Prom Designers and Celebrities

 

Once again prom dress designers are showing that they to can dress the stars.  Currently Nicki Minaj was seen in the current publication of YRB in a Jovani dress.  Snooki of Jersey Shore fame has currently been seen in multiple Sherri Hill looks, while Dalia MacPhee has been mentioned numerous time as of late on the red carpet.  These prom designer dresses are always available at Formal Approach where we look to the top designers in the prom industry for our store selection.

New Sherri Hill Arriving Daily

With another stunning prom dress collection, Sherri Hill is showcasing new elegant floor length gowns, fun and flirty shorts, and figure flattering mermaids  Dresses are now shipping for the 2011 prom season.

Have You Checked Out the Dress of the Day?

Have you looked at the Facebook post for the dress of the day?  Check out the Jovani and the Jasz dresses from the past two days!  Keep a check for the daily post!  Add the post to your Facebook, Twitter, or email the look to a friend!

Dress of the Day

We are now showcasing the Dress of the Day on the Formal Approach Facebook site.  Like the Facebook or follow us on twitter to see these fabulous dresses that are perfect for any occasion.

Jasz Dress 4011 in the Opening

Jasz Couture 4011

Jasz Couture not only had a gown chosen to be in the opening number of the Miss High School All American pageant but also won the Best Dynamic Improvement Award at the 2010 International Prom Retailers Choice Award Show during AmericasMart in Atlanta.  The fashion forward design house has long been a trend setter in styling but now is showing its impact in the prom and pageant industry.  With a outstanding fall cocktail collection, and a soon to be in stores prom dress collection that includes alines, short/cocktail, and sexy cutouts everyone can find the perfect dress from Jasz this year!

Still Popular for 2011

You loved this last year but didn't buy it, no worries it's still available for prom 2011.  Style 8510 from Jovani Fashions and similar styles are trending for the upcoming season. Showing that one shoulders and cuts outs are still a large part of the trends that the top prom designers in the country are leaning toward for a successful season.  The looks this year are high fashion, very couture, and vibrate in color.

Look for more previews in the upcoming blogs!

Trends for 2011

Glee actress Dianna Agron wore this Carolina Herrera dress to the  Breakthrough Awards.  The dress captured many of the trends for Prom 2011.  Short, Strapless, multi colored fabric, and rolled rosette hemline detail are just a few of the trends that we have already previewed for the 2011 prom season.  Look for styles from Night Moves Prom, Tony Bowls, Sherri Hill, and Jovani to showcase a variety of these trends.

Cute but Personal for the Wedding

Happening upon this was so cute/funny, whatever?  A cake topper can now be personalized to meet you and your fiancée's personality.  In our now high tech, video playing age this seems so appropriate.  So remember now not only can you personalize your invitation, napkins, boxes but now also your cake topper!

Homecoming Dresses from Mori Lee

The Sticks and Stones collection of short homecoming and prom dresses has released its new fall line.  These very cute and elegant dresses are perfect for middle, high school, or college formals this fall.  One of our favorites is style # 9085.  Dresses from this collection are arriving daily!

Young and Dressed So Prefect!

So happy when young stars dress in style and sophistication.  Yes, sometimes we say the styles are to old or sexy for them but then again what do we expect.  They grow into adults so fast and it seems the Hollywood elite and stylist push this even faster.  However, even though this may have been a strapless and mini, Selena Gomez looked fabulous for her stop by the Late Night with Jimmy Fallon segment.  Must say love the look and the trendy color, hope to see more inspiration from her in the near future.

Twilight Screening

Big time Twilight fans, the who's who of Hollywood, turned out for a private intimate screening of the latest installment "The Twilight Saga: Eclipse." I was going to post and talk about Kristen Stewart's dress but for some reason I was drawn to one on Sofia Vergara.  I love this white black combination, a perfect dressed up but still dressed down look!

Fox and Green Wed

Some say Megan Fox is the next Angelina Jolie, others say Angelina can't be touched in the bombshell looks.  No matter the case she has know tied the knot with long time on again off again boyfriend Brian Austin Green on Beverly Hills 90210 fame.  She looks great here at the GQ bash in LA, recently.  No matter married or not we hope she keeps up the fashion styling that has drawn us to look to her for the latest prom and formal inspiration.

Dakota Fanning's Transformation

We are so use to seeing the "The Twilight Saga: Eclipse" star as a the dark Jane, to see her in a trendy Valentino short dress is shocking.  Although she is a fashion diva, she even admits to changing her wardrobe from girls to dark from day to day.

We have to say the design and style of her red carpet choice is amazing!  Love the dress and even love the shoes, as long as someone else is wearing them! OUCH!

Katy Perry Mania

Katy Perry is everywhere!  The fresh faced songbird has made a name in the Hollywood spotlight.  But her latest look makes us wonder if she is taking on the Lady Gaga shock style.  Although Katy's look is never completely tame, the blue hair and nude/bead dress has major shock factor.    However, it is the MTV Awards and regular red carpet demure and sophistication do not apply to this awards, we still expect better!

Pantsuit - Please Not Again

Everyone has sounded off about how bad Lindsay Lohan looked at the MTV Awards and we even have to say that she could and should have done better (still hiding the new anklet she HAS to wear).  What we have to remember is some stylist told her she looked good! We've often wondered why anyone thinks revisiting the fashion mistakes of the past will make them popular again. Saying the Pantsuit/Jumpsuit choice was bad does not help the fact that the ombre is choppy and does not help her look or the outfit.  We wish her the best but on top of all the changes she needs to make lets add new stylist to the list!

From CFDA Winner to Gap

Sophie Theallet, Patrick Ervell, and Monique Pean were recent winners at the CFDA are now creating a limited edition collection for Gap, Inc.  The collections cover men's, women's and jewelry.  The collections are higher-priced than most merchandise found at a Gap store, each designer stressed the efforts they made to keep the prices down. The limited edition collections will be unveiled at Gap's concept store on 5th Avenue New York.

Miley in Madrid

Miley Cyrus in Madrid during her "Can't Be Tamed" European Tour, shows how a 17 year old can look mature beyond her years.  Even though she may be trying to overcome her Disney image, to all girls tweeny girls some how she will always be Hannah Montana.

Is That Tony?

Does this guy look familiar?  Professional dancer for "Dancing WIth the Stars" maybe!  Yes, Tony stopped professional dancing and decided to model for Sherri Hill's Fall/Homecoming Collection.  I've often wondered if these professionals can actually make a statement outside of the reality based show, guess we will see!  After all they were not household names before the show.

Photo from SherriHill.com

Derek and Nicole Win

Did anyone who even halfway followed the show assume that they would not be in this position, to win the mirror ball trophy.  Pussycat Doll, Nicole, who has dance experience showed she can transform to a ballroom dancer when needed.  I have to say this was probably the best group of dancers I have seen on the show.  So who will be the next "Dancing with the Stars" cast and can they top this lineup.

Jagger for Chanel

Look close! Georgia May Jagger is the now shooting for Karl Lagerfeld and the Chanel line.  If the name sounds familiar it should she's part of the Rolling Stone Jagger's.  The as shots are outstanding!  Sleek, understated sexy, and still that classic style one expects from Chanel and Lagerfeld.


Photo from Chanel 2011 Cruise Lookbook

Miss USA 2010 Crowned

Rima Fakih of Michigan was crowned Miss USA 2010.  Even after a slip that in past years would have cost the title she wins.  Michigan has never had a Miss USA winner and the last time the state placed a top 6 contestant was 1993.  Congratulations to her! Now to see if anymore controversy can arise after the pre-pageant photo shoot Trumped up mess.

Gucci to Add a Haute Couture Line

Gucci is set to launch a custom made gown collection to offer to celebrities.  These will be one of a kind collections for the red-carpet of the Hollywood elite.  Frida Giannini says that classic movies are the inspiration for these designs.  The line will be named Gucci Première and has already been seen on the red carpet of the Cannes Film Festival.  I'm sure this will be a line that will inspire others as well.

Salma Hayek in Gucci Première.

Photo By: Venturelli/WireImage   

Greyson Chance Performs Paparazzi by On Ellen Degeneres Show

What can be said Greyson Chance has turned into an overnight sensation!  First, You Tube now on Ellen what a past few days for him.  He's a great talent.  However, it remains to be seen if celebrity status will become him.  We hope it does!

Greyson Chance Singing Paparazzi

What a great talent!  Way to go!

Armani Designing - Alicia Keys Onstage

Giorgio Armani used a softer hand to outfit Alicia Keys for her European tour, “The Element of Freedom."  What a pairing!  Armani recently created outlandish styles for Lady Gaga, now is showing the Armani looks we are use to with four looks for Keys latest tour.  If this glimpse is anything compared to the rest they are going to be classic looks we expect from him and the star that wear them.

Taylor's Donation

Once again Taylor Swift has shown how generosity is such an uplifting thing to do.  The country music sensation and Nashville native gave $500,000 to the Nashville Relief fund.  She did this by calling into a star filled telethon to raise funds for the Nashville flood clean up and victims.

Also catch up with Taylor, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood, Miley Cyrus and more stars for "Nashville Rising: A Benefit Concert For Flood Recovery," on June 22.


Way to go Country Music...Helping out!!!

2010 Costume Institute Gala - Sea of Formals

Metropolitan Museum of Art’s annual Costume Institute gala is always sure to have beautiful people in over the top fashions.  And of course, that is exactly what happened.  A-List star arrived but for some the fashion seemed to be more d-list.  As expected Jennifer Lopez was more than radiant in her Zuhair Murad gown.  She alone with stars like Oprah Winfrey, Anne Hathaway, Inman and Jessica Alba were true to their fashion form.  Others made us wonder!

Stars such as Katy Perry left us wondering what fashion stylist they had sought advice from.  The rainbow sorbet dress left us quite confused on what was going on.  Other stars like Kirsten Dunst, Karolina Kurkova, and Kristen Stewart just left us wondering what someone was thinking.

Some have said it was a lot of "bad prom looks."  We wouldn't go quite that far but when even fashionista...stylist to the stars Rachel Zoe doesn't impress then what do you expect!








For complete overview of all the styles visit WWD.com
Photos by Kristen Somody Whalen

Animal Prints a Must!

The animal prints have arrived for Fall 2010.  For the past few years animal prints such as leopard and cheetah have become the perfect print pattern to use in formal designs.  Now the trend is full steam ahead for the ready to wear industry also.  I seems every designer in every price range is doing an animal print for fall!  We love these looks and think that everyone needs at least one animal print in their closet.  We would love to have this Teri Jon jacket in ours!

Taylor Swift for Covergirl

Taylor Swift has been named the new face of Covergirl.  Swift claims to be a "huge makeup junkie." This makes a perfect fit then.  Swift follows the lead of other A List stars such as Rihanna, Queen Latifah, and Drew Barrymore to lead their high profile image to the company.

Models or Celebrities Who's Better?

Looks like the models are winning!  According to a recent article in WWD.  European designers who are currently shooting their fall-winter collections will choose a model over a celeb hands down this year.  Designers say models are more relevant to a product than an actress or actor that many time comes with the baggage of the last role that performed.

We say...can't agree more!  Models are professionals that make the camera and the garments look better, give higher fashion looks, and give the overall look of a professional shoot.  One suggestions to these models and designers, a need for diversity in size, age, height, etc. should happen.  The average consumer needs to feel like they can obtain the look easily.

High Heel? How tall is TOO MUCH?

During the current recession high heels are pushing the extreme.  Runways, red carpets, fashion magazines, and even prom goers are pushing the how high can you go envelope.

Celebrities such as Lady Gaga wore a version of the above 12 inch Alexander McQueen for the "Bad Romance" video and Tina Frey opened her SNL monologue with over the top stilettos to solidify this craze.

We love some of the styling but at what point is this just a fashion mistake? 5, 7, 9, or 12 inch heels!

Twin Dolce & Gabbana Floral Prints

Is one version any better than the other?  Not really!  Both Tina Frey and Sheryl Crow wore the all over floral print to the 2010 Matrix Awards.  Slight neckline changes helped neither dress, although Tina Frey's black shrug did help hide some of the busy pattern.

The new floral frocks from Dolce & Gabbana leave much to be desired.  Have to say they usually are one of our favorite designers but with this we are starting to worry if the designs are going to take a look that Grandma would love instead of the fashionistas that follow there every move.




Both photos by Joe Kohen/WireImage.com

Already Tried this Decade --- So Why Again

Once again we are going to try light up heel shoes on adults!  The prom industry tried this a few years back and guess what they didn't sell then.  Girls and parents would love the shoe style and then want to know if there was any way to take the battery or the chip out so they would stop flashing.  So now we get to trend this again within the same decade with star power saying they love them.  Of course, when Jimmy Choo makes them and stars like Katy Perry and Fergie love them, we once again will try to sell LED enhanced glowing lucite high heel platforms. Oh the joy!

Photo credit: Alberto E. Rodriguez / WireImage.com

Spring 2011 Bridal - A Look for Individuality

Yes, we just titled this bridal blog for spring 2011 styles.  The designers are already hitting the runway with their 2011 styles.  So what are the looks?

Statements were made in everything from ruffles, drapes, ruching, embroidery, and then adorned with rosettes.  I you like a style it was on the runway in one form or another.

Well, its finally time to color infuse those wedding gowns.  Individuality is now the key  to planning the perfect wedding.  The color is not just for bridesmaids and groomsmen any more.  These beautiful strong statement pieces can show fashion forward styling that is going to last.

Gown by Carolina Herrera
Photo by Kyle Ericksen

Even the presents of short mini length bridal gowns hit the runway.  This made a show statement but will main stream bridal consumers go for  this to walk down the aisle.   Or could this be a destination trend or maybe a reception/going away trend?  We'll have to see!

Gown by Marchesa

Photo by Thomas Iannaccone

Fashion Report for Country Music Awards 2010

I have to say I was impressed with the looks of the ladies of county music.  Even though this is not the most glam event of the award season the styling was on track.  Although, I don't completely agree with all other bloggers these ladies did command style!

Julianne Hough looked amazing!  An embellished bodice and detailed accessories were perfect.  The style matched with her known celebrity look.  We have to say it was our favorite!

Most say Carrie underwood looked spectacular, however, we think the shoulder ruffle was a bit to much and made the dress feel unbalanced.  We are not crazy about the studded clutch.  It draws the eye away front the dress and even though complement accessories as great we see no compliment to the clutch.

Finally, Jewel!  She looked relaxed and stylish in this soft pastel.  The embellishment and tiered top layer gave this gown a sense of grace and style that anyone could wear.  We look for this styling to be a part of 2011's formal fashions!









All photos by Rick Diamond/GettyImages.com

Alice + Olivia to Team With MAC

The Alice + Olivia collection for MAC Cosmetics

Photo by Courtesy Photo

Alice + Olivia has teamed up with MAC Cosmetics for the creation of a limited edition collection available July 8.  The collection of vibrant colors such as deep turquoise, purple, and yellow are as eye popping as their inspiration, Alice in Wonderland.

We love the concept and the drama but wonder to whom and how much of these shimmer pigments and bright lips will actually sell.

Awesome Prom Shoes...A Must Have Accessory

A perfect for you dress of course deserves the  perfect for you prom shoe.  We know we love our shoes and the more stylish the better.  So, this is the perfect year for over the top prom shoes in colorful patents, elegant sparkle, or fade into the background nude hues.  Great OMG shoes are out there waiting for you with designers Alisha Hill and Night Moves Shoes leading the way in shoe personality for prom.

Whatever shoe fits your style and personality is the key.  Always remember though, beauty does not have to be pain.  Look for your shoe in the correct size and width so you can dance the night away with shoes!

Visit http://www.formalapproach.com/Shoes-Prom-Pageant-Formal.aspx for prom shoe collections by, Alisha Hill, Night Moves Shoes, Touch Ups by Benjamin Walk, Liv Parker, Jonathan Kayne, Sizzle by Coloriffics, and Dyeables.

Short Party Dress...Great Legs A Must

Short Prom and Party Dresses are to be fun and flirty but don't forget they draw attention to your to your legs.  So glaming the legs is extremely important! As well as choosing a shoe that will lengthen your legs even if you have long legs to start.

 A few tips include:

• Start a leg toning regiment - this is not the fastest fix but improvement is important.  Also, firming lotion along with exercise can allow a faster visible result in time for those April proms.
• Wax or close shave - smooth legs are definitely more glamourous 
• Tan your legs - this does not mean you have to live in a tanning bed.  A professional spray tan looks great and can give great color.  Just remember this needs to be done the day before prom and don't go swimming in a pool or exfoliate your legs after it is done or you will be blotched looking.
• Wear heels - taller heels equals longer legs and the longer the leg the leaner the leg.  Also, remember to go with a shoe that has fewer straps.  This way the foot and leg are not visually cut into sections.  You extension not separation.

Finally, you are ready to have a great time!

Top Models...Now Designers

Models are now the go to designers for both fashion and accessories. Kate Moss designing for Topshop and Longchamp, Cindy Crawford for JC Penny Company accessories, and Eva Herzigova for the French chain 1.2.3. are only a few that wee designing as a natural step from runway. Still to see if it works, managing directors see their company's as part of this designing direction for a long time to come.

For complete story visit http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/from-runway-to-retail-models-turn-designers-3024340

Photo by Courtesy Photo

The Stylist...Behind the Chair by Mika Burley

Congratulations, Mika! Our favorite hairstylist on the release of your book The Stylist...Behind the Chair. Great job!

H.S. West Hair and Makeup

Congratulations to our favorite makeup artist H.S. West (aka Scooby) on the article in Urban Lux Magazine. Way to go! Check out the article on page 12.

URBAN LUX MAGAZINE

www.urbanluxmagazine.com

URBANLUXMAGAZINE.COM - Style, Culture, Conscience at its best. This work highlights a movement of socially aware and conscience urbanites living in urban luxury. URBAN LUX MAGAZINE highlights their successes and contributions to our urban society.

The New Allure Vest Collection by Jean Yves is now In-Stock

Arriving in time for Prom 2010 the Allure Vest Collection by Jean Yves. With shades made to go with the latest shades for 2010, this vest line will be perfect for prom, formal, wedding or any black tie event.

Lafemme 15199 Now In-Stock Sizes 1-12

The most wanted dress for 2010 from La Femme is now in stock on three colors and sizes 0 - 12. They are selling fast, to view this incredible prom dress visit our website at

http://www.formalapproach.com/la-femme-15199-prom-dresses-v1118-01-prom-dress-prom-gowns-and-formal-prom-.aspx