Off With A Bang

This year has certainly started off right. Sunday, at the 71st Annual Golden Globe Awards, I was pleasantly surprised by the classic looks I witnessed. For the first time in a very long time, I really respected most everyone for the humble and simple looks they decided to model on the red carpet. The past few years have reminded me of a sleaze fest, where "Hey, lets all get together and wear whatever we want since this really isn't a big deal or anything." But, 2014 really made an impression on me and with that said, I am happily presenting to you Doll Maison's Top 3 Best Dressed, the Worst Dressed and a lovely dedication to one of our very favorite actresses around. 

Julie Bowen knew what she was thinking when she picked out this lovely Caroline Herrera gown. The color combination is beyond words perfect and I adore the red velvet that this gown has to offer. I appreciate being able to tell texture in a photo or on television. It takes the look to a whole new level and you can really begin to understand the piece that much more. Beautiful!

Monica Potter proves "The Older, The Wiser." Wearing the amazing Romona Keveza, this look is a classic with a twist. It is lady like and totally appropriate for an award show but is also kicked up a notch with metallic nails, a studded clutch and shimmery earrings. I want to look this perfect when I get older. I seriously admire Monica for her classic charm. More girls should strive to be like her.

It is quite normal to want to feel sexy and gorgeous when you walk the red carpet, I totally understand. But, you need to do it with a brain. Margot Robbie donned in this fabulous Gucci gown. Take note girls: This is the correct way to be sexy yet classy at any major event. I drool over an all white look, I appreciate the appropriate slit but I especially adore the perfect diamond and emerald detail on this gown. She finalized the look with matching emerald Christian Louboutin heels, swept back hair and simple diamond earrings. What more could you want!

Our Worst Dressed goes to Heidi Klum in Marchesa. Looking like the corpse bride, I think its time she retires from the red carpet and gets back to her granola looking sweat pants. This style, er, "style" makes me terribly sad and proves my point yet again on why I have a problem with people like her taking the carpet. You don't act and you used to model practically nothing, so either hire Rachel Zoe or go home. 

Finally, I want to end on a positive note for all of my readers. The bullying Gabourey Sidibe received during the award show was absolutely uncalled for. It breaks my heart our society still finds ways to attack and hurt others. Bullying can lead to so many serious problems and issues. While it is a choice to defend and remember how beautiful you truly are, it can still really hurt and stick with you for a very long time. I admire this young lady's confidence she shared on twitter after the attacks. "To people making mean comments about my GG pics, I most def cried about it on that private jet, on my way to my dream job last night." I hope each and every one of you remember that we all have our own story, no one is near perfect and only one person can judge us for who we truly are, the big man upstairs. Lets take a stand to remember as we enter this year that bullying and putting others down is NOT a solution, EVER. You looked stunning my dear Gabourey and we are so thankful you are a part of amazing Hollywood!

  Xoxo

Rockstar Face-offs (Week Three)

Each week, two famous celebrities face-off in a style challenge here on Doll Maison, allowing us to decide who rocked the look better. This week, "Rockstar Face-offs" Kate Hudson and Tyra Banks model the one of a kind Marchesa gown! Kate adds a matching clutch and earrings to create a more chic, structured and put together look, Tyra opts for a more dramatic and flirty look while choosing the raspberry version of the dress and rocking voluminous curls. So, who do you think owned this gown? Let us know in the comment section below. 

XOXO

Rockstar Face-offs (Week Two)

Each week, two famous celebrities face-off in a style challenge here on Doll Maison, allowing us to decide who rocked the look better. This week, "Rockstar Face-offs" Blake Lively and Katie Holmes model the Old Navy Rockstar Skinnies that are just a fashionable $29.50! Blake dazzles in the gray green skinnies that she mixes with a gray sweater, fedora, black handbag and flats while Katie opts for the hot red pants that she pairs with a cream blazer, navy tote and black strappy heels. So, who do you think rocked these jeans? Let us know in the comment section below. 

XOXO

The Darling Princess And The Repetitive Queen Bee

Tonight, the 46th CMA Awards were held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. Among several country artists I obviously had my eye peeled for the best and worst dressed. You can only imagine the thoughts that kept flying through my head and while I finally came to a conclusion on my best and worst, I hope you agree even if its just a little. 

Taylor Swift scored best dressed as she dazzles in a nude and red petal gown. Adoring the fact that she incorporated the gorgeous hue that she just named her fourth studio album, "Red" sold over 1.2 million copies in the first week which is the biggest record release in the past decade. As we await her nationwide 2013 tour, we have to gush over this gorgeous ensemble that she accompanies with her signature red lipstick. Way to go Taylor! We love you! 

Kimberly Perry looks like a hot mess at the 2010.. no, 2011.. no! 2012 CMA Awards. For the third straight year in a row, Kimberly hits the carpet begging for some kind of help. Whether it be a hair stylist, actual fashion stylist or therapist (for all the criticism she is going to get), we sincerely wish that she would take someone else's advice or at least take a poll before she hit the town. This awful black dress not only makes her look bizarre but the obvious and ugly oversized red belt is a no-no. I can't forget to mention the hair. What, did you forget Halloween was yesterday and not today! You are just a day late my love.

Best Bang For Your Buck

With November finally here and the holidays around the corner it is vital for us to look fashionable and sexy. Sometimes it can be hard managing money while in the process of buying gifts and going to the grocery store for baking items. Of course we spend more money during the holiday season than any other time. I usually get asked the same question around this time of year from my girlfriends in college "Where can I find a cute and affordable outfit while still having left over cash for basics, gifts and groceries." Simple. Check out my dress guide below, every dress under $50!

This Frenchi Boxy High/Low Dress ($44) is great with a leopard or sparkly belt. Add spunky jewelry or go simple with diamond stud earrings. Pair a neutral heel, wedge or boot with this and accompany it with a pair of tights if needed. 

Snatch this cozy Buttoned Sweater Dress ($23) that can be paired with simple jewels, booties (pictured above), heels or knee-high boots. Opt for long waves or sleek bun. 

This stylish Polka Dot Ponte Peplum Dress ($29) is fashion forward while also providing a sweet and sassy vibe. Pair with black heels and classic jewelry, something clean and effortless.

The Open Back Lace Skater Dress ($30) is flirty and fun and would look fab with some nude or sparkly heels. Red is a perfect holiday color and a hue you can take with you all year round. 

This bold City Triangles ($25) frock is great if you are looking for something eye catching and a little bit more dramatic. Add black, glimmering accessories and choose straightened hair or a sleek bun. 

Fashion, Faces and Fabulous (Month Two)

Every month, beauty expert, Courtney Rogers, and myself will be giving you the very best advice on how to model the latest fashion and makeup trends. We agree it can be a little challenging to find a balance between style and beauty. Here, we will give you the latest insight on how to choose the perfect outfit while also incorporating your basic beauty necessities. We hope that with our help you feel more fabulous than ever before. Stay stylish, dolls. 

"Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she is beautiful."

 -Sophia Loren

Hannah (Style): Growing up with a mom like mine, Halloween is kind of a big deal. Sometimes, I feel like its more important than your typical celebration. Don't ask me why, but my mom is obsessed with Halloween, it's her favorite holiday. It's almost as big of deal as Christmas (for real!) She decorates the whole house with amazing decorations and goodies. So, for me it has always been crucial and it's also the holiday that provides us all a little time to dress up and have some fun. The three looks below are some of my favorites while also essential styles you can absolutely rock without too much effort.

Courtney (Beauty): It is a great excuse to get dressed up and to do some extra fun makeup looks, too!!! I am so excited to find the perfect costume this year! My bestie is going to be in from Southern California and I have already insisted upon doing her makeup as well. We are trying to choose a fun twosome costume, or something that goes well together! If all else fails I will opt for the ever-traditional Fairy Princess!!! The three looks featured are so much fun and they all offer different pieces of makeup creativity! I just want to highlight three main tricks to achieving each look.

Hannah (Style): The look that Anne Hathaway models above is the classic Cleopatra. The perfect way to get this look is from a few basics. Grab your long white gown, a bold and stylish stoned belt, lots of gold bracelets and bangles (some that are big enough to go all the way up your arm like Anne's.) While out and about, look for a short, gold necklace. Something Egyptian looking. Last, go to your local Halloween store for the perfect Cleopatra headpiece. 

Courtney (Beauty): The first look is the traditional Cleopatra with a modern twist. Her eyeliner is what really makes this look. To achieve this you need a black gel liner and a liquid liner to put over top. Start with the gel liner and a very flat eyeliner brush. I like to start in the outer corner of my eye and do a thin line along my lash line. I just keep building onto that until I get my liner as thick as I desire. Then, make the angle using the outer corner of your brow to help guide you. For this look, you can make a very dramatic angle and still look classy! Once I have the liner the way I want it, I go over it with my liquid just to enhance it a bit!

Hannah (Style): To grab the sexy flapper look like Lauren Conrad, you totes need to run to the Halloween store. Unless you have a fringy, short dress you in your closet, you most likely will have to find it at your local costume store. Make sure you add a boa, cute clutch or shoulder bag, dazzling headpiece (with a feather of course!) and obviously those amaze long strands of pearls, which are an absolute must! Add short and sweet little heels to touch the look with the perfect twist.

Courtney (Beauty): To achieve a bold lip like Lauren that is rockin, it is important to prep your lips correctly. This will ensure that the color will stay through your Trick or Treating adventure, or your Halloween party! Start with a  lip primer (I love Smashbox's), or you can use a concealer if you don't have a primer. Literally seal your lips with the primer, and then choose a lip liner to apply to the entire lip. Now, my preference is to put on a liner that is close to my natural lip color, as opposed to trying to match the lipstick color I am going to sport. Once you line your entire lip and fill it with the liner, apply your lipstick color. Be very diligent to stay within the lines and do two coats. Now, the secret to getting your color to stay, stay, stay is to then dab on a coat of High Definition powder to seal the color. You can add a third coat of lipstick or finish with a gloss and I promise, your lipstick will not move all night long!!!

Hannah (Style): Argggh matey! Kourtney Kardashian rocks this cute pirate costume while she holds her sidekick and little frog, Mason. The best way to develop this look is by providing yourself the basics. Find a colorful dress with puffy long sleeves, corset, black booties and a pirates hat. Throw on your dress, add the corset and wah-la! Grab your booties and pirates hat (which can be found at the Halloween store as well,) add some bangles if you choose and out the door your go! Trick-or-Treat!

Courtney (Beauty): Applying lashes is a must do for any Halloween look. This can be a little tricky doing it on yourself because it is easy to get mixed up and turned around in the mirror. Just be patient and leave enough time to do it again if need be! I like to take my strip last out of the package and bend each one bit to get some flexibility. I then take one of the strips and apply a very thin amount of adhesive to it. Blow it to a tacky dry, and then apply the strip starting on the outside of your lashes and work in. Once you have the lash placed exactly where you want it, you can hold each end down and let it dry for about 20 seconds. When both lashes are on secure, apply a coat of black mascara to blend your lashes in with the strip. This will seriously amp up any Halloween look you are trying to achieve! Don't be afraid to rock some feather lashes, or ones with some bling on them and the hot thing to do this year, is to double up on your lashes.

Hannah (Style): Surely these beauty and style tips provide you some kind of help for your Halloween costume. If you need any style advice or have any questions concerning your Halloween wardrobe, please feel free to ask me. You can find me on twitter @hannahkooc or on facebook at facebook.com/Doll Maison. Enjoy a careful and fabulously fashionable Halloween!!!

XOXO your personal stylist,

Hannah Cook - Doll Maison

Courtney (Beauty): This holiday is an excuse to go all out and have fun! Hopefully you will be able to use one or all of these tips in your Halloween look. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to tweet me at humanybeautyinc, or you can find me on facebook at humanbeauty! Have fun, play safe and be beauty!!!!

XOXO your makeup artist,

Courtney Rogers - Human Beauty

Tory Burch Resort 2013 Preview

While I sit here gushing and obsessing over the Tory Burch Resort 2013 collection, I must admit that this is by far my favorite collection, which is why I chose to do an individual piece on her designs. I hold a very special place in my heart for Tory while she is one of the most creative women in the fashion industry and I own several of her pieces. She knows exactly what she is doing and designs the most magnificent ensembles while constructing them with the best quality fabrics and exquisite patterns and prints. (Maybe I am biased because she wished me a Happy Birthday last year!) Every time I walk into one of her stores my heart flutters and I feel like a kid walking into a candy shop. As I view these outfits, I seriously want to scream with excitement. Tory Burch has done it again and I cannot wait for these pieces to hit stores! For now, check out my favorites below. 

XOXO

Rockstar Face-offs (Week One)

Each week, two famous celebrities face-off in a style challenge here on Doll Maison, allowing us to decide who rocked the look better. This week, "Rockstar Face-offs" Nicky Hilton and Stacy Keibler model the Gypsy05 dress. Nicky sports the white version while Stacy opts for the peach. Nicky styles her with a matching tote and tan sandals while Stacy mixed an adorable necklace and bright bracelet with strappy white sandals. So, who do you think rocked this frock? Let us know in the comment section below. 

XOXO

Gypset's Thoughts And Stars

Earlier this year I had the privilege of getting to know LynnD Aludra, designer of exclusive high-end jewelry collection, Gypset Jewels. Her jewels are unique and personal while they have the capability of being used from one item to another. Many of her designs have been featured at important events such as The American Music Awards. Some of her creations have even been worn by a-list celebs including Cyndi Lauper, Katherine Heigl and more. LynnD's genius and inventive designs have made her the successful woman she is, "I realized that jewels could be like a gypsy and didn't need to be location specific." With this in mind, the jewels her company specifically crafts are versatile and can be worn many ways, such as on sandals, high heels, sunglasses, dog collars and more. You can model your jewels on your sunnies one day while on your sandals the next. "Dictated by life, luxury and no rules." 

I always run into the same pair of sunnies and I constantly want to try something different. Rather than purchasing a million different pairs, mix it up with your jewels and attach them to your cute shades.

Everyone knows what it can be like to have a super classy, simple dress and generic pair of heels but still longing to add a little spice. These jewels are perfect on your elegant pair of heels.

One of my favorites, these black sandals are completely turned around with these stylish jewels. They give off an automatic, chic vibe.

Look what you can do with a pair of your super plain UGG Boots! Dazzle them up with some glitz for a special event which will provide a more classy feel to them. 

 

The Many Blessings purse is the perfect clutch to take around on a night out. The best part about this is the gift you receive on the interior. The value of this purse lies within the sterling silver box attached on the inside. When you open the silver box you see a mirror. The mirror symbolizes the importance of true inner beauty and that your gift to the world is what you give to it.

Sassy yet sweet, the sparkly pet collar and leash are perfect for your little friend and all those long walks outside.

To get your very own Gypset Jewels visit http://www.gypsetjewels.com/
Also check out Gypset Jewels Twitter and Gypset Jewels Facebook Fan Page for the latest updates!
XOXO

Image Of Fear And Love

Tonight, the 64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards were held at Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, CA. As exciting as it is to have another award show to cover, I cannot help but express my deepest distress over the fashion choices. And before you get the chance to even speak these words, I know exactly what you want to say, "She always says this and seriously we get it already." Let us be real for a moment, shall we. Over half and yes, I said HALF of the choices made this evening were beyond words disgusting. Like honestly, my stomach started to ache. Luckily, I found ourselves a best dressed (never fear!) and hope that somehow my career takes off sooner rather than later because obviously Hollywood needs some maj help.

Sarah Hyland totally deserves best dressed. One of the most thought out, appropriate, elegant, gorgeous, perfect, sophisticated looks I have EVER seen and I want to steal this dress out of her closet and sleep in it. Her amazeballs Marchesa champagne gown with beautiful floral embellishment is fantastic and classy while providing a simple modern twist to it. Not only did she score an A+ but she co-designed this dress which makes me want to kiss her on the lips. Her simple, sweet hair and facile accessories completed this one-of-a-kind look. 

While she has left the pain of her divorce in the past, I think she should have left her wardrobe there too. What in the world was Heidi Klum thinking when she agreed to wear this appalling, disastrous, and hideous, Alexandre Vauthier gown. It looks like she is wearing a leotard with sheer curtains attached. People like her, who pick "dresses" like this, are the reason I worry about others watching for the latest trends the celebs are rocking. This certainly is not a trend and whoever clicked like on this was seriously disturbed. Worst dressed.

Enchanting Necklaces

Collar necklaces are your way to making a statement with accessories this fall. You will be seeing lots of different ways to work these with your daily wardrobe. Here are some tips on how to work a collar necklace with your fabulous collection of clothing. 

-Toss it over dark separates (dark/fall color tops)

-Layer over lace (blouse or dress)

-Cover up a deep v-neck (v-neck tops or sweaters)

-Mix up textures (fuzzy sweater with embellished necklace)

-Slide on sequins (sequin necklace with neutral or plain blouse)

-Mix and match patterns (striped shirt with floral collar necklace)

-Neon with metallic (neon pops with metallic collar necklace)

-Double up (2 collar necklaces paired together - one sparkly of course!)

-Pair with printed accessories (black collar necklace with leopard accessories)

Elizabeth Banks dazzles in a classy red dress while she mixes an adorable golden bronze collar necklace and soft waves.

Holland Roden looks charming in a lace blouse and yellow skirt. She details the ensemble with a sparkly collar necklace and matching silver clutch.

Bible, I Am In Love

Keeping Up With The Kardashians Season Seven Finale aired this past Sunday and while it was the most watched episode of the season with 3.6 million viewers, the episode also featured the birth of Kourtney and Scott's second bundle of joy, Penelope Scotland Disick. As big brother Mason would say "Her name is sister." What did you think of the finale? I know I am craving more Kardashians, so they better just bring it on. While we anxiously await Kourtney and Kim Take Miami that will air in January 2013, check out some of my favorite looks from our favorite sisters below.

While toting her main accessory, eldest son Mason, I am absolutely adoring Kourtney's dress, I love that she adds some chunky jewelry with a unique necklace and obvi obsessing over the fab leopard sandals.

Perfecting one of the hottest trends, Kim goes all out in none other than pastel skinny jeans. Relaxing the look, she pairs the stylish jeans with a neutral top and detailed jacket while opting for artistic sandals and a gray Birkin bag.

As always, our outlandish and spunky Khloe, goes funky and relaxed with a black top and sweater, printed black and white shorts and fabulous, detailed black strappy wedges. She tops this look with fab jewels and great hair.

A Variety Wears Them Best

Another summer necessity that will absolutely transition right into fall is a jean vest. Stunning and great on any figure, sport an adorable jean vest with just about anything. Work it with a maxi dress, skirt, shorts, leggings or jeans. Below are some of my favorite ways to flaunt this look. Don't forget that this fashion statement works for both women and men. Too perfect for words.

Jessica Alba knows how to model her vest while pairing it with a flirty and fun maxi dress. She works a neutral colored handbag and strappy sandals while finishing the look with sunnies and a ponytail.

Kate Bosworth should officially be declared a regular on Doll Maison! This fashionista has the trend down while combining a simple blouse, shorts and tan sandals with her vest. This has to be my favorite look. So sexy!

Justin Bieber shows us that this style is not only for women but men too. The Biebs rocks a black and white tee with black jeans (not pictured) and some epic hair.

Usher screams "trendy" with his jean vest, black shirt, black jeans and silver chains. He perfects the look with some dark black sunnies and keeps us wanting more with that mysterious look.

Sophisticated Scallops

Who doesn't love some simple yet superb shorts! One of the most beloved types of shorts among many this summer have been the scalloped designs. While many celebrities have been seen sporting these spunky shorts, lots of average women have fallen in love with the same kinds. Buy a pair before summer is gone and wear them into fall with tights. 

Olivia Palermo knows how to work it in these fun shorts. She opts for the bright floral printed pair while mixing together a floral top, leopard flats and a wicker handbag. Olivia tops it off with cat sunnies and a classic ponytail.

Anne Hathaway flaunts these cute blue scallops with white polka dots while taking her dog for a walk in the city. She works together a gray tee and black flats while completing her ensemble with a simple necklace and black stylish sunnies.

All smiles and gorgeous as ever, Kate Bosworth looks radiant in her super chic nude colored shorts. Kate rocks a shimmer blush colored top and tan sandals to complement the nude shorts. She goes for beach waves and a small, matching shoulder bag which supplies a calm and relaxed look.