The 2014 Emmy Awards: Best Dressed List

The Emmys are one of my favorite awards shows of the season. I find there are so many talented actors and wonderfully creative shows on the small screen and it is great to see them receive recognition. Monday night's awards ceremony was a pleasure to watch and the celebs definitely brought their A game to the red carpet! Here is a list of my favorite looks from the night:

January Jones stole the show with her stunning Prabal Gurung gown. I especially love the higher hemline at the front to show off those gorgeous cage heels.

Gwen Stefani definitely kept my attention in this Atelier Versace gown. I really love how she styled the look with sleek hair and minimal accessories and didn't don her infamous red lipstick. I barely recognized her at first! 

Does she NEVER age?!? Julia Roberts is pulling a serious Benjamin Button here in this Elie Saab Couture mini and those Louboutin heels. Love!

Although her main man Matthew McConaughey didn't get the recognition he deserved for True Detective, he did win big in other ways. Wife Camila Alves definitely stole the spotlight in this stunning Zuhair Murad gown. It goes so well with her skin tone. White is said to be a difficult thing to wear on the runway but boy does she prove them wrong.

I am so drawn to Kerri Washington's Prada look. I think the sparkly mini skirt peeping under a high slight is genius. That orange tone looks great on her too! 

Sarah Hyland is definitely settling into her look these days. The Christian Siriano design was a great choice, especially seeing as she accepted her 5th(!!) consecutive award for Modern Family. I love the youthful high bun pared with the dainty straps on the top. Just perfect.

2014 MTV VMA Show - Best and Worst Dressed

Well, the MTV VMAs were back at it last night! As usual, the red carpet was peppered with some successful and some not-so-successful fashion risks. There was certainly no lack of exposed flesh on display with some of the highest slits I've ever seen and some "J-Lo worthy" plunging necklines. While there was almost too much nudity for my liking, a few gems did pop out of the crowd. I gravitated towards the separates partially because the majority of the gowns were underwhelming.

MY FAVES

In a sea of revealing gowns and mini dresses, Gwen Stefani rocked it in this hot pink and black ensemble. I absolutely loved this look, especially with the hot pink lips and punky Lorraine Schwartz rings. Win.

Ingrid Nilsen, of Youtube beauty fame, is making me swoon over these Christian Siriano separates. You can kind of sense a trend here that I am a major fan of hot pink. Her simple pulled-back hair and those shoes (!!) tied the whole look together for a cute, enviable look.

Beyoncé in Niciolas Jebran, because she is the Queen.

Some people love it, some people elevator hate it. I'm on the love side of Solange Knowles' red carpet look. She is rocking an H&M design over-sized jacket and cigarette pant. Can you believe this suit only cost $150? She ties the whole look together with ankle-strapped Stuart Weitzman Hells and awesome brushed out curls.

Off all the Kardashians, Kendall Jenner definitely stood out above the rest. Her Alon Livne outfit looked perfect with her sleek hair and simple accessories. 

MY LEAST FAVES

I love Ariana Grande. I'm typically a huge supporter of her girly style and I am extremely envious of her hair (WHO IS HER HAIR DRESSER?). I am just not in love with this Moschino number. I don't like the blatant name-dropping and find it a bit edgy/punky for her style.

Ummm... no comment on Amber Rose's outfit selection.

I understand Taylor Swift wanting to make some waves and move away from her typical pretty and safe red carpet style. I commend her for that. However, this looks like she is wearing a cirque-du-soleil leotard. I would love this look more if the bottom was longer and more of a romper-type piece. 

I LOVE that Katy Perry took a jab at Brit Brit and Justin's matching denim red carpet look from the early 2000s. I find it hilarious and love a good flashback every now and again. However, the denim dress and denim suit with corn rows should have been retired when Brit and Justin shook the world and ended their union. No body needs to see that ever again. I need therapy.

At least Miley Cyrus and Robin Thicke didn't shake their money makers around stage this time around. I actually thought this was a very successful event and I thoroughly enjoyed Yoncé ending the night with a 20 minute performance of pure fierceness. I give this year's VMAs a solid B (for Beyoncé).

Bathe in Style: A Swimsuit Style Guide

Now that the warm weather is finally here, it is time to head to the beaches and cottages for some fun in the sun. With a never-ending sea of bikinis, monokinis, speedos and surf shorts out there, it can be a daunting task to find the perfect stylish and functional piece. Fear not, as we at fave magazine have done you the favor and hand-picked some fantastic pieces that will look amazing on any body. But first:

For the ladies, there are two essential swimsuit styles that everyone should have in their dresser. First, a fun and  flirty bikini,and secondly, a stylish one-piece. Bonus points if they are reversible!

Bikini

Modern Ego Beach Bunny Bikini - $34.00

This bikini from Modern Ego is the epitome of girly and fun. The mix of floral and nautical prints kicks the look up a couple notches AND it is reversible! Perfect to take on vacation.

Salinas Isabella Bikini -Top, $29.00 & Bottom, $29.00 instyleswimwear.com

To continue with the blue theme, this bikini is classic but with a little bit of a girly touch to it to keep it interesting. The back of this is the kicker with the cheeky bow. Did I mention it is currently on sale?!

Clover Canyon Lotus Temple Bathing Suit, $151.0, clovercanyon.com

For a little bit of color, this preppy and graphic bikini is the perfect candidate. It matches with countless things and would look super cute for lounging on the beach with a floppy hat or for a casual game of beach volleyball.

One-Piece/Monokini

L-Space Sunsetter, $158.00, www.instyleswimwear.com

In my opinion, everyone should own a black monokini. This particular one by L-Space is simply, practical, and a little bit sexy with the deep halter plunge. This look flatters any and every shape and size and the frills add just a bit of a girly touch (but not too much).

Stella McCartney Cutout Printed Swimsuit, $665.00, shopstyle.com

This asymmetrical piece just screams Gwyneth Paltrow. The lines are uber-chic and the mix of patterns is quite fun. This look can work everywhere, on the beach or by the pool and again, with a floppy hat.

Miu Miu Swimsuit, $215.00 Miu Miu NYC

212.334.5156

You can't go wrong with a retro one-piece and this one hits the nail right on the head. The deep V cut paired with the white band accentuate killer curves for a sexy look that's bound to turn heads.

FOR THE MEN

Like the ladies, there are two essential styles that one should have in their dresser. The traditional trunk, for casual and functional wear, and the more European/sporty styles to stand out in the crowd.

Trunks

Loro Piana Swim Trunks, $345.00 www.loropiana.com

The modern board short is short, but not tight. Traditional surf shorts haven't disappeared, they've just been updated a little bit. This washed out blue shade keeps the look casual and versatile.

J. Crew 7" board shorts with anchor print,$48.65, jcrew.com

Very appropriate with the nautical anchor motif and in the perfect length. These would work great with boat shoes and a white tee for off-beach events.

Cadet Vintage Surf Short, $128.00, www.cadetusa.com

I am in love with these trunks. The vintage look is a classic look that will never be out of style. Perfect for hanging ten.

European/Sport Trunks

Orlebar Brown Pup II, $165.00 orlebarbrown.com

If you're feeling daring, and spent the winter in the gym, these shorts are the ones for you. Be prepared to turn heads, though.

American Apparel Swimsuit, $28.00, americanapparel.com

If you are a little bit on the conservative side for the sporty/European look, these trunks are the perfect gateway into this style. The burgundy color pairs well with the cut, making for a classic short that will last season after season.

Sauvage Classic Square Cut - Side Stripe, $42.00, sauvagewear.com

Sauvage is one of my new favorite swimwear designers. They really have the men's classics down, adding a little bit of modern edge. This blue square cut brings us back to the 70s in California and everyone should own a pair!

Designer Spotlight: Aria Frances

A couple weeks ago I had the honor of attending Marcelle Benedicte's annual charitable event. This year, the theme was "Stripes & Pins" - sending us into a  mobster casino venue at the St Brigid's Centre for the Arts. Alongside the delicious food and great entertainment, local designers showcased their latest looks. One designer that really stood out to me was Aria Frances. Their looks were stunning. Great detail, fantastic materials and pieces that I would die to have the chance to wear. They really to a fantastic job at blending punk rock with feminine details seamlessly. 

Here are my favorite looks of the night:

This caged top is so fun and versatile - the possibilities are endless.
Photo by Marc Dumontier

I am in love with his dainty top. It could also go so well with so many things.
Photo by Marc Dumontier

The purple and black combination is beautiful. This dress has such an elegant flow to it when the model walks.
Photo by Marc Dumontier

The lineup
Photo by Marc Dumontier

I definitely cannot wait to see what's in store next!

Aria Frances

http://www.ariafrances.com/

https://www.facebook.com/ariafranceselements

http://ariafrances.tumblr.com/

The Modern Man: Why Traditional Barbershops are Making a Comeback

It always seems that what's old is new again. Popular fashions tend to recycle over time, as though style is not linear but rather a revolving door. Of course, refurbished styles and fashions are updated with a bit of a modern edge, but the inspirations are still that of yore. Prime example - the traditional male looks of the 1920s and 1930s are back in full bloom with military cuts, thick rimmed glasses and Great Gatsby-esque fashions. I've especially noticed a lot more buzz about traditional male barbershops recently, and felt inclined to delve into this a bit deeper. I spoke with Jesse Alberto from House of Barons on Sussex to shed some light on what's in for the gents.

I've noticed a resurgence of traditional male barbershops in the city over the past couple of years. Why do you think that is?

Men are recognizing that taking care of there looks can not only benefit how they look, but also how they feel on a day too day basis.  By taking care of themselves  and having a proper cut or shave in a traditional atmosphere is reminding men that mens grooming is not a lost art.  

What spectrum of services do you offer?

We try to keep things as simple and traditional as we can, we have a cut, a shave, and a clean up.  We  wanted to stay away from having a large menu of options.  Simplicity without over complicating things allows us to ensure that our quality will never suffer

What is the most popular style you are seeing requests for?

As I mentioned in my earlier response men are really back in touch with the traditional, we are seeing lots of the clean professional side parts,  pompadours evolve but never go out of style, recently we have been playing with some really detailed fades, the military cut.  Its all been done so its just finding a new way to break down the traditional and modernizing it in a new way. 

What do you think will be the popular hair styles for spring and summer? What about facial hair?

The warmer weather always brings shorter cuts, higher fades, more drastic lines, but i think we will be moving into more playful flows, a controlled mess I like to call it. Beards are in right now, I'm seeing them on all my clients, but i think men are going to me learning more and more how to groom them and how to make there facial hair match there whole look, if I had to guess I would say its going to be all about the details this year.

What are the benefits of getting a professional straight razor shave as opposed to shaving at home?

A single blade for sure, leaves less room for irritation, having the hot towel service is great  for the skin as well as the man.  A barber shop shave is a treat as well as a service, its a great once a week thing for men to do!

What styling and skin care products do you recommend for men?

That is really a case by case question, what people don't realize is how many skin and hair types there are.  We really took a lot time and testing in selecting the brands we carry to make sure that we cover the entire spectrum. We use the Crown shaving co.  for all of our shaves, they are a great company out of Toronto, we have a local beard oil from right here in Ottawa called Dapper, for the hair products we work mostly with TIGI and Layrite.  We also have a mens grooming corner that we bring in all kinds of unique, artisan brands and products, that also has a good portion of the Baxter of California line.

HOUSE OF BARONS

• 481 Sussex Dr
• Ottawa, Ontario K1N 6Z5
• (613) 241-2427
  http://www.houseofbarons.ca/

Cult Status: Lipstick Edition

Nothing finishes a look off better than a cool swipe of lipstick. From bold reds to vibrant pastels, you can change your look from professional office-wear to happy-hour drinks after work with just one portable tool. The lipstick has been the must-have weapon for ladies to carry in their makeup bags since the beginning of time. There a so many lip products out there, though, that it can be dizzying trying to navigate shelves among shelves of creamy lipbutters and glossy stains. Luckily, a select few have risen from the sea of glossy pinks and reds to deem elite cult status.

Chanel Rouge Allure 

Luminous Intense Lip Color in Incandescente, $35- www.chanel.com 

Like the name suggests, this lipstick literally lights up your face. The luminous shine paired with the vibrant red color add instant moisture and glam. If you are to have only one lipstick ever, choose this one.

Estée Lauder 

All Day Lipstick in Frosted Apricot, $23 www.thebay.com

This lipstick has been around for generations - and for good reasons. They have not and will not discontinue this shade in fear of creating a worldwide freak-out. I don't know how, but it goes with literally everything and works on every skin tone.

Clinique

Almost Lipstick in Black Honey, $19 www.thebay.com

My personal favorite. The name can seem a bit scary (I mean, black lips are only meant for Halloween, right?) but the tint is sheer enough that it simply intensifies your natural lip color. Thus meaning this also looks perfect on any and every skin tone. Want to go bolder? Simply swipe on a few more layers, or fill your lips with a lip liner beforehand. The possibilities are endless.

Revlon

Colorburst Lip Butter in Sorbet, $7, drugstores

You really can't go wrong with this price. I have this in almost every color. I especially love the sorbet for a nice pop of color in the spring and summer seasons. It goes on smooth like a lip gloss but adds vibrant color like a lipstick. It really is the best of both worlds, and my bank account does not complain. Total win!

Dior

Rouge Dior in 999, $36, www.sephora.com

This is luxury at its finest. Dior's best seller goes on super smooth and satiny, adding quite a punchy hue. 999 was actually the first color ever released by Dior. They have issued about 1500 since (most probably come and gone), but this one is still around and for good reason. 

Givenchy play intense : Review

'Givenchy - play intense' is one of my favourite men's Eau de toilette's that I am eager to repurchase. Being a lover of colognes and perfumes,  I have a small library of fragrances that I am determined to use before repurchasing this , though the itch is hard to resist scratching!

Play Intense is the brother to it's predecessor 'Givenchy play' , a more fresh and light version. This takes the notes of the original Givenchy Play and , ( as the name suggests) , made the notes more deeper, richer, and well..... intense!

The fragrance notes include : 

Bergamot

 Amyris

 Mandarin Orange

 Pink pepper

 Coffee

Tonka bean 

Vetyver 

Patchouli.

Coffee is a strong fragrance note that can easily be distinguished in fragrances , as well as tonka bean. The note of tonka bean can be found in David beckhams - intamately yours and the ever famous Jean Paul Gaultier - Le male. To me , the two notes of coffee and tonka bean are prominent in this fragrance and mix together to create a hot drink concoction of their own. The mix of tonka bean and coffee give this rich caramel note or a sweet cappuccino scent. It's very warming on the skin by being sweet and has a spicy undertone to the sweetness from the pink pepper.  I would say this scent leans towards the gourmand end of the fragrance house. 

I find it difficult to detect any of the floral notes with exception to perhaps patchouli that subtly gives a more earthy and dirty tone to the sweetness. The mandarin is more recognisable in the original Givenchy play though difficult to detect at all in this fragrance.

The projection on this fragrance is strong which will definitely get you noticed. The scent is long lasting and lingers on the skin around 6-8 hours , perfect for night outs where you want the security of your fragrance lasting through all those killer dance moves on the dance floor. It's certainly a night time fragrance due to it's heavy accords , perfect for warming up the air on autumn and winter nights. 

The strength of the fragrance means you don't need to use many sprays or the need to top it up throughout the day , meaning it makes makes better value for money as you're using less fragrance than one that you having to constantly apply.

The bottle design 

My only pet peeve with this fragrance is the bottle design. I can see where Givenchy has gone with the design, making it appear like an MP3 player to target towards the younger market and for a more modern approach. Despite it's youthful and playful design , it looks short from being tacky and I wonder if this may discourage a mature man from taking a sniff. It has a rubberised curved sprayer that's easy to use , and is visible through the plastic lid. At first glance the entire bottle appears black but when you shine it into daylight , you can actually see the glass bottle is indigo and only the lid is black. It would have looked more aesthetically pleasing if the same colour was continued through it's design.

Conclusion

Overall a great sweet and spicy compliment getter, with good projection and better longevity. I wouldn't recommend it for those who aren't a fan of gourmands. I hear this is constantly being compared to Rochas - Rochas man though unfortunately I haven't had the opportunity to smell it and find any similarities.  

I would love to hear your opinions on Givenchy- play intense? What's your favourite gourmand fragrance? 

All the best , Harry 

@favemagazine

@themintapple

Models Blurring the lines of gender

In society it is often emphasized in all sorts of media what is stereotyped as an attractive male or attractive female, and fashion is no exception to these stereotypes. As times changes , fashion also evolves and has more campaigns and catwalks than ever blurring the lines of masculine and femininity by using androgynous models. This gender switch in fashion is eye opening to those who perhaps feel more comfortable wearing clothes targeted towards the opposite gender and reassuring to those that perhaps don't feel they relate to a specific gender.

Marco Morante, the head of the fashion house 'Marco Marco' , showcased his spring and summer collection modelled entirely by half naked hunks,  sassy drag queens and male models in high heels that strutted their stuff setting a colourful and energetic performance. Perhaps I should reconsider a pair of Christian Louboutins... .

Below are some of the honourable mentions to models who are breaking borders showing beauty comes in more than just male and female stereotypes. 

Andrej Pejic

 Andrej had emigrated to Melbourne , Australia in 2000 where he was scouted whilst working in McDonalds at just the tender age of 16. Andrej ,  a 6 foot 2 blonde bombshell who's beauty not only inspires designers but is admired by both men and woman, by being voted as 98th in FHM sexiest woman 2011. His feminine looks have landed him multiple woman's campaigns including push-up bra advertisements. He walks for both male and female fashion shows though is mostly recognised for his beauty that leans towards the more feminine side.  Andrej Pejic is admirably known for walking down the catwalk for Jean Paul Gaultier in a brides dress, looking elegant top to toe.

Bridal gown for Jean Paul gaultier

Elliott Sailors

Elliott , a previous beauty-pageant contestant was initially signed to ford models in the woman's division. After the haircut to chop off her long locks, her strong jaw line and sharp cheek bones were revealed making her quite the handsome lady. Though Elliott is working as a face for menswear, this isn't to be conceived that she is transitioning into a man, in fact she's a happy wife to Adam Santos-Coy. It's in fact shocking to hear that Mrs. sailors has received prejudice behaviours from people mistaking her and her partner as a gay couple. Unsettling as that is to hear, I admire her confidence to have the switch into men's wear and pull of that edgy masculine look.

Casey Legler

Casey , a former Olympic swimmer,  is the first woman to be signed to work in the mens modelling division. With a similar look and hair cut to Elliott sailors , you could imagine seeing them alongside each other in mens campaigns. Signed to ford models her campaigns include All saints, Diesel reboot and Iris van Herpen. Her look that is set to change boundaries in gender roles of fashion was recognised and featured in vogue 2013.








I find it aspiring to see models being used for multitude of male and female campaigns and I hope to see this versatility more in the future. 

All the best.

Photographs used are not my own.