Ruffles, sequins, metallic’s, OH MY!  There was certainly no shortage of any of these fashion choices at the Oscars!  Where does one start??  Let’s start with the Hot Messes because there was a plethora of them to talk about.  For starters; the official "wtf" award goes to Charlize Theron…really? One suggestion, fire your stylist.  I’ll follow Charlize up with Vera Farmiga.  See, this is what you call WAY too much of a good thing.  She gets points for trying, I just wasn’t feeling it.  Next, Mariah Carey.  Oh my dear child, what am I going to do with you?  I am just dying for this girl to ONCE prove me wrong and show me she can look reasonable…yes, I’m not even going for fabulous, I will take reasonable.  She is the definition of hot mess my friends, and honestly, I just find her painful to look at.  Then there is J Lo…I don’t even know what to say about that disaster, it kinda looked like a lopsided origami, yes, I said origami.  Meryl Streep just looked frumpy….Her shoes were hideous and her hair was mediocre at best.  *sigh* .  For my final thought on the hot mess category, Sarah Jessica Parker…seriously.  Awkward? Unflattering?  Anyone? Bueller, Bueller??  So many messes, so little blog space ;-)

Let’s move on to the success stories of the evening.  Sandra Bullock took the cake for the evening.  She looked nothing short of stunning.  The luminous Marchesa gown, the beading, the red lips.  Hello, you had me at red lips.  Can you say winner, ding ding ding!!  Also looking just as fabulous was Cameron Diaz.  She sported a beautiful Oscar de la Renta creation while accessorizing with a Cartier white gold diamond ring.  Really, how can a girl go wrong with that combination?  Queen Latifah was fantastic in her shiny purple, one shoulder, form fitting gown.  She wore it beautifully.  Kristen Stewart stood out in a sophisticated midnight blue silk satin organza gown Monique Lhuillier.   I for some reason was surprised to see her in it, but it was a great choice for her.  'Precious' star and Best Actress nominee Gabourey Sidibe looks better than ever in a deep blue off-the-shoulder Marchesa dress with Lorraine Schwartz diamonds.  One more to mention is Elizabeth Banks. She looked positively elegant in her Versace.  This may be one of my favorite dresses of the evening.  I love the detailing on the top, the ruffles on the bottom, and yes, I even like the gray!  Magnifique!

For my wild child of the evening, hands down Zoe Saldana!  Love it or hate it, she wasn’t safe, she wasn’t the norm and her gown was straight off the runway by Givenchy.  I give her props just for attempting such an eccentric, fun, fabulously couture statement!

All in all, I really didn’t find it to be the most impressive Oscar fashion event ever.   The amount of slackers with their “safe” or just lame choices was downright disappointing.  The list of “it could go either way” was overbearing.  C’est la vie.  Maybe next year.

Xoxo, 

Pix

Back by popular demand, Part 2 is now out and officially released.  Enjoy my peeps :-)

10.  All the bridesmaids have to match.  Says who?  If you choose, each bridesmaid can have their own style.  One can have a halter; one can have strapless and so forth and so on.  The curvy full figured friend may even thank you while she stands next to twiggy...just a thought. I personally would recommend the same color at least for continuity sake, but hey, this too can be different if you so wish.

9. The bride and grooms parents must sit together in the front row, even if they can't stand the sight of one another. Not all parental matrimony is perfect, why ask the mother of the bride to sit next to her ex-husband just because you think that it's appropriate for your wedding day. In an ideal world, parents could put their differences behind them for the sake of their child's wedding, however don't force them.  Wouldn’t you rather they be separated vs. world war three breaking out?

8.  You have to toss your wedding bouquet….not true…if you are older, or most of your guests are married, or you just have a really special grandma, mom, aunt, etc that you would like to give it to, there is nothing wrong with honoring them and handing it to them with a kiss rather than throwing it… it will mean the world to them.

7. You can’t incorporate other cultural traditions because you are not of that culture.  Of course you can.  For example the breaking of glass…if you are catholic, but really believe in the reason behind this symbolism, then go for it.  But word of caution, do not make fun of, belittle or demean the original intention of the tradition.  Please have respect and courtesy for whichever culture you plan on incorporating.

6. You have to invite everyone your parents want to invite.  Well, this is a touchy situation.  General rule of thumb.  If your parents are footin' the bill for it, then they do have more of a say and you should respect them.  If you are paying, then you have final say…but let me give another word of caution; be respectful.  Is it worth hurting your parents’ feelings or worse, causing tension over a few place settings?  Generally they are inviting these people because they are proud and want to show you off.  Just keep it in mind.

5. Shopping from the registry is impersonal.  Not really and this is why.  Registries were designed to allow the couple to select items they would like, rather than receiving several toasters or coffee makers that they have no use for. If there is no registry, money or other gifts are good choices. However, if there is a registry, according to The Knot wedding experts, guests should purchase from it as the couple did register for a reason. ** And we all know if The Knot says it, it MUST be true ;-) **

4. An invitation means you can bring a date. (kind of a tag along to #3 from myth busters 1). Receiving an invitation without it stating "and guest" does NOT mean you are allowed to bring a guest. Dude, are you kidding me?  Couples often make their invitation lists within a budget and many times are not able to invite all the people they would like. If they wanted you to bring a guest, they would indicate as much. Bringing a guest without receiving an invitation for one is in poor taste and is enough to send even the calmest bride into a tizzy. Honnessttllyyyyy, it's just plain rude.  Don't do it.

3. It is rude to have an adult only reception.  Ummm no.  If you would like your reception to be adult only, then so be it.  It is your reception, and there is nothing that states you have to invite everyone’s children as well.  On this note, if your invitation says “Adult only” or “No children please” do NOT bring your children.

2. Skipping the rehearsal will be ok.  No, Never, Don’t do it.  Seriously people, each church, venue, and location is different.  Each officiant is different.  DO the rehearsal; spend the extra money if there is a cost.  It is the difference between things turning into a catastrophe at your ceremony or things going smoothly.  LISTEN to the advice of your officiant.  Let me say it again, LISTEN to the officiant.

(some of you will ignore this and be sorry).

1. Your vendors are mind readers.  People, I have experienced this a thousand times over.  Unless YOU communicate exactly what you want, don’t assume they know.  As seasoned as they may be, they can only guide you.  If you don’t tell them you specifically want a picture with Uncle Frank at 6pm in front of a tree while the sun is setting, guess what? They don’t know.  If you HAVE to have a certain song, or if you hate a song and absolutely do not want to hear it, TELL the DJ!  For crying out loud, make a list for each vendor of your personal Do’s and Don’ts of the wedding.  TRUST ME, you will be happier, they will be happier, everyone will be happier in the end.  Happy Happy Joy Joy, right??  Just sayin’.

Tee hee hee.  Well peeps, I hope you got a giggle, but most importantly, if you are getting married, I hope you learned something!!

Xoxo,

Pix

Ok Peeps, So I know it’s been awhile, but I’ll be more diligent…SSOOOO, I will start with something right up my alley!  We all know I have a passion for fashion (tee hee hee) and a love of children’s charities, so what could be better than a Children’s Charity Fashion Show!! HHELLLLOOOOOO!!! So check it out:

"On Saturday, February 20, 2010, the Washington D.C. Area Chapter will host its Fifth Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon, with the theme “Touching Hearts, Changing Lives.” Long time Childhelp partner and ABC/WJLA7 anchor Rebecca Cooper will host the evening. The event will feature a ladies’, teens’ and children’s Fashion Show with great boutiques and silent auction items to splurge on to support a

worthwhile cause. The goal of the Fashion Show and Luncheon is to raise awareness and funds to support Childhelp’s abuse treatment and prevention programs in our area.

Every day four children die of child abuse and every year 3 million cases of abuses are reported, and this is the Washington DC community’s opportunity to make a difference. Special guest speaker Connie Baca Benedetto will speak to the power of Childhelp. According to Connie, “It was at Childhelp that I learned everything I know now. How to parent better, how to love unconditionally, how to forgive and accept that we are all human and that we all mistakes. Those were the best three years of my young life.” In addition, vocalist Angelique Ashworth will be performing songs to open and close the event. Tickets and table sponsorships are available online at www.childhelpdc.org/fashion-show.

So, seriously peeps, if you can donate, that would be awesome, if you can attend, even better!!  These children don’t deserve to pay for adult mistakes!!

Xoxo  

Pix

Last night at The Social downtown, I was privileged enough to come across the most phenomenal (yes phenomenal) talent I have stumbled upon in what seems to be an eternity.  The band is called, The State Of and is made up of two members: Steph Taylor and Nabedi Osorio (Don’t you just love her name!).   This self described dark, indie, pop band comes from Miami and is truly just mesmerizing.  Steph Taylor is nothing short of a piano genius and has the voice of a muse.  Her skills are jaw dropping.  I personally just wanted to close my eyes and feel every note that came out her.  Nabedi’s talent on the drums and backup vocals are insanely amazing as well.  These two claim they are musical soul mates and I believe it.  If you ever have the opportunity to see these two, you should.  They currently have a new album out called The State of: The Live Studio Sessions EP, and no, you can’t borrow my copy because I want it all for myself.  Special thanks goes out to my friend who introduced me to this lovely duo and I look forward to seeing them again!

xoxo,

Pix

Tis the season for giving.....While I am a huge advocate of giving to charities, some gifting has to happen.  I only give recommendations on products/companies I truly believe in.  Tweety's Treasures is one of those companies.  First of all, it truly is one of a kind!  No two pieces are the same.  Each necklace is made of only authentic gemstones, unlike many imitation pieces which use glass or manufactured stones to appear genuine.  The sterling silver is .925 solid sterling silver that is never casted or hollow.  Swarovski Crystals are used to enhance each piece, and creates a dazzling and sparkling effect.   Because each piece is handmade, sizing can be accommodated for a nominal fee. 

I own too many pieces to count, so let's not talk about that...LOL...but all kidding aside, nearly all of my friends and associates own a large collection as well.  We get constant feedback that they are often stopped in public and their pieces admired and complimented for the unique designs, and the stunning stones used.
Lastly - let's talk deal.  You COULD pay $90-$150+ in department stores or catalogue shows for costume, glass jewelry...but WHY?  The price point is unmatched and you will be hard pressed to find more stunning pieces in this artisan style.

Watched an episode of Bones lately? More and more stylists are using the bold, chunky, and natural looking styles created by Tweety’s Treasures.  Get hooked today, visit www.tweetys-treasures.com for Holiday Deals!
All Tweety’s Treasures are gift wrapped in tarnish-proof paper, placed in a silver box with a pretty bow and a personal note can also be included, how can you beat that???  In addition, Tweety’s Treasures are shipped priority mail to the recipient.

So this is my help to you this season, check out Tweety's Treasures, you can't go wrong! 

Xoxo,

Pix

I love the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show for different reasons.  The glamour, the style and the entertainment.  Heidi Klum, just 6 weeks after giving birth is the reason why women around the world just want to hurl.  Her post baby bod left the rest of us wondering “why can’t we do that”.  The 36-year-old German model, opened the “Enchanted Forest” segment of the show, wore a beautiful green corset and half gown by Jane Law, jewelry by Mouawad and Giuseppe Zanotti shoes.

The Black Eyed Peas gave a fantastic performance and Fergie looked great.

I don’t think the show was insanely different than past years, but it did seem to be bigger and better.  The Romantic Travel theme led to some fantasies from close at home to far far away.  And as a side note, no adult should ever wear anything that has the word "onesie" in it.  Seriously.

xoxo

Pix

The 2009 AMA’s were a mix of surprises and not surprising moments of sorts, but I will say those surprises didn’t make me think it was a great show. There was Adam Lambert’s raunchy performance, there was Jennifer Lopez who fell on her biggest asset while trying for a smashing comeback into the music scene, and then of course Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift……hmmm, they won a bunch of awards, enough said.  It’s also notable to mention, while I love me some Lady Gaga, she’s starting to weird me out….Greenday was awesome and I loved the Eminem-50 cent show!

Onward and Forward to Fashion, yippee. I do love the music award shows because they tend to bring out the more fashion forward ensembles….and our loveable Rihanna did not disappoint, hence why she gets my vote for best dressed!  Her dress by Marcesa was, for a lack of a better word, just cool!  The black & white with the floral cutouts, awesome.  As far as the worst…well, there were a few, but I’m going with Kelly Clarkson this year…she just looked so frumpy.  Did she know she was going to the AMA’s or did she get side tracked?  Her hair, horrible.  Her makeup, horrible.  She could not have picked a more un-flattering dress if she had tried.  Seriously.

Now, you know those people you see and you can’t decide if it’s good or bad?  It could either be just WOW, or just UGH?? I have three for this category.  Alicia Keys in Armani Prive (fashion forward maybe?), J Lo in Marcesa and Kate Hudson in Versace.  I really don’t like J Lo’s to be honest, but she had me at the feathers…ahhhhh…..moving on.

Other people who I thought looked fantastic were Fergie with her stunning Armani Prive fitted black dress.  The featured slit caused a few eyes to do a double take.  She pulled it off beautifully.  Carrie Underwood as usual looked nice in her single shouldered dress by Theia.  I say nice only because it just looked so “safe”.  Nothing really fabulous, but she looked nice.

I’m not sure what happened with Leona Lewis and Shakira.  Such beautiful gals, but horrible choices.  Leona, joan jetson called, she needs her dress back…honestlyyyy.  Pointy stuff a the top, balloon at the bottom and then the vinyl…….I can say no more…Shakira wasn’t a disaster, so I’ll just leave it at that.

Xoxo

Pix

Being that I don’t follow country music, I found myself quite surprised by a few things from the CMA’s last night.  1. Brad Paisley is funny.  2. Taylor Swift is a very talented young lady and 3. Carrie Underwood’s Cowboy Casanova performance was outstanding!  I mean really!  The wardrobe, the choreography, and the song itself, fantastic!  I also am inclined to think that Darius Rucker makes a better country artist than a Hootie…just sayin’.  Swift and Rucker made the show a truly historical event and for that, I was quietly impressed and happy for these extra special peeps.

Ok, so on to the important part…FASHION.  My number one pick for the night was Taylor Swift’s gold embroidered gown by Reem Acra. I thought it was absolutely stunning.  She looked like a true princess with age appropriate makeup and hair, gorgeous. (oh and yes, she’s the youngest artist to EVER win the Entertainer of the year award…not too shabby).

My pick for the worst of the evening was easy.  A tie between Martina McBride and Ashely Monroe.  I can’t even begin to think what was going through Martina’s head when she picked out her dress, but it looked like her curtains fell and landed on top of her…seriously, and Ashely’s, where do I begin?  Too short, too tight, too ugly?? Just awful.  There is fashion forward and then there are fashion disasters…I’m going with the latter.

Other notables were Faith Hill in her simply gorgeous light lavender floor length strapless gown with fantastic bold accessories.  Reba McEntire as usual looked absolutely fabulous in her black sequined gown that she co-designed with Terry Gordon, you go girl! Carrie Underwood showed up on the red carpet in a spectacular long, sparkly, sexy little number....But what happened to Kellie Pickler??  I’ve seen her look better, so I will just say, this was not a fashion successful night for her.

All in all, I’m glad I tuned in. The performances were pretty good, and the fashion was definitly note worthy. 

xoxo,

Pix

Oh Lordy Peeps....Sometimes I wonder where people get what's floating around in their head.  So here's the scoop.  The top wedding beliefs that just need to go buh bye!

10. Both sides of the wedding party have to be even....honestly.  NO, NO and NO.  There are many different circumstances to why this may not happen.  No biggie, your pics will turn out regardless...I promise.

9. A male maid of honor is something you only see in the movies.  NOPE.  It happens peeps.  And if he's your best friend through and through, you are rude for pushing him to the side because he is male.  **side note though, not all men are willing to do this, so if they politely say no to your question, don't get mad**

8. It is now acceptable to enforce weight limits, certain looks, etc on your bridal party so everyone looks good in the pics...UMMMM NO, NEVER, ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?  If you do not love them for who they are, don't ask them to be in your wedding.  Period.

7. Cash bar is ok.  No again.  There are many ways to budget around this.  Trust the fact, that this will be the talk around the water cooler on Monday.

6. A buffet is always cheaper than a plated dinner.  Not necessarily.  In fact, a good portion of the time, it is more expensive.  Double check with your caterer before you assume anything.

5. Flower Girls and/or Ring Bearers have to be a part of the wedding ceremony.  Actually, 9 out of 10 times, the smaller they are, the more of a pain in the ass your ceremony will become.  Yes, they are super cute, and no one says you can't have them dress up for your pictures, and give them something "special" to do..ie: help the ushers pass out programs, carry the "extra special guest book" from the car to the table...you get what I'm saying.  The point is, I have done MANY weddings, and inevitably, they want their parents, they get stage fright, the list goes on and on...Just double think this one and make your choice wisely...

4. Doing it yourself will always save you money.  Not necessarily.  Time is money, let's face it.  If it is going to take you 20 hours to make something for all your guests...sometimes it's better to have someone else do them.  Asking Uncle Joe to be the photographer may sound great, until he gets drunk and you don't have any photos of your reception...Just sayin' peeps...aunts and uncles mean well...but when it doesn't come out the way you wanted, it's no bueno.  If you still want to accept their help, make sure they understand, they are the "photographer", or "DJ",  etc and not just a guest.

3. You are required to invite a guest for everyone you invite.  No.  If your single friend is not seeing anyone special, you can just put "Sally" and not "Sally and guest".  This is perfectly acceptable.

2. The couple is required to pay for accommodations for out of town guests.  While this may be super generous if they have the cash, this is not a requirement nor has it ever been.  If you decide to go, book your accommodations accordingly.

1. And last but not least....The Groom HAS to be involved in every aspect.  Honestly ladies...get over it..he's just not that interested in all the details..he's marrying you because he trusts your judgment.  Most grooms are interested in 3 things: The DJ, the food, and the cake tasting.  Of course there are always exceptions to this general rule, and if that is you, you go girl!

There are so many more myths, you know the second edition to this blog will have to happen in the future! 

xoxo,

Pix

Wow.  So wallyworld has a new item to add to its vast selection...caskets.  For as low as $895, you too can take one of these home.  Peeps, I really don't even know what to say about this....but, I'm going to have to agree with my friend Michael and ask the question...."Where do I store this"?  Things that make you go hmmmm..............

Well Peeps, The 12th Annual Miss OBTA Pageant was nothing short of fantastic!  Michael Wanzi out did himself as the Master of Ceremonies, and Jeff Horn and co. were insanely fabulous. 

The celebrity judges for the Pageant were stars just as much as the loveable contestants.  Miss Sammy, Orlando City Commissioner Daisy Lynum, Moira from Real Radio Phillips Phile and Jacqueline Jones did not let us down with their usual shenanigans.

Jacqueline Jones did two amazing a cappella pieces to be rivaled by any top artist today and the one liners Wanzie was throwing out had us choking on our drinks!  The "dance" numbers (and I use the word dance loosely!) were absolutely hilarious!  These are NOT professional drag queens people, these are everyday men with hairy legs and all being good sports for charity...it's a sight to be seen!!!

The Genesis Foundation run by Jeff Horn is a fantastic organization that gives inner city children a safe place to after school.  They get snacks, love, and someone to ask "how was school today". 

So, next year peeps, get out of your house and get down to the Parliament House for the Miss OBTA show, it's a hoot not to be missed!