2010 Oscars' Best Dressed

This year, just about everyone seemed to get it right. However, the following are a few notable mentions, starting with the best of the best.

Jennifer Lopez - Armani Privé

Only J.Lo could pull off such an architectural runway masterpiece. She looks drop dead gorgeous in this pale pink luminescent gown and she knows how to strike a pose... VOGUE!!!

Tom Ford

Mr. Ford wearing his own creation is tailored to the T. Complete with a pocket square and gardenia on his lapel. Now this is a well dressed man.

Demi Moore and Elizabeth Banks look fantastic in these similar styled, ruffled creations by Versace...

Cameron Diaz - Oscar De La Renta

Ms. Diaz finally got it right. For once she doesn't come off as a bleached blonde, babbling airhead. She looks like a polished, sophisticated starlet. Now if she could only land a role to match the look.

Vera Farmiga - Marchesa

Say what you will about the ornate flamenco like ruffles of this Marchesa gown, but I think Vera was absolutely stunning in this number. You had to see it live during the red carpet preshow to get the full effect of this dress. Normally it would be hard to pull this off unless you are a statuesque runway model, but Ms. Farmiga did one helluva job. Kudos for making a bold choice!!!

Those who almost had it right...

Molly Ringwald

Bravo Molly!!! No one has seen you since you blew out 16 Candles but you showed up and showed out in this violet gown. While she looks stunning for someone who has been absent from the scene for quite some time, my only critique is... get some sunlight. It's as if this is the first time she's stepped outdoors since the 80's. She looks like Casper the Friendly Ghost.

Queen Latifah - Badgley Mischka

The Queen always wears flattering gowns that compliment her figure. The color of this dress looks fantastic against her skin tone. Where did she go wrong? The bottom half of this dress seems a bit too stuffy. I'm no fashion designer but perhaps a more tailored front with a fishtail would've worked, rather than this mermaid style. If it were black she would've reminded me of Ursula (Little Mermaid).

Sandra Bullock - Marchesa

The top of this dress is gorgeous. The detailed beadwork, down to the capped shoulder is exquisite. However this dress is just too damn gold. She looks exactly like good ol' Oscar himself. Additionally the fabric of the bottom half of the dress looks a bit tawdry. She was almost there... perhaps a different color?

Zoe Saldana - Givenchy

I really wanted to root for this gown because Zoe is such a beautiful girl. Once again the top of this dress was stunning. The crystal and bead encrusted bodice along with the differing hues were lovely, but I just can't help but to think of those ugly cabbage like flowers when I look at the bottom of this dress. She still managed to work it nonetheless.

Agree? Disagree? Who were your picks?

2010 Grammy's Best Dressed

Here is my list of red carpet winners from the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards:

LADY GAGA

While you may not agree... Gaga walked the carpet like a true piece of abstract art in this Armani Privé confection. This galactic, almost angelic look is a far cry better than some of her previous demonic looks. Would you really expect anything less from her?

Common

Common added style and flair by contrasting prints. The maroon and white polk-dot silk scarf popped against the grey plaid suit. The pocket square helped solidfy this fresh look for the Grammys.

PINK

Reminiscent of a mermaid, Pink was glamorous in this scalloped Tony Ward creation.

John Legend

John created a lengendary look by pairing a thin black tie and a pewter mesh sweater with his silver suit.

Keri Hilson

This is the best I've ever seen Ms. Hilson look. She slightly resembled Diahann Carroll. This Dolce & Gabbana gown made her look like a statuesque, special edition Barbie.  She certainly wasn't going to win based on her vocals, but she was definitely a winner on the red carpet.

The Jonas Brothers

While there were better dressed men on the carpet than the "Jonas Brothers," I feel they are finally beginning to distinguish themselves as individuals. I only wish that Nick hadn't gone for such a formal look (He looks like he is going to his bar mitzvah), especially with the bow-tie. These are 3 fairly young guys and they should've had a little more fun with their look, but kudos either way.

 

CLICK HERE for my worst dressed list.

Worst Dressed List: 2010 Golden Globes

There are always those who decide to brave the red carpet without the help of a good stylist... The end result? Well take a look for yourself...

Queen of the Worst: Tina Fey

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!! Damn it, she looks like Mary Poppins. Couldn't her publicist or assistant have held the umbrella? This Zac Posen design is an eye sore.  It appears to be some sort of whacked out psychedelic snake print. Thank God she had the good sense not to wear a necklace. Beyond the hideous print, the full/bell skirt stops a few inches above her ankles to reveal a pair of champagne colored d'orsay pumps complete with a bow. She could've at least found a shoe to offset the dress. The length and style of the gown manages to make her look short and stumpy. 

King of the Worst: Mickey Rourke

My my my... How did he manage to resurface? First of all, whoever his plastic surgeon is needs to be SUED! He looks absolutely horrific. I think I would be scared shitless if I saw him in person. Now! With that said, knowing you already look like a creation of Madame Tussaud.; Mickey, what could you have possibly been thinking when choosing this get-up? Croc lapels... Taupe cowboy hat? My goodness, he looks like one of the Village People, dressed up for a red carpet event. The chic on his arm doesn't look much better.

Honorable mentions...

Mariah in Herve Leger - Cleavage overboard! Those funbags need to be deflated. They're too large and overly exposed (as always)... Not a bad dress, but it does nothing for her.

"If I Could Turn Back Time..." Looks like Morticia... oh I mean Cher successfully turned it back with this velvet/lace frock. 

 

Drew Barrymore in Atelier Versace: These nude colors only work on certain people.

The color completely washes her out. Beyond the color... what is up with those hideous looking sea urchins adorning the dress?

Quentin Tarantino: Black on black on black... he looks like an undertaker, and what is that little tuquoise/silver chain? P.S. his girl looks like she is wearing the latest from the Reynold's Wrap Collection.

1980's Prom dress? Heidi Klum's style is beginning to look cheaper by the dozen.

*Check out my picks for Best Dressed Male/Female: Click Here!

Best Dressed List - 2010 Golden Globes

Okay... I really didn't see very many inspiring ensembles on the red carpet this year, so I decided to crown a Golden Globe King and Queen of the red carpet.

Best Dressed Female: Sandra Bullock

Sandra was stunningly beautiful as she worked the red carpet in this strapless Bottega Veneta gown. The shimmering violet was the perfect hue, and the sheerness of the skirt gave the slight illusion of elongation. Her upswept hair with cascading curls and minimal jewelry completed the look. Kudos Ms. Bullock!!!

Best Dressed Male: Chase Crawford

Gossip Girls' Chase Crawford, was dashingly dapper in Dolce & Gabbana. This tux was tailored to the T! The thin shawl collar paired with a thin tie, a subtly patterned pocket square, and slim cut trousers create a fresh and age appropriate look for the young star.


Check out my picks for WORST DRESSED: Click Here!

Uggs are UggLY!

Anyone who knows me... knows that I cannot stand the "Classic" Uggs. There is absolutely nothing attractive about that boot. For those of you who are fellow New Yorkers, you probably know that young girls from Long Island tend to gravitate towards these hideous fashion faux-pas.

Birds of a feather... flock together!

(Photo courtesy of Street Correspondent, Kerri K.)

What is the fascination with these boots? Why do people spend upwards of $200 for a pair? Those of you who swear by them will attest to their comfort and warmth as the reason for donning them in the streets. Well, I think there are some subconscious reasons that you've yet to consider, after all I've seen girls wear them with skirts in 70F degree weather.

The sheepskin provides warmth and comfort while preventing moisture (NOT WATERPROOF); However, I believe those are secondary reasons. This is a style conscious world we live in... and for those who aren't conscious?... They get featured on my blog!

I believe that some advantageous Hollywood starlet, dared to be different by purchasing these boots before they gained any popularity. She was likely photographed and featured in various tabloids and then... a TREND was born. Eventually as the trend began to wane with the "Who's Who?" of the entertainment industry, the UGGs phenomena trickled down to the average folk... and they just won't let it go.

I've said it before and I will say it again... Uggs make your feet look like that of Chewbacca or a Sasquatch. Even worse, after awhile they become broken-in, taking on the form of your foot. This along with water, dirt, and salt stains make for one helluva site for sore eyes. The larger the persons feet... the worse they look.

Aside from the fact that they are not visually appealing; in my opinion... The "classic" Uggs tend to shorten the leg while adding bulk. What does this mean? They make you look shorter and wider.

Ugg Australia offers a wide variety of alternatives on their website. Ladies, consider the Classic Argyle, Cardy, or the Lo Pro Drawstring from their knitted collection. If you interested in leather, take a look at the "Roseberry" boot in their Fashion collection. These are a more fresh and fashionable alternative to the classic boot. There is a slew of other boots, shoes, etc. to choose from.

Gentlemen... I never want to see any of my fellow brethren sporting a pair of Classic Uggs.

For those of you who would rather die than go without your Classic Uggs. I implore you... please do not try to glam these boots up. Just wear them for their functionality and warmth. Most importantly, think twice before wearing them with spandex/leggings or a skirt.

P.S. The "Ultra Tall/Short" boots are almost as bad as the Classic.

*Many thanks to Kerri K., Cense & Censibility Street Correspondent for the photo contribution.

You can join the Censibility team by sending in photos of fashion wrecks etc. to CENSIBILITY@GMAIL.COM

*Feel free to post your comments below.

That's What WIGS are for...

While dining alone certainly isn't a crime...Wearing a "bandanna/night scarf" in public, at a restaurant, and matching it to your shirt... is certainly a SIN.

I knew she deserved a citation after using a lottery card to dislodge
the remnants of food between her teeth. Klassy with a K!

*Ladies!!! Listen up! I don't care how nasty the weather is... Please do not leave the house with head-rags or curlers on your head... God forbid both (this woman did).

In doing so... She managed to look like a modern day Mammy (Gone With The Wind)

*Should you capture a picture of a fashion wreck etc... Be an In-Transit Street Correspondent and email the picture to Censibility@gmail.com

When Denim Fails...

Denim usually seems like a safe bet when choosing an outfit for the day. Designer labels such as True Religion, Seven (for all mankind), Rag & Bone, and Citizens of Humanity have really revolutionized the style of denim. However!!! Denim done right... still requires some sort of "Fashion Cense". Whether you're a women's size 2 or 20/men's 30 or 50 there is a flattering pair of jeans out there for you.

With this said, some people tend to go terribly wrong when it comes to denim... let's take a look shall we?

Thanks to Street Correspondent, Kristen... we are now reaching out to new cities. She managed to snap the following shot, "In-Transit" on a city bus in Atlanta, Georgia:

Osh Kosh B'Gosh!!! Why did this man choose to put his big ass in a pair of denim carpenter overalls? Your guess is as good as mine. I'm not even mad that his derriere looks as if someone filled his Hanes with cooked oatmeal... It's the fact that a grown man is wearing overalls and he isn't slashing hay on a farm. Overalls are only cute on toddlers. While they were slightly in style in the 80's/early 90's in the days of Cross Colors, I can assure you... they certainly aren't fashionable today. I mean really... take a good look. The pockets are located on the sides of his cheeks, making his buttocks appear that much larger. Let's not overlook the fact that his ass is snacking on the denim which is causing them to ride up his legs. Sir? SIR!!! This is not the look!

Next! I caught this woman on line in my favorite fast food eatery, Joe's Best Burger:

This woman is quintessentially "pear" shaped. This figure is the result of those that carry the bulk of their weight below the waist, thus resembling a pear. Because of their disproportionate weight, buying clothes that fit properly while flattering their shape can be a real bitch.

Let me tell you where this woman went wrong. First and most important... she should have went up a size. Much like the man on the bus... her ass and inner thighs are swallowing half the denim. This is resulting in an extreme case of "high waters" (pants too short). If she was to walk another city block she would be wearing Capri's. Had she went up one size and chose a thicker denim, this wouldn't have been much of an issue. She likely chose a smaller size because to purchase pants that properly fit her bottom, would likely result in a larger/baggy waist.

Her next major issue is color. She should have opted for a dark wash/indigo denim. This would've been visually slimming, especially if they were lightly distressed in certain key areas.

Last but certainly not least, she never should have worn that jacket. There are two problems with that jacket beyond it's color. First, it sits above her backside. An easy way to minimize would be to have something that sits a little lower (at least at the hip line). Second, that gaudy gold trimming at the bottom of her jacket simply accentuates the size of her buttocks by dissecting and acting as an outline. Instead of the jacket? She should have chosen a flattering blouse/sweater in an eye catching color/print... this matched with dark jeans would've drawn the eyes to her top, thus minimizing her bottom.

As always!!! If you see a hot mess in your travels and manage to snap a shot, please feel free to email them to me at Censibility@gmail.com for my in-depth review.

Age Appropriate?

Before you take it off the shelf, ask yourself if the item is appropriate for someone your age. If not... one of two things will happen: Either you'll end up looking much older than your age (which is never a good thing), or you'll look like a an old ass bastard trying to look young.

As always, take a look at the following example:

This man appears to be in his mid to late 30's. However, this gaudy graphic print t-shirt says, "teenager." There are many age appropriate, graphic print tees out there. One store that comes to mind is J.Crew. J.Crew often sells many graphic tees with subtle prints for both men and women.

I usually wouldn't have paid much attention to this man, but the rosary beads around his neck made me dig out the ol' Palm. I was completely awestruck. What kind of tackiness is this? Not only is he trying to use rosary beads as a fashion accessory, but it looks as if he caught them after they were flung off a balcony on Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras... need we ask what he flashed to get them?

The gist of this post? Dress your damn age! If you're a man, dress like one... not a 15 year old boy. You can still be fun and fashionable without looking like an ass.

A SPOTTED Mess!!!

What is the difference between these two photos?

Although the picture on the right was taken in September, it is apparent that he is dressed in costume. However, what is the lady's excuse on the left? The real difference? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! It's the exact same outfit, except for the fact that the gentleman on the right opted for white faux fur and no jacket.

I'm already not a huge fan of animal prints, because you seldom find a person who knows how to successfully pull it off. You can go from stylish to cheap and tawdry in a New York Minute. Case & Point... this woman is wearing wide leg pants, a knee-length jacket and a damn top hat. She looks a cross between Cruella De'vil and The Mad Hatter. The poor man walking behind her appears to be in a hypnotic trance, induced by leopard overload.

One of my primary issues with animal prints is the fact that it can often come off as whorish. For those packing some serious pounds, it can make you look as if you just escaped from the wild.

Here are some tips ladies... don't purchase any skirts, pants, or leggings (and I'd be very cautious of dresses) in an animal print. Remember less is more!!! For the novice/wanna be fashionista, stick with accessories. A THIN belt, handbag, scarf, maybe a small headband (NO HAT), or a pair of shoes (careful they're tricky - shouldn't be fully printed). Don't go overboard. You surely don't want to throw on all of these items because it will be counterproductive. Leave the bolder pieces such as dresses, jackets and blouses to the pros.

Lastly... for the love of God, don't purchase any animal prints in fun colors i.e. pink, baby blue.

Now take a look at animal print done right:

*Special thanks to street correspondents Holly(leopard lady pic) & Katrise (costume man pic) for their "In-Transit" photo contribution.

Head to Toe... No No's!!

For those with an undiscerning eye, you may be asking... "What's wrong with this picture?"

For the ladies... Why wear a pair of shoes you can't walk in (whether it's because of pain or a lack of grace)? Notice, this young woman is walking on the straps of her shoes. It's just as tacky to put band-aids on the back of your heels to prevent rubbing.

Don't let this be you... Opt for a pair of mules and you won't have to worry about the possibility of blisters. Thankfully her heels weren't crusty, that would've been another can of worms.


Now for this tragedy... While I'm all for wigs/weaves etc., they require maintenance.

When you're wig has developed split ends, you know there is a damn problem. The world would rather see your natural hair in any given state, rather than look at a wig that looks like roadkill after being dragged down a dirt road in the Mojave Desert.

Though I've seen much worse than this picture... I snapped it because I was in awe that she actually put a "scrunchy" on a wig. What is the point of wearing a wig with longer hair, if you don't want to deal with it? Perhaps she just wanted to experience the elation of a pony tail. Oy Vey!!!

Fashion goes Gaga!!!

Lady Gaga was working with more than just a "poker face" at the VMAs... Normally, she would be one of my picks for Worst Dressed, but clearly she was trying to make a statement as these looks were garrishly costumey. Six costume changes over the course of a few hours? Let's take a looksie:

Big Bird + Crow + The Mad Hatter + Phantom of the Opera = Lady Gaga?

1st costume change for her performance of "Paparazzi"

Who would've thought Satan was among us as Lady Gaga?

Miss Gaga's final looks of the evening... I can't figure out what that nest is on her head. However, I think we're looking at the successor of Amy Winehouse (train wreck)... If you look closely at the center picture, you can see Gaga "powered" her nose. This girl already appears certifiable... please let her stay away from drugs before she ends up singing her own rendition of "Rehab."