Happy Holidays One and All

So it is the holidays. I am off until the 3rd January, when I will return and blog up a storm of celeb style for you for yet another year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support this year. It has been a blast hanging in a gang with you guys. You are top. I wish you and yours all a wonderful holiday season, a spectacular celebration into the new year and a very prosperous 2012 for us all. Yay us. Style rules. See you on the flip side.
PS: yes that is Heidi Klum dressed as mother Christmas for your entertainment. Enjoy.

Carrey Mulligan and the Great Cover Debate of 2011

I love Carey Mulligan. I can't wait to see her as Daisy in the film adaptation of The Great Gatsby. I also like her style. And I am slightly swayed by her engagement to the awesome Mumford of the Mumford and Sons band. Partisan as I am. So all good. But I really, really hate the cover she shot for W magazine. I am not even that keen on the rather overly dramatic inside spread, although there are moments that I like. Like the first one where she is smiling and looks like herself.

I'm not convinced that she needed to be in a bra on the cover, you know? It doesn't add anything of significance to the story and doesn't do anything to change my perceptions of her. She is a fine actress, has a canny sense of style that is real, unexpected and accessible. And she is elfin beautiful. She simply doens't need to be in a bra. Right? It's just annoyingly gratuitous.

Of course it is better than this cover. The same one on three separate international fashion magazines - Vogue, Elle and Glamour. Really? So wrong. Once Vogue US has done it, you simply can't do it as everyone will have already seen it - or close enough anyway. You could probably go to the most distant town in the land and find US Vogue on a bookshelf somewhere. I saw the latest one in Hermanus on Tuesday. Seriously. Hermanus. Poor show peeps, poor show. But we still love Carey. What are your thoughts on this? Let me know.

Rooney Mara in Rodarte for Opening Ceremony on Jimmy Fallon

It appears the new ingenue on the block, Rooney Mara, The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, likes herself some monochrome. Coming hot on the heels of that magnificent white Givenchy Couture gown she wore to the premier of the movie, she has trotted out several more black or white numbers, culminating this week in a black and white Rodarte for Opening Ceremony dress, above. I love the pairing with the Mary Janes as well as the side swept fringe. She is doing things with that fringe that I only dream of. If I could do them, I may still have a fringe, ya know?

Check out the rest of the monochrome, starting with that amazing and slightly awkward Prabul Gurung cut out dress on the far left. Delicate and beautiful, the meshed-in cut-outs were a bit off for me, but she looked beautiful. That Donna Karan coat is also just a triumph and I love it. Also love the Louboutin Mary Janes and the side parted and slicked down fringe-action. Winning. And then there was that cute as anything white Roksanda Ilincic dress with the sixties neckline, full fringe in place. Paired with a white Carven coat to leave the studio. This lady is ON FIRE with her style. Which is your favourite look?

Meryl Streep Covers Vogue

Between Dames Judi and Helen and the mighty Meryl Streep, the landscape for actresses of a certain age has changed completely. No one finds it weird to refer to Dame Helen Mirren as sexy. No one would dare suggest that Meryl wasn't beautiful. And Dame Judi Dench, with her twinkle in her eye and recurring role in James Bond, is certainly as relevant an actress as anyone. And yet all these women are over 60. Yes, what was once retirement age, is now time to simply carry on with one's life, better than ever. And if a Vogue cover isn't testament to that, nothing will be. For the January issue of US Vogue, Meryl Streep graces the cover and looks stunning. I would be very surprised if that didn't boost sales.

Of course the only question that plagues me about this cover is why US Vogue seems to shoot all their covers on the rocks at the sea these days (see last issue with Charlize on the cover - same idea). As long as the cover is strong and beautiful, I don't care the age of the person on it. But this really is a nice surprise. Well played Anna Wintour.

Behati Prinsloo is Back in Africa for Christmas

I follow several of the African model girls on Twitter, and it is always lovely to see when they come back home for the holidays and remember how important Africa is to them. One of the girls that actually seldom forgets, and does work for other parts of the world in need too, is Victoria Secret girl Behati Prinsloo.

Bee is back in Africa, Cape Town to be specific, and is raving all about it. She recently sold her photographs of Haiti from a charity trip she took with her bestie Coco Rocha. She posted some images from the big exhibition on Twitter and she really deserves all the support and recognition we can give her in these kinds of endeavours.

Of course we can also support her work when she larks about with Chanel Iman, photographed by Ben Watts too. Why not. We like her what ever she gets up to. Go local girls!

Florence Welch in Temperley London, Naeem Khan, Antonio Berardi and Emilio Pucci

Seriously. Talk about a singing diva! How many divine dresses does it take to make a diva? Let's refer to the great Florence Welch - three parts singing genius, one part style star. It really has been an exceptional year for her as she has forged ahead in both the singing and the style worlds, culminating in this performance of fashion fabulousness at the VH1 Divas Celebrate Soul event. Let's start with the cream beaded Antonio Berardi mullet dress that she wore to arrive on the red carpet. There is something about a polo neck and long sleeve that really works for Flo. Hate the hemline of course. Then there was the magnificent Emilio Pucci velvet and beaded cocktail dress with the scoop neck that was very different for her, as she usually wears long dresses to perform in. It was good but not great. What was great was the shimmering gold Naeem Khan beaded dress that she wore next. Stunning. Utterly sublime and perfection on her. Only to be outdone in my opinion by the elegance and sheer classiness of the black wrap tuxedo dress by Temperley London. Unbelievable and definitely my favourite.

Flo appeared on Tuesday night in another Naeem Khan number which was printed and flowing and 70s inspired. And all was right with the world.
Which look is your favourite? Pick one now.

Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, in Ralph Lauren

One of the charities that Princess Di was particularly supportive of was Centrepoint - a charity that helps homeless youngsters get back on their feet and find jobs and shelter. With shelters all over London, she used to take the Princes William and Harry to see how people less fortunate than themselves lived. And William in particular has grown up to be an integral part of the charity's work as their patron. Now that it is freezing cold and just before Christmas, Prince William chose this time to show his support for Centrepoint with an official engagement yesterday. And he took along his wife, Catherine. Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, wore a khaki green polo neck knitted dress by Ralph Lauren Blue Label. Nice and chic with an edge of dress down. Perfectly pitched. Of course you KNOW I am going to moan about those boots - her favourites and my worst - and I would also have left off the belt for a more modern take, but all in all, Kate looked lovely and appropriate and seemed to have a whale of a time with the youngsters.

Prince William also looked nice in his lovely blue jumper and cords - but I particularly liked his loafers. Very elegant. Unlike the moves he showed off inside... Funny. Go royals. You are doing exactly the right stuff here and looking good doing it too.

Looks I Loved This Weekend: Holiday Special

This holiday special of looks I loved is jam packed with amazing ladies who wore cute things that I noticed this past weekend. Let me take this opportunity to encourage you to click on the picture to see it bigger and closer. You know. If you like. Starting with Gillian Anderson. In red peek-a-boo. She has recently found her style mojo and it is working for me and it is mostly vintage. Like this 70s Ossie Clark. Perfect Christmas time dress. Audrey Tatou is just a pistol. Look at how cute she is in her blue silk with clompy heels and an amazing neck piece. SO WANT IT. And Dame Helen Mirren - the lady I want to be when I grow up - wore this silk satin plum number to the Ein Herz fuer Kinder shindig in Berlin. Seriously? That body rocks. The delightful Kylie Minogue also went black and red for the comedy awards on the weekend. Slashed and asymmetrical, the dress was paired with Jimmy Choo heels of course. Stunning. And then there was Rosie Huntington Whiteley. Doesn't even need to be on a red carpet to look amazing. Just pops on her plum Burberry coat and pairs them with Alaia ankle boots, and what do you know? A-may-zing. My favourite you ask? Well, I am going to have to go for Audrey. You?

Katryn Kruger for Prada by Steven Meisel

Local Cape Town schoolgirl, Katryn Kruger has recently shot a campaign for Prada spring/summer 2012. Shot by none other than Steven Meisel. Ahem. Yes. Himself. Katryn is the brunette on the right.

Katryn started working only this year. Has already done a catwalk for Prada and one exclusively for Givenchy at the last shows. She has shot the recent January Elle SA cover, as well as a lovely editorial for Sarie magazine. Seriously guys. This girl is some kind of special. She is repped by Y Models here in SA. Check her out while you still can.
Thanks to my photographer friend Ulrich Knoblauch for the images.

Jennifer Lopez in The Row and Salvatore Ferregamo

While we are still gripped by the US version of the X-Factor (Chris or Josh for the win, obvs), Simon Cowell's old show, American Idol has kicked off the auditions. It won't hit our screens for a while, but let's get a dose of the glowing Jennifer Lopez's outfits to get us started. First there was the mustard coat by The Row (the Olsens' line), which she paired with cream wide leg trousers from Milly. I LOVE this look. Seriously chic. Then she stepped out in a cream dress which she covered up with a Salvatore Ferregamo houndstooth coat. Awesome. Can't wait to see her back in action. Bring it on.

The Beckhams Are Back in Britain for Christmas

Not strictly royal, but royal enough for me, the wonderfully stylish Beckham family flew back into their homeland yesterday looking all kinds of travel-chic. Victoria was wearing a stunning pleated skirt coat from her own Victoria Beckham winter collection. Little baby Harper was in an adorable grey polka dot dress and the younger two boys were super-stylish in their trench coats, with Romeo taking the winner's award by pairing his with that on-trend trilby.

David looked even more delicious later yesterday when he took the two older boys, Brooklyn and Romeo with him when he attended the Sun Military Awards. There is no freakin doubt that this is one super-hot familty with style oozing out of every pore. Yum. It's my pleasure. Enjoy.

PS: Click on the images to make them bigger.

Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco

Princess Charlene of Monaco (or onse Charlene, as we like to call her) attended the 'Ein Herz fuer Kinder' Charity gala this past weekend in my favourite European city, Berlin. Wearing a very pretty burgundy strapless gown, with a matching wrap, the Princess knocked it out the park. It has to be said that this colour is particularly flattering to her skin tone and the full skirt balances out her swimmers' shoulders so it is an all round win. And then she was awarded with a Golden Heart statue at the event for her commitment to charities that aid children. A really good night then for our golden girl. Well played Charlene.

Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, in Black Velvet Alexander McQueen

So today is a day of royalty style. Starting with the headline maker of the year, in fashion terms, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. She was out with her husband and brother-in-law last night at the Sun Military Awards. And she wore a stunning black velvet strapless dress with fishtail skirt and ruffled neckline by Alexander McQueen. She paired it with diamond jewellery she received as a gift for her wedding earlier this year. You can't see them, but she wore a pair of black Jimmy Choo classic courts underneath it all. I think that this look is magnificant and deserve all the praise it is getting. I love it. And it reminds me a bit of Lady Diana Spencer's first evening outfit that she wore before her wedding. It is a poignant reminder of how much better prepared and adjusted Kate is, whilst bringing back some happy memories of my eight-year-old self's obsession with Lady Di.

One of the highlights of the evening though was the amazingly heartfelt speech made by Prince Harry. It is so apparent that this is a new generation of Royals. One that is totally in touch with what is going on and relate to it by getting directly involved.  The legacy of their mother, I believe.
It included the following:

"I am a young Army officer, a serving soldier. Like my brother, I share many of the same hopes, the same aspirations to go on operations, and the same fears as all those who serve our Queen and country. By an accident of birth, though, it falls to 564673 Captain Wales humbly to express – on behalf of my comrades-in-arms and people up and down the country – the admiration we feel for the extraordinary men and women we honour here tonight.

It’s often said of our armed forces that they are ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Well, I don’t entirely buy that. Ordinary people don’t run out under withering enemy rocket and heavy machine-gun fire to rescue a wounded comrade. Ordinary people don’t brave monsoon conditions dangling on a winch line to rescue 13 people, each in turn. For that matter, ordinary people don’t put their lives on the line for distant folk, such as the Afghans, who need our help and are now turning their country round because of it."

Charlize Theron in Stella McCartney, Balenciaga and Dior. Seriously.

Could it be possible that onse Charlize Theron doesn't look amazing in absolutely every single thing that she wears? Is it? Well, I am going to throw out there that the Stella McCartney monochrome dress is not a favourite for me. Not so much that Charlize looks rubbish, more that the dress is a bit off-ish. Having said that I j'adore the vampish Balenciaga look she had on this weekend, as well as the amazing Dior maxi dress she wore on Jay Leno.

I would seriously think about just sticking to Dior if I were Charlize's stylist. She is unfailingly brilliant in it. And then maybe mix it up a bit with the alternative designers. But avoid the Stella, I think. What do you think, gang? Much ado about nothing? Is she still drop dead amazing no matter what she wears? Possibly.

Blake Lively in Burberry and Gucci

Hello and welcome to the last blogging week of the year. This week there will only be two posts a day. One at ten-ish and one at noon-ish. Or when ever I can rouse myself from the glorious day bed under the vines to attend to such matters as style and substance. You understand. And today we begin with the lovely and lucky young woman that is dating Ryan Reynolds. It is of course one of my faves, Blake Lively. And doesn't she look super in her Burberry coat from the latest collection. That collar print detail is magnificent. And hosting an event in gold Gucci. I may need to die a bit for that skirt. I super-love it, I tell you. I have no idea why I am speaking in an announcer's voice, but if I were to make one observation for the crowd today, it is that Blake could have done better than those satin shoes with the gold skirt. I would have worn it with something colourful or metallic - something a tad lighter. Anyhoodle, enjoy the outfits and I will see you all later. Happy Christmas shopping!

Ladies in Black: Olivia Palermo

My favourite lady dressed in black this week was Olivia Palermo. She trotted out not one, but two magnificent black dresses. The first was by Giorgio Armani and the fringed, feathered flapper-ness of it all worked brilliantly in shades and textures of black. The jewel-toned and jewel-encrusted accessories were a triumph. Unexpected, unmatched and yet perfectly pitched. I am actually a bit in awe of this level of detail she achieves. Annoys me too that I didn't think of it first. Grrrr.

And then, if that wasn't sleek and beautiful enough, she comes back a few days later dressed in a fun, frivolous black sequin silk Marchesa mini dress with her hair hanging in lovely waves and her make up and accessories all as neutral as can be. Oh. My. Word. Seriously? How long does she take to plan all of this out? This is one of those occasions where I love and hate in equal measure. But mostly I love. Stunning, don't you think?
PS: Those second shoes are Valentino and from last season. I love that she still loves and wears them. Go Livvie.

Ladies in Black: Kate Beckinsale, Rooney Mara, Scarlett Johansson and Julianna Margulies

Speaking of Julianna Margulies, she is one of the many other ladies who attended parties dressed in cute little black dresses this week. It really is a cliche for a reason - you simply can't go wrong with a LBD. Julianna's picked up on the dropped waist of the 20s trend and she paired it a tad too predictably with nude heels. Scarlett Johansson was a bit more exciting with her Dolce & Gabbana dress with waist cut-outs and her favourite Jimmy Choo heels. I like the neckline of her dress very much. Kate Beckinsale jazzed things up a bit more with some sparkle and spangle in her Michael Kors gown and her satin Jimmy Choos felt more appropriate and fresh. And finally The Girl With The Dragon Tatto, Rooney Mara, went very far in this strange little Roksanda Ilincic jumpsuit. I think she looks delightful and gamine (the new Audrey?) but the jumpsuit did not make me jump for joy, sadly. Who was your fave lady in black this week? Vote now!

Ladies in Black: The Iron Lady Premier Best Dressed

Like everyone else it seemed last night, the best dressed ladies at The Iron Lady premier all wore little black dresses. It is hard to pick my favourite between Olivia Wilde's Dolce & Gabbana (worn brilliantly with leopard print pumps) or that gorgeous fit-n-flare number by Alaia that Leelee Sobieski wore. I think I am going to go with Olivia as I truely hate the those boots on Leelee - although I love the dress more. Ah, the vagaries of fashion.
Anne Hathaway also looked very nice. I say that with a personal reservation. I truely abhor the American habit of wearing sleeveless polonecks of any kind. And I hate it no less in a dress than in a top. It is a weird US affectation that no one else understands. But I do have to admit that Annie looked elegant and chic and so I am going ot overlook it this one and only time. you have been warned. Good. Now as you were.

Ladies in Black: Meryl Streep and her Daughters

It was the premier of The Iron Lady on Tuesday night. And master-actress Meryl Streep was dressed almost appropriately in a lovely light Conservative blue blouse (Mrs Thatcher would most certainly approve) - paired with a black skirt. It was by Stella McCartney. She made it a family affair as she posed with her husband Don Gummer and all the sisters-Gummer (Mamie, Grace and Louisa). Who looked wonderful all in their tight black skirt, leather zip-away and tuxedo. I love my sister dearly, but I have to say, I wouldn't mind being a Gummer-sister for a day... instead of a Cooke-sister. (A joke just for the South Africans. You know what I mean.) You may recognise Mamie of course from the brilliant TV series The Good Wife, in which she plays the faux innocent opponent in court of our Julianna Margulies.

By the by, the film co-stars South African actor Richard E Grant. And by South African, I mean born in Swaziland and educated at the University of Cape Town. The only place that counts, really. Boom.

Looks I Loved This Weekend: The Casual Edition II

The casual edition of Looks I Loved This Weekend, involves my book club mate Cat Deeley looking super cool in stripes and a great white trilby. Also, Blake Lively, sickeningly in love with Ryan Reynolds, looking awesome in a black blazer over skinnies and a scarf. My pick of the week is Elizabeth Olsen in her shirt buttoned-up to the neck, tucked into some great wide leg pants and loafers. Love this look. And then onse Charlize Theron. Looking all kinds of fabulous as usual in her black tuxedo blazer, print vest (you can get something very similar at Country Road) and skinny black pants. Awesome. I say Lizzie for the win. What do you say?

Looks I Loved This Weekend: The Formal Edition II

Last week I split the looks I loved into two - formal and casual - and, since at this time of year there are so many parties and functions, I am going to do the same this week. Starting with the formal set. Let's kick it off with Olivia Wilde and her glorious polka dot skirt and beautiful red floral top. She rocks. It is unexpected, shows bags of personality and her own take on style. I heartily like this one.
The current 'one to watch', Felicity Jones looked super-duper in black leather skirt and white button down shirt. Classic and elegant. Neatly played - young but not hoochie. Note: both Olivia and Felicity are wearing Mary Janes on their feet. Nice.
Then there is the surprise package of the week - that dreadful Rachel from Glee. This is a cute as a button Emilio Pucci gold lace gress on Lea Michele, as she promoted New Year's Eve.
And Michelle Pfeiffer, out and about for the same reason, looked A-MAY-ZING in this navy shirt dress and gold glitter shoes.

But a special mention has to go to Taylor Swift this week. She was honoured at the Nashville Symphony Ball this weekend. And she really did look like a magnificent princess in this Reem Acra gown that swept to the floor. Divine, no?

Sandra Bullock in Victoria Beckham

So my mate Victoria Beckham loves Sandra Bullock. She is one of VB's favourite actresses. Has been for years. So imagine her excitement when Sandra appeared in one of Vicky's SS12 dresses? I think it is adorable that VB still gets so excited when an A-lister wears her clothes. I mean, who else does? But it is super-cute.

Not as cute as little Louis though. Just look at that FACE. And those cute little boots. I die. While we are marvelling at the awesomeness of this moment, please can we also stop and admire Sandy's scarf (would be a wonderful addition to my wardrobe, now wouldn't it) and her sunnies. I believe that these are the same sunglasses that I have admired on Miranda Kerr and Jessica Biel. Clearly the ones to have this season.

Michelle Obama in Rodarte, Cushnie et Ochs and Marc Jacobs

The FLOTUS Michelle Obama has scored the trifecta of holiday style this year. Coming strong off the back of her Vera Wang dress last week, Mrs O has stepped up to the holiday events calendar with a string of cracking outfits. Let's start with the Hanukkah celebration to which she wore that fantastic blue shimmery, sleeveless Rodarte frock with the full skirt and Jimmy Choo low courts as is her signature style. Just enough glamour for the season, just enough personality for her. Perfectly nuanced.

She followed that up with a sensational bottle green Cushnie et Ochs dress with a fabulous neckline detail and some gold spangle in her shoe. That was for the 'Christmas in Washington' taping.

And then yesterday Michelle and Bo the dog visited the Children's National Medical Centre, dressed in the most elegant Marc Jacobs ensemble. I love the plum colour and the psychedelic dots. Fab stuff.
Which was your favourite? I am going for the Christmas green of the Cushnie dress. You?

Rooney Mara in Givenchy Couture at Premier of the Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

It was the London premier of the long anticipated film version of the book The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, starring Rooney Mara. And I just have to say that I think she looked incredible. Proper film star mystique. Elegant, refined, ethereal presence on the red carpet. And even a smile. It was clear that this actress and her character were two totally different things. Helping her get there was this exquisite white, backless Givenchy Couture gown. Seriously. I have no words. It is on. Another. Level.

What do you think?

Jessica Biel in Victoria Beckham and Valentino

I remain unconvinced by Jessica Biel. And I know a lot of you guys do too. We are just not sure that there is really anything interesting about her. And yet, here she grabs my attention. First of all she wore a stunning white Victoria Beckham dress to promote her new movie New Year's Day. Which, according to reviews, is less than great. And yet most of us will see it anyway. And then attended the premier dressed in the collection of the moment, Valentino. I mean, seriously good choices.

She even looked nice as she headed out from the airport, continuing the promotions. I don't mean the outfit, which is a bit strange, but rather then handbag. And the sunglasses. Excellent accessorising, we'll have to give her that! Right?

Brooklyn Decker in Tory Burch, Nha Khanh and Dior

Brooklyn Decker is tennis player Andy Roddick's wife. And a Victoria Secret swimsuit model, of course. I noticed a while ago that she looks pretty sassy and stylish usually. In fact I have posted on her a few times. But this past week has been a real style triumph for her. I mean, hitting it out the park three out of three times. Not many young women can do that. She started off at the UNICEF Ball in powder blue Tory Burch. With her hair in loose milkmaid braids and a punch of tangerine in the shoes. It is a soft power play this. Confident and sexy.

She followed that up with an appearance at Spike TV's Video Game Awards. This time dressed in a Nha Khanh black lace 'skater' dress that suited her beautifully. Again, she punched up the shoes with bright yellow that made the whole thing young and fun and very, very cheeky. Perfection.

And then she went short and shiny (but not tight) for the CNN Heros event, debuting Christian Dior Resort wear. And looking like a real life golden girl. I love the frill at the bottom of the dress. And the soft, sophisticated waves in her hair. And the lace-up gladiator heels. It all just comes together without being obvious. Elegant and yet still sensuous. Bloody brilliantly played. I am in awe. And want the Dior please. Just for me for being a very good girl this year. Thanks.