Fashion at the Oscars

The Oscars is always the annual fashion peak for celebrities. The entire world is watching, critiquing, and criticizing the outfits showcased on the red carpet. And this year, the celebs did not disappoint. Many of the A-list stars chose more classic and elegant gowns this year. There were lots of delicate lace, silk, and ruffles. While most stars were tasteful, there was one in particular who left a sour taste in my mouth. Mariah Carey's dress was not made for a woman of her age or build. For a lady whose role in "Precious" was so celebrated, you would think she would want to embrace the moment and look like an adult. Although her velvet, navy blue Valentino gown was beautiful, it was too revealing on her. She would do better to pick something a little more modest for her next awards show.

A dress that really surprised me was Miley Cyrus'. She looked like a very elegant and beautiful young woman. Her Jenny Packham gown was age appropriate and gorgeous. Diane Kruger, who starred in "Inglorious Basterds", wore a white and black ensemble by Chanel. The rose detailing at her waist brought the dress together beautifully. Demi Moore wore a pale rose ruffled confection by Versace. My top pick for the evening was actress Zoe Saldana, of "Avatar". Her Givenchy dress featured dramatic purple ombre colors on the bottom, and sequined corset. Not many people could pull it off, but she worked it. It's dresses like these that make me wish awards season would go on forever.

Valentino: The Last Emperor

This past weekend, I watched a documentary about the famous Italian designer Valentino Garavani, commonly known as Valentino. The documentary followed Valentino through the stress of Fashion Week as well as the turmoil the fashion house experienced when a majority of the stock was sold to a different corporation. It provided an inside look at Valentino's brilliance and his struggle to decide his next move at Valentino.

Valentino began his career in Paris at age 17. He studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. He apprenticed for Jean Desses and Guy La Roche after he completed school. In 1959, Valentino moved back to Rome and opened his own fashion house. In 1960, he met Giancarlo Giametti, a man who would change his life forever.

The movie chronicles the unique relationship between Giametti and Valentino. Giametti had been Valentino's business partner for over 40 years. He was Valentino's punching bag and greatest supporter. Often during the film, you seen Valentino harshly speaking to Giametti or bossing him around. There is a glimpse of Valentino's sweeter side when he poignantly thanks his friend during an acceptance speech. When the camera pans to Giametti, his eyes are misty.

The film also showcases many of Valentino's brilliant designs. He created an exhibit of his creations over the years in the entryway to his final fashion show. Valentino first shot to greatness with an all white collection in the 1960's, and ended his career with a gorgeous all red collection. After 45 years of designing some of the most raptuous women's gowns in history, Valentino announced his retirement in September of 2007. The documentary closed with a view of Valentino's designs being worn by women suspended in mid-air. It was an amazing display, and a fitting way to pay to tribute to one of the fashion world's greatest minds.