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:

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Short Curvy Girl Fashion - Super Cool Tips

Short Curvy Girl Fashion - Super Cool Tips

 To help you settle any stature-related style issues, we're sharing the best mold guidance for short young ladies. With insider tips and customizing traps, this is your definitive manual for grasping your stature.

From the hues you wear to what styles of garments to stay away from, there is by all accounts an abundance of rules and regulations out there.

While my principle fashion tip for short girls is to have certainty and stand tall, if making the deception of additional tallness is the thing that you need to accomplish then investigate at the accompanying style tips for shorter young ladies.

1. GO MONOCHROME
Wearing a solitary shading from head to toe can make an extended outline, giving the fantasy of tallness. An excessive number of various hues can separate your outline, making a blocky appearance.

2. SAY HI TO HEELS
A standout amongst the clearest and grasped style tips for short young ladies is to wear heeled shoes.
Whether you're after somewhat of a lift or included inches, a couple of heeled shoes will physically give you additional tallness.

In case you're not used to wavering around in stilettos, why not attempt a "more secure" alternative like a wedge shoe?

3. WEAR HIGH WAISTED STYLES
Making the presence of being taller is about extents.
Wearing high waisted shorts, jeans or skirts makes a sort of optical dream.
The higher waist prompts the presence of longer legs and in this way a more delicate outline.

4. Try not to BE AFRAID OF MAXIS
Maxi length dresses or skirts appear to be a noteworthy stress for shorter young ladies.
Full, creased skirts tend to 'gobble you up' which might be the place the trepidation of maxi skirts lies.
My design tip for short young ladies is that to make the maxi work for you, stick to smooth segment style skirts and dresses.

5. Flaunt SHORTER HEMS
Small skirts and dresses are extraordinary in the event that you have the legs for it.
Consolidated with the right decision of shoe, they can make the presence of long, incline legs.
Notwithstanding, skirts and dresses that complete simply over the knee are a more secure wager for shortest young ladies.

6. Pick THE RIGHT PANTS
With regards to fashion tips for short young ladies for wearing jeans, it's about getting the right extents.
You'll need a fitted style that isn't excessively massive. Boot cut and marginally flared pants can make you seem taller.
Attempt and stay away from any wide-legged or excessively voluminous styles.

7. Maintain a strategic distance from CROPPED PANTS
While picking some jeans, stay away from edited styles.
Pants that complete over the shoe can likewise make the presence of thicker legs.
You need a stitch that spreads the greater part of your shoe as this will give the presence of longer legs.

8. Be careful THE FIT

Shorter young ladies need to grasp fitted apparel.
Anything excessively slouchy or voluminous can possibly add additional mass to your look and make you seem stockier than you are.

9. HAVE CONFIDENCE!
Regardless of how short or tall you are you'll just #look as marvelous as you feel. It's imperative then to ooze certainty, whatever you're wearing.

These are only a couple fashion tips for short girls that can give the dream of included tallness.

RECAP - MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

RECAP - MELBOURNE FASHION WEEK

Melbourne Fashion Week took over the footpath of Swanston Street for its annual week long offering that launches the beginning of Spring and Summer and the social season in which Melbourne comes alive. 

Suit: Jack London

Shirt: Department 5

Socks: Gucci

Shoes: Ben Sherman

Bag: No Name

Sunglasses: Arockonalens

The fashion obsessed flowed into the Melbourne Town Hall to view the latest offerings from both designers and retailers with their glasses of champers in hand. It is always a great environment to catch up with your fellow stylish friends, see familiar faces behind a camera and meet new and exciting people that your normally only communicate with through your instagram feed. The MFW Bar meant serious business inside with its set up and exhibition space, which unfortunately did not flow outside to the claustrophobic outdoor area on the footpath either side of the entrance. 

Courtesy: Mamamia

For dedicated fashion addicts there were a handful of people on the street that peaked my interest. Hoards of bloggers, influencers and wannabes presented their best offerings for the camera's as they circled the block. As you know the louder and more individual you are in your clothes, the more likely you are to peak the interest of the papz and be snapped. In this case I felt like I was stuck inside a photo shoot for a menswear suit catalog. After a week of viewing the street styles I was left with the impression that Australian menswear fashion is still relatively conservative, with not much evolution between seasons or even years. Thankfully there were standouts from the ladies who bought their A game to the footpath injecting understated chicness and colourful combinations whilst braving the chilly nights.

Shirt & Blazer: James Harper

Pants: Department 5

Shoes: Lacoste

Bag: Doucals

Sunglasses: Gucci

Trends that dominated the footpath outside the shows:

Street Luxe - The number one dominating trend was the mixing of streetwear with high fashion. Of course all black ensembles were everywhere, and the opposite. All white was also present like a flock of seagulls searching for a potato chip. 

Florals - As Miranda Priestly so eloquently put it, florals for Spring. Groundbreaking. Let's move on.

Belts - Belts were everywhere. Some good, some bad and some that I will be happy to never see again. If I see one more GG gold belt I think I will scream as it has replaced the tiresome YSL tassel bag that every woman has been renting for the last year.

Men in Suts - When it comes to men's suits there were some stylish accessories to set off the slim tailored fits that were on display. Plenty of pocket squares and lapel pins which showed individuality of the wearer. There were minimal pleated trousers which have been huge in Europe for the last two years and plenty of loafers with no socks. Special shout out to the gents who took the stuffiness out of menswear and wore something a little different and didn't play it safe. Bravo.

Pretty Ugly Shoes - Delighted to see so many wonderful shoes with different hardware and embellishments in a variety of styles both on men and women. Thigh high leather tan boots on women with chunky heels were a regular staple. The elaborate shoes would not normally be considered pretty but the vulgarity and opulence was beautiful and refreshing to see in Melbourne. ADORE!

Fur - Fur accessories adorned everything from earrings to bags and shoes. Poor little critters will live on for seasons to come after being dyed in fabulous colours providing a lux

vibe to ensembles.

Blazer & Coat: Oxford

Shirt, Tie, Pocket Squares & Shorts: James Harper

Sweater: Ted Baker

Socks:  Gucci

Most of the shows were exactly as I feared, producing safe visions of well groomed and pruned ensembles ready for the horse racing season in a few months. The flare for dramatics or igniting a point of difference was eliminated by many big designers that played it safe and delivering much of what they have for the previous seasons. However there were a few examples of inspiration and creativity that will be burned in my mind for a while. Don't forget to follow me on Instagram for updates

Garage Runway - As much as I enjoy a good summer dress, there was a lot of black and muted tones or uninspiring patterns that were constantly reused. I understand ethical fashion and the need to be wise with materials, but without variety comes boredom. I have seen so many dresses inspired by Queen B's baseball bat twirling dress to last me a lifetime. 

Menswear Garage - Alike the aforementioned it was held in the basement of the Melbourne Town Hall, the likes of Amxander, Jack London, Autonomy, Chris Ran Lin and Dom Bagnato sent styles down the runway that unfortunately did not peak my interest. Following European trends with oversized bumbags across the chest and numerous patterned materials that were reused for different pieces, there were a few nice pieces but nothing that made me gasp. The overall vibe of the show was trying to be edgy with the model selection, music, skateboards and styling, that it all felt the same. I left a little deflated after this showing.

David Jones - The creative styling team behind the show should be commended for creating safe ensembles that would peak the interest of suburban housewives and gents who require a suit for the races. A huge retailer like David Jones do know their target audience very well and this showcased their knowledge of their consumer, right down to the YSL heels or The Kingsman inspired gentlemen that will soon appear on movie screens.

Premium Runway Four - Finally an injection of what fashion means to me. There were opulent embellishments, tassels, fabric choices, voluminous sleeves and dramatics in the styling including a little homage to good old Formation film clip. The line up of deisgners meshed well together although once again there was a little too much black on the catwalk for my liking, but it is Melbourne after all and black sells. 

Premium Runway - Closing - The saying "Leave the best to last" was true of closing night of the festival with some inspirational displays sent down the ice melting runway. In a week that started off rather underwhelming it was good to wrap the festival up on a positive note with some of Australia’s most popular labels such as Romance Was Born, solid stand out for me.

After a few seasons not attending what was Melbourne Spring Fashion Week and rebranded MFW, it was pleasant to see new ideas influence the program and inject some much needed innovation into the festival. Melbourne has serious pride in it's events and the team behind Melbourne Fashion Week should be commended for staying current and on trend whilst producing a solid program. A huge shout out to the volunteers who spent 12 hour days holding the festival together. Round of applause.

I believe that some of the designers need to lift their game if they wish to retain current supporters of their brands, or attract new customers. By the end of the week photographers were not on the streets, media pit at the end of the runway appeared a little thin and there were many empty seats in the town hall creating an underwhelming atmosphere. With Melbourne Fashion Festival receiving an injection of funding from the State Government recently it will be interesting to see if the fashion capital is big enough for both Fashion Week and Fashion Festival. Let the catwalk battles begin.

Animal Prints - A Timeless fashion print

Animal Prints - A Timeless fashion print

A TIMELESS CLASSIC THAT NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE

When someone says ‘animal print’ the first thing that comes to our mind is the leopard and when worn in a classic silhouette, it adds a visual interest and a bit of glamour to your look.  Even though it seems as if animal print comes in and out of style every couple of years, it's always in and always highly glamorous.

Earlier animal prints were born out of the skin and fur of select animals, they were used by men and women as it offered protection from the elements. Throughout history, kings and other high-ranking people have worn animal skin and use animal rugs as a sign of status and power. In the 20th century, fashion designers, high-ranking people, Hollywood stars, and celebrities turned it into a fashion trend. Nowadays, many famous brands, like Prada, Betsey Johnson, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Dior are big supporters of animal print. Supermodels, Hollywood stars, and celebrities are also big fans of animal print.

Animal print is a fashion style that is made to resemble the pattern of the skin and fur of an animal such as leopard, cheetah, zebra, tiger, and giraffe.  Animal prints are similar to a neutral—they’re made up of brown, beige, and black, after all.  They’re seasonless, and you can wear them with almost anything, plus, they add a little edge to your wardrobe.

These wild prints can create attention anywhere you go. So going overboard won't make you more fashionable. Remember, It is always a good idea to start small and keep it simple, less is more when it comes to animal prints. Simply adding animal-print inspired jewellery, a key accessory (scarf, shoes or handbag) or one wardrobe piece (blouse or jacket) is all you need to spice up your look.

Add bright spots of colour with animal print to make a bold statement. When used in moderation this pattern is an exotic and elegant addition to our wardrobe and an edgy, yet classic, addition to our outfit.

These days animal print dresses are worn with chunky earrings are perfect for a night out. You can also opt in for cardigans with animal prints rocked with a shirt and a dark coloured trouser or a jean or a scarf to keep it stylish and subtle.

Animal print can really look great on anyone, It’s one of those timeless patterns that can work for any season.  Here are a few chic animal print pieces that will ensure you are on trend this season.

BY MALENE BIRGER Animal Print Knit Cardigan

Balmain Animal Print Skirt 

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Animal Print Pullover

BLACKCHERRY Bag Ladies Fashion Clutch Bag Animal Print

LILY & ROSE Ladies Animal Skin Detail Wallet Blue

ALEXIS BITTAR Animal Print Lucite Earrings

For a little more inspiration, take a look at how these fashion bloggers are styling their animal prints this season.

I hope these animal print style tips have given you some inspiration! Till' next time xo

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

Editors notes:  This post was originally posted in July 2015 and has been updated

Fall Fashion Trends - Tips For women

Fall Fashion Trends - Tips For women

Keeping up with the latest fashion trends isn’t as easy as you may think. Lots of times the fashion seen on the run way does not translate well to the average person’s wardrobe and the style may very well be lost in the process. Struggle no longer ladies! Here I break down the latest high fashion trends seen in this season’s Paris fashion week, to a much more wearable alternative. These are the Fall/Winter 2017 fashion trends to copy! Happy styling!

The Color Of Fall 2017: Red.
The 2017 red is not the commonly assumed Fall maroon. A brighter, cherry red is what is trending. This is most easily worn as an outer layer. A pea coat, rain coat, or puff coat/vest would be ideal. It also dresses well in combinations; a red sweater with red shoes or a red pant with red nails.

 

A Secret Weapon: Metallics.
Metallic fabric alone can be daunting and I wouldn’t blame you if you turned around and ran the other way. This winter, give it another look in the form of a detailed purse, ballet flat, or mini skirt. Pair your metallic pieces with monochromatic outfits, such as the always bold, all-black ensemble.

The Always Loved Distressed And Messy Look.
This trend became popular last fall and winter when artist Kanye West began his fashion line. The simplicity and the undone look attracts many people to his everyday, wearable style. This year many more designers followed in his footprints. This is seen in the unfinished hem on denim jeans, jackets, and button up tops. Pair these frayed jeans with an oversized, broken-in knit sweater.

For When You Have Your Beyonce Days, Choose Leather.
Leather has come back in full force and this will be no different for the fall and winter. Choose a leather paneled legging to give you longer looking legs with a mix of texture to catch the eye. You can also pair a leather skirt with a pair of leather booties in the evening. If all else fails, go for the leather jacket.

Stay Extremely Warm And Stylish This Fall And Winter With Shearling Detail.
Most commonly seen worn as a coat, shearling detailing will keep you warm while avoiding the dreaded outfit ruiner that a jacket can tend to be. Shearling coats can be dressed down with a pair of jeans, but can be worn in the evening over a black dress. Also keep an eye out for shearling skirts that will definitely be trending.