ICE STYLE.....2017 World Figure Skating Championships Costumes Recap: MEN, ICE DANCE!

ICE STYLE.....2017 World Figure Skating Championships Costumes Recap: MEN, ICE DANCE!

Stylish Romance: Canada's Ice Dance pair of Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir during their Free Dance at the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championhsips in Helsinki Finland

In my last post HERE, I discussed the COSTUMES of the LADIES and PAIRS of the 2017 ISU World Figure Skating Championships, which were held this past week and weekend in Helsinki Finland. Now, it's time to round out my "Ice Style" Costumes Recap and talk about the Ice Dance and MEN Costumes. Let's begin with...

ICE DANCE:

Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir Canada Short Program to Hip Hop: Kiss by Prince, Blues: Five Women by Prince, Blues: Purple Rain by Prince--Prince. Need I say more? Tessa is wearing a fabulous jumpsuit and it's purple and black, sequined applique and giving homage to the iconic Prince ruffled blouse: It is costume perfection! The thought and detail put into the entire design and especially those side panel cut-outs is commendable.

Virtue and Moir Canada Free Dance to Pilgrims on a Long Journey by Coeur de Pirate
Latch (Acoustic) by Sam Smith: This dress on Tessa is one of MY TOP FAVORITE COSTUMES for the 2016-2017 Season. She looks Runway Chic, divine and fabulously ethereal all at the same time. The pleated detail is very High Fashion Fab. I usually have a problem with the male partner just being oh-so-boring in black or navy but...WHO CARES??? Tessa looks GORGEOUS It's all about HER! (Sorry Scott!).

Kaetlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje Canada Short Dance to Blues: The Way You Make Me Feel by Judith Hill; Hip Hop: Dangerous and Jam by Michael Jackson: I thought these were great costumes for Canada's Weaver and Poje. I loved hers especially in that it was giving me a little of MJ and A LOT of Yves Saint Laurent "Le Smoking".  

Madison Hubell and Zachary Donohue USA Short Dance to Blues: Feeling Good performed by Nina Simone, Hip Hop Medley--I liked these costumes on USA's Hubbell and Donohue. She wore a jumpsuit with sheer stretch fabric as well as printed panels. And Zachary wore this jacket-and-pants costume which complimented hers--especially with the graphic green and blue printed detail in the back. This was a nice way of incorporating a costume through-line.

Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue USA Free Dance to I Wanna Dance With Somebody by Bootstrap, Can't Help Falling In Love performed by Ingrid Michaelson, Earned It by Bootstrap: Gorgeous, lyrical and right for the music. Her blue-gray dress was beautiful but the color and length was a bit off for my taste. I liked the delicate pleating and flower sequin detail, especially. I also think that the change in Zachary's costume from earlier in the season was a wise decision:



 

Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue USA Free Dance: Grand Prix Finals 2016

Anna Cappellini and Luca Lanotte of Italy Short Dance to Blues: Cry For Me

Boogie Woogie: Choo Choo Boogie--I love this Ice Dance couple from Italy. They always have fun, great character-driven ice dances. For their Short Dance, they donned these bold looks. Anna was very 50's fun in a black and white polka dotted dress and Luca was giving Ballroom Dancer Host in his Shawl-collared red and black tuxedo outfit. I really loved her dress and how it flowed and how it was fitted on her...but yet still loose. The gradation of polka dots was perfection.

Maia and Alex Shibutani USA Short Dance to Blues: That's Life performed by Frank Sinatra, Hip Hop: That's Life (remix) performed by Frank Sinatra, Jay Z--I loved these costumes on the Shibutanis; they were chic, modern and a fresh costume perspective while skating to Frank Sinatra and Jay Z. I'm especially a big fan of Maia in a Tuxedo-esque jumpsuit! The sequined/illusion panel is FABULOUS.

Shibutani and Shibutani USA Free Dance to Evolution: Mirror In Mirror by Anne Akiko Meyers, Akira Eguchi--These were pretty costumes that worked well with the music. I especially loved Alex's draped chiffon top; it was a perfect complimentary look to Maia's floaty dress. The royal blue color theme was beautiful.

Madison Chock and Evan Bates of USA Short Dance to Blues: Bad to the Bone by George Thorogood, Hip Hop: Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars--These were interesting, sexy looks from USA's Chock and Bates for their Short Dance. Madison looked punk-tastic in her spiderweb-like crop top with "ripped" sleeves and sexy low-slung faux leather super-skinny pants. Evan was looking like he went to Zara and bought a jersey knit top, under t-shirt and sleek denim skinny pants and...I still liked it.

Madison Chock and Evan Bates Free Dance to Under Pressure by David Bowie, Freddie Mercury: I LOVED these costumes worn by Chock and Bates for their Free Dance to David Bowie and Freddie Mercury. The costumes were chic, modern yet retro and still reflective of the music. Her purple costume with asymmetrical fishtail hemline and blue-and-orange sequin detail was vibrant, fun and HOT! I also liked his delicately sequined knit top that (if you were paying attention) also featured a slight asymmetrical hemline (like hers). 

  

Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron of France Short Dance to Blues: Bittersweet by Lene Riebau, Maxim Illion perf. by Club des Belugas and Swing: Diga Diga Doo by Dorthy Fields, Jimmy McHugh perf. by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: The fabulous Ice Dance pair of Papadakis and Cizeron wore these costumes above for their Short Dance. She wore a blue dress with gold embroidery in the top section. And sexy Guillaume donned a midnight blue jacket with gold detailed lapels, DEEP PLUNGING neckline white shirt and blue pants. If I had any critique it is that I'm still (even after this ENTIRE season!), not sure what these costumes have to do with the music and their skate. They looked more "Romeo & Juliet" Lite but that wasn't really the theme of their music. 

Gabriella Papadakis and Guillaume Cizeron France Free Skate to Stillness by Nest, Oddudua by Aldo Lopez Gavilan, Happiness Does Not Wait by Olafur Arnalds: I think she is absolutely ethereal and Runway Chic Goddess in this ombre-shaded one-shoulder draped costume dress and Guillaume...well, thank goodness that muscle shirt/top is PLUNGING and SLEEVELESS: Tres Bien!

MEN:

Javier Fernandez Spain Short Program to Malaguena performed by Paco de Lucia and Placido Domingo: Javier wore this black costume of a stretch jersey long sleeve top, pants and faux leather suspenders for this skate. I liked the modernist look and not-so-obvious "Flamenco"-like costume. It was chic, if that can be said for a man. Now, if we can just have him work on those flamenco hand movements and make them look a bit less...stilted...I would be very happy! Sorry if I am causing his fans to not like me but...to me, he lacks the style and rhythm that a true Flamenco dancer has.  

Javier Fernandez of Spain Free Program to Trouble, Fever and Jailhouse Rock performed by Elvis Presley: While I think this Elvis music was good for Javier...he just needed a little more sensual rhythm to pull it off (he was a bit robotic and non-Elvis smooth for my taste--kind of like his hand movement to the "Malaguena" in his Short Program). Now, in terms of his costume, this was good. It evoked the "Elvis" look; it was 50's-esque and the bold black-and-white color blocking of his "Bowling Shirt" was effective. 

Boyang Jin China Short Program to Spiderman: Of course, this was "Spiderman"! Hello! I liked the obviousness of the costume in regards to the music. But, I also liked that it wasn't so cheesy "Halloween" costume and done in black and silver-white. It was modern, sleek and on-point.

Boyang Jin Free Skate to La Strada by Nino Rota: I'm always interested when skaters skate to "La Strada". The Fellini film involves a clown reference and therefore, one can go cartoon-y in a hot costume minute. Boyang did not. I liked the bold graphic stripes and black-and-white vest. The costume was about 90% fine, except, part of me wished he may have beaded the stripes on the shirt--in black, white and red sequins; that would have been slightly more impacting and brought the costume to a more "Couture" Jean Paul Gaultier level.

Nathan Chen Short Program Le Corsaire by Adolphe Adam: Nathan wore this black lace top and black pants costume for his Short Program. I liked the simplicity and  elegance of it, especially since, let's just be honest, NO ONE was really paying attention to his costume and instead, watching how many QUADS this young man would do! I liked the great fit and look of a mini cropped bolero jacket.

Nathan Chen USA Free Skate to Polovtsian Dances (from "Prince Igor") by Alexander Borodin: I really liked this late 19th century Russian Royal look of a costume on Nathan. I liked the bright red and gold top/jacket and the intricacy of the trim and sequin applique. I know this may be such a small detail but I especially liked the emerald green brooch at the center front torso as well as waist accent. 

Patrick Chan of Canada Short Program to Dear Prudence and Blackbird by The Beatles: Patrick Chan is not known for his costumes, and more for his fabulous skating. For his SP, he wore this all-black look skating to The Beatles. Normally, I don't like when male figure skaters just wear the black pant-and-shirt look, and I've referenced it as being a bit too "Ross Dress For Less". I think that here, this ensemble worked. I liked the short sleeved shirt, the suspenders and natural-waist trousers style. Part of me wished the suspenders were sequined--at least in matte black crystals!--but yeah, I know--it's Patrick Chan, sequins are not always his thang.

Patrick Chan Canada Free Sate to A Journey by Eric Radford: For this Free Skate, Patrick wore this Tie Dye top and pants outfit. This was (thankfully) a bit more color than we would ever see from him and a nice change. It was sleek and stylish. 

Shoma Uno Japan Short Program to Fantasy for Violin and Orchestra ("Ladies in Lavender" soundtrack) by Nigel Hess--The music suggested lavender but he wore blue. I thought this was a nice costume for Shoma and I especially appreciate the sequined detail of the top.

Shoma Uno Free Skate to Buenos Aires Hora Cero and Barada para un loco by Astor Piazzolla: I loved this Free Skate costume on Shoma. The red and black were perfect for the music and the delicate and intricate sequin detail was beautiful: He was fiery and Toreador fab.

Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Short Program to Let's Go Crazy by Prince: Yes, it's Prince and yes, it's Yuzuru. And yes, I liked it. Purple, sleek and Glam Fabulous! If there is any critique, it's all those necklaces of his...too many unnecessary accessories; I don't care how meaningful they might be...they are distracting!

Yuzuru Hanyu Japan Free Skate to Hope and Legacy by Joe Hisaishi--I love the multicolored draped and gathered stretch chiffon top. Look at that photo: It looks easy-breezy but that top probably took hundreds of hours to get that way. I love how Yuzuru is comfortable with mixing the feminine and pretty, as well as juxtaposing it with the masculine, while also hinting at an old-school "Vintage" figure skating costume vibe. 

Looking Forward to Spring Fashion 2014

Looking Forward to Spring Fashion 2014

To warm up those February blues, let's look forward to the upcoming trends for Spring. This season is all about looking soft and feminine, which is deal for refined, yet fashion-forward ladies. Overall, we are also seeing a variety floral-themes and a resurgence of 1920s elegance, filled with short hair, flapper dresses and sleeveless oxford shirts. Ultimately, the designs for this season are truly exquisite!

Florals
For Spring, designers are embracing a light, floral touch to a variety of ensembles. Rebecca Taylor shows this trend stunningly with a pink collared shirt and cropped, flowing trousers. Oscar de la Renta reveals a more playful interpretation of this floral motif with a lime green A-line dress with white lace at the sleeves. These gracefully feminine designs are excellent for feeling vibrant at any patio lunch or outdoor gathering.

Sheers & Layers
This Spring, sheer tops are a great way to look fresh and stylish. Calvin Klein reveals a Bohemian-inspired take on this trend, showing a sheer white dress with fringes at the sleeves and hem. For a more conservative look, women can layer these pieces over a beige camisole, which creates a nice layering effect. You can also combine these sheer pieces with gladiator sandals, a perfect touch for Spring weather.

Maxi Dress
The maxi dress offers the perfect combination of comfort and fashion. Known for its weather-versatility, the maxi dress is long enough for chilly evenings, yet also light enough for humid days. Women often pair also a loose cardigan or light scarf with the maxi dress, giving the outfit more complexity and style.

Blazer
Blazers are hot, hot, hot! They are ideal for adding structure and refinement to those flowy spring dresses. Also, the blazer can help create a smoother look for a shapely figure. IN terms of colors, black or white blazers are a safe and classic option. However, blazers in the pastel-color range are also quite vogue this Spring such as yellows, mints and peaches.

Bridal Jewelry
Fashion Supremacy features a dreamy set of necklaces which make exquisite bridal adornments. With the Enchanting Dream Necklace, every bride can feel proud to walk down the aisle. This piece features gorgeous white glass pearls, bright Swarovski crystals and a stunning central snowflake for added sparkle and drama. The Enchanted Dream Head Piece also provides an treasured addition to a bridal gown. For extra dazzle, the Frosted Glitz Necklace is also a popular piece with rhinestone beads and hand-blown glass pearls, elegantly weaved through a crocheted wire bed. There are also Swarovski crystals and silver flowers laced along the center, allowing a bride to glimmer and elicit awe as she walks toward her new life.

To warm up those February blues, let's look forward to the upcoming trends for Spring. This season is all about looking soft and feminine, which is deal for refined, yet fashion-forward ladies. Overall, we are also seeing a variety floral-themes and a resurgence of 1920s elegance, filled with short hair, flapper dresses and sleeveless oxford shirts. Ultimately, the designs for this season are truly exquisite!
Florals
For Spring, designers are embracing a light, floral touch to a variety of ensembles. Rebecca Taylor shows this trend stunningly with a pink collared shirt and cropped, flowing trousers. Oscar de la Renta reveals a more playful interpretation of this floral motif with a lime green A-line dress with white lace at the sleeves. These gracefully feminine designs are excellent for feeling vibrant at any patio lunch or outdoor gathering.
Sheers & Layers
This Spring, sheer tops are a great way to look fresh and stylish. Calvin Klein reveals a Bohemian-inspired take on this trend, showing a sheer white dress with fringes at the sleeves and hem. For a more conservative look, women can layer these pieces over a beige camisole, which creates a nice layering effect. You can also combine these sheer pieces with gladiator sandals, a perfect touch for Spring weather.
Maxi Dress
The maxi dress offers the perfect combination of comfort and fashion. Known for its weather-versatility, the maxi dress is long enough for chilly evenings, yet also light enough for humid days. Women often pair also a loose cardigan or light scarf with the maxi dress, giving the outfit more complexity and style.
Blazer
Blazers are hot, hot, hot! They are ideal for adding structure and refinement to those flowy spring dresses. Also, the blazer can help create a smoother look for a shapely figure. IN terms of colors, black or white blazers are a safe and classic option. However, blazers in the pastel-color range are also quite vogue this Spring such as yellows, mints and peaches.
Bridal Jewelry
Fashion Supremacy features a dreamy set of necklaces which make exquisite bridal adornments. With the Enchanting Dream Necklace, every bride can feel proud to walk down the aisle. This piece features gorgeous white glass pearls, bright Swarovski crystals and a stunning central snowflake for added sparkle and drama. The Enchanted Dream Head Piece also provides an treasured addition to a bridal gown. For extra dazzle, the Frosted Glitz Necklace is also a popular piece with rhinestone beads and hand-blown glass pearls, elegantly weaved through a crocheted wire bed. There are also Swarovski crystals and silver flowers laced along the center, allowing a bride to glimmer and elicit awe as she walks toward her new life.

By Rachel Mara Esco

10 FALL FASHION OUTFITS THAT’LL MAKE YOU TURN HEADS

10 FALL FASHION OUTFITS THAT’LL MAKE YOU TURN HEADS

When the leaves start to change and that cool breeze hits, it’s pretty apparent that the familiar autumn feeling has finally arrived.

Aside from the changing weather, there’s nothing better in the fall than the fashion. This is the best time of year to pull out those comfortable sweaters, oversized jackets and rich autumnal colors.

Even as a young professional you can wear nice sweaters to the office.

If you’re currently lacking fashion inspiration for the season, keep reading to find out how you can easily kill the fashion game with these 10 timeless fall fashion outfits.

ORANGE STREET STYLE

One of the very first fall fashion outfits you’ll want to recreate is the dark orange bomber and grey outfit combination. This ensemble is cool, easy to wear and appropriate for casual occasions.

Wearing grey on grey is a unique style a lot of people don’t think to pull off. The key to wearing this getup, is to break it up with a colorful jacket, such as the dark orange one above.

Both colors are extremely appropriate for autumn, but are paired together in an unexpected way.

This look is also a nice twist on the traditional black & white street style we are used to seeing. It can even be used as an easy way to transition your wardrobe for the fall.

Check out where you can find the best deals on street style attire.

WARMTH WITH STYLE

The black on black jeans and turtleneck combination is a classic fall fashion attire.

What truly makes this outfit unique however, is the use of the turtleneck instead of a traditional black t-shirt, as well as the color combination.

The contrast of the black outfit with the camel coat marry seamlessly, as the colors compliment each other this time of year.

The upturned collar and style of the jacket against the turtleneck also add a little bit more edge to the look.

Additionally, the suede jacket does a great job of highlighting one’s figure and elongating the neck. This is truly a muted way to look high fashion, timeless and elegant.

EDGY FOR FALL

This outfit is a go-to if you’re interested in wearing a fully edgy look. This black on black outfit will be guaranteed to turn people’s heads, as the combination of the beret, Dr. Martin’s and cross-body bag make a jeans and t-shirt outfit, look offbeat.

The lose appearance of the leather / suede jacket also gives the overall attire a casual, nonchalant feel.

That jacket definitely completes the look and is what brings this edgy outfit to the next level.

Check out which accessories every guy needs in his closet to pull an outfit together.

SUIT UP WITH CLASS

If you’re one to wear a suit everyday, make sure to rock a beautifully rich, navy blue one for the fall. This color is not only appropriate for this time of year, but it flatters a lot of men’s skin tones, is extremely modern and pops nicely against a white dress shirt.

Pair the whole look with the best suit accessories, such as silver tie clip, and you’ll look sharper than anyone at your office.

You can also style this stunt suit with a chunky metal watch and a pair of killer sunglasses (the Ray Ban Clubmaster are very nice on most men).

COOL AND CASUAL

When the colder seasons roll around, most of us enjoy staying in, getting comfortable and feeling cozy at home. This white t-shirt and light wash denim outfit is perfect for just that.

The combination is such a classic outfit, that it’ll keep you feeling comfortable and looking trendy at the same time. You’ll totally be killing fall fashion at home in this ensemble.

By the way, I created a great an easy guide to help you never spend hundreds to look expensive again. Here it is: How to Look Expensive.

SMART CASUAL IS KEY

It’s no secret smart casual is my personal favourite style on men. It’s elegant, classic and truly a put-together look. You can rock business casual this fall by switching out your summer linen blazer, for a deep purple, checkered suit jacket instead.

This blazer paired with beige pants and camel leather loafers is an awesome color contrast for autumn, that’ll keep you looking classy all season long.

SWEATER AND A BLAZER

Much like the previous look, this is also a smart casual outfit as well. This attire is a great transitional one from the summertime.

Despite beige and white being summer colors, you can get away with this outfit in the autumn simply by switching out your polo, for a crew neck sweater. This way, you can easily pull-off this summer inspired look in the fall too.

Match the look with an elegant pair of boots, and you are set to kill fall fashion.

EDGY AND BUSINESS CASUAL COLLIDE

What I love about this outfit is how it merges two styles together: business casual and edgy. This creates an unexpectedly unique look.

The base of the outfit is quite contemporary with the t-shirt and trousers combination. However, the addition of the leather jacket and dress shoes make the look a little more rough.

This style is great if you like switching things up and are experimenting with your clothing.

Check out how you can merge street style and class.

COMFORTABLE AND CHIC

If you want a simple, yet appropriate fall look, then this is the perfect outfit for you. It’s classic, elegant and suitable for any gentlemen looking to impress this season.

Although the combination of the sweater and the chino pants is predictable and very common, the color pairing is what will make you stand out of the crowd.

You can’t deny the dark orange knit merges well with the beige trousers. Not to mention, it’s a color combination a lot of people don’t think of trying out. You can be sure to kill fall fashion in this safe, yet colorful attire.

FORMAL WEAR

Last but certainly not least, formal wear. I couldn’t do a fall fashion outfits inspiration article without including a tux.

Although they are worn all year long, they are especially appropriate in the fall with all the holiday parties coming up.

A tux is the epitome of elegance and will definitely make you look amazing for any black tie event.

Check out this article on how you can complete your tux and look expensive.

Figure Skating Costume Minute--NHK Trophy 2012--Costume Recap of the MEN!

Figure Skating Costume Minute--NHK Trophy 2012--Costume Recap of the MEN!

Konnichiwa Japan!

ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating NHK Trophy 2012 (Japan)

This past weekend was the NHK Trophy 2012, the final of six ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating competitions. I have been happily covering each and every event here on my blog. For my Skate America 2012 click HERE; Skate Canada International 2012 click HERE; Cup of China 2012 click HERE; Rostelecom Cup 2012 (Russia) click HERE; and Trophee Eric Bompard 2012 (France), click HERE. Now, we're in Japan for the NHK Trophy 2012, organized by the Japanese Skating Federation, and it took place in Sendai Japan. First, let's get started with the MEN'S Costumes. Since it was the final event (prior to the finals) I've discussed most all of the costumes already, but somehow...there were some boys I had not talked about...But first, can we TWALK...about that awfully TACKY NHK Trophy 2012

"Kiss & Cry" section?? PLEASE!



What. Is. With . All. The. Flowers????

Spain's Javier Fernandez at the "NHK Trophy 2012" Kiss & Cry area

Is this a tacky wedding photo session at your local mall, or a "Kiss & Cry" area of an international sporting competition?? The flowers SLAYED me. Seriously, I thought I was at a Quinceañera! Now, speaking of Javier... 

Javier Fernanadez of Spain: I wrote about Javier's Free Skate (as well as his Short Program) Costume HERE. Essentially, I liked this costume that he wore to "The Mask of Zorro" music. I thought it was a nice non-Period costume interpretation. Modern. Sleek. Me gusta!

Daisuke Takahashi of Japan in his Short Program Costume---and the Daisuke Fans at the Sekisui Heim Super Arena, Sendai Japan

Daisuke Takahashi of Japan: I have also discussed Daisuke's costumes for both his Short Program and Free Skate in the ISU Grand Prix 2012-2013 Series HERE  . I LOVED his Short Program red and black ensemble, which he skated to "Roll 'n' Roll Medley", "The Stroll", "Rudy's Rock". 

For his Free Skate to "Pagliacci", his costume was PERFECT! I said that it "was a very thought-out look and costume. Kudos to this modern, yet
still Figure Skating theatrical-perfect Pagliacci costume". Amen. And may I add, that at this weekend's "NHK Trophy 2012", Daisuke looked especially cute. Loved the "toned-down" hair, all semi slicked-backed and clean. Hottie McHottie, The Japan Edition.

Yuzuru Hanyu of Japan: Little--and very skinny--Yuzuru received the HIGHEST Short Program Score at "NHK Trophy 2012" this past weekend for his skate. Oh, and yes, he won the Gold Medal in the end. I have also discussed his costumes HERE. I liked both costumes--to his Short Program to "Parisienne Walkways" as well as his Free Skate, which he skated to "Notre-Dame de Paris". And yes, Yuzuru had his slew of fans at in his hometown of Sendai as well:

Now, I'd like to discuss some MALE Skaters I haven't talked about yet...Costume-wise:

Sergei Voronov of Russia: For his Short Program to "Yablochko" (Russian sailor dance) by Reinhold Gliere, Sergei wore a "Russian Sailor Uniform" of a black and white striped long sleeved shirt and black pants. It makes sense that he would. Unfortunately (or fortunately), he looks like an add for a Jean Paul Gaultier perfume.

For his Free Skate Costume to Music from Romeo and Juliet by Nino Rota, Sergei wore a black lace three-quarter sleeve shirt and  black pants. It had elements of "Romance" and yet was very old-school 1980's figure  skating costume at the same time. I'm a little bit "on the fence" with this one--it might be the black gloves that are throwing me off...

Andrei Rogozine of Canada: Andrei skated his Short Program to "Broken Sorrow" performed by Nuttin but Stringz and "Fanfare" by Black Violin. I liked this black and gold high-necked jacket ensemble. It was very Alexander McQueen--in terms of its styling, shape and detail.

Kevin Reynolds of Canada: Kevin skated his Short Program to "Chambermaid Swing" by Parov Stelar. I liked the purple shirt and sequin-studded double-breasted lapel on his vest. I also appreciated the crystal square buttons. And yes, the pinstripe pants were a great contrast. Overall, it was appropriate for the music and for him.

For his Free Skate to "Concerto No. 4 in E minor for Piano and Orchestra" by Andre Mathieu, Kevin, went a little on the "Costume Kooky" side with the gray, black and white ombre dyed shirt, the black vest with the detailed clasps, sequined-trimmed pants, and those white gloves. Something about it  all screamed "Not Working". And his pressed flat-iron hairstyle from 2009 did not help.

Adam Rippon of USA: He skated his Short Program to Puccini's "Nessun Dorma", an aria from the famous opera "Turandot" . He wore this tie-dyed purple and pink shirt with black pant "costume". This ensemble seemed liked a "throw-away" figure skating look for him. I thought it wasn't particularly original, inspiring, especially after seeing what some of the other boys--especially the Japanese ones--wore for their programs/skates. Indecently, it was a COSTUME CHANGE from what he wore earlier to the same skate and music:

I liked this black and white costume look (above photo, from "Cup of China 2012") he wore for his Short Program to Puccini's "Nessun Dorma" much better.

Pant Change: For his Free Skate to Music from The Incredibles soundtrack by
Michael Giacchino, at NHK Trophy 2012 Adam also changed his costume--well, his pants. At
the Cup of China 2012, he wore gray pants (above)...

And for this most recent Grand Prix,  he wore black ones. Good choice Adam. I likeyyy the pant change.

Ross Miner of USA: Ross skated his Short Program to "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" by Sergei Rachmaninoff featuring the costume above. It was a bit "Captain Kirk of Star Trek" but I liked the color blocking. Very 2012-2013 Fashion Trend for sure!

For his Free Skate to "Captain Blood" by Erich Korngold, he wore a Cabernet red top with a convertible collar, V-neck and sequins and yes, those ubiquitous male figure skater BLACK PANTS--and (Mon Dieu!) a belt! And it wasn't just any "Ross Dress For Less" belt (which, I am not a fan) but a big ol' gold buckled belt! I like everything...and if he had to wear a belt, a least it was interesting and added to the costume theme. Most of all, I am soooo jealous of his 22-inch waist! (I mean, really, look at him in that above pic!). Just in case you are wondering, both his costumes were designed by Chase Tyler, The Work Room Productions.

Top Three Men: (left to right) Silver medalist Daisuke Takahashi of Japan, Gold Medalist Yuzuru Hanyu
of Japan and Bronze Medalist Ross Miner of the United States, ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating NHK Trophy 2012, Sekisui Heim
Super Arena, Rifu, Japan. 

***Up Next: The Ladies, Pairs and Ice Dance Costume Recaps and Highlights of NHK Trophy 2012 ! Stay Tuned!