March 1, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Oscars 2011 Fashion Review – Soft Metallics Shine on the Red Carpet
Hollywood’s biggest stars walked the glamorous red carpet in style at the 83rd Annual Academy Awards on Sunday! While bold colors and statement jewelry were huge trends for the night, most of Hollywood’s leading ladies went for a more romantic feel in soft colors and shimmering metallic gowns.
Best actress nominee, Michelle Williams, looked effortlessly chic in a simple beaded Chanel column gown. The sophisticated winter white gown was definitely Michelle’s best look for the 2011 award season!
In a similar silhouette with structured sleeves, presenter Cate Blanchett looked striking in an intricately embellished silk chiffon gown by Givenchy Couture. The beadwork on the wisteria gown was definitely a work of art!
14 year old best supporting actress nominee, Hailee Steinfeld, was the belle of the ball in a custom Marchesa gown. Her ballet pink tulle gown had delicate embroidery, while the tea length skirt showcased her pretty peep toe pumps.
Mandy Moore was reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour in a lovely Monique Lhuillier gown with a glittering bodice and tulle skirt. The simplicity of her updo and jewels were the perfect complement to this beautiful look.
Presenter Hilary Swank looked like a million dollar baby in a sparkling strapless Gucci Premiere gown and matching heels. Feminine ostrich feathers cascaded down the skirt, adding a whimsical feel to the dazzling gown.
Topping off the list of exquisite Oscar looks and my best dressed pick of the night was the always stunning, Halle Berry. Her crystal encrusted Marchesa gown with silk tulle ruffles was both sexy and romantic, the ideal combination to show off her amazing figure. Halle was truly the epitome of Oscars elegance!
Posted in Award Season 2011, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes | Tagged 83rd annual academy awards best dressed, bold colors, cate blanchett, hailee steinfeld, halle berry, hilary swank, mandy moore, michelle williams, oscars 2011 best dressed, oscars 2011 fashion trends, oscars 2011 red carpet arrivals, shoe expert kara birkenstock, soft metallics, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
February 18, 2011 by karabirkenstock
My Fashion Wraps style crew was at it again on Monday for another fabulous shoot, this time dishing about all the CRAZY fashions at the Grammy Awards! From Lady Gaga in her egg-womb to Rihanna as a glam fembot, there was definitely plenty to talk about! Some of these rock stars really know how to put on a show, on stage and on the red carpet. Some of my faves were Jennifer Lopez, who looked like a dazzling diva in a metallic Pucci mini. Also, Keri Hilson looked like Grammy perfection in her Basil Soda teal mini dress with asymmetrical neckline. If you missed the show, check it out here!
My Grammy Awards Best Dressed Man & Woman:
Best Dressed Man – John Legend
Best Dressed Woman – Julianne Hough
My Grammy Awards Worst Dressed Man & Woman:
Worst Dressed – Ricky Martin
Worst Dressed – Nicki Minaj
Posted in A Day in the Life, Award Season 2011, Fashion, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged best dressed grammys 2011, grammys fashion, grammys red carpet fashion, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, tv guide fashion wraps, worst dressed grammys | Leave a Comment »
February 17, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Grammys 2011 Fashion Review – Wearable Spring Trends
The biggest night in music was Sunday’s Grammy awards! While all the hottest artists took top honors on stage, the real awards should’ve been given to the fashionistas on the red carpet! What can we say about Lady Gaga arriving in an egg-like womb? While that style statement might not be relatable to the rest of us, leave it to the other music divas to showcase some of the most wearable trends for Spring – from leopard and metallics to bold colors and flirty prints!
Leopard
While Nicki Minaj’s head to toe, Givenchy leopard print ensemble might be a little over the top for most of us, you have to give her props for going out on a limb and owning her look at this year’s Grammys! Nicki did however remind us that leopard print is always in style, especially in key item pieces like blouses, shoes, scarves, or gloves. Animal prints are timeless and classic, and a great addition to your Spring wardrobe. Take a cue from Ms. Minaj and remember, less is more! Show off your inner feline by rocking a sexy pair of leopard print booties with jeans or a little black dress. Or, wear a leopard print blouse with black slim pants and sophisticated black flats.
Fun & Flirty Prints
Julianne Hough looked effortlessly sweet and sexy in a multicolored Malandrino gown with ruffled shoulders and a plunging neckline. Prints are a huge trend for Spring, from soft watercolors and feminine florals, to boho designs and geometric patterns. For those wanting to experiment with color this season, play with prints from head to toe (but not all at the same time)! Since romantic blouses and dresses are must have staples for every woman, why not mix it up with some new prints? Rock a flirty floral dress with a wide black belt and booties for a cool and sexy vibe. Or, add a fun pop of color to your everyday wardrobe with a watercolor scarf!
Soft Metallics
Sequins, metallics and shine aren’t just for special occasions anymore! Superstars such as Heidi Klum and Selena Gomez were rocking this sparkling trend on the Grammy’s red carpet. Softer and more demure hues in ivory, silver, bronze and gold make the trend easier to wear on Spring days and Summer nights. For a work appropriate ensemble, pair a loose fitting blouse with a coordinating slim pant for a seamless and sophisticated, body lengthening look. For a dazzling date night look, opt for a dress in a more casual shape versus a body hugging number. Soften your look with wavy hair or a loose up do, and complete the ensemble with a cardigan or leather bomber jacket.
Posted in Award Season 2011, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Style Tips, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged best dressed grammys 2011, best spring fashion trends, grammys 2011 fashion trends, grammys fashion, heidi klum, julianne hough malandrino dress, nicki minaj leopard outfit, red carpet fashion, red carpet trends, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
February 11, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Celebrity Designers Debut Affordable Shoes for 2011
As much as I love the finer things in life – designer duds, luxury labels, and fab footwear – what I love more is saving money! But how can we rock designer fashions without shelling out a month’s rent? Well, big name shoe designers and brands are launching economically priced lines to meet the needs of frugal shoppers, while celebrities are teaming up with mega stores to roll out affordable clothing collections. Here are some of my favorite GAL finds to look out for in 2011:
B Brian Atwood
Luxury footwear designer, Brian Atwood, will launch a lower priced collection of his statement stilettos for Fall 2011. Adored by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Anne Hathaway and Kelly Ripa, Atwood’s bold and sexy designs are amongst the most coveted in the footwear industry. B Brian Atwood, will consist of ballet flats, seasonal sandals, sky high heels, booties, and over the knee boots, crafted of fine leathers, satin, and exotic skins. Designed with strong, confident women with a playful attitude in mind, the lower priced line will not be without Atwood’s signature flair – just the right amount of embellishment, fringe or metal details to command attention! Priced from $100 to $650, B Brian Atwood will be available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Barney’s Co-op, Fred Segal, and Shopbop.com, to name a few.
LC Lauren Conrad
Known for her starring role on MTV’s “The Hills,” reality star Lauren Conrad launched her namesake clothing line, LC Lauren Conrad, at Kohl’s stores in 2009. Fans of the laidback, feminine, and California chic line will be pleased to know that starting this Spring, LC Lauren Conrad will also feature a collection of fun and flirty footwear under $60! Known for contemporary items at an affordable price, Conrad’s new line of shoes will resonate with fashionistas who want to be stylish without breaking the bank. Boho wedges and romantic sandals are highlights of the new line, debuting at Kohl’s stores on March 21st!
Call It Spring
JCPenney and The Aldo Group have teamed up to launch a unique shop-within-a-shop concept. Call It Spring brings 600 square foot shopping spaces to select JCPenney stores, providing budget fashionistas with an extensive collection of over 300 styles of on trend footwear and accessories! Available exclusively at JCPenney and Aldo stores, Call It Spring is an accessible line of fashion forward shoes, handbags, and accessories. From clutches with feminine details to casual wedges and sexy heels, Call It Spring has something for everyone. With wallet friendly prices from $29.99 to $69.99, shoppers can indulge in all the latest trends at incredible prices!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips | Tagged affordable celebrity shoes, affordable star style, aldo shoes, b brian atwood, call it spring at jcpenney, celebrity designers for less, celebrity looks for less, designer shoes for less, lc lauren conrad, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
February 2, 2011 by karabirkenstock
My second shoot with the always glamorous style crew of TV Guide’s Fashion Wraps was on Monday and we had a rockin’ time! With all the fashion hits and misses on the SAG Awards red carpet, there was plenty to dish about. As I’m Your GAL, you know I love relatable star style. While I love classic shapes and sophisticated looks, what I love more is when the stars look effortlessly chic. For these red carpet events, it’s important to not look like you spent 8 hours getting ready, even though you actually might have! For those that missed the show, check it out here. And stay tuned for our next show after the Grammy’s!
My SAG Awards Best Dressed Man & Woman:
Best Dressed – Jon Hamm
Best Dressed – Mila Kunis
My SAG Awards Worst Dressed Man & Woman:
Worst Dressed – Kevin McHale
Worst Dressed – Christina Hendricks
Posted in A Day in the Life, Award Season 2011, Fashion, Style Tips, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged christina hendricks worst dressed loren scott, jen rade, jon hamm, kevin mchale sag awards flower pocket square, kim vo, lawrence zarian, mila kunis alexander mcqueen gown, nick verreos, sag awards 2011 best worst dressed, sag awards red carpet, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, tv guide, tv guide fashion wraps | Leave a Comment »
February 2, 2011 by karabirkenstock
SAG Awards 2011 Fashion Review – Spring Trend Alert – Bold Red
The biggest names in TV and film hit the red carpet on Sunday night for the 17th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. Another beautiful weekend in Hollywood meant clear skies and the perfect weather for all the hottest trends of the moment, from strong colors and metallics, to belted looks and tea length hems. The biggest style statement for the night was BOLD RED – fabulous gowns in bohemian and classic styles that commanded attention. Such a sexy and powerful color, red can often be a difficult hue to pull off. But, with a few helpful tips from our favorite leading ladies, we’ll all be drop RED gorgeous in no time!
Simply Red
Julianna Marguiles looked effortlessly chic in this YSL strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline. With such a commanding color, it’s important to keep the rest of your accessories simple. Her striking raven hair is pulled back in a clean ponytail, showing off her beautiful face. Jewels are minimal yet elegant, with dazzling chandelier earrings in a modern shape, a classic black clutch and matching peep toe pumps. For many women, red can be an intimidating color to wear, day or night. The key is to not over do it – pair a romantic red blouse with slim pants for day, or a sexy red dress with nude pumps and dainty accessories. Take a cue from The Good Wife, less is more – let the dress (and you) be the star!
Boho Red
Black Swan star, Mila Kunis, looked ravishing in a sexy bohemian inspired floral print gown from Alexander McQueen. Her beachy brunette waves and sultry smoky eyes were the perfect complement to her show stopping look. This spring, boho and hippie chic styles will be popular from head to toe. And a great way to have fun with this eclectic style is to play with prints. Bold color combinations of fiery red, blood orange, and warm neutrals would look amazing on every woman. For the more daring, pair a floral printed, floor grazing maxi dress like Mila’s with some sexy gladiator heels. And for the more conservative fashionistas, spice up your jeans and a tee with a funky geometric printed scarf and some cage strap wedges!
Old Hollywood Red
Nothing says Old Hollywood Glamour than classic red. 30 Rock’s Katrina Bowden looked like Hollywood royalty in a charming crimson red strapless gown from BCBG Max Azria Atelier. The draping on the bodice, ruffle detailing, and embellishment at the waist added a feminine elegance to this chic gown. Her soft wavy hair was swept to one side, while her shoes, bracelets, and handbag were just the right amount of sparkle to complete the look. When donning red for Valentine’s Day or date night, stay sweet and demure like Katrina by selecting classic pieces with soft lines, simple accents, and refined accessories. Starlets of yesteryear played up their assets with just a few key items, from bold red lipstick and body hugging gowns, to stunning ruby jewels and fabulous stiletto heels. There’s nothing classy about rocking red from head to toe!
Posted in Award Season 2011, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Style Tips, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged bold red trend, julianna marguiles red ysl gown, katrina bowden max azria gown, mila kunis alexander mcqueen gown, red carpet fashion, sag awards 2011 best worst dressed, sag awards red carpet, shoe expert kara birkenstock, spring 2011 fashion trends, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
January 28, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Winter Travel 2011 – Tropical Getaways For Less
There’s no better way to escape the winter blues than a tropical vacation! Whether you want to stay in the US or travel to exotic lands, with a little research, there are always great travel deals to be found. Here are a few incredible tropical getaways from California to Costa Rica, sure to get you in the mood for some fun in the sun!
Catalina Island (Avalon, California)
To escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, get away to the beautiful island of Catalina, just off the coast of Southern California. Available Sunday through Thursday (through April 14th), the “Free Boat, Free Zip, and Free Tours” package combines all the highlights of this quaint island for an amazing price. For just $102 per person/per night, guests will enjoy accommodations at the newly remodeled Pavilion Hotel, which includes a deluxe continental breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese reception. Enjoy the breathtaking ocean views from the hotel’s gardens and relax beside the large open air fire pit. Once rejuvenated, head out to experience all that Catalina has to offer. This limited time promotion includes a free zip line tour so you can view the wonder of the island from a whole new perspective! If you’re still craving more outdoor fun, the offer also includes unlimited access to the island’s Discovery Tours and Activities, including the Undersea Tour, the Behind the Scenes Casino Tour, Miniature Golf and Tennis Court rentals, to name a few. Finally, round trip transportation to/from Long Beach Harbor is also included, topping off this incredible money saving deal! For reservations, visit www.VisitCatalinaIsland.com or call 800-626-1496.
Los Cabos (Mexico)
Overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez, the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico, is an idyllic tropical getaway for those that really want to soak up the sun! Their “Sunsational Savings” promotion offers rooms starting at just $169/night (based on double occupancy), with each deluxe room featuring the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and Jacuzzi tub. As an added bonus, guests are eligible for a complimentary upgrade at check in, based upon availability. When guests stay for two nights under the limited time promotion, they will receive the third night free, as well as a $200 food and beverage credit redeemable at any of the resorts five restaurants and bars. From traditional Mexican and Mediterranean to Steak and Seafood, guests will surely enjoy a delicious tour of world cuisines. With four infinity and cascading swimming pools, an acclaimed Spa and Fitness Center, and access to a wide selection of outdoor activities, the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar is the perfect place to escape the winter blues for a “sunsational” price! To make a reservation, visit www.sheratonloscabos.com (promotion code ZS3).
Arenal (Costa Rica)
Couples that are looking for a tropical respite this winter will love the peace and quiet of Lost Iguana Resort & Spa in Arenal, Costa Rica. Located amongst 120 acres of pure rainforest, the romantic resort’s new “Love Birds Getaway” package features daily breakfast, an in-room welcome flower arrangement and wine basket, and a cozy candlelit dinner. “Love birds” will also receive a sensual couples massage in an open-air bungalow at Lost Iguana’s full-service Balinese-themed Golden Gecko Spa. The minimum two night package in a standard deluxe room is just $420 per couple, with additional nights at $120 each. Every guest room at Lost Iguana features spectacular views of Arenal Volcano, one of the 10 most active in the world. Balconies overlook the natural beauty of the jungle, with luxury suites also featuring private outdoor Jacuzzi tubs. For those who wish to further explore the lush jungle, the resort has exclusive walking paths lined with waterfalls and exotic birds, in addition to an onsite wildlife guide that is available to answer questions and lead individualized tours. The “Love Birds Getaway” package is available through 2011 and can be booked online by visiting www.lostiguanaresort.com.
Posted in Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Travel | Tagged affordable catalina, affordable travel, affordable tropical getaways, catalina island, Lost Iguana Resort Spa Arenal Costa Rica, Pavilion Hotel Avalon, pete and brenda, Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort Los Cabos Mexico, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, tropical getaways for less, winter travel deals 2011 | 1 Comment »
January 26, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Last week was my first shoot for TV Guide Network’s Fashion Wraps! I was so excited to be the newest panelist on the show, and of course, I was in fantastic company – host of TV Guide’s The Fashion Team, Lawrence Zarian, celebrity stylist, Jen Rade, Project Runway alum and designer, Nick Verreos, and hair stylist to the stars, Kim Vo. What a fabulously stylish and hilarious crew to work with! This is definitely going to be a crazy fun award season, recapping the fashion hits and misses of our favorites celebrities. In case you missed the Golden Globes show, check it out here. And for more fab fashion, tune in on Monday 1/31/11 at 8/7c for our SAG Awards show!
My Golden Globes Best Dressed Man & Woman:
Best Dressed - Robert Pattinson
Best Dressed - Angelina Jolie
My Golden Globes Worst Dressed Man & Woman:
- Worst Dressed – Justin Bieber
Worst Dressed - Helena Bonham Carter
Posted in A Day in the Life, Award Season 2011, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged angelina jolie emerald green versace, award season 2011, award season fashion, best dressed golden globes 2011, golden globes 2011 fashion preview, golden globes fashion trends, golden globes fashion wraps, helena bonham carter mismatched shoes, jen rade, justin bieber shoes golden globes, kim vo, lawrence zarian, nick verreos, robert pattinson, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, tv guide fashion wraps, worst dressed golden globes 2011 | Leave a Comment »
January 24, 2011 by karabirkenstock
I had a blast last weekend, attending the Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas! Along with my friends at DSW, Designer Shoe Warehouse, we attended the Decades of Dreams Gala on Friday night, where we had the chance to mingle with all of the contestants and their families. The highlight of the evening was seeing all the Miss America “formers”! As this was the 90th Anniversary of the Miss America Pageant, they invited many of the former winners to be a part of this years event. There were winners from as far back as the 1940’s and they still looked fantastic! After all these years, they were all so beautiful and regal!
The Miss America Pageant Stage
Saturday night was the main event and as I was with the proud sponsors, I had the chance to sit in the front row! If you watched the show live on ABC, I was seated right behind judge, Joy Behar! The show was a lot of fun and it was great to see all the contestants compete live and in person. As for fashion, there were A LOT of sequins and rhinestones! But would you expect anything less from the Miss America Pageant? In addition to the bling bling, all the contestants were wearing specially designed shoes from DSW! Along with the Miss America Organization, DSW recently launched a line of day and evening shoes that are sold exclusively at DSW! Definitely worth checking out!
Sitting Front Row With Friends From DSW
Promoting The New Miss America Shoe Line for DSW
As for the contestants, I was routing for Miss Arkansas, especially after her fantastic ventriloquist performance! But, congratulations to the newest and youngest crowned Miss America, Teresa Scanlan of Nebraska! After having a chance to listen to Teresa speak at the post show press conference, she was indeed amazing, and very deserving of her new crown. The judges made a great choice!
Post Show Press Conference With New Miss America & Judges
Posted in A Day in the Life, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes | Tagged dsw miss america shoe line, dsw shoes, miss america pageant 2011, miss arkansas, miss nebraska, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, teresa scanlan | Leave a Comment »
January 14, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Golden Globes 2011 Fashion Preview
Award season 2011 is officially in full swing! With the Golden Globes this Sunday, our favorite celebrities will surely be dressed to impress. If they take their cues from the Spring/Summer 2011 fashion runways, Hollywood’s leading ladies will be parading down the red carpet in bold colors, flowing goddess gowns and dresses with retro flair. Will Natalie Portman show off her baby bump? Will Angelina Jolie opt for color over basic black? With so many things uncertain, rest assured that you’ll definitely see the following trends on the Golden Globes red carpet!
Red Carpet Trend #1- Goddess Gowns
The goddess gown is the epitome of red carpet elegance. This Sunday, expect to see ethereal dresses, flowing with long romantic skirts and lots of beautiful ruching. Delicate draping from head to toe will add drama to these gorgeous gowns. Sexy deep V necklines and lovely asymmetrical pieces will also be popular. This magnificent gown would look exquisite on modern day goddess and best actress nominee, Halle Berry.
Red Carpet Trend #2– Fun Flair
Romantic details like rosettes and ruffles have been a classic red carpet accent for some time, but 2011 is taking things to a new, bohemian level. Boho chic fringe and feathers came down the fashion runways on everything from blouses to dresses. Part hippie, part flapper, these fun accents will definitely liven the mood at this Sunday’s Golden Globes. If best actress nominee, Natalie Portman’s, tiered ruffled dress at the People’s Choice Awards was a precursor to her 2011 red carpet style, fun and flirty flair will be the perfect complement to her baby bump!
Red Carpet Trend #3 – Winter White
There is nothing more sophisticated than a crisp white dress. Soft ivory, cream, and white styles came down the Spring runways, bringing a natural light to the room. For the red carpet, expect our favorite stars to shine in winter white goddess gowns with sexy necklines and princess like dresses with full skirts. Dainty details, ruching, and jeweled adornments will add something special to these delicate looks. Best actress nominee, Anne Hathaway, would look angelic in this white ensemble with dazzling embellishments.
Red Carpet Trend #4– Bold Color
Springtime always brings a fresh new batch of color to the fashion scene. For 2011, the bright, bold colors are reminiscent of world travel and luxurious gemstones. From aqua blue and coral, to emerald green, turquoise, and ruby red, these hot shades will surely command attention at the Golden Globes this Sunday! As stunning as best actress nominee, Angelina Jolie, looks in basic black, wouldn’t it be refreshing to see her in a pop of color? Whether she opts for a brilliant body conscious gown or to add a hint of color with sparkly jewels, a burst of bold color would be a great change of pace for the seductive star.
Posted in Award Season 2011, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips, TV Guide Red Carpet Fashion Wraps | Tagged angelina jolie, anne hathaway, best dressed golden globes 2011, bold color, celebrity golden globes fashion, celebrity style, fun flair fringe feather accents, goddess gowns, golden globes 2011 fashion preview, golden globes fashion trends, halle berry, natalie portman, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, winter white | Leave a Comment »
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Kara Birkenstock 
