GLAM OR SHAM?: Rihanna at the Grammys

Now THIS is how you wear a white dress.

Rihanna rescued the white dress trend with an ethereal crepe gown by Elie Saab.

The songstress glows in a high-neck dress that boasts chiffon, stone and feather detailing in the front. The high-neck elongates her statuesque figure and the draping adds a sexy, feminine touch. Finally, the back is open ensuring a lingering second look.

The stunning dress looks elegant and magical on Rihanna, who wears light silver shadow and a pair of Neil Lane earrings and a bracelet to complement the look.

I won't say she looks angelic (if you've heard my favorite song of the moment, Rude Boy, you know she's a bad girl on the inside) but she is a radiant, stunning beauty. And might I add, what a way to come back on top from the ordeal she faced at last year's Grammy's. What do you think, Glamazons? Does she pull this off? Is it the right look for the Grammy's?

Give your verdict: Glam or a Sham?

UPDATE: Glams, we have the secrets to Rihanna's posh, polished hair courtesy of her amazing hairstylist, Ursula Stephens. Here are the steps (and inexpensive products) Ursula used to create Rihanna's winning look:

• Start by relaxing the hair with Motions Silkening Shine Relaxer. 
• Mold and wrap the hair with Motions Foam Wrap lotion and sit under a hooded dryer. 
• Trim and shape the hair, buzzing the sides and back with a clipper. 
• To get amazing shine and lock each strand in place, add some Motions oil moisturizer along with Suddzz hair spray. 
• Flat iron small sections of the hair in an upward and inward motion.
• Finally, rub Lanza serum and Motions pomade through the hair and finger comb it for a finished look.

What do you think about the hair? Do you like Rihanna's curly look better? What's your verdict? Glam or a Sham?

GLAM OR SHAM?: J.Lo at The Grammys

We think J. Lo looks amazing; but sadly only from the neck up. This Versace dress does nothing to flatter her gorge figure and we just can't figure out why it's shorter on the sides. We're all for a netted dress and halter top neckline, but this one is just too much of a hot mess for us to swallow.

What do we think Glamazons? Glam or a sham?

GLAM OR SHAM?: Lady Gaga at the Grammys

Lady Gaga's dress from Armani Prive looks like it hurts. Between the plastic web design and spiky star, somebody could get lost, strangled and cut by this gown. 


In true Lady Gaga fashion, she paired it with crystal embroidered tights and shoes, blonde and daffodil yellowish hair and bubblegum pink lips. 


What do we think, Glamazons? Glam or a Sham?


UPDATE: I spoke too soon. Just when I thought Lady Gaga gave us all the jaw-dropping Gaga-ness she could muster, the camera panned the audience and I saw this.


Another Armani Prive creation specifically made for the star, that truly belonged in an alien movie. A silver headpiece and jacket that looked like what the Statue of Liberty would wear to a drag ball competition. Gaga paired them with her favorite crystal embroidered tights and heelless shoes. Her makeup in all its pale and bold pink glory is oddly fitting. 

Lady Gaga and Fashion God, Giorgio Armani, had this to say about the memorable collaboration:



Giorgio Armani says, "We hear Lady Gaga’s music everywhere we go. It is like a soundtrack of our times. In addition to her formidable songwriting skills, she is a modern fashion phenomenon. I am delighted to be creating these outfits on such an important night for her, the Grammys, and I wish her the best of luck."
 
Sharing Mr. Armani’s enthusiasm, Lady Gaga adds, "I am honored to be wearing Armani this evening. The series of pieces Mr. Armani created for me are truly iconic; they represent not only beautiful fashion, but my spirit and essence as an artist. Mr. Armani is a fashion legend, and tonight would not have been the same without his touch, and his wonderful team."  


Lady Gaga is a superhero in my comic book and her performance, which opened the show, proves it. Alongside the legendary Sir Elton John, Lady Gaga sang "Speechless" and John's "Your Song." It was a stirring, epic performance that set the bar high for the rest of the show (did anyone else live up to it? I wasn't blown away by any other artist).


At 62 and decked out in a Giorgio Armani black tuxedo and a pair of Giorgio Armani custom-made, Swarovski-encrusted sunglasses, Sir Elton John was right at home in Gaga's glittery, filthy spectacle. Their chemistry made for a magical show. Check the video below:





So we know we can always expect a futuristic, over-the-top costume from Lady Gaga, but do these Armani looks measure up? What's the verdict, Glam or a Sham?

GLAM OR SHAM?: Pre-Grammy Looks from Rihanna, Jay-Z, Katy Perry and more

The Grammy Awards are upon us which means for the last few weeks, stylists, make-up artists, eyelash artists, PR girls and designers have been scrambling to outfit stars in the latest and greatest fashions.

Judging from the latest pics from Pre-Grammy events, some celebs will push the envelope in avant garde looks (a la Rihanna) stay safe and trend-friendly in sequins or silk (like Mary J. Blige and Katy Perry) or show up in a tacky cringe-worthy ensemble that anyone can pick up at your neighborhood Rainbow store (sigh...Ashanti).

Check out the looks from Clive Davis' and Neyo's parties below and give your verdict: Who was Grammy Glam and who was a Sham?

Rihanna's multicolor pastel look was delightfully avant garde but the shape and hue was a lot to take in at once. I will say her light green make-up and polished hair was uberfabulous.

Ciara, is this a joke? The cheap-looking shaggy fur top paired with shorts and knee boots (darling, pick a season) was proportionally and aesthetically all wrong. The loud fashion faux paux is sure to turn heads---just not for the right reasons.

Fergie...the part lingerie/part electrical tape dress would make sense on a Vegas party girl, not a pop star. It is cheap and tacky and looks like it smells like plastic. Sham.

Though Mary J. Blige, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift's dresses were sequined and safe (aka you could see a thousand of them at any New Year's shindig or gala), atleast they looked glamorous and presentable. I live for the multicolor sequins on Katy's dress.

It seems leather was a staple on the red carpet (see Ashanti's disaster below) but Jennifer Hudson's trendy purple color, shoulder detail and blunt bangs make the look undeniably chic.

The fellas stole the night. In all black everything, Jay-Z redefined cool in a New York City rockstar vibe with a motorcycle leather jacket, a chain necklace and black separates. Jamie Foxx brought his signature suave style in a one-button blazer with a shirt and tie.

Neyo's signature fedora, shirt and vest captured his "perfect gentleman" motif to a tee, but I hate the sneakers. English gentleman meets street culture? I'm not buying it. And raise your hand if you're tired of seeing a fedora on this man at every event...I understand hats are your thing but they make different styles.

Precious star, Gabourey Sidibe wore a black banded sheath dress and...flats? I LOVE Gabourey and what she represents as a full-figured woman in Hollywood who readily embraces her out-of-the-norm body size. But this dress is just not flattering. It makes her look ill-proportioned and does nothing for her shape. 

Ashanti is on my list. The gray leather zippered mini is cute, yes. But why did you borrow your sister's dangly earrings from prom and clip on a blonde, curly weave from the beauty supply store? (Did anybody tell her that her hair doesn't match in the front?!) No matter how chic she starts off, she always gets it wrong. Sham.

What do you think, Glamazons? Glam or a Sham?

Fashionable Alice in Wonderland

Alice in Wonderland heels by Nicholas KirkwoodI don't know about you, but I can't wait till Alice in Wonderland comes out. The previews have me believing that Tim Burton's next movie to hit the theaters is going to be a one-of-a-kind and a must see. With actors like Johnny Depp and Anne Hathaway staring in it, its sure to be a hit. I saw on style.com that the French store Printemps is going to have their windows Alice inspired in March. The windows were done by Nicholas Kirkwood, Maison Martin Margiela, Charles anastase, Chloe, Manish Aror, Christopher Kane, Alexander McQueen, Haider Ackermann, Bernhard Willhelm, and Ann Demeulemeester. Below are the Alice inspired designs. From left to right: (first row) Nicholas Kirkwood's sketch, Maison martin Margiela, Haider Ackermann, (second row) Charles Anastase, Ann Demeulemeester, and the Chloe design team.

The Alice Inspired Designs

GLAM OR SHAM?: Beyonce 'Heats' Up the TV Screen for Fragrance Commercial

We read what Ferocia thought about Beyonce's first fragrance, 'Heat' licensed by Coty. But with this commercial, does it even matter what it smells like? After the men finishing drooling and the ladies finish practicing the moves in the mirror in their favorite silk red dress, they will undoubtedly run to Macy's to purchase the fragrance.


What's more? To kick off the launch of 'Heat,' Beyonce will illuminate Union Square on February 2nd with a fiery red light and smoky fog, giving the city an aura that matches her sensual appeal. The lighting will serve as a backdrop to her super exclusive launch party for all her friends in media and entertainment.


On February 3rd, it's all about the fans. Beyonce will make a personal appearance at Macy's Herald Square, where the first customers to purchase the Beyonce Heat 3-piece fragrance set will get the chance to meet and pose with the pop icon. I can see the line of uncontrollable stans forming in my head, clamoring to touch the hem of her House of Dereon garment. 


Both events will be chaotic enough to usher in the launch of the 'Heat' fragrance in true Sasha Fierce fashion. 


What do we think of the commercial, Glamazons? It's superhot, that kind of play after 11pm with a parental advisory disclaimer hot. Is it too seductive for her super-clean image (cue her 20/20 interview airing in full today before the Grammy's)? [My boo said he forgot what she was selling: fragrance or...something else.] Or is it irresistibly sexy in a way only Beyonce can get away with?


What's the verdict? Glam or a sham?

WIN IT!: Tyra Show Plus-Size Model Competition

Before curves became en vogue, Tyra Banks was an advocate for plus-size models in the fashion industry. Besides recruiting fly, full-figured models for America's Next Top Model like the beautiful Toccara and Whitney Cunningham (who I met at the party celebrating ANTM's Oxygen move...what a sweetheart!), Banks has faced vicious criticism for her own weight gain as well.


It's not easy for a plus-size model in Fashion and I've always appreciated Tyra's willingness to speak out about it. Finally, she's putting her money where her mouth is.


Banks is launching a plus-size competition on the Tyra show called "The Fiercely Real Model Search." Plus-size models between the ages of 13-19 can enter to win a one-year Wilhemina modeling contract, a cover and fashion spread in Tyra's online magazine and a spread in a major fashion magazine. Click here for details.


Here's what the model-turned-mogul had to say about the competition:

"I've always felt it was my mission to expand the narrow perceptions of beauty; through 'America's Next Top Model,' 'True Beauty' and 'The Tyra Show' I challenge industry and universal standards by featuring and celebrating non-traditional beauty, and stressing that true beauty is both inside and out," Banks said. "Adolescence is such an impressionable time in a young woman's life, and I hope this contest helps teen girls discover their own beauty from the inside out."

Truly commendable. All beautiful plus-size girls get ready to half-turn, pose and strut for the modeling chance of a lifetime! Tyra will announce the winner on her talk show on March 3rd. 


Good luck from The Glamazons!


Kisses,


Coutura

MAC in Lillyland (Lilly Pulitzer) Swatches collections

MAC in Lillyland (Lilly Pulitzer) Swatches. This collection brings us the perfect colors for spring, but it also makes me kinda sad since we're in the middle of winter :( . Yet looking at these bright colors help me to look forward to spring. The must have item in this collection is the Permatte face power, since it has the flower imprint and look so pretty. Perfect for the Mac Collectors!

Group Product Pictures

Swatches of Creme Blushes ( Perfect For Layering Over Powder Blushes For A long Lasting Look)

Joie-De-Vivre and Optimistic Orange

Swatches of Paint Pots ( Layer under eyeshadows to help your shadows stay longer)

Rubenesque and Fresco Rose

Swatches of Lipgelees ( Look like dazzleglasses X 10 for sparkling lips)

Shift To Pink and Lush & Bright

Swatch of Pearlmatte

Alone Swirled Together

Swatch of Nail Polish Coconut Ice

MAC in Lillyland (Lilly Pulitzer) Swatches collections

MAC in Lillyland (Lilly Pulitzer) Swatches. This collection brings us the perfect colors for spring, but it also makes me kinda sad since we're in the middle of winter :( . Yet looking at these bright colors help me to look forward to spring. The must have item in this collection is the Permatte face power, since it has the flower imprint and look so pretty. Perfect for the Mac Collectors!

Group Product Pictures

Swatches of Creme Blushes ( Perfect For Layering Over Powder Blushes For A long Lasting Look)

Joie-De-Vivre and Optimistic Orange

Swatches of Paint Pots ( Layer under eyeshadows to help your shadows stay longer)

Rubenesque and Fresco Rose

Swatches of Lipgelees ( Look like dazzleglasses X 10 for sparkling lips)

Shift To Pink and Lush & Bright

Swatch of Pearlmatte

Alone Swirled Together

Swatch of Nail Polish Coconut Ice

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection. The newest Mac Collection featuring pretty packaging will be the MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection which hits stores March 11th. The packaging will be white with images of birds and flowers. Featured products in the collection include eyeshadows, beauty powders, blushes, lipglosses, lipsticks, and makeupbags. Look below to learn more.

The very latest in a series of famous M∙A∙Collaborations, it was only a matter of time before the demure-to-daring kaleidoscopic prints of Liberty of London coloured our world with Brit wit and bohemian chic. From the unstudied, Sienna Miller style of Spitalfields Market to the grit-and-glamour of Portobello Road, the swinging London girl has always been an unstoppable M·A·C makeup force! Spring 2010 insists on the ultimate flower fusion, with M∙A∙C joining forces with Liberty, creating cool Britannia compacts and Lipsticks, Eye Shadows, Powder, Blush, Nail Lacquers and, of course – blushing, bountiful, quite British accessories.

Beauty powder

• Shell pearl - Pale peach with gold pearl
• Summer Rose - Soft violet pink with pearl

Eye shadow

• Give me liberty of London - Flat creamy pink (matte)
• Free to be - Creamy true coral (matte)
• Dame’s desire - Frosty mid-tone reddish purple (frost)
• Birds & Berries - Frosted dark green blue (veluxe pearl)
• Bough grey - Mid-tone blueish grey (satin)

Lipstick

• Ever hip - Creamy light coral (cremesheen)
• Peachstock - Neutral peach (satin)
• Petals & Peacocks - Creamy bright magenta pink (amplified)
• Blooming lovely - Creamy greyed lilac mauve (amplified)

Lipglass

• Frankly fresh - Neutral pink beige with soft pearl
• Perennial high style - Creamy bright pink coral
• English accents - Creamy midtone blue pink
• A different groove - Deep purple brown with pearl

Powder Blush

• Prim & proper - Neutral nude
• Dirty Plum - Sheer Dark Plum (Pro)

Nail Lacquer

• Vestral white - Creamy white (cream)
• Blue India - Dark green blue with pearl (cream)

Accessories

• Liberty of london makeup bag/small – MAC stores & online only - $ 22,00
  A limited-edition laminated makeup bag decorated with an exclusively created flower and bird pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Zip closure boasts a fabulously outsize floral pull. Measures 8″ x 2.75″ x 3.5″.
  
• Liberty of london makeup bag/medium – MAC stores & online only - $ 25,00
  A limited-edition laminated makeup bag decorated with an exclusively created flower and bird pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Zip closure boasts a fabulously outsize floral pull. Measures 8″ x 2.75″ x 5″.
  
• Liberty of london scarf – MAC stores & online only - $ 95,00
  A limited-edition scarf designed with an exclusively created floral pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Rows of coral, orange, yellow and blue flowers form a repeating pattern on a white background. The fabric is a soft wool/viscose blend. Made in Italy. Measures 27″ x 82″.

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection. The newest Mac Collection featuring pretty packaging will be the MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection which hits stores March 11th. The packaging will be white with images of birds and flowers. Featured products in the collection include eyeshadows, beauty powders, blushes, lipglosses, lipsticks, and makeupbags. Look below to learn more.

The very latest in a series of famous M∙A∙Collaborations, it was only a matter of time before the demure-to-daring kaleidoscopic prints of Liberty of London coloured our world with Brit wit and bohemian chic. From the unstudied, Sienna Miller style of Spitalfields Market to the grit-and-glamour of Portobello Road, the swinging London girl has always been an unstoppable M·A·C makeup force! Spring 2010 insists on the ultimate flower fusion, with M∙A∙C joining forces with Liberty, creating cool Britannia compacts and Lipsticks, Eye Shadows, Powder, Blush, Nail Lacquers and, of course – blushing, bountiful, quite British accessories.

Beauty powder

• Shell pearl - Pale peach with gold pearl
• Summer Rose - Soft violet pink with pearl

Eye shadow

• Give me liberty of London - Flat creamy pink (matte)
• Free to be - Creamy true coral (matte)
• Dame’s desire - Frosty mid-tone reddish purple (frost)
• Birds & Berries - Frosted dark green blue (veluxe pearl)
• Bough grey - Mid-tone blueish grey (satin)

Lipstick

• Ever hip - Creamy light coral (cremesheen)
• Peachstock - Neutral peach (satin)
• Petals & Peacocks - Creamy bright magenta pink (amplified)
• Blooming lovely - Creamy greyed lilac mauve (amplified)

Lipglass

• Frankly fresh - Neutral pink beige with soft pearl
• Perennial high style - Creamy bright pink coral
• English accents - Creamy midtone blue pink
• A different groove - Deep purple brown with pearl

Powder Blush

• Prim & proper - Neutral nude
• Dirty Plum - Sheer Dark Plum (Pro)

Nail Lacquer

• Vestral white - Creamy white (cream)
• Blue India - Dark green blue with pearl (cream)

Accessories

• Liberty of london makeup bag/small – MAC stores & online only - $ 22,00
  A limited-edition laminated makeup bag decorated with an exclusively created flower and bird pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Zip closure boasts a fabulously outsize floral pull. Measures 8″ x 2.75″ x 3.5″.
  
• Liberty of london makeup bag/medium – MAC stores & online only - $ 25,00
  A limited-edition laminated makeup bag decorated with an exclusively created flower and bird pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Zip closure boasts a fabulously outsize floral pull. Measures 8″ x 2.75″ x 5″.
  
• Liberty of london scarf – MAC stores & online only - $ 95,00
  A limited-edition scarf designed with an exclusively created floral pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Rows of coral, orange, yellow and blue flowers form a repeating pattern on a white background. The fabric is a soft wool/viscose blend. Made in Italy. Measures 27″ x 82″.