Europe 2012: "Florence Meets Hollywood" NIKOLAKI Fashion Presentation

Europe 2012: "Florence Meets Hollywood" NIKOLAKI Fashion Presentation

Alta Moda Italia!

Red Carpet in Firenze: Nick Verreos flanked by two Italian models in his NIKOLAKI Collection gowns, "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation as part of my Miami University of Ohio "Summer in Italy" Program visit, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy --and in case you are wondering the model on my left is 6' 2" WITHOUT heels!

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

Last month, I had the honor--and pleasure--of flying to Italy with my better half--my NIKOLAKI design partner-for-life David Paul--to be part of a very special event. For the last four years, I have been invited to take part in Miami University of Ohio's "Summer in Italy" program.

It is a highly popular Study Abroad program from Miami University's College o Arts and Sciences in the Department of English, where students travel to Italy, taking English and Journalism courses in Florence Italy and of course, get to experience life there as well as the importance of fashion to that city. Part of my visit includes a special "Fashion Lecture" (in a later post!) but...

This year, with the fabulous help of photographer, creative director and fashion producer EXTRAORDINAIRE Jerry Lee Ingram, the school also organized an amazing fashion presentation titled "Florence Meets Hollywood" where I got to show some of my very exclusive red carpet NIKOLAKI gowns to a specially-invited audience in Firenze Italia! The event was being held at the Consorzio Palazzi/Palazzo Bombicci Pontelli Guicciardini Strozzi in the Sala Rosa or Pink Room of the Florence University of the Arts/FUA.

Traveling Ensemble: Nick Verreos, arriving in Florence Italy via TrenItalia

After a twelve hour flight from Los Angeles to Rome and a 1 1/2 hour "fast-train" to Florence, David and I finally arrived. The following day, we helped set up for that evening's presentation.

 Gowns In Waiting: NIKOLAKI Collection gowns
post-steaming, waiting their final destination--will it be a Mannequin form or
a LIVE model?

 Galleria NIKOLAKI: NIKOLAKI by Nick Verreos/David Paul
Gowns, "Florence Meets Hollywood"
Fashion Presentation at the Sala Rosa, FUA Florence
Italy

We steamed and pressed the NIKOLAKI gowns--some worth over $10,000--that  we brought all the way from the US and then set them up on well-appointed mannequins in the GORGEOUS room the event being held in.

Gallery Preparations: "Florence Meets Hollywood" set-up, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy 

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

Fashion Nerves: David Paul and Nick Verreos of NIKOLAKI getting the mannequins ready for the "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy 

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

NIKOLAKI Twosome: David Paul and Nick Verreos, "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy  

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

Then we got back to our hotel, did an outfit change and we were ready to go! A great red carpet was set up to welcome guests at the Florence University of the Arts and up to the Sala Rosa--or Pink Room, site of the event.

  

 Guests at "Hollywood Meets Florence" Fashion presnetation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy Photos courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

Including Firenze glitterati as well as FUA students (some of which were BIG "Project Runway" fans!) as well as of course, the Miami University of Ohio "Summer in Italy" students I was scheduled to lecture to the following day.

Hot in Florence: Nick Verreos
(with fan) and "Florence Meets Hollywood" Co-Cost Grace Joh--in
NIKOLAKI Collection strapless red silk dress--Editor-in-Chief of Blending Magazine
and Chair of FUA School of Journalism, Communications and Publishing

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

MC Nick: Nick Verreos hosting "Florence Meets Hollywood", Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy 

 Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

Not only did I show some of my NIKOLAKI red carpet gowns on gorgeous models from Absolute Models Florence (with great hair/makeup by Ronnie Cosma Bigalli), but on display at this AMAZING Sala Rosa "ballroom" at the Florence University of the Arts palazzo where incredible creations by Mazzanti Piume, creators of some of the most amazing feathered designs in the world--from hats, runway gowns, historical costumes to much much more. Here were some of the feathered headdresses at the "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation:

Hat Couture: Designs from Mazzanti Piume, "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy

Also, as part of this very special one-of-a-kind fashion presentation, the architectural fashion creations and fab purses and necklaces from Emilia Siano and her brand, Libra Project were on display (photo above) as well as modeled.

Silver Goddess: Model in NIKOLAKI silver and black sequined cowl neck gown with attached capelet, "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy

Final Walk: Models from Absolute Models Florence at the "Florence Meets Hollywood" Fashion Presentation, Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy

Italy Fashion Group: (Left to Right) Model in NIKOLAKI black and silver sequined gown; Nick Verreos; designer Emilia Siano of Libra Project; Model in NIKOLAKI black organza strapless gown with jeweled bust line; Model in Emilia Siano/Libra Project designs; Grace Joh in NIKOLAKI Collection red silk ziberline cocktail dress and Mazzanti Piume hat; and NIKOLAKI Co-Designer David Paul, "Florence Meets Hollywood" Sala Rosa FUA Florence Italy  

Photo courtesy of Melissa Grace Kreider

The show and presentation was a fabulous success! I am so thankful to everyone who took part in helping make the event happen--and especially the guests who endured the over 100 degree temperatures that fell upon us inside the super-filled Sala Rosa during this very hot-and-humid Florence July evening! I was so happy to not just host it but be part of it, bringing my NIKOLAKI gowns--along with David Paul--to gorgeous Firenze ITALIA and to "fashion enlighten" the great Miami University of Ohio "Summer in Italy" Program students and of course, everyone else who attended. Stay tuned for Part Two of "Europe 2012" and my "Summer in Italy Miami University of Ohio" visit--next, up a visit to Polimoda, and photos and recap from my Fashion Lecture.



Click Below for the Florence Meets Hollywood Video:

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.

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Classy Casual Outfit For Guys - Tips For Men

Men like to keep their dress code very casual, because it is one of the most comfortable dress code, providing an instant relaxed style but also practicality and a “being cool” sense if styled properly. By a little styling you can enhance your dressing style. We are going to show you some amazing casual dress ideas for men for this season.

Mostly men have a couple of jeans and shirts in their wardrobe. Very few like to add formal clothes to their closet. If you don’t own some cool T-shirts you are definitely lacking behind in the fashion sense. To be well dresses, you need to own few pair of jeans and shirts that are very casual and stylish.

You can easily afford these and wear them on regular basis. Casual dresses are very cheaper than formal ones. Therefore purchasing them wouldn’t be any problem for you all. Only a little advice on how to dress well in casual clothes can change your personality and style. A good dressing style can grab everyone’s attention wherever you go. The trick to dress up well is not that difficult. By adding new styles, colors and looks can be a bonus point for you.There are a lot more options for you to wear.  Such as cardigans, t-shirts, collared shirts, sport clothes, Polo’s etc. Carrying accessories is also must. Now lets begin with some  simple casual dress tips for men

Jeans with White Tee Shirt: Boys/men mostly prefer clothes in monochromatic tones and this styling idea is another go at the same tone. White has always been a favorite among men but to make it a little stylish wear it in fashion with regular patched denim and grey ankle high boots. Dark and light colors are must to have in your wardrobe. Denim jeans is must. You can pair any kind of outfit with it.Roll over your trouser

Beanies and T-shirts : Purchase some T-shirts of different styles and colors. You can find some interesting designs at the shops and online too. Replace them with your old typical branded shirts. Graphic shirts are a regular purchase item for men as they come into daily wear but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish look about you. invest in some beanies for the winter season usually a dark toned one and pair it up beautifully with your regular jeans. Facial hair can add extra dapper look.

Collared shirts : A university student or just going out on  a lunch date? both occasions call for a little formal attire but now formal has strayed into some fashion sense and who doesn’t like to wear collared shirts? They are the most stylish shirts you can wear casually. Whether you wear it with jeans or pants. Try to come out of the old designs and colors, rather go for new patterns and styles. Jazz up a simple collared shirt with suede oxfords and rolled up skinnies.

Polo shirts with Bermudas : When you hear the word summers and you like to dress up in a decent way then  I am sure you all own Polo shorts. we already shared some great ideas how to wear polo shirts for sharp look. They are very casual and useful for all the men in every kind of weather. Go for dark and bright colors, as they enhance the beauty. Pair your polo shirts with Beige Bermudas for a day out with friends at the beach. You can wear plimsols or just open sandals.

The Secret Love Affair with Marc Jacobs book quote

The Secret Love Affair with Marc Jacobs book quote

Quote from my book, "The Secret Love Affair in Paris"
( The true Story of How Marc Jacobs has been torturing me for years)

 

 

Read a quote from my book:

 

 

The next morning I went to a café. Marc sent me a text message a minute after I sat down, telling me how beautiful I was without make-up today. I was surprised since I really wasn't wearing any make-up, my hair was straight, and I looked quite simple compared to usually. I asked him how he knew that.

 

" My senses are very good at detecting beauty." he answered.

 

" Claire, go out and check to see if anyone followed us here!" I told Claire. I was scared and had a bad feeling. Claire smoked a cigarette outside then came back to report what she saw.

 

" I think there is spy outside. A man is sitting alone in a car and looking at us like he's waiting for us."

 

"Oh, my God! I want to see him too!"

 

The man was sitting in his car on some narrow street. When we passed him he didn't even move his head. He followed us only with his eyes. He tried so hard to act nonchalantly that it was obvious that he was a spy. We walked away and within five minutes we heard that a car was following us. It was him again, the same guy in the same car. When we noticed him, he turned aside quickly. We saw the guy at the Palais Royale later.

This is insane. Why is Marc having someone follow me? Because of jelousy? Doesn't he trust me? I don't get it.

 

In the evening I wanted to throw in the towel with this whole game. Marc had hurt me a lot. He demanded his photos once again. He didn't understand that I couldn't give him any pictures that day.

It was very late; Claire was already snoring next to me so I turned off the light while I was texting with Marc. When I did he told me to turn the light back on and not go to sleep yet.

" Claire! Wake up! We are sorrounded by cameras!"

"What?" Claire jumped out of bed. She was so scared. We looked out the window. There was a big office building with many big windows in front of us. I had a feeling that someone was watching us from one of them. It crossed my mind that after my shower that day I had been walking around the room wearing only panties. I remembered the see-through curtains on our windows. He must have seen that too! He saw me hal-naked!!!!

 

" Don't tell me you saw me walking around half-naked in my room or I'll dig a big hole and hide in it" I typed to Marc. When he read that, he got furios and changed his mood on myspace from 'in love' to 'ninja'. Aries always behave like this when they are caught. Finally, we made peace but I couldn't sleep since it bothered me that he wanted to know everything about me. These spies were just way too much. I felt like he was imposing on my freedom, which is very important to me.

 

 

Another page from my book:

"
      I went to meet up with some friends to tell them what happened. They might cheer me up and give me some good advice. Luckily my always cheerful, loud-mouth, cool friend Stacey was there visiting me.  You can have really good conversations with her. I told her my story with Marc Jacobs.

   Listen to me, Angel. You-HAVE-to-change!  - she shook me in order to convince me. I could see the simpathy and empathy on her face.
 Wake up! This is September eight and you have been talking to this jerk for ten hours a day since summer! I don't see a room full of Louis Vuitton bags he sent you, like I should if he were for real. He's just using you! He calls you and talks to you because he likes it. You're just a game for him!

 

   My friend, Claire was furios. She kept wondering aloud what kind of jackass Marc was. She couldn't understand that someone could do that to me, how someone could deny my little wish, just to walk his runway once. It wouldn't be a big deal since there were eighty models in the show! Why couldn't I be one of them?
 Marc called me from on the day of the show because he wanted to hear my voice.

 The day of the Marc Jacobs Fashion Show...

   I was in bad mood all day. By that time I agreed with Claire that Marc was a jerk and I wouldn't be in his show. That guy didn't care about my feelings or what I felt as I watched the show. It broke my heart. I didn't know any more that I would bear his child or even marry him. I just lay in my bed all day. I didn't feel like going out. I felt like he had shattered my dreams, like he had broken something inside me.. I didn't have a goal in life any more. I lost all my energy. The only thing I wished for was amnesia so I could forget the last six month.

 " He really is a dick, Angel. I would love to beat him on the head! He sure knew how to make you crazy for him, though. What a jerk!" Claire was really upset, maybe more then I was.
"But Marc sent me something... a video on facebook. There is a little mouse teasing a cat. He's jumping in front of the cat then disappearing. The cat tries to catch him but can't."

   The only thing I could think about was him fitting the clothes on the models. I didn't understand how he could have the heart to do that to me. To put clothes on the models, seeing how bored they were of this stuff, and knowing how happy I would have been if he had put the clothes on me. He knew that was my biggest dream, that that was the only missing from my life and that he could easily give it to me.
  Maybe he doesn't love me. I always thought that the lovesick one would give anything to his love.
I decided that I would do everything I could to get Marc out of my mind. I wanted to destroy this strong feeling and never have it again. I didn't want to love him any more. I knew that the person would come into my life, the one who would love me honestly and give me everything and would never be as cruel as Marc had been.
The worst thing of it all was the stress. I waited for his call every minute of every day for months. My friends told he that he was a devil because he should have told me that he didn't intend to help me and not led me on like that. I wrote a text to Marc on the first of September, asking whether he would help me be a model or not. He didn't respond, but I would respond to anyone in the world, whether I knew them or not, let alone if I loved them. So he respected me even less than that.

The next day I watched his show on the internet.

Marc designed my style. He couldn't copy me exactly.
" It's surprising, Angel, that the design group with so many people who have hundreds of pictures of you in many different styles still couldn't combine the pieces correctly. It seems like they tried to make up for their lack of creativity with a multitude of designers. " Claire declared her oppinion after seeing Marc's clothes.
 " But they have even been to fashion college and have ages of experience with one of the biggest companies, they earn millions of dollars and they still couldn't copy me exactly. " I responded.

Since I wasn't on facebook after his fashion show, he started to call me on my phone again. He wanted to hear my voice every day. I sent Marc my farewell letter:

" I am disappointed in my dream man whom I loved with deep feelings.
I am disappointed in dreams, wishes, about our future together.
I thought you were like me... I was too optimistic. I won't speak with you any more "

He did not let me go... He kept calling me and writing me every day... he needed my ideas and my inspiration for his carreer.



My new video and my message for Marc Jacobs:


Read my other quote from my book...

Hot sex scene from the Secret Love Affair in Paris, click here



To download my book click here

DOWNLOAD THE BOOK HERE

 If you want to know more details read my other articles too.

Marc Jacobs the Godfather, in Sponge Bob Disguise, click here

Marc Jacobs is obsessed with women, it seems that he is not gay really. He supports the Hungarian models, click here

Sofia Coppola copied my photos for the Miss Dior Cherie Campaign, check the photos here

Kanye West recently stole a 40 years old Hungarian song. Marc Jacobs asked him to do so. Listen to the songs and read the details

Lady Gaga and Marc Jacobs. He made Lady Gaga to dress up in my style, details here

Read how Marc Jacobs copies my ideas for Miu Miu and Prada

WHO WORE WHAT?.....2017 Latin Billboard Awards: Plunging Cha-Chas, Muy Bueno & Oh Oh!

WHO WORE WHAT?.....2017 Latin Billboard Awards: Plunging Cha-Chas, Muy Bueno & Oh Oh!

Flawless: Jennifer Lopez arrives at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards--University of Miami Watsco Center, Coral Gales Florida

Last night were the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards, which took place in the Miami area at the University of Miami Watsco center in Coral Gables and were televised on Telemundo. This is one of the biggest nights in music awards and therefore the Latino stars were out in their finest red carpet couture. In this edition of my "Who Wore What?" blog, I will discuss my "Best Dressed" plus some trends including "Sequined Queens", Ballgown Ladies", and yes, the dreaded "Uh NOOOOO/Ayyyy Mija!". But of course, I have to begin with The Most A-List of all A-List stars that was at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards and that was Miss J Lo.

Jennifer Lopez: You just know that any time La Lopez is going to walk a red carpet and especially a high profile one like this one, she is going to SHUT IT DOWN. And Si...she did! I swear this woman was trained by a pack of Drag Queens. And the most fabulous ones at that! Her poses, her Do You Wanna Have S*x With Me" Looks...the outfits! The word DIVA doesn't even begin to describe her. Here, she did not disappoint, walking the red carpet in a black sequined see-through gown from British designer Julien Macdonald and his Fall/Winter 2017 collection.

Julien Macdonald Fall/Winter 2017

The gown featured a plunging neckline (of course!), VERY revealing side cut-out's, an open back plus, if that wasn't enough, a super high center front slit. Oh, and for "modesty", there were sleeves. She looked AMAZING. Now, while on any other actress or singer, this would go into the realm of "Hoochie/Chonchee Land", somehow, Jennifer Lopez pulls it off and put every other female attending the event to red carpet shame. And in case you were curious at what the back looked like, well kids, here it is:

Sexy-Licious: Jennifer Lopez at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet--University of Miami Watsco Center, Coral Gables Florida

Jennifer also did an outfit change (of course!) and donned this silver-and-gold creation during the show:

A LOTTTTA Plunging: This gown was also a design from Julien Macdonald Fall/Winter2017 collection, and featured similar side-cut-out's, waistband and center front slit as her red carpet look, but yet, this one was even more revealing. Oh, and it was in silver/gold sequins. I have to admit that I liked the black gown much better. I just think that the front was TOO opened for her, and especially, her "sistahs". It also looked a bit too tight on her.



Now, besides JLo in the black Julien Macdonald sequined gown that she wore on the red carpet, I have a couple of other "Best Dressed" Muchachas...My other Best Dressed gals were:

Daniela Botero: Colombian beauty Daniela Botero wore this silver strapless dress from Venezuelan-born and Paris-based designer Oscar Carvallo. I thought she was one of the BEST DRESSED of the night. I loved this silver "bandage"-like dress; it was chic, modern, not too revealing, great length and fit her perfectly. I also loved her hair and makeup. Muy bien!

Kate Del Castillo: Mexican Telenovela DIVA Kate Del Castillo wore one of my other favorite looks of the night in this one shoulder gown from Lebanese designer Nicolas Jebran and his Fall/Winter 2017 collection. I thought Kate looked like a true red carpet movie star--or Telenovela/TV star! The gown was modern, elegant and runway fab! I also thought her super chic slicked hair and sultry makeup were on-point! Muy, muy bien!



And now, let's discuss some of the Trends and the Ayyy Mija's, starting with...

The Plunging Cha-Cha's------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jennifer Lopez: It goes without saying (even though here I am saying it!), J Lo was the Queen of Plunging at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards--both on the red carpet and onstage. Since I have already discussed her, it's time to talk about the other ladies who were chest happy--for good or bad. (good for the straight boys I guess!).

Jackie Cruz: "Orange Is The New Black" actress who plays "Flaca", Jackie Cruz wore this black tuxedo-inspired gown. I liked the gown. I thought it was interesting and a nice modern twist on "Le Smoking" and loved the side draped skirt and strong shoulders but...I just think the boobies were TOO MUCCCCHIE. I'm sure there are others who would disagree but, they were distracting. I LOVED everything else--the gown, the design, her shoes, her hair and makeup--it was just the TOO MUCHIE Cha-Cha's.

Aracely Arambula: Mexican actress and former partner of Mexican music icon Luis Miguel wore this rose-embellished black gown which had a plunging neckline, at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet. The gown fit beautifully and she looked sultry and sexy. I liked this gown and this look on her. It wasn't too plunging and the "sistahs" weren't too "out there" (Gracias a Dios!).

Patrica Zavala: Venezuelan actress and E! Entertainment Latino host of "Coffee Break", gown from Kuwaiti fashion brand La Bourjoisie, famous for dressing Britney Spears and many other A-List celebs. I liked this silver sequined gown. It had the peek-a-boo cut-out's (like J Lo's) and waistband detail as well as nude illusion panels. I also liked that the plunging neckline opening wasn't too tasteless (like Jackie Cruz'). Patricia looked like a "Miss Universe" winner in this gown! It was Pageant Fab plus did the job for the red carpet.

Natti Natasha: Dominican reggaeton/Latin pop singer Natti Natasha wore this silver and blue paillette-sequined gown from NY-based bridal and cocktail brand THEIA Couture. The gown didn't necessarily have a "plunging neckline" but...Natti's mijas were on display for sure in this dress. I liked the dress and especially the original swirl-like sequined detail. I also liked her center-part hairstyle but even though this dress wasn't too revealing, I just felt she was on the verge of "Ayy Mija" with her boobie-licious neckline.

Chiquis Rivera: Singer and TV personality--and eldest daughter of Jenni Rivera--wore this blue-violet mermaid-shaped gown by Bao Tranchi--famous for her bodysuits. I bow down to Chiquis because I thought she looked AMAZING!! I loved this gown on her and thought it really made her look like a Red Carpet Goddess! Bravo Miss Chiquis and Bravo Bao Tranchi!

Eva Longoria: Eva wore this white caped-back jumpsuit from Italian designer Elisabetta Franchi and her Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The jumpsuit--which looks more like a jacket and pants--featured a plunging neckline, fitted midriff and lovely shawl collar. I liked this on Eva but I just felt the pants were way too long; I just wanted to go in there and take about 2-3" off the hem. This is sloppy work on the part of the stylist and/or tailor.



The Sequin Queens-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ximena Duque: Colombian actress and model Ximena Duque wore this golden sequined gown from NY-based Custom Wedding and Evening Gown designer Lucia Rodriguez. I thought she looked quite beautiful. The gown itself was simple in its silhouette and design but it's all about that fabric; STUNNING! I also loved the perfect fit and length as well as modern hairstyle. Thank goodness she didn't do a "Pageant Betty" bun or something to that effect because then she really would have looked like a Miss Colombia contestant during the evening gown competition.

Alexandra Pomales: Actress/TV Host/Model Alexandra Pomales wore this pink sequined dress from Miami-based fashion brand Evelli by Susan Panter. I liked this gown and style on Alexandra. The gown fit beautifully and I liked the simple tank  shape with the strappy center front neckline accents. I was a bit surprised by the choice of those turquoise (or are they green?) hoop-y earrings but I will cut her some red carpet slack. Next time: Lose those earrings mija!

Sofia Reyes: Mexican singer-songwriter/actress wore this baby blue tulle and lace/sequined applique gown at the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards Red Carpet. It was an OK gown but honestly, it was just a bit too "Figure Skating Costume" (and I LOVE figure skating costumes!). It just looked like "Marchesa on a Budget". But I still thought she looked pretty and I do love that kooky top-knot bun.

Rosina Grosso: Telemundo and Yahoo Sports host Rosina Grosso walked the red carpet in this emerald green sequin-and-tulle gown by Miami-based Andrea Tankovitz. It was A LOT of gown. Especially for the Latin Billboard Awards. I can see this if you are a contestant in the "Miss Universe"  or "Miss Venezuela" pageant but in the Latin Billboard Awards? Not so mucheeey. It was just a lot.

Jessica Carrillo: Telemundo "Al Rojo Vivo" reporter Jessica Carillo wore this ivory sequined applique gown from Dominican designer Giannina Azar. While I appreciated the sequined detail, this looked aged Jessica and it was just too Pageant Betty for her. Especially for a "hip" and "cool" event such as the Latin Billboard Awards. It's a pretty dress but not for this event. She should have saved this for reporting on the next "Miss Universe" pageant. Bad stylist advice.

Kathy K: Singer Kathy K. wore this sequined sheath halter-neck column dress. I liked the dress in its simplicity and design. The only complaint would be the too-dark eyebrows and too-heavy makeup. Otherwise, her dress was OK!

Maria Leon: Actress/singer Maria Leon wore this golden/blush colored sequined gown from Kuwait-based fashion brand, Lioness Couture. This was a nice gown and it fit her beautifully--and I did love her 40's-like swept hairdo--but once again, I thought a plunging neckline, slit-front sequined gown--might have been TOO MUCHEEEY for the Latin Billboard Awards. Once again, this might have been better suited for a "Miss Colombia" or "Miss Panama" during the "Miss Universe" Evening Gown competition. Or the Golden Globes!

Miriam Isa: E! News  Latino Correspondent Miriam Isa wore this strawberry-colored sequined gown from Kuwaiti fashion brand Lioness Couture (same as Maria Leon before her). I liked the dress and simple silhouette. Nothing wrong with the dress but for the Latin Awards Show, a right-below-the-knee version might have been more chic!



The Ballgown Gals--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Becky G: Singer/songwriter and "Power Ranger" actress Becky G wore this rust-colored ballgown at last night's 2017 Latin Billboard Awards red carpet. She looked pretty. I loved her bob-like hairstyle and sweet, clean makeup. In terms of the gown, it was OK; there was nothing extraordinary about it, but I liked the color and fit; I just wasn't a fan of the illusion center front panel. That just screamed "Prom & Pageant".

Angelica Celaya: Don't know who Angelica Celaya is but MIJAAAA, now I want to!!! First off, she looked like a "Mad Men"/Hollywood Glamour Diva in her 50's/60's-like look, silhouette and Rita Hayworth-like hairstyle! The beautiful actress was wearing this strapless ballgown from Venezuelan designer Nicolas Felizola. The gown was EXQUISITE! I loved the black and white Hounds-tooth-like tweed fabrication and the side pockets! If there was any critique, it was just the fit of the top bustier section; I just wanted to pull the cups in tighter! Otherwise, she looked as if she was "serving" her "Sistah's" up to the highest bidder!

Finally...Uh NO/Ayyy Mijas--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Danna Paola: Singer/actress Danna Paola wore this nude iridescent organza with flower detail dress from Mexican brand Lila Masaryk. She looked a MESS. I get where she was going with this--the see-through effect; the undergarments showing; the Dolce & Gabbana-like flower applique...but it was just all so 2014! Even Pageant girls have moved on from this look. Not cute, just kind of tacky-licious.

Salice Rose: Instagram and YouTube Social Media Star Salice Rose wore this red velvet dress to the 2017 Latin Billboard Awards. Now, I have to admit that I must be an old person because I had NO IDEA of who Salice was and the fact that she has 5.2 MILLION Instagram followers! First: Good for her. But, this red dress outfit was a Chonchee Mess, no matter how many followers she has! The dress was too short, the black platform pumps were so 2002, and the blue nail polish was Las Vegas Stripper tacky. She looks like a sweet girl and again, I bow down to her for being a Social Media Star but maybe she should hire a stylist with all that "Social Media Influencer" money to style her in a more updated classy way.



Finally...

Monique "Momo" Gonzalez: Singer "Momo" walked the red carpet in this dress by  Miami-based designer Andrea Tankovitz (who somehow also created the sequined emerald green gown worn by Rosina Grosso!). I was just perplexed by this look. I get the sort of Valentino-like writing-on-a-gown thing but, then this style had these super-high tacky slits (not just one but TWO!) and then, the plunging V-neck...it was just tacky. On a good note: I thought her hair and makeup was nice--she looked sexy good! And Gracias a Dios she styled it with nude strappy heels. And the back view wasn't too bad! But the overall front view was something that would bring "Project Runway" judge Nina Garcia to tears. Enough said. Monique is so beautiful and so sexy on her own, there is no need to push it to this "Uh Oh" level.