SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Earth 2017 LONG GOWN COMPETITION Group 2: Best & Uh Oh's!

SASHES AND TIARAS.....Miss Earth 2017 LONG GOWN COMPETITION Group 2: Best & Uh Oh's!

 Gown Medals: Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2 Winners (L to R) Miss Earth Nigeria Eucharia Akani (Bronze medal), Miss Earth Peru Karen Rojas (Gold medal), Miss earth Costa Rica Fernanda Rodriguez (Silver medal) and Miss Earth Philippines Karen Ibasco (Silver medal)--Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2

All photos courtesy of Miss Earth Facebook 

Well kids, it is indeed the start of the "International Pageant Season"! Last week, I discussed my TOP 15 FAVORITES for the Miss Grand International 2017 which is happening in Vietnam (Read HERE!)...and at the same time in another Asian country--this time the Philippines--the Miss Earth 2017 beauty pageant is happening. The 17th edition of the Miss Earth contest is occurring with 87 contestants from all over the world competing for the coveted crown with the Final Crowning Night taking place on November 4th at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay, Metro Manila Philippines.

Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2 Winners (L to R) Miss Earth Nigeria (bronze), Miss Earth Peru (Gold), Miss Earth Costa Rita and Miss Earth Philippines (Silver) flanked by the reining Miss Earth 2016 from Ecuador Katherine Espin (second from left)--Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2

In advance of the final night, lots of pre-final pageant event competitions are occurring including the Swimsuit, Resorts  Wear, Talent and the one that I am most interested in (naturally!) here in my "Sashes & Tiaras" BLOG: The EVENING GOWN COMPETITION. The "Long Gown Competition" as it is called (as opposed to "Short Gown"??) is happening in separate sections with 3 different contestant groups competing...

Satins and Sequins: Contestants from Group 2 of Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition--Joy-Nostalg Hotel and Suites Manila Philippines

In each of these contests, the top contestants get medals (Gold, Silver, Bronze) which will give them points helping them gain better spots in the Finals (similar to Miss "World" I am guessing).

The first "Long Gown Competition" occurred on Tuesday night with "Group 2" consisting of 29 ladies. The winner (or Best in Long Gown)--according to the judges--was Miss Earth Peru, with the Silver going to Miss Earth Costa Rica and Miss Earth Philippines and the Bronze going to Miss Earth Nigeria.

Good Gowns or Not-so-Muchee? Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2 Contestants

There's no way of beating around the bush: I do not know who the judges were but...I did not agree so much with the Top Four (well, only just one!)...so, as it has become a tradition here in my BLOG, below are MY TOP Favorites of the Group (Top 10) and five that were just A MESS. Before I show you my list, I have to say that these were not a group of UBER FAB Couture Gals. I know this isn't Miss Universe or Miss World and therefore these contestants might not have the caliber of design and money backing them so I did give a little "slack" for that but still...as a fashion designer/pageant fan/red carpet commentator, I had to "judge" adequately.



Here's my Top 10 Best from Number One to Ten: 

1. Miss Earth Nigeria Eucharia Akani: OK, first of all,, is it A LOT? Yes. But, is it still really kind of fabulous? DOUBLE YES! I like this for many reasons: It looks AMAZING and impacting. She looks like a PERFECT beauty queen. It fits well. The length is also PERFECTION and to-the-floor! The silver is on-point and just right for her skin color. I love it. I would have given her THE GOLD!

Score: 9.15

2. Miss Earth Angola: Ermelinda Demantos: Loved this look from head to (almost) toe. The blush/golden colored shimmering gown was red carpet perfect, looked refined and well-made and not so "fire friendly" (some of the other gowns were MAJOR polyester-get-near-a-match-and-they'll light up messes!). I really liked her slicked back hair but...those UBER-stacked heels (is that what I see peaking from the center front slit?) are really not making me happy! PLEASE Ermelinda, dump those things and go for non-platform strappy heels (and just have a seamstress hem-up your gown. ASAP.

Score: 9.00

3. Miss Earth Colombia Juliana Franco: I liked the blue color, the one shoulder-like silhouette and nude illusion insets. Was this a but "Figure Skating Costume"? TOTALLY. But, listen, compared to a lot of the other gowns I saw here, this was VERY NICE. TRUST ME! It fit well, wasn't so tacky, wasn't HOOCHIE, had stage presence, the length was correct and her hair was modern and not so "Pageant Betty".

Score: 8.98

 4. Miss Earth Spain Ainara de Santamaria: I liked this gown and it was one of my favorites of this group for its simplicity, non "cray-cray" detail and pure and elegant fit. I also liked the emerald and light green sequined detail. Oh, and yes, the length was JUST RIGHT! It was simple, beautiful and impacting.

Score: 8.97

5. Miss Earth England Charlotte Brooke: Miss Earth England wore this golden-hued gown with silver crystals featuring a fitted column gown over a full overskirt. The style was elegant, impacting and almost Paris Haute Couture-like (almost). Her styling, however, was the unfortunately aspect which didn't elevate this gown to a position of fabulousness and grandeur; her hair was droopy, her make-up was inelegant...she looked too simple and "basic" yet her gown was "Red Carpet Cannes Film Festival". I gave her points more for the gown than her personal styling. It was still better than most of the others...even the ones who got some of the Long Gown medals.

Score: 8.70 

6. Miss Earth Chile Sofia Manzur: Since I had to pick my Top Ten here in this group, some of these choices were "giving them too much credit". But wait until you see some of my "Uh Oh" choices and you'll understand how this might have been "GREAT!". I liked the red color and the fit was fine. Sofia looked like a Spanish Senorita in a Sevillana Gala. I also loved her slicked back chignon. I wasn't a fan of those CRAZY gold sequined pumps (Ayyy Dios Mio!) and that "Cha-Cha Peek-a-Boo-Danger Zone" super high slit. But, if I just half-closed my eyes and avoided those two things...

Score: 8.20

7. Miss Earth Cameroon Verucha Cossinda: I liked the "mermaid Lite" silhouette of this gown and the color was lovely. I'm also happy about the fit and correct length (no tacky platform pumps showing!). Overall, this was a pretty choice for Miss Earth Cameroon.

Score: 8.10

8. Miss Earth Lebanon Elsa Antoun: Nice gown for Elsa, Miss Earth Lebanon. This black and white "Mermaid" shaped gown featured white appliques and black tulle godets at the bottom. It was nothing extraordinary but at least it fit well, was the right length and there weren't any HOOCHIE too-high slits or breast-a-licious cleavage.

Score: 8.05

9. Miss Earth Pakistan Ramina Ashfaque: Yes darlings, you read right--Miss Earth PAKISTAN! Karachi-born Ramina is competing in the Miss Earth 2017 contest and for the Long Gown Competition, she wore this canary yellow gown. Listen, under any other circumstances (or this was "Miss Universe" or "Miss World" I would have deemed this a "Sherri hill off-the-rack Pageant Betty" you-know-what. However, I think she looked radiant and lovely in this. It fit her well and she made an impact on stage. Was it A LOT of polyester? YES. And would I rather not seen those nude platform pumps? Totally. But, in this group, she was still one of my Top Ten.

Score: 8.00

10: Miss Earth Peru Karen Rojas: Believe it or not (I couldn't!), Karen won the "Gold medal" for this gown in the Miss earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2. I placed her as my TENTH favorite. This was OK but certainly--at least in my eyes--not the BEST. I did like the gold flower appliques over the terracotta-colored illusion netting...and it was A LOOK but...it was verging on tacky-licious. But I had to add a tenth favorite and I decided Miss Earth Peru and her gown would be the one.

Score: 7.99



Now, on to the "Oh-No-She-Didn't: Miss Earth 2017 Long Gown Competition Group 2 Edition": Her are my "Top Five" Uh Oh's...

Miss Earth Belarus Polli Cannabis: Oh Polli. Bless your heart. While I kind of liked the top part, the bottom half was just a true GOWN MESS; it looked like black and pink toilet paper got stuck in a tornado and created a gown-skirt. I just wish designers would NEVER do that to dresses. Please. It isn't pretty. On a nice note: The length is right and she is pretty.

Score: 6.25

Miss Earth Costa Rica Fernanda Rodriguez: Fernanda somehow nabbed the SILVER medal for this gown. I am at a loss. This is a teal polyester lace/nude/applique mess. The whole too-see-through inner gown is just stripper tacky and the style is so Downtown Los Angeles Santee Alley. I know I sound like a Gown Snob but seriously. On a good note, she looked fresh and young and pretty--from the neck up.

Score: 6.20

Miss Earth France Melissa Strugen: Melissa wore this violet colored gown featuring golden scroll applique and chiffon overskirt. The gown (inexplicably) featured a mini dress lining underneath showing through. The entire look was not cute. And her hair styling and makeup did not help. I kind of get what she was going for--perhaps a "Near Eastern Goddess" but she ended up looking like a "Prom Scheherazade".

Score: 6.20 

Miss Earth Hungary Victoria Viczian: It's the "Miss Earth 2017" Beauty Pageant...and while I can understand that sponsorship may be light and you have to buy your own dress possibly from the sale rack in Budapest, this off white Duchesse Satin style was just...TOO BASIC! I am happy that it was the correct length but seriously, Victoria wasn't even trying. This is a Bridesmaid Dress for a wedding. NOT, the gown you wear for THE MISS EARTH 2017 LONG GOWN COMPETITION!

Score: 6.00



Last but not least...

Miss Earth Slovenia Sara Gavranic: Oh Slovenia. Oh Sara. Just look at this: Gold Stretch. Lycra. Draped and hi-lo. Oh wait..is that lace in the back??? How do you say "tacky-licious" in Slovenian? On a nice note, I liked her hair and red lipstick.

Score: 5.50 



**STAY TUNED for MORE of my "Sashes and Tiaras" Pageant Blogs discussing "Miss Earth", Miss Grand International" and many more HERE!



Until then....I'm excited to launch my NEW Pageant Coloring Book!!! It is full of FABULOUS Beauty Queens and Gowns ready to create your very own Evening Gown Competition! Purchase now on Amazon.com HERE:

How To Wear Sneakers Fashionably - Tips For Men & Women

How To Wear Sneakers Fashionably - Tips For Men & Women

Every morning when you wake up and get ready for the day, that looming decision of what to wear hits you. What you decide on can make the difference in how you feel when you finally step out for the day. However, there are some sneakers that can work with anything from sweats, to denim, to leather -

 Your sneakers are meant for more than just the gym. Though they got their start as flimsy “plimsolls” meant for working-class holidaymakers and purpose-built footwear designed for athletes, sneakers have become a staple in a every man’s (and woman’s, for that matter) wardrobe. Now your sneakers can be a fashion statement as well as workout gear – maybe even both at the same time.

Basics Sneaker Rules

No matter what kind of sneakers you settle on, there are a few basic principles for how to wear sneakers you should abide by. Always:

    Buy sneakers that suit your current wardrobe: What good does it do to buy the latest style if it doesn’t suit your style? Don’t hop on the trend train just because it’s passing through. Choose shoes that complement what you already have, not shoes that require you to repurchase your entire wardrobe.
    Wear them to the right occasions (don’t go too casual): Sneakers are incredibly versatile, but they’re no substitute for dress shoes. You can get away with sneakers with any off-duty outfit – and perhaps even some casual, unstructured suits – but they’re not meant for every occasion. Err on the side of overdressed rather than underdressed.
    Keep them clean: It doesn’t matter how cool your sneakers are, the effect will be lost if they’re not spick-and-span. Proper sneaker maintenance includes washing the laces, eliminating odours, brushing the outsoles, and using shoe trees and sneaker shields.

Knowing Your Sneakers / Trainer Types

Sneakers come in many shapes and sizes these days. From the very basic to the brightest leather, from the minimal to the metal fastenings, there are few rules when it comes to your trainers. With so many options available, it can be hard knowing exactly what’s what and even harder to know what’s most likely to suit your wardrobe and taste.

    Basic Sneakers – These are your Converse, Vans, etc., types. Sometimes they come in leather, but they’re typically found in canvas and in basic colours. On the whole they’re generally affordable and easy to wear / clean.
    Refined Luxury Sneakers – They might bear a resemblance to the basic sneakers, but they’re more expensive and often made from suede or leather by brands like Tom Ford, Lanvin & Saint Laurent. These are not something you take to a music festival.
    Classic Sports Sneakers – Think Nike Air Max 90, Reebok Pump, Asics, Tiger and other forms of old school sport greatness. What was once ready for the track and field is now kept safely in a shoe collection at home.
    Current Sport Sneakers – Again, these are your Nike, Adidas and Puma brands, but with modern styling and shapes.
    High-fashion Sneakers – These are the work of brands like Givenchy, Christian Louboutin, Maison Martin Margiela, Diemme and even Giuseppe Zanotti. They’re loud and designed to be noticed.
    High Tech – This special group may not be universally recognised yet, but I hear by dub it “High Tech.”  This is the category for the likes of Rick Owens and other designers who are really pushing the limits of sneaker design.

What You Need To Know To Get The Best Look

The Basic ClassicsCons, Chucks, canvas kicks… whatever you call them, the basic sneaker is the most versatile casual sneaker you can buy. They work well with denim, chinos and shorts of pretty much any colour and shade. Where I find guys sometimes get a little unstuck with these types of sneakers is when they wear them to smart casual events or to work when a dress shoe is required. The basic sneaker DOES NOT work for every occasion and should be kept solely for casual situations. Your best bet on top is to run with print t-shirts, gingham shirts or even a blazer for the college professor look.

    Mix with relaxed, slim & skinny denim and chinos
    Keep for casual/street occasions only
    Maintain to ensure they stay clean and respectable
    Best suited to younger men

Refined Luxury Sneakers
My personal favourite is the luxury take on the basic sneaker. These beautiful specimens have allowed sneakers to jump from street casual to smart casual without looking like they belong on a teenage boy. They can be worn with tailored trousers, slim denim, chinos and in some cases even casual unstructured suiting. I tend to avoid wearing them with shorts, as these sneakers are quite often bulky in comparison to the basic canvas sneakers. Keep it refined on top to match the shoe. Basic t-shirts, smart shirts and polos are all great options. For a more distinct look, opt for a shirt with a slim or knit tie, a blazer and some slim denim.

    Dress up, not down
    Start with black, then purchase other colours
    Take extra care with suede and don’t wear it too often
    Try brighter pairs for summer / European holidays

Classic Sports Sneakers

Sneakerheads, unite! These babies started the sneaker revolution that we have today. Jordans, Pumps, 90s – these are your street-going, hip-hop kicks that are just popping with colour. The idea with classic sports sneakers is to find a couple that complement your style and purchase a few pairs in different colours. Slim- and tapered-fit denim, loose t-shirts (with or without prints) and casual outerwear are your essential staples when it comes to dressing these sneakers. Pair them with chino shorts for an easy win in summer. The key is to find the balance between hip-hop artist and everyday citizen. Some guys like to rock a snap back – that’s up to you. Personally, I like to colour match my sneakers with what I’m wearing on top, to give the look a sense of purpose and cohesiveness.

    Find a few styles you like and stick to them
    Colour match if you can
    Pin roll, or rock with khaki chinos when it’s warm
    Sell them on eBay if you don’t like them

 
High-Fashion Designer Sneakers

Expensive and not for the faint of heart, these top end sneakers are getting louder and more in-your-face every season. For an example of someone who wears them well consistently, look to Kanye West. A common approach to wearing these sneakers matches them with slim denim that’s often gathered at the bottom and t-shirts with open plaid shirts. There’s also the parisian style, which includes long and drapey blazers and singlets that add even more edge to the look. Black denim is a must-own item as well as longer, looser fit t-shirts.

    Stick with blacks, whites and mute colours
    Let the sneakers to the talking
    Denim is your best friend

Men's Fashion Tips For Body Types - 15 Rules.

Men's Fashion Tips For Body Types - 15 Rules.

Here are 15 Quick Fashion tips:

1. Fit is King

The most dramatic improvement you can make in your style is to make sure everything fits impeccably. Most guys wear clothes that are too large. Make sure everything you wear is almost hugging the shape of your body – without being tight. Bad fit is an epidemic. We call it “Bad Fit Disease”.

2. Keep it simple

You want a wardrobe that looks great on you, but don’t overdo it. Don’t wear more than three pieces of jewelry or more than three colors. Don’t dress like a rock star unless you’re in a band. If you want to be flashy, a simpler but stylish look would be sporting a black striped dress shirt with a white blazer, a dark pair of jeans, a dressy belt, and your sharpest dress shoes. You could also add a flashy watch or a simple accessory like an interesting necklace, but nothing more. Check out out our article on basics to refresh yourself on what are essential wardrobe items.

3. Change the way you see casual C

asual doesn’t have to be boring. Have fun with collared shirts, or take some inspiration from those who approach casual a bit differently.

4. Pay attention to your supporting pieces

Some sweaters are lean and others are big and chunky. The first rule of thumb is that your top and bottom halves need to match. If you’re wearing a big, chunky, rugged fisherman knit sweater, your bottom needs to be rugged, too. Don’t wear a fisherman’s sweater with a beautiful silk-and-wool suit pant. Instead, wear it with something as casual as cargos or jeans, or dress it up with a Harris tweed blazer.

5. Never go shopping alone

Most of the time, it’s tough to trust the sales people because they usually work for commission. Shop with a friend who will give you their honest opinion. Also, read about shopping on a budget.

6. Stay a notch above

Don’t overdo it to a fault, but dare to take some risks. It’s always better to be a little bit overdressed than underdressed in any setting. All you have to do is think about where and who you’re going to be with and just step it up one notch. But make sure you’re not better dressed than someone who is more important in a certain setting, like your boss. 7. Never underestimate the power of details – The last thing on is usually the first thing noticed. So mind the details instead of throwing together the main parts of your outfit. “Details” can include a scarf, a subtle pocket square, or the way you tie your tie knot.

8. Invest in a superb pair of shoes

If it’s one thing that women will notice, it’s your shoes. Especially how clean and sharp they look. It’s easy to wash and press the rest of your clothes to keep them looking new, but most guys disregard their shoes. Show that you’re a man of taste by getting a great pair of shoes and keeping them in pristine condition.

9. Fashion Tees with logos

When you’re going around with a big logo on your shirt, you risk looking like a walking billboard. Lose the lame Coca-Cola shirt and go for a classic v-neck tee or something artsy (check out threadless.com).

10. Disregard trends

Beware of buying something just because it’s “in” right now – stick to what you truly like. A lot of people rush to get in on the latest trend and end up with a bunch of clothes they don’t wear. It’s better to learn to build a versatile and timeless wardrobe first – then bring in your own twists with some of the new fashion. This one tip will save you so much money! Read up on our compiled list of 40 Common Men’s Fashion Mistakes for extra info.

11. Don’t be a sucker for brand names

Don’t be a Patrick Bateman. Before you decide to purchase an item, ask yourself if you are buying it simply because of the brand name or because you love the quality and style. Ask yourself,  “Would I buy this if there was no logo on it?” Check out our article on how to look designer for less.

12. Continually cultivate your image

Invest more time and money into your image. Cultivate your fashion sense. Your style is a huge mode of communication, and is worth caring for as much as your education, career, and relationships. Sign up for our free crash course on knowing your own style. Oscar Schoffler, longtime fashion editor of Esquire once said, “Never underestimate the power of what you wear. After all, there’s just a small bit of yourself sticking out at the collar and cuff. The rest of the world sees what you drape on your frame.”

13. Ask for real feedback

Most of your friends and family aren’t going to go out of their way to tell you what looks bad. You have to ask for it. In fact, ask anyone and everyone you trust to tell you the truth. Ask your hairstylist, ask your best friend, ask your mother!

14. Upgrade your shave

Even if your fashion is golden, an unkempt beard can be an attraction killer. Achieve a perfect shave by trying a shave brush & old-fashioned double-edged razor.

15. Experiment with style

The only way you’ll really learn, is if you go out there and try new things. I make an effort to try something completely out of my comfort zone whenever I’m at a store – many times you’ll end up loving something you never thought you would. If you make mistakes, life goes on. So many guys are afraid to express themselves through their style, don’t be one of them. Check out our article on how to put an outfit together.

WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival: Days 7-9 Top 10 Best Dressed!

WHO WORE WHAT?.....Cannes Film Festival: Days 7-9 Top 10 Best Dressed!

 Lace Queen: Actress Charlize Theron in custom Christian Dior Haute Couture at the 70th Anniversary of Cannes Event at 2017 Cannes Film Festival

Cannes isn't over yet...And Thank Goodness for that! I have discussed my Top Ten Favorites of the 2017 Cannes Film Festival Red Carpet Day 1-3 HERE and Days 4-6 HERE  and there's been LOTS of fabulous Couture to satisfy fashionistas, fashion watchers, bloggers and flood the Instagram world. 

Printed and Sequined: (L to R) Fan Bingbing, Elle Fanning and Praya Lundberg--2017 Cannes Film Festival

I have already said this but it bears repeating, it's been a very Haute Cannes Red Carpet year, definitely solidifying the film festival as one of the most-watched-for "Fashion Shows" on Earth (sorry Oscars but you're standing is probably losing your red carpet fashion grip!). So, now, continuing with my "Who Wore What?" Cannes 2017 Blog, it's now time for my Top Ten Best Dresses of Days 7-9. Let's see who made the Cannes Cut: 

Fan Bingbing in Christopher Bu at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: One of my favorite Fashion Divas of Cannes is actress--and 2017 Cannes Jury Member--Fan Bingbing and she has been ON-POINT throughout her time at the Film Festival. This time, she wore this printed silk gown from her longtime stylist, Chinese designer Christopher Bu. I loved this design because of its bold sequined applique "print" (yes kids, it's all paillettes, crystals and sequins!), sculpted silhouette (very old school Roma Alta Moda). The gown featured an attached "Watteau"-back like cape, turtleneck collar and...

Her diamonds were FABULOUS! That ring and bracelet were BEYOND darlings!

Praya Lundberg in Rami Kadi Couture at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: Half Swedish, half-Thai actress/model Praya Lundberg (nicknamed "Poo"), was one of my Top 10 Best Dressed from Days 7-9 of Cannes 2017. She wore a beautiful ballgown from Beirut, Lebanon based Lebanese-American designer Rami Kadi and his Rami Kadi Couture collection. The halter neck gown was perfect for Cannes, featuring a navy blue silk base with distinctive hand-sewn encrusted silver paillettes and feathers toward the bottom of the dress. Beautiful, entrance-making and on-point with the Cannes 2017 "Prom Fab" style trend.

Jessica Chastain in Armani Prive at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Armani muse Jessica Chastain wore a GORGEOUS Armani Prive (naturally) custom gown and it was one of my Top 10 faves from Days 7-9. The golden silk satin gown was "inspired" by his latest Haute Couture collection shown in Paris in January...

Armani Prive Spring/Summer 2017

The collection featured lots of that Chinese lacquer-gold coloring as seen in this gown from the collection as seen in one of the photos above. I thought the color was impacting and right for red-haired Chastain. I also thought the fit and shape of her gown was perfect. I loved the simplicity and figure-flattering style. I would have done without the mini-pouf above the train/godet but that would be my only not-so-positive critique.

Fan Bingbing in Valentino Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at "The Beguiled" Film Premiere: Oh Fan Bingbing...how much do I ADORE you!! Bingbing has been the Cannes Film Festival Fashion "It" girl for years and this time as one of the Jurors, it's really her time to (Fashion) shine! I liked this red sheath of a gown she wore for "The Beguiled" Film Premiere. The gown is from the Valentino Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection...

The style- iconic "Valentino Red" seems simple enough but if you know fashion and fashion design, the simplest looks are usually the most difficult to pull off, technically. This red crepe gown is all handmade and features an "over-cape" hiding a sheath gown underneath. Bingbing looked UBER beautiful in this.

Svetlana Khodchenkova custom Alberta Ferretti Limited Spring 2017 at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Russian actress Svetlana Khodchenkova wore one of my other Top 10 Favorite gowns from Cannes 2017 Days 7-9: This gold lame plisse dress from Alberta Ferretti Limited collection; this is from Ferretti's Haute Couture arm of the business. The strapless gown featured dramatic volants cascading down the back of the gown. I thought Svetlana looked very 1930's/40's Old Hollywood Glamour-like.  The dress was "inspired" by a black silk velvet version shown on the runway:

Alberta Ferretti Limited Spring/Summer 2017

Jasmine Tookes in Georges Chakra Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at "The Beguiled" Film Premiere: U.S. model--and Victoria's Secret Angel--Jasmine Tookes looked gorgeous in this gown from Lebanese designer Georges Chakra and his Georges Chakra Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture collection. The lilac-hued crepe gown featured a one shoulder column design with over-the-shoulder draped details and dramatic back overskirt. Simple, elegant, gorgeous.

Izabel Goulart in Zuhair Murad Spring/Summer 2017 Haute Couture at the "Amant Double" (L'Amant Double) Film Premiere: Another model in my Top Ten Best Dressed of Cannes 2017 Days 7-9 is Brazilian supermodel Izabel Goulart. She wore this gold and nude gown from Zuhair Murad Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The fitted dress featured hand-sewn gold sequined applique in a starburst design sewn onto see-through crinoline/organza. It also had a side cascade drape to add a little bit of drama. If you notice, the original runway look had pointed sleeves at the shoulders. This element was wisely removed (or un-pointed!). Izabel is a model so she may already be starting with an advantage (in terms of looking fabulous in Couture) but she did look EXTRA fabulous at Cannes 2017.

Juan Xiopong at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Juan Xiopong was one of my Top 10 faves because she just looked Red Carpet perfect. I have tried to Goggle her and for the life of me (trust me, I have spent HOURS!), I cannot find who she is, where she is from, why she is at Cannes, and most importantly, who did her dress. But...I still think she looked very pretty! I loved this hi-lo gown with pink/fuchsia, silver and light green sequins. The sequin work was exquisite and the finishing of the gown (the hand sewn invisible zipper on the underseam part of her sleeve) was superb! Beautiful gown, beautiful woman and gorgeous RING to top everything off! Let's hope one of my BLOG READERS educates me on who she is--and who did her gown!

Mystery Solved! A trusty reader (Kat from Portugal!!) let us know that Juan Xiopong's gown is Zuhair Murad Spring 2016 Couture. I LOVE my readers! Thank you!

Charlize Theron in custom Christian Dior Couture at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Next on my list is the gorgeous Charlize Theron. Charlize attended the 70th Anniversary Celebration at 2017 Cannes Film Festival in this black lace custom Christian Dior Haute Couture gown.

First off, we are starting with CHARLIZE THERON so as a designer, well, it's like "Done & Done!". This gown was very lingerie-like and ultra feminine with its soft, un-structured shape and fabrication. I thought the delicate hand pleated/gathered draping of the silk tulle'd torso was perfection (of course it is; it's HAUTE COUTURE!) and the fit was very flattering. The jewels were...OTHERWORLDLY! I wondered where the Jewel Bodyguards were because that ring--and those bracelets--LORD HAVE MERCY!

Elle Fanning in Christian Dior Haute Couture Spring 2017 at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: Elle Fanning also wore Christian Dior Haute Couture and this was one of my Top Ten looks. I loved this dress when I saw it on the runway and I thought it was a great choice for Fanning...

The gown featured a "festival" of sequined flower petals (all hand sewn!), over a tulle under-crinoline and fitted/boned Dior Corselette. This reminded me of those old-school 1950's Dior gowns and was perfect for the young and sweet Elle Fanning. If she was to wear a $100,000 costing one-of-kind hand made Couture gown, this would be it!



Finally...

Tilda Swinton in Chanel Fall 2017 RTW at the 70th Anniversary Celebration- Cannes Film Festival: I don't think I am alone when I exclaim my LOVE for actress Tilda Swinton--both for her acting talent and her fabulous fashion sense. At Cannes 2017, she wore this black sequined jumpsuit from the French house of Chanel which I ended up putting as my last "Best Dressed" in my Top Ten of Cannes 2017 Days 7-9. The look is chic, modern, directional and Oh-So-Tilda! I just wish she would have worn the boots (as seen on the runway). Besides this, she looked like a Couture NASA Pilot of a Mars Space Mission...in 2055!