Figure Skating Costume Minute: Skate America 2012 Pairs and Men's Costume Recap!

Figure Skating Costume Minute: Skate America 2012 Pairs and Men's Costume Recap!

Figure Skating Is BAAACKKKK!!!!

 Mens and Pairs Top Three--Skate America 2012, ShoWare Center Kent, Washington

Figure Skating Fans Around The World Rejoice: Season 2012-2013 is ON!!! Over the weekend, was Skate America 2012, the first of six events in the 2012-2013 season in ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating, a series of senior-level invitational competitions.

 ShoWare Center Kent, Washington--site of Skate America 2012

The Hilton HHonors Skate America 2012 occurred at the ShoWare Center in Kent Washington (about 21 miles from Seattle) from October 19-21st. I attended last year's Skate America and LOVED it. So let's get to the Costumes, which is, after all, one of the main reasons I LOVE Figure Skating--besides all the amazing athleticism, of course--



Let's begin with Pairs:

USA--Caydee Denney and John Coughlin--For their Short Program they did a "Swing Medley" skated to one of my favorite pieces of music, "Concierto de Aranjuz" and for their Free Skate, they used "Phantom of the Opera". I liked the costumes for both programs. I liked his better on his Free Skate and hers better on the Short. What I am most happy about is that Caydee toned down her garish eye makeup for both--compared to what she did when they won the US Figure Skating Championships last February:

Turquoise Eye Shadow Princess: Caydee Denney vibing "Toddlers & Tiaras" with her eye makeup last year

France--Vanessa James and Morgan Cipres--For their Short Program to "Rhumba d'Amour" and "Safri Duo", this duo chose to wearing contrasting colors--which is typical of pairs. I like her purple halter neckline costume although it is a very predictable look. Especially for a country known for its HAUTE COUTURE, they could have done better (on her costume). I think Morgan looked HOT and yes, there is that PLUNGING neckline that has been so prevalent in the last few years among the men.

China--Pang Qing and Tong Jian--Pang and Tong--Short  Program to "Scott and Fran's Paso Doble"--They were very "Carmen" on COUTURE CRACK. He was the Toreador. Perfect. She was the One-shouldered Señorita with a Dragon-Lady Twist. I think these costumes were FABULOSO! These two really understand Stage Presence, performance and the importance of Costumes to the entire show.

China--Pang Qing and Tong Jian--Pang and Tong--Free Skate--For their Free Skate, they skated to "Variations on an original theme Enigma"--She wore a lilac colored costume with silver sequins and he wore a darker lilac v-neck shirt with (yawn) black pants. It's so typical for the guys to wear black pants. I almost give them an instant "Nick Negative 5 points" when I see it. I know why they want to do it. But, by now, I am so "over it", I'd rather see dark BLUE or a very deep PURPLE instead! Seriously. Both her costume and his shirt--even though they look as if they are very intricately and very expensively embroidered--still look very Figure Skating Costume Store bought. These kids needs better and more High Fashion-looking costumes for their Free Skate. Period.

Russia--Tatiana Volosozhar and Maxim Trankov--They were the Gold Medal Winners overall. For their Short Program, they skated to "Love Theme from The Godfather" (top photo) and for their Free Skate, they did it to "Violin Muse, Partita for Violin No. 2 and Chaconne" (bottom photo). Their Free Skate costumes were far more interesting. Although I did like her Short Program deep violet halter costume with neck chains. But...their Free Skate looks were much more ethereal, exploratory--costume-wise. His was especially ultra feminine, and yes, only Maxim could make wearing asymmetrical pleated chiffon look SO BUTCH.



The Men:

Michal Brezina of Czech Republic--My favorite costume for him was what he wore for his Short Program to "In The Hall of the Mountain King". Dark; both very feminine and masculine; there's slight "bling-bling" with the sequins, and chiffon volants for flutter effect. I like it.

 

Doug Razzano of the USA in his Short Program to "Piano Concerto No. 2  Allegro Scherzando by Rachmaninoff "-- Doug was
appropriately costumed. The deep violet-blue is elegant and the chiffon
neckline ruffles with swirly applique and sequins bring s to mind a
romantic and very classic feel.

 

Konstantin Menshov of Russia in his Short Program Costume to "Lillies of the Valley" looked like a Macy's INC model from 1992. The dress shirt, black pants and that tacky belt? How do you say "Huney. Try again" in Russian?

Japan--Yuzuru Hanyu--Japanese skater Yuzuru Hanyu skated the BEST Skate of his career and the highest score EVER recorded for his Short Program to "Parisienne Walkways". For his Long Program, he skated to "Notre-Dame de Paris". I liked both costumes but especially the one for his long program. The big cross, the ombre dyed ivory and red shirt, the one sleeve ruffle and one black glove. Lots of details and he was not afraid to "Go For It"!

And Yuzuru was definitely paying homage to Johnny Weir (as seen from the photos above). And if he is not...I'm sure Johnny will be happy to let him know who the ORIGINAL is!

Jeremy Abbott USA: For his Long Program, Jeremy Abbott skated to "Bring Him Home from Les Miserables"--His costume was well, less than a costume. I get that the Men love them black pants Yes, I know...Jeremy's are brown) but I am bored of seeing so many black/brown pants. Like I said above, give me NAVY BLUE at the very least! Also, the costume is still a very integral part of one's performance and while I get that this one is depressing and serious, the costume doesn't have to be depressing also; a beige shirt and brown pants? Jeremy, please, I want to see just a little bit more.

Short Program Love: For his Short Program, Jeremy skated to "Spy".  I really LIKED this costume. The asymmetrical holster--very Hipster Fashionista, the slick back hair, the (almost) fingerless gloves. This costume--even though it's still a gray shirt and very tight dark gray/black pants--works with the music and performance--and still, keeps this Fashion Designer/Commentator (moi) interested.



Blue and Black Theme:

Armin Mahbanoozadeh of the USA: He skated his Free Skate to "Dr. Who" wearing a black and blue stretch top and black pants...

Doug Razzano USA skated his Free Skate to "Queen Symphony by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Tolga Kashif"--he also wore a blue and black stretch top with black pants...WHO, was the BEST blue-and-black Men's Costume?

Finally...Here's my Pick for Best in Men's Costume at Skate America 2012:

Tatsuki Machida of Japan--Free Dance Costume--He skated to "The Firebird" and his costume was FABULOUS! The neckline and upper torso red and yellow sequin detail was marvelous and went perfectly with the black illusion rest of his top. This is a PERFECT Men's Costume for that particular music. Not every male can get away with this look (at this point we know we'll never see Jeremy Abbott or Patrick Chan sporting this style), but if you can carry it off, and Tatsuki can, then Go For It!



*Next Up, The Ladies and Ice Dance Costumes at Skate America 2012

15 STYLISH TODDLER BOY HAIRCUTS FOR LITTLE GENTS

15 STYLISH TODDLER BOY HAIRCUTS FOR LITTLE GENTS

 If the simple buzzcut or mop-top isn’t quite cutting it for your toddler, look no further! Today, there are many on-trend and easy to maintain styles that will let your little man’s personality shine. You might want a low-maintenance look that’s still cool enough to make him stand out. Alternatively, he might want a fresh style that’s similar to his favorite characters, friends, or family members. Whatever his hair type, length or style, there’s a stylish toddler boy haircut that you’ll both love.

Crew Cut#

The crew cut is a simple and classic look that’s easy to style. Just like the adult version of the cut, the sides are cut short with longer hair left on top. If your boy has naturally thick hair, you won’t need to add any product to make it look good. The hair will have natural volume and get that cute tousled finish on its own. A crew cut is also a great option when your little one wants to have a matching haircut with his dad or big brother, as it suits all ages.

Disconnected Cut#

The disconnected cut is a unique hairstyle for toddler boys. There’s a big contrast between the short sides and extra long top. As a result, it gets the best of both worlds – manageable length with a cool fringe effect. The style works well on both straight and curly hair, as well as thick and thin hair types. It’s ideal if you like to dress your boy in fashion-forward outfits as it’s eye-catching and on-trend.

Faux Hawk Cut#

Looking for an edgy cut for your toddler? Try the faux hawk. The cut has a rebellious attitude and is perfect if your child loves to be the center of attention. To create the look, the sides are buzzed short by the barber – rather than shaved down entirely as in an adult mohawk. A central section of hair is then left slightly longer, and pomade or gel is used to create the spiky faux hawk effect. The cut is a favorite with lots of toddler boys because it’s grown-up and cool.#

Afro#

Let your little man’s natural curls fly free with an Afro hairstyle. It’s a cute and classic look that’s also versatile. You can shave the sides into a taper fade or even include fun designs based on your child’s personality and style. While kids’ hair is generally softer and smoother than adult hair, Afro textures can dry out. So to keep his curls looking healthy and defined, make sure you use moisturizing hair oils regularly.

Bold Fade#

A fresh look for your toddler is the bold fade. Trendy and stylish, the hairstyle has an athletic feel. As it’s so short, it’s very low maintenance and easy to style. That makes it perfect for an active boy who doesn’t like sitting still. It’s also great for busy mums and dads who are short on time. You can have a barber create this look and then maintain the short sides at home with a regular shaver.

Fringe Hairstyle#

The fringe hairstyle is a modern take on the ’80s mushroom cut. However, there are some key differences – it’s much shorter and more layered to give the cut some dimension. For those reasons, it’s an excellent cut for a boy with fine, straight hair. The fringe cut is also versatile as you can add some product to give it extra texture and attitude.

Baby Bun#

While man buns were once considered a hipster hairstyle, they’re now very mainstream. Even toddlers are rocking the style! A tiny topknot is a great way to manage your little guy’s long locks when you’re short on time. It goes with every clothing style – from edgy to preppy – and suits all hair types. For a cool Viking-inspired look, have the barber buzz the sides short and leave the center section extra long to create the baby bun.

Mini Mohawk#

Like the faux hawk, the mini mohawk is a favorite with little boys. It’s a simple and fun cut that’s a mix between the faux hawk and a quiff. If you’d prefer to keep your son’s hair short – or if you have to for school or nursery – the mini mohawk is a great way to add a touch of individuality. It’s a quick and easy style that you can easily copy at home. Create the center spikes with a little pomade or gel, shape the hair into points with your fingers, and you’re done!

Natural Curly Hair#

It can be challenging to style your boy’s mop of curls. As a result, it’s easier to leave them natural and untamed. However, there are some crucial curl care tips to know. Firstly, curly hair needs more regular trims than straight hair as the ends can dry out and break more easily. It also tangles quickly, so a shorter style can work well if you want your boy’s ringlets to stay neat. Next, use your fingers or a comb instead of a brush to prevent frizziness. And finally, use moisturizing hair oils or conditioner regularly to keep curls healthy and defined.

Pompadour#

A favorite with child models and performers, the pompadour is an attention-grabbing style! The look is deliberately windswept with lots of drama and direction. As a result, it requires naturally thick hair to create. Even then, you will need to use a product to get your son’s hair to form the classic backcombed peaks of a true pompadour. While it takes some work, the pompadour is a hairstyle your little man will love showing off.

Quiff#

Another adult hairstyle that looks just as good on toddlers is the quiff. It’s perfect for little boys who usually wear their hair short but want to look smart for a special occasion, like a wedding or birthday. It looks best on straight hair with the short back and sides cut. It also pairs well with a fade. Use a little gel or pomade in the front section and form the hair into a quiff. Meanwhile, comb the sides flat. Doing so keeps the look neat and tidy.

Side Part

The side part suits every face shape and has a retro vibe. Popular in the ’50s and ’60s, it’s a polished way to style your toddler’s hair. It works best if he has a naturally deep side part. Using a fine-toothed comb and pomade or gel, smooth the hair across from one side to the other. The cut is ideal for boys with naturally straight and fine hair, as these hair types have minimal frizz and volume.

Spiky Hair

Boys with thick hair have lots of styling options. One is the spiky look. Similar to the faux hawk and pompadour, it’s a haircut that will turn heads. Many cartoon characters have this style, making it a favorite with lots of toddler boys. Kids with a playful and sporty personality will also love the look. Use strong-hold gel to create the spikes and set in place with a blowdryer, if you can get your little one to stay still long enough!