2012 Oscars Red Carpet

The Academy Awards, The Oscars, The Biggest night in Hollywood is the night of mega stars, gourmet food, gift lounges and trend setting looks! 2012's event was no exception. I was pleasantly surprised to see a lot of stunning gowns this year and ladies I gotta tell you you did very well, thanks to your stylists, hair and make-up artists, shoe polishers and purse holders. All kidding aside there were few surprises and not really good ones. I'd like to begin with the worst dressed list according to me.

It absolutely breaks my heart to put my idol and inspiration on this list, but I know it's her teams fault. I know they tried to make her look like The Oscar statue itself and missed the target. Her Oscar win made up for tragic mistake in the dress department. Ah, I am so disappointed.

Michelle Williams in red Louis Vuitton yet another heart breaker for me. I love Louis Vuitton, but this was too much to handle. This dress is creative, but not for The Oscars.

Hooker or an escort did I see with Mr.Brad Pitt this 2012 Oscars. Oh, NO, wait it's Angelina!!! She looks cheap, outdated and that red hair gotta go too. Atelier Versace and she made it look like "Out of the Closet" off the rack.

If you ever wondered how you'd look when "Prom goes wrong", just ask Virginia Madsen and she'll tell you. This train wreck is wrong fit, wrong color and just all over wrong for my taste. She looks great from the neck up at least, just don't look down please.

 Zorro in white - no it's Gwyneth Paltrow on the red carpet at the Biggest night in Hollywood! She arrived right after she was done solving crime and flying over Hollywood to see if it's her turn to show up. And she showed up indeed! Tom Ford might have been inspired by the vampire theme cross bread with angels. This is what "Twilight" saga did to us - it made everyone think that anything is possible. Possibly, she will wear something elegant and stunning next year, without the cape!

And now the reveal of the worst thing I have ever seen on the red carpet in the history of everdome is...

Natalie Portman in Dior Haute Couture. I don't know where to start from here, but lets go top to awful. Her hair is a simple mess, then overload with amazing jewelry makes it look costume, and the polka dot disaster, that belongs on a 5 year old in the 90's matched up with a black clutch! My eyes are still hurting from this look and fashion is crying for up to date stylists! She would have been better off wearing the purple dress from last year once more rather than show up in this ansamble.

Those are my top 5 for the worst dressed of 2012 Oscars and Natalie Portman's ammm... look.

And now we are off to the Best of the Best. I am glad that my list is so long that I had to pick my top 10, but there are so many more this year! Great job ladies! This list is in no order, just enjoyment of absolutely stunning gowns, gorgeous hair, amazing jewelry and beautiful stars. Here we go...

Penelope Cruz looks dreamy and fairy like in Giorgio Armani. This look makes me cry from fashion happiness. If you have styled this masterpiece please contact me as I want to give you a hug on behalf of the world of style!

Maria Manunos took my breath away in a sea foam gown. Fashionably effortless look made her glide through the red carpet turning heads. 

Cecilia Hart showed what it means to pull of Old Hollywood look! She looks youthful, glamorous and like a true movie start of 2012 with everlasting elegance!

 Viola Davis brought a lot of color to the red carpet and rightfully so! Vera Wang knows how to construct gowns to make a statuesque look with perfect body of the actress.

Emma Stone was impressive in bright red dress that fit her like a glove. Her Giambattista Valli gown made a red head look great in red, which is a delicate task.

If you want to look better than the Oscar statue yourself just ask Stacy Keibler how to do it. She looks elegant in the gold rose gown, but then again you can't go wrong with Machesa!

Louise Roe in Black Halo Style looks just that Stylish! TV presenter shines like a movie star among best dressed. Her side bun hair is a perfect addition tot he look.

Another presenter stole the looks on the 84th Academy Awards. Giuliana Rancic in Tony Ward Spring 2012 Couture. She reminds me of a delicate white swan in this creation.

Jennifer Lopez did the cascade illusion look the best! Actress and singer is wearing Zuhair Murad that hugs her body perfectly. This dangerous dress for a little Latin rebel was fashion perfection with the edge!

This yet another beauty in neutral color finishes up my list with a fun Gucci Premiere. Cameron Diaz is always hip and trendy and 2012 Academy Awards night was no exception! 

The list of gorgeous ladies goes on and on and I could not be any happier this year. The new styles are set, colors locked and hair make-up and looks are all out. Nudes and illusion dresses are in more so than ever, red hair and neutral make up during the day and night is the trend after the Oscars.

Pandora jewelry ideas for Valentine's day

Valentine's day is just few days away and for those of you last minute shoppers here are few ideas for your loved ones from Pandora jewelry. There are so many beads to choose from that even I was overwhelmed with beads available, so I decided to put together few sets that might narrow your search down a bit.

There are so many flowers and hearts at Pandora jewelry that everyone will be able to find something that they like. Red hearts or pink - all gorgeous in sterling silver or solid gold. I got the dangle with two red hearts shown in the middle and it looks amazing as a pendant as well as a charm for the bracelet. If you love pink here is an idea in pink for you.

Pink sparkle in the middle of a rose and a heart compliment the glamorous middle bead perfectly. The color is so neutral, but still adds brilliance to any bracelet. These beads could be worn all together as shown on the picture for the pink focal pint, or spread thorough the bracelet to achieve all pink look.

For the two tone look of silver and gold combination these three charms are perfect together. The "I love you" bead on the left says exactly that to your sweetheart. Middle dangle ads the flirtation to the bracelet, and "the key to my heart" bead compliments the collection. Your two-toned bracelet will be filled with love with these three hearts.

The 14K solid gold collection from Pandora jewelry adds glam to every bracelet. A pop of color on each side of the gold heart could not be more ideal in deep wine. These beads could be easily added to the two-toned bracelet or a solid gold bracelet.
If you love to add a ring to the Valentines gift I have few ideas for you to look at in the following picture.

And if you are going the extra mile this Valentine's day, you can add a watch in Pandora bag to surprise your love with something extra this year. White will go perfectly with pink and brighten up the gift even more. I have few while beauties for you to look at. Ceramic look or white leather strap will definitely get those extra style points.  

I hope this made your Valentine's day shopping brighter, lighter and happier! Have a lovely shopping days!

XoXo

SAG Awards Red Carpet

2012 SAG Awards Red Carpet was oh so bridal! Most of the stars chose to pretend that they were getting married or going to bed in their pastel pallet. The light color look is so overdone on this red carpet that my favorites we chosen from the worst of the worst, and they used color. I was not impressed with the dress selection even though red carpet was filled with the best names is the business, dressing the brightest stars on screen. It was a blah red carpet for me, but I was able to scrape few of my favorites.

Emily Blunt in Oscar De la Renta, was shinning in the most beautiful green shade on her. With her pale skin tone this color added coolness even more, but brightened her up at the same time. Her dark hair was a perfect contrast to the dress as well and little side slip added sexiness and flirtation to the star. I loved it!

Jayma Mays in Reen Acra looked very unexpectedly stunning. This shy red head on screen stole attention of many when she showed up on the red carpet in a head to toe sequenced floor length dress with flattering train. You go! Simple chick, and statuesque figure made her one of my favorites. She looked effortless and happy to be wearing Oscar's creation (who wouldn't), and that speaks volumes. When a star feels amazing in the look, the smile comes on and Jayma definitely is proving me right with a sparkling smile in this picture. She truly looks stunning.

I am stunned that I love this dress, or may be it's the actress pulling it off, but this look is just darling. Burgundy brown with a simple decoration and cascading fabric is just what Natalie Portman needed this evening. Giambattista Valli has incredible sence of style and sophistication combining simple silhuette with unusual for red carpet color, ending up with one gorgeous dress. Pulled back hair and small light colored clutch served great purpose to compliment and not overwhelm the dress. I love the overall look!

Those are my top 3 pics for this 2012 Screen Actors Guild Awards Red Carpet!
I am looking forward to more red carpets and even better fashions!

XoXo
-Natela Valentin

Coach bracelets

I recently discovered Coach jewelry and their bracelets in particular. The bangle bracelets are in wide, medium and thinner looks are absolutely amazing! I chose a few of them so you could check them out but full collection is available at www.coach.com

$148

This one caught my eye as its a beautiful teal color and very wide, but priced so reasonably. It is only $148!!! What a find. It has a very rich look, great color and lovely details. For that price you can get two and give it as a gift as well.

$98

Geometric design continues with a medium width bangle in black and white with gold trimming. Another stylish piece and it could easily be stacked with the previous bangle for extra chunky look.

$98

Slightly thinner version in white could also compliment previous look or could be styled as an individual piece that adds brightness to your outfit. There is a silver tone and black version available which is also amazing. Have a look, for only $98 it's a must have!

$98

Interesting silver look with a touch of gray and few crystals adds extra sparkle to your bracelet. This is such an easy bracelet to wear all day long, with everything and into the night as well. It's great to have few neutral, go to pieces that will save you hours of styling ;)

$78

If you love stacking several bangles together this look is perfect for it. There are several colors available, so just go and have fun with these. With spring coming up, these bracelets will be perfect with you colorful dresses.

$98

And for all of you, who loves stacking with gold colors this look is in style right now, where gold, white and rose compliment each other adding simple elegance and sense of style to every outfit. This look is very appropriate for the office, as well as showing off your fashion know how after work.

I am always happy to share all my finds at great prices and make your styling time fun and exciting!

XoXo -Natela

Edelweiss chocolate store and factory is a hot spot in Beverly Hills

I came across a landmark in the heart of Beverly Hills, on Canon Dr., that took me by surprise and satisfied my sweet tooth cravings. Edelweiss is not only a chocolate store, but a chocolate factory, that had been open since 1942. Over 70 years of pleasing even the toughest chocolate gurus, didn't come unnoticed by the world, as Edelweiss is named one of the world's best! A family owned business cordially offers easy parking and hassle free back entrance for their endless list of celebrity clientele. 

Hollywood's most famous and talented shop here for all of their chocolate cravings. Oprah Winfrey orders her closest staff the biggest box there is, filled with her most favorites along with the stores best of the best. Jessica Alba and Silvester Stallone are a few of the regulars, along with directors, writers, presidents, sports figures and many more are called their regulars. Frank Sinatra's favorite, Maple Creams is still one of the most requested ones.

Edelweiss chocolates are so popular because all of the chocolates are made by hand at the store, where modern machinery doesn't hold up to the proven conveyers, that worked for years. Spotless condition of original machines create, mix, cover, blend, sprinkle these delicious creations with the best ingredients and a lot of love.

 Over 80 different kinds of chocolate goodies could be found at this location and everyone will find something to sink their teeth in. Milk, dark or white chocolate, nuts, caramel and their own marshmallow are just few thing that you can find here. The secret to the amazing taste is hidden from public, but everyone can taste it in each piece. 

Edelweiss is most famous for their chocolate covered pretzels and marshmallows, but I absolutely loved their truffle, chocolate covered fruits are to die for, and caramel nut candy is simply incredible. Usually taste senses lean towards milk chocolate, but dark chocolate is absolute perfection at Edelweiss. It has no bitter aftertaste, no additional mixes, just pure smooth taste that literally melts in your mouth.

Even if you are not a huge fan of chocolate ( which is 1% of the population), I guarantee that you will find few candy pieces that you just must have - this place is that good! But along with chocolates the store carries various chewy, melty, crunchy, gooey, plain yammy candies. There are colorful and nutty, fun and flirty, packaged and malted creations that could be added to a box, wrapped in a gift basket (that also comes in chocolate), or easelly eaten at the store. 

Don't feel bad if you can't find your most favorite, as Lucy couldn't, as she ate piece by piece of Edelweiss chocolates in her most famous episode that was shot at the chocolate factory at Beverly Hills location. 

I have enjoyed my tour of a Hollywood landmark, movie set and a chocolate factory all in one location and I strongly advice for everyone to stop by and get your piece, box, basket, carton or pallet of the BEST chocolates I have ever tasted so far. When you try one, you will never eat anything else, and will want to try every flavor they have, that's a guarantee. 

The store is all decorated for the Valentine's day, which you might thtink is their busiest time of the year, but it seems that the word is spread world wide about the chocolate gem on Canon Dr., that now not only celebrities but travelers from all over the world make 444 Canon Dr. their L.A. visit destination as well. This store must be added to your itinerary of must see places in Los Angeles, and the fact that it is located in the heart of Beverly Hills is yet another added bonus. Walk Rodeo Dr. with your white with gold writing Edelweiss box and enjoy the sweet taste of world's favorite chocolate according to me and endless list of their customers. L.A. Best agrees with that statement as well and so will you when you take a bite.

For any additional information on Edelweiss chocolates visit their direct site at http://www.edelweisschocolates.com or call them at Toll Free: (888) 615-8800 and Local: (310) 275-0341 or even better stop by Edelweiss Chocolate Factory at 444 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Cayetano Legacy Collection

Cayetano Legacy collection is a stunning line of statement jewelry with natural stones form the Philippines and Japanese seed beads. Karen, Christine and Gail Cayetano are the three Filipino American ladies behind the jewelry collection. I had a pleasure of meeting with award winning CEO Gail Cayetano, who showed me their hand made creations.   

I am very picky when it comes to hand made statement pieces, but these necklaces are extra special! Not only they are original designs representing Cayetano's heritage, but also showcasing the creative culture and handcrafting skills of the woman in the Philippines. Sisters traveled to the islands in the search of the best of the best for their inspirations and, they found it. I looked over their website http://www.cayetanolegacy.com and was already impressed with the pieces that I saw, but I was thrilled when I actually tried few of them on and inspect them front and back.    

These necklaces are flawless. Their perfect color coordination (which is not easy with natural stones), attention to detail and impeccable finish made me fall in love instantly. All stones have high polish and vibrant color pallet. When it comes to statement pieces taste level and eye for beauty are one of the most important things that help with not going overboard and these three sisters definitely have it. From their best seller Maximina Turquoise that is featured in my first photo (which is absolutely stunning by the way) to even more bold statement of Geneva Orange, these necklaces will dress up any outfit and make you stand out in the crowd.

There is something for everyone in Cayetano Legacy Collection. Ocean color inspiration in seen in Maximina in blue and turquoise.  Geneva represents bohemian folk chick. Virginia, Estrelita, Alexa and Melissa is a floral look for every season. Daring Gabriella with tiger eye stones speaks for itself. Norma is sophistication, Anna - pure luxury and Beverly - bold fashions of now. All of the Cayetano necklaces got my vote for one of the best statement pieces I have ever come across. All of the latest styles are easily found on their website.

Some are finished with black ribbon, cord or chain that make these beauties adjustable. For classic look you can pull your necklace higher and let it rest on top of your outfit. If you are looking for a fashion statement, then you lower it creating more of a dangling look either on top of your look or layer it with a jacket and let your necklace peek through. A day at the office could be brighter with one of the styles from the collection, that will also take you to a night out.

This Josefita in red is sparkly and fiery at the same time. It is great for any holiday season as a timeless piece creating unforgettable moments. Unique design and memorable color combination will land you on the best dressed list at any party. Cayetano Legacy Collection is great as a gift to a loved one as they will ship your purchase directly, and as a treat to yourself simply because you deserve it! Also these necklaces are a must have for every stylist to have their clients make a statement on the red carpet.  

I am grateful to have the opportunity to meet up with Gale and experience Cayetano Legacy Collection. Now, I am looking forward to styling my first Cayetano necklace and creating a video segment on their collection so you as well could enjoy the beauty and craftsmanship of these Stylish necklaces. Until then, check out their website http://www.cayetanolegacy.com for the entire collection and full information on the brand.

XO Natela