at Miss USA 2016. She reminded me of a red-haired Shandi Finnessey (Miss USA 2004 and First Runner-up to Miss Universe 2004). During the Preliminaries, Megan wore this sequin-and-feathers gown. to sum it up: it was A LOT. The feathers really took it to Costume Cha-Cha mode and really distracted from her stunning beauty. I just don't understand why anyone would think that the multicolored sequins weren't enough and therefore, they felt it needed layers upon layers of feathers. Sorry Megan but this gown is one of my Worst Picks for Beauty Pageant Gowns of 2016.

18. Miss Distrito Capital 2016 at Miss Venezuela 2016, Yanett Margarita Diaz Dib: There were A LOT of Too Mucheee gowns at last year's "Miss Venezuela" and one could argue that maybe lots of them were a mess (I kinda liked some of them!), but I just couldn't even begin to explain the one above. The design was by Venezuelan couturier Raenrra and featured a pink and silver sequined column gown with heavily appliqued bodice and then, a very over-the-top multi-multi-MULTI ruffled and tiered back overskirt. That overskirt alone could be used as a major flotation device. And I can only imagine the hours upon hours of work to sew that. The gown itself wasn't so bad (OK, it was Showgirl tacky!), but in combination with the overskirt...she looked like a Drag Queen on a float in Rio in 1995. Really Too Mucheee.

19. Miss Connecticut USA Tiffany Teixeira: Tiffany is GORGEOUS and I really didn't have a problem with her red off-the-shoulder overskirt gown. She looked quite impacting and pretty. But then...my eyes panned down and all of a sudden I had the "Shower Scene from Psycho" music playing in my head: THOSE TACKY LUCITE STRIPPER HEELS!!!!!! She ruined the whole look with those darn shoes! Why do these girls do this to themselves? Two scenarios: 1) She just wants to look taller. (On Wikipedia, it says she's 5' 7" which means she's probably 5' 5") 2) These gown samples are normally made for 5'8" or taller and therefore instead of shortening the hem, they give her some SUPER high platform heels to fix that! Either way, there's really no excuse to wear these, unless you work at Spearmint Rhino Strip Club in LA.

Finally...

20. Miss Universe Kazakhstan Darina Kulsitova: Yes, kids I watched the 65th Miss Universe Preliminaries and during the Evening Gown Competition, I almost spilled my wine when I saw this! Darina wore this bell-shaped ballgown featuring hundreds, if not thousands, of jeweled sequins as well as feathers at the bottom. If that wasn't enough, there was a crystal choker to finish it all off! She looked like the top of a Christmas tree. While I gave her points for making a statement...this was a totally tacky and overdone one.

**Hopefully this post helps any future Beauty Pageant contestants at International Beauty Pageants and what they SHOULD NOT WEAR! I'm trying to help one tacky beauty pageant contestant one blog post at a time :)

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FIDM....San Diego Open House 2017: RECAP, Photos!

February 21, 2017, 9:14 am

≫ Next: NICK APPEARANCES.....2017 Academy Awards ABC On The Red Carpet Pre-Show 5pmET/2pmPT

≪ Previous: SASHES AND TIARAS.....Top 20 Worst Gowns in a Beauty Pageant of 2016 (and early 2017)

Everyone Say "FIDM San Diego!": Nick Verreos takes a group photo with attendees at FIDM San Diego Open House February 2017

Last week, I had the privilege of traveling to San Diego for the FIDM San Diego Open House. My Alma Mater, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, was holding their Open Houses throughout all its four campuses and as a former grad/alumni and Spokesperson for the College, I got to do my "Open House Talk/Presentation" at the San Diego campus. Open House is a chance for anyone interested in a career in fashion design, social media, styling, graphic design, interior design, digital media, apparel business (as well as many more) to tour the campuses, meet instructors, alumni, and get to find out more about what FIDM offers...

In order to travel to San Diego from my home in LA for my appearance, I decided to do something I have never done before in my 30+ years of living in Southern California...TAKE THE TRAIN!!!

Train Happy: When I usually have an appearance at FIDM San Diego, I travel by car with my NIKOLAKIpartner David Paul (who happens to be from San Diego) but this time, he couldn't come so I had to travel solo and I didn't want to do the 3+ hour--sometimes more--drive by myself so...I realized "hey, maybe I should take the train!". I took the Amtrak "Pacific Surfliner" train from Los Angeles' Downtown Union Station to Downtown San Diego: It was so relaxing and so nice. I got to read my book, relax and nap...and now, I am a CHANGED MAN!

On my way to the Open House, there was a small street fair in honor of the Chinese Lunar New Year, and I got to snap a photo of this young girl doing something I could NEVER in a million years do:

Stretch Princess: Young performer at San Diego Chinese New Year street festival

And now, onto the FIDM Open House February 2017 Appearance:

Ready for my Open House Talk: Nick Verreos at FIDM San Diego Open House February 2017

Class Is In Session: Nick Verreos during "Special Appearance" Talk/Presentation--FIDM San Diego Open House February 2017

Raffle Fab: So excited that my book "A Passion For Fashion" was one of the Raffle Prizes at the FIDM San Diego Open House February 2017...as well as FIDM branded water mugs, backpack and tickets to the FIDM 3 Days of Fashion.

Following my Talk/Presentation, there was a Meet & Greet of course, where I got to take photos, sign books, and meet some of the wonderful attendees of the FIDM San Diego Open House. One of the BIGGEST HIGHLIGHTS of this was reconnecting with someone I had originally met TEN YEARS AGO:

Before...and Now: Believe it or not, I met the beautiful--and very tall--young lady on the right TEN YEARS AGO, at a "The Learning Annex" seminar I did in San Diego back in the day when I had just been on "Project Runway". Her name is Hannah and she attended the seminar because she was a big fan and she even got my "Project Runway My Scene Barbie" (from the Challenge I won). To my surprise, Hannah was at the FIDM San Diego Open House and showed me the photo and well, I just about cried!

Here are more fun photos from my FIDM San Diego Open House post-Appearance Meet & Greet:

Meet & Greet Smiles: Nick Verreos and attendees at FIDM San Diego Open House February 2017 (LOVED the young fashionista in red printed dress in the lower photo collage! She made her own dress!).

NV Glam Divas: Nick Verreos with FIDM San Diego's Denise Baca and Christina surprised me when I showed up for the FIDM San Diego Open House, wearing my NV Nick Verreos designs they had bought from EVINE Live TV Shopping Network! #LoveThem

Until Next Time FIDM San Diego!! XOXO

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NICK APPEARANCES.....2017 Academy Awards ABC On The Red Carpet Pre-Show 5pmET/2pmPT

February 22, 2017, 9:38 am

≫ Next: WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Ruth Negga in Custom Valentino

≪ Previous: FIDM....San Diego Open House 2017: RECAP, Photos!

Nick Verreos--ABC "On The Red Carpet At The Oscars" Show--Sunday February 26 5pmET/2pmPT

I am BEYOND DELIGHTED and honored to be on LIVE THIS SUNDAY at the 2017 Academy Awards! I'll be on ABC7's "On The Red Carpet At The Oscars" Show discussing THE 2017 OSCARS RED CARPET, naturally!

I'm very excited to be discussing the Haute Couture, Custom and otherworldly fashion fabulousness of the 89th Academy Awards red carpet with none other that Supermodel and ABC7-LA Fashion Expert/Host Roshumba Williamsas well as ABC7-LA's Eyewitness News Los Angeles' Leslie Lopez. Right before the Oscars, tune in to ABC (you'll already be watching ABC since that's where the Academy Awards will be shown!)...and join us while we what the arrivals and discuss the Most Important Red Carpet in the World!

WHAT: "On The Red Carpet At The Oscars" Red Carpet Pre-Show

WHEN: Sunday February 26, 5pm ET, 2pm PT

WHERE: For Los Angeles: ABC-7 LA; Check ABC local listings for other cities

DON'T MISS IT!!!

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WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Ruth Negga in Custom Valentino

February 26, 2017, 4:12 pm

≫ Next: WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Emma Stone in Givenchy Haute Couture

≪ Previous: NICK APPEARANCES.....2017 Academy Awards ABC On The Red Carpet Pre-Show 5pmET/2pmPT

Ruth Negga in Custom Valentino

Ruth Negga, the Oscar nominated star of "Loving", wore this beautiful Edwardian-inspired Red Gown from Valentino to the 89th Annual Academy Awards. This was a striking choice for the actress who is making herself known as a Red Carpet Fashionista.

She made the look even more dramatic with these GORGEOUS Ruby and Diamond Earrings accented with an exquisite jeweled headband by Irene Neuwirth and Gemfields .

But nothing topped her accessory of a blue ACLU Ribbon. Silently but strongly making the first political statement of the night.

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WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Emma Stone in Givenchy Haute Couture

February 26, 2017, 5:12 pm

≫ Next: WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Janelle Monae in Elie Saab Haute Couture

≪ Previous: WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Ruth Negga in Custom Valentino

Emma Stone in Givenchy Haute Couture

Emma Stone wore this Gold Beaded and Embroidered Fringe Dress from Givenchy. Gold is one of the biggest trends of the night and what I love best about the dress is the ombre dyed fringe detail.

The fit is PERFECTION and while it is not the most daring dress on the Red Carpet or that Emma has worn, it is perfect for her....possibly....winning her first Oscar in.

Emma was probably one of the most anticipated actresses to hit the Red Carpet, not just because she isn't tied to a specific design house, but also because she is the favorite to win her 1st Academy Award. Actresses that are the front-runners are always under extra pressure to look perfect as these photos will live on forever and I think Emma hit the perfect balance between classic and fashion.

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RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Chanel Couture Spring 2017

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Maison Margiela Spring 2017

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Elie Saab Couture Spring 2017

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Guo Pei Couture Spring 2017

RUNWAY REPORT.....Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Jean Paul Gaultier Couture Spring 2017

SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition EVENING GOWNS: Top 15 Best Gowns!

SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Preliminary Competition EVENING GOWNS: 16-30 Next Best Gowns!

SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe National Costumes Show: Top 20 Best Costumes!

WHO WORE WHAT?.....SAG Awards 2017: My Top 10 Best Dressed

SASHES AND TIARAS.....65th Miss Universe Finals EVENING GOWNS Recap!

NICK APPEARANCES.....Pirate For A Day: Nick on "Squad Wars Show" Premiere YouTube Red

ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: LADIES & MEN

ICE STYLE.....2017 European Figure Skating Championships COSTUMES: ICE DANCE & PAIRS

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Best of 2016 (and early 2017!): Top 25 Best Beauty Pageant Gowns

FIDM.....FIDM Museum 25th Art of Motion Picture Costume Design Exhibition

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Top 20 Worst Gowns in a Beauty Pageant of 2016 (and early 2017)

FIDM....San Diego Open House 2017: RECAP, Photos!

NICK APPEARANCES.....2017 Academy Awards ABC On The Red Carpet Pre-Show 5pmET/2pmPT

WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Ruth Negga in Custom Valentino

WHO WORE WHAT?.....89th Annual Academy Awards: Emma Stone in Givenchy Haute Couture

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