Oscar Sunday: All the best and worst red carpet looks at the 2016 Academy Awards

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

It’s officially Oscar Sunday, which means the endless commercials for the show will finally end, OR that my red carpet review is finally here! Yay, let’s get started!

Nominee Alicia Vikander is one of the first stars to arrive and stuns in this CUSTOM Luis Vuitton gown. Normally, yellow doesn’t look quite right on the red carpet, but here: it’s flawless and looks stunning. Her beauty look is also fabulous. But, when does she ever look bad on the red carpet? Never. (And I can vouch for that, from actually seeing her dressed for a red carpet in person.) Maybe that’s why I like it: she’s like a real life Belle from Beauty and the Beast!!

Sofia Vergara has clearly found her signature Marchesa silhouette, but no complaints, because it looks stunning. Well, less so in print– the actual footage looks so fluid and gorgeous. But, Marchesa can do no wrong in my book.

Daisy Ridley of the latest Star Wars film… Well, I have not seen the film, but her dress is stunning with the color, detail and her cool updo. However, I’m not a big fan of the extra tulle at the bottom or around her middle like a pseudo-peplum.

I like Priyanka Chopra’s Zuhair Muraid dress, but again, I think that has more to do with the fact of how the famed designer can do no wrong in my opinion.

I’m not the biggest fan of Olivia Wilde’s Valentino dress.It’s just too much, between the open-neck top, the pleated skirt, the back mini-cape, the hair and the choker. Way too much to look at, and that doesn’t help the overall aesthetic.

Saoirse Ronan (Pop quiz! Who can pronounce her name correctly? The Irish pronunciation.) is definitely one of my favorites so far with the glittery green CUSTOM Calvin Klein dress, an homage to Ireland. The dress, hair, makeup and earrings all work together and create a stunning red carpet look.

I really like Naomi Watts’ dress, sparkles and all. Normally, I’m not a fan of multicolored dresses, but this slight purple ombre isn’t taking it to a costume-y level and it works, and looks perfectly tailored.

Olivia Munn looks perfectly chic in this bright orange Stella McCartney. However, the one-sleeve looks like a sling?

Eddie Redmayne looks adorable in a velvet Alexander McQueen suit. Nothing new here, so I’ll leave you to resume staring at the dapper Dad-to-be, whom I met. (Just felt the need to throw that out there again…)

Wow, Brie Larson looks gorge in royal blue Gucci, with the beaded belt and simple slicked back hair. Wow, stunning. But, who remembers pre-teen Brie as an attempted pop star?? That’s the real question here.

One word to describe Isla Fisher: meh. It’s okay, not superb, not terrible; just eh.

First hot mess dress of the night goes to Heidi Klum. Wow, yikes– this is like a bad prom/bridesmaid dress that no one wanted. The different tulle colors, the big flowers, the awkward cleavage/belly cutout and the vintage puffy sleeve, all together just doesn’t work. Blech.

First family photo!! Pregnant Chrissy Teigen poses in her stunning, tailored Marchesa dress with her hubby John Legend.

Margot Robbie stuns in Oscar gold, however, the black purse with a long tassle, doesn’t fit with the color of the dress. But, the dress is gorge, I just feel like I’ve seen it before.

Nine-year-old Jacob Tremblay is adorable. And look at him posing; so cute! Too Precious. ❤

Love last year’s Best Actress, Julianne Moore, red carpet look. The Chanel dress is gorge for the actress.

Cate Blanchett’s gown and complete look is gorgeous. Wow, very different from everyone else, but it’s gorgeous: all the details, the color, her simplistic elegant hairstyle. Stunning.

THAT TRAIN THOUGH… Representing the incredible film “Spotlight,” making her Oscar Nominee debut is Rachel McAdams who looks stunning in a deep emerald dress with the now infamous Angelina Jolie leg slit, long drop earrings and tightly secured updo.

Tina Fey stuns in purple. It’s very simplistic, but I’ll forgive since she is just there as a presenter.

Lady Gaga’s gown looks stunning– oh wait– it’s a pantsuit. INSTANTLY MAKES THE LOOK EVEN BETTER. PERFECTION.

Baby bump alert! Love Emily Blunt’s cute pale pink, beaded Prada dress with wavy hairstyle. Gorge.

Don’t hate me: but Kate Winslet’s gown looks like a trash bag. A literal garbage bag, and her hair looks unbrushed. Normally, the talented actress looks stunning, but that can’t be said tonight.

Jared Leto looks so cool with his suit’s red piping and a flower instead of a tie. Epic. Edgy.

Time for the show to start! Got your Oscar ballots ready? Who will take home the golden honor tonight?

16Feb2016

Think in GOLD: All about the talented music folk at the 2016 Grammys

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Tonight’s the Grammys. So, my red carpet commentary has returned. Let’s get started!

Kacey Musgraves: Well, her hair and makeup look simplistic yet really pretty. I’m not a fan of the dress– it’s the sparkles and the colors…

Here’s what it resembles to me:

Doesn’t it though? I’m not sure looking like a childhood picture book is what every Hollywood starlet wants to resemble on music’s biggest night…

Charlie Puth: One, I’m totally obsessing over his voice and latest hits on the radio! And second, I love that he’s wearing a GLITTER suit! So epic! And cool for a guy. It’s so easy for a guy to throw on a plain tux, but he’s made fashion for guys and way less mundane than most men on a red carpet.

#BFFGoals, anyone? Besties Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez show up totally glam in their bright-colored gowns. As Gomez told Ryan Seacrest, she chose her Calvin Klein sparkly blue dress by asking herself, ‘What would I do if I was going on a date…and my date is Taylor Swift.’ And who else could rock a crop top/color-blocking gown (Atelier Versace) on a red carpet like Swift? But, I’m not a huge fan of her hair cut… Don’t get me wrong, it’s well done; I just don’t like how it resembles a vintage-y vibe, yet that’s not really her brand anymore?? But, I’ll forgive since everything else is impeccable.

Carrie Underwood going “Old Hollywood Glam” in a black strapless gown, an Angelina Jolie leg slit, with a chic bob. But, when does she ever look bad on a red carpet? Next.

Oh boy, Elle King… *shaking my head* Wow oh wow, this is um…. a hot mess? There’s just so much happening, with different lengths, fringy, feathers, lace– it’s just way too much. Blech: hurts my eyes a little.

Tori Kelly looks stunning! Also, embracing her inner “Old Hollywood” actress vibe in this green, fitted gown. While it may be a bit much for the funky awards, she is nominated for New Artist, so I’ll let her have this one, since it’s such a huge moment for the new singer…

OH MY GOSH, Adele in this Givenchy is perfection!! Not to mention it’s a CUSTOM gown. Wow, she looks incredible. Gorgeous. End of story.

Newcomer to the Grammys, Demi Lovato looks flawless in her tailored gown/suit look. And her hair is perfection. However, what is the chain necklace thing with the three pop tabs in the middle? Is she raising awareness for the Ronald McDonald House? (I mean that would be great, but I’m not sure if that’s what it really is…)

John Legend and Chrissy Teigen always look flawless on the red carpet and here is no exception. It’s just extra adorable with added element of being their first family red carpet photo.

Speaking of adorable family photos- Justin Bieber playing with his little brother is the cutest.

Now off to watch the award show, and see the cast of Hamilton kill it live from NYC! (Side note: if you can get tickets in Manhattan, seriously, go see Hamilton. You won’t be sorry, and this performance will surely prove it.)

7Feb2016

The 13 Best Moments from “Grease Live”

Posted in Pop Culture by msiwak

It’s Sunday, and while most people are focused on the Superbowl and all that sporty stuff, I’m still obsessing over last Sunday’s, in my opinion, more exciting televised event. That’s right: I’m referring to Grease Live. So, I thought I’d recap the best moments below.

***

1. First, Grease is the word with Jessie J.

It is a cool way to embrace how it was filmed on a soundstage and the live audience in attendance, it makes it more interactive for the viewers. I do miss the cartoon Danny from the film though.

2. Next, I don’t think that anything could ever top Summer Nights.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxWJVSOyPlk

The Pink Ladies, Sandy and Patty Simcox– eh. The T-Birds: YES PLEASE. Best part of the number, from vocals, choreography and characterization. Plus, all the Broadway vets in the production!

3. I wish some of the characters tried to make the characters their own rather than simply copy what been done to death, and honestly can’t measure up to the original film. (I mean– Jan, Kenickie, Frenchy, Putzie– you couldn’t have been any more original?)

4. Best number of the show, hands down! Is it systematic, hydromatic, ultramatic, or…?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9s9_a1-oXo

The choreography alone is stunning! Zach Woodlee (“Glee” fame) did a phenomenal job, as did legend William Ivey Long on magic costume and set changes… during the song! Truly is movie magic. Except the word changes… those were quite apparent, because the meaning didnt exactly line up.

5. And for the character/song, we didn’t know we needed…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3r25EFaif6w

Jordan Fisher’s Doody crooned the originally-forgettable ballad while everyone on camera and at home swooned. Not going to lie, this is my current alarm sound in the morning… I had never heard of Fisher prior to Grease Live, but wow, boy’s got pipes. Also, Aaron Tveit nailed John Travolta’s sports montage– live and on camera!

6. MVPs of the performance: Blanche, Eugene, Patty. Bringing humor, Noah Robbins, Elle McLemore and Haneefah Wood entertained us thoroughly with new lines of dialogue and nonverbal moments in a scene.

7. ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC [hilarous] SCENES…

http://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxcfBJ-ud0E

It’s just very humorous. Nothing else to report, just enjoy! 🙂 (But, why the need to change Putzie and Jan’s conversation to make ‘less offensive’?? Especially, since they left the whole teen pregnancy story in…)

8. Original music? Yes, please!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmVEydWOSyc

In a brand-new Frenchy tune, penned by Broadway composers Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey– who most recently wrote the amazing musical If/Then– is just— wow. It’s so Broadway, and very much in the same style as If/Then, which makes sense considering the composers… But, wow, it’s so beautiful. Also, the Frenchy-Frenchy moment between Carly Rae Jepsen and Didi Conn (aka the ORIGINAL Frenchy)– amazing! I wish the two Doody’s got a similar interaction (Jordan Fisher and Barry Pearl)!

9. THOSE RIFFS…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8Bo7aB-vSU

Seriously? Such an inventive remake on the Frankie Avalon classic with Boyz II Men! Great job from everyone! Except, Jepsen– her acting wasn’t quite believable: it felt like she got nervous that Boyz II Men was serenading her and forget she wasn’t herself, but a specific, beloved character.

10. Another iconic dance scene…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-sBEBpZjdww

And I loved it, except how they changed the hand jive!! How could you change such as classic?? But, who else was laughing at Joe Jonas (of Disney fame) as Johnny Casino… Too funny. But all the partner choreography was incredible: congrats Zach Woodlee!

11. SUPERSTAR ALERT.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKsXNyb44Jw

Seriously, such a superstar moment. Vanessa Hudgens was flawless, especially considering her personal loss that morning. A true star.

And Vanessa? A few people want to say congratulations for this role and performance… And Broadway wants you back.

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(I’m sorry, I had to put this here again…)

12. Grease, WE GO TOGETHER LIKE RAMA LAMA LAMA KA DINGA DA DINGA DONG.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7-KRfULhoE

And the finale? Was truly perfect. Love the similar vibe from opening with weaving through the sets, and singing while on the golf carts, ala James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke masterpieces. Loved it. I was singing along— oh wait, what just happened? Ensemble member hit the curb. Oops, second golf cart. Also, the cast’s facial reactions= priceless.

13. The show was done to Broadway caliber… Tommy Kail (Director Extraordinaire of this AND a little show called Hamilton) did a brilliant job at making a Broadway-worthy moment available on television. And having every single ensemble member get a curtain call? Bravo. (Who caught the original Pink Lady and T Bird jackets that Didi Conn and Barry Pearl brought out?? Too adorable!)

THE BAR HAS BEEN RAISED, future live televised musicals… No idea how NBC or future FOX productions can compare…

11Jan2016

Award season is upon us– Golden Globes 2016 Red Carpet Looks

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

The Golden Globes have officially started, so it’s time for my red carpet roundup! So many gorgeous gowns, so let’s get started.

Jennifer Lawrence’s look is pretty, however, I feel like I’ve seen this type of look on her before: red dress, thick necklace and slicked-back short hair. It looks good, don’t get me wrong. But, it’s sort of a yawn.

First off, LOVE Zendaya’s Marchesa dress! Georgina Chapman can do no wrong in terms of gorgeous clothes. But, why is she there? Has she done anything recently? (Just wondering.)

GORGEOUS… from the front. When Olivia Wilde turns around you see an awkward messy ponytail, barely holding anything in place. I speak from experience, when I’ve done that, the ponytail holder barely stays in my hair. But, back to the dress: gorgeous; just maybe lose the necklace with the halter necklace.

Jaime Alexander looks stunning in her black and emerald gown with her updo. Bravo, you made my best dressed list.

Sophia Bush looks stunning in all black, very old Hollywood glam.

Bryce Dallas Howard is just like us! She bought her dress days ago from Neiman Marcus to have options as a “size 6.” And she looks just as glam as those in custom dresses.

Amy Adams, wearing a dress that matches her hair, looks elegant as well.

Natalie Dormer from Game of Thrones. Now, I’ve never seen the hit HBO show, but I’m loving her (or her stylist’s) sense of style as of late! And this gown is no exception… Except the black sparkly chest plate. The dress would have been more elegant sans chestplate/ sewn-in necklace.

Emmy Rossum looks pretty, however, didn’t J.Law wear this last year at the Oscars? I think so. And it looked better then.

Jennifer Lopez… DOES SHE EVEN AGE? Like, serious question. Also, how many people can pull off wearing a MUSTARD-colored dress? I’ll tell you who: J.Lo, end of story.

Gina Rodriguez looks princessy in her Zac Posen gown. It’s fitted well and I love the off-the-shoulder sleeves, the color, her hair and jewelry. Also, her show is hilarious. If you haven’t see Jane the Virgin by now: you must.

Laverne Cox looks gorgeous in her white gown. Beautiful.

Kirsten Dunst: love this dress, however, the photos don’t do the dress justice: the back is gorgeous with all its details!

The Tatums. Jenna stuns in this Zuhair Murad gown. It is breathtaking. Once again, she takes the cake for best dressed. Not so lucky: her husband’s hair. That weird swoopy dark part: no.

Alicia Vikander dazzles in an all-white Louis Vuitton ensemble. Perfection. Nothing else to say.

There’s something I like about Malin Akerman’s dress… It’s probably the peplum. I’m a sucker for a good, tailored peplum ensemble.

Kate Bosworth looks gorgeous in her very sparkly, floral dress and I like it. However, her neck is too bare without her hair down or a necklace: something needs to occupy that awkward space.

Saorise Ronan looks fab in the Yves Saint Laurent gown. Like a true grecian goddess. Question: during her category, how badly will they butcher her name?

Brie Larson looks like a Golden Globe statue! I like the dress, just not the cutouts, but I’ll forgive it, as it still looks stunning.

Leslie Mann is in a classic Monique Lhullier gown. Love the tulle and the bottom of the dress! But, the top? Not so much. It’s way too plain, and the necklace that touches the collar? No.

Taraji P. Henson in Stella McCartney. Also wearing all white, but this one doesn’t work as well as Laverne Cox’s. It’s too plain, too boring. And her handbag is too clunky.

Cate Blanchett looks matronly here. It looks like a dowdy grandmother’s pajamas; worst dressed list for me. I think, there’s just too much going on from the the print, the fringy part, the cape thing and bejeweled neckline: it’s way too overwhelming.

Another Kate (Hudson) arrives in a two-piece dress. That’s new. And matching choker. Again, I’d prefer to see one dress (and no choker), but she looks pretty, so I’ll forgive.

Rooney Mara looks so haute couture in her beige gown with a slicked back bun and deep, dark lip.

Supergirl herself, Melissa Benoist, and her boyfriend? husband? fiance? Blake Jenner, of Glee fame. Love her Monique Lhullier gown, his dapper tux and her hit CBS show with Broadway album Jeremy Jordan.

Love Rachel McAdams’ floral gown. So pretty and way different from anyone else’s on the carpet.

Miss Golden Globes, Jamie Foxx’s daughter, Corinne. Love her dress, it’s gorgeous. But, didn’t last year’s Miss Globes wear a similar one? Just checking.

Uzo Aduba looks chic and elegant in her black sparkly number and the cape looks perfect!

Katy Perry in custom Prada; love the bow detail on the back! However, not loving the bump-it do. And the Barbie-pink color or the plain dress.

Adorable couple Lady Gaga and Taylor Kinney look like Hollywood royalty tonight.

So many amazing looks tonight! What gowns stood out to you?

8Jan2016

The Best at the People’s Choice Awards

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

This past week was all about the People at the People’s Choice Awards… So, let’s take a look at the fashion.

Camilla Luddington, whose Grey’s character as quite the decision to make when the series returns this spring, looks gorgeous in a white, long sleeved mini complete with bedazzled shoulder accents. But, when does she ever dress poorly? Never.

I really want to like “Faking It” actress Katie Stevens’ dress… But, I just don’t. I like the concept, theoretically. It just doesn’t work in execution. It looks like a bad dance leotard that the designer just sewed a wide panel between her legs and randomly decided to add fringe to surround the panel. From waist up, it looks good, if that helps.

There’s something I really like about Ellen Pompeo here. Yes, it’s casual, but think of the nature of the award show; it’s not the Oscars or the Globes, so a gown isn’t really necessary. I like the floppiness, the studded accents, and I think it works on everyone’s favorite pretend doctor.

Lea Michele always pulls great looks. And this look is no exception… Except for the chest area… Doesn’t look too good.

Priyanka Chopra’s dress is… loud. I sort of like it… the silver part. The gold is unnecessary and makes it bulkier.

It’s Chuck Bass— Oh, wait, he’s fictional. The actor, whose fame skyrocketed as Mr. Bass on Gossip Girl, Ed Westwick looks as dapper as his beloved character did. However, the shoes. Why would you put brown shoes against a black suit? And light brown, which really stands out??? No.

I like this dress: the mint color, the shape, the cutouts. Not bad. But, doesn’t stand out either way in my mind.

Love this dress on PLL star Troian Bellasario! Everything looks perfect. Except I’m not crazy about the slicked back bun. Perhaps a (messy?) side braid would have worked better?

In the press shots of Claire Danes alone, nothing can capture the beauty of her Burberry dress. So, here (in a photo with her husband) is sort of how elegant and pretty the dress is. It looked the best in motion, so watch clips of her during the show to see my point; the still photos don’t do this beautiful dress justice.

Another PLL star, Ashley Benson, rocks a black mini… Also with bedazzled shoulder detail. Hmm… deja vu?

I like Kaley Cuoco’s dress. I don’t like the poor fit and the sneakers. Props to her for breaking the red carpet norm and wanting to be comfortable, but you need heels to tie the look together; the leg room that heels gives you. But, the dress itself is stunning.

“Dance Moms” start Maddie Ziegler attends– no idea why the 13-year-old dance student was there. But, it’s a beautiful dress and beauty look. It just might not be the right look for a middle schooler.

Alright girls, swooning yet? Clearly, Tyler Posey has mastered the “heartthrob” red carpet pose. But, he is wayyyy underdressed for a red carpet.

I LOVE MEGHAN TRAINOR’S BALMAIN DRESS! Gorgeous. Wow. Love it. Best dressed. Nothing else to say. Done.

Blah blah blah Kate Hudson always looks good… But, can we talk about how hard she’s clenching her clutch? What doesn’t she want to let go of?? Also, it doesn’t look like she’s holding a clutch, looks more like she is holding a piece of a pipe.

Black is clearly the word for these Pink Ladies. The stars of Fox’s “Grease Live” decided to coordinate in terms of black/gray gowns. And all gowns look perfectly tailored. But, what is up with Carly Rae Jepsen’s dyed black mullet?? Not cute.

That’s all for my red carpet review. Any thoughts?

Well, this weekend marks the start of award season, so look forward to reading all of my red carpet roundups after watching the shows!

8Dec2015

A Peek at What it’s Like Attending a Movie Premiere: The Danish Girl

Posted in Miranda Goes Global, Pop Culture by msiwak

My Tuesday has been insane, so I wanted to share it with you!

First, I went to an afternoon tea cooking class and had yummy treats galore.m That lasted from 10am until 2pm. I caught the Tube home, ran inside, dropped off my doggy bag of leftover cake, scones and pastries and left again to attend something I saw advertised in today’s Metro newspaper…The Danish Girl movie premiere at Leicester Square. (For those who don’t know, Leicester Square’s Odeon Cinema has long been home to some of the biggest film premieres in the country and the city of London.)

I walk up the the sidewalk, all barricaded up for the fans and covered in movie posters, and take my place ready to see the stars… two and a half hours early.

At 5pm, they started setting up the carpet, to cover the wide span of ground, which included several carpets. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look:

All that press for me?!?

We wait. And wait. And then, one of the first arrivals? Academy Award Winner Eddie Redmayne, in a gorgeous tailored-to-perfection tartan suit, with his better half not far away from his side.

First, he signed a few papers in different sections and one group selfie about three people down from me. Then, he was ushered to the press pen for some photos. (Side note: wow, the what-seems-like millions of camera flashes are very blinding. Gave me a bit of a headache just looking straight ahead.)

But, always by side in the photos? Wife Hannah… *Insert collective awww here*

Mr & Mrs Redmayne sneak in a word amidst the craziness of the film premiere’s red carpet.

More arrivals followed:

“Call the Midwife” star and Elsa in “The Danish Girl,” Emerald Fennell poses for the camera. Love her dress and all the little beaded elements!

Actor Matthias Schoenaerts from the film smiles for the press.

After press photos, Eddie worked his way backwards and came towards my section once again. (Cue my inner fangirl here.)

He shakes the girl’s hand beside me.

He walks right to me, grabs his Sharpie, looks in my eyes as he signs my notebook. I go to speak and get a bit tongue-tied: a series of incoherent noises squeak out, then I quickly blurt out “Great job” as he’s ushered away to continue the press line.

Then, I get an autograph!

More arrivals:

Star Alicia Vikanders arrives and poses for the cameras at The Danish Girl UK premiere.

The stars pose together for the ultimate PR-requested shot:

Everyone moves further down the line, eventually leading to the cinema, as the stars’ interviews are projected on the big screen for us fans to see and hear.

Aww, adorable Eddie Redmayne answering questions…

That’s it! The red carpet was over, and so, with now freezing toes, I made my way back to the crowded Tube and headed home.

One last look upon leaving…

Wow, that was such an incredible evening! And I can’t believe that I met a superbly talented OSCAR-WINNING actor, who I’ve been obsessed with since seeing him as Marius in Les Mis.

24Nov2015

What it’s like to attend the British Fashion Awards 2015

Posted in Fashion, Miranda Goes Global by msiwak

So, for all my fashionistas out there reading this, as you probably all know: tonight, Monday was the British Fashion Awards. It’s such a huge deal for the fashion scene in London, and I’m so glad I was able to attend! Let’s debrief the coveted night, shall we?

(For a look at all the amazing fashion, check out this gallery on ELLE! Note: I know I normally post red carpet fashion reviews, but since everyone was dressed so ahmazingly, the review would have been boring. So, settle for my inside, firsthand peek at what the event is actually like!)

By the time I arrived to the London Coliseum, the street was blocked off in anticipation and a queue formed down the block for non-famous attendees. As I positioned myself in line, I looked around at the fashions around me: stunning, both men and women alike. It really is true what they say about London being one of the most fashionable cities– this event brought out the most stylish of ensembles from everyone in attendance.

I’m on the red carpet!

Feeling official.

I wait in line (there was a slight delay in programming). And finally the red carpet beneath my feet leads me to the official sign where all the paparazzi photos are taken from (see above.) Pinch me, I must be dreaming. I follow the crowd, walk inside and up the steps to the balcony. Upon entering the room, I’m struck by how gorgeous the building is, and then right in the center of the floor were hundreds of guests eating dinner and mingling (see below.) I couldn’t stop staring at the sheer amount of gorgeous gowns and tailored tuxes.

I find my seat: Row D of the balcony, not too shabby. I take a seat and am so excited for the show to start.

A view from wayyy up in the balcony…

British comedian Jack Whitehall starts the show by discussing the immense talent of British designers, the true legends in the room (cough cough Lagerfeld) and poking fun at some famous attendees (Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell included.)

Comedian Jack Whitehall starts the show with some jokes!

With every moment that went on, I couldn’t believe that I was really here with these hugely influential names in front of me, all together celebrating the bright talents of British fashion.

Rosie Huntington Whitely and Nick Grimshaw, the first presenters! Love her dress, btw!

The runway show to celebrate 2015 in fashion. I honestly thought the construction workers were going to pull a Magic Mike type of thing: they did not.

Surprise! Lady Gaga sashays down the catwalk to accept the award on behalf of Tom Ford.

Congrats Jourdan Dunn on her Model of the Year award! And Oliver Rousteing of Balmain presented it to her, selfie stick in hand, and asked her to twerk instead of giving her speech.

ANNA WINTOUR.

PINCH ME I MUST BE DREAMING… That legend and icon Karl Lagerfeld was really in the same room as me.

Another icon, Naomi Campbell presenting Burberry with the Creative Campaign award for its outstanding social skills.

The British public have spoken! They named FKA Twigs their style star. And she was so sweet dedicating the award to her mum and grandmother who has “sassy legs.”

The British public have spoken! They also named Gwendolyn Christie their style star. And she is so tall in real life.

Karlie Kloss makes an appearance! Woo, that makes two of us from my hometown in attendance!

Celeb crush of all time? Mr. Orlando Bloom.

That’s a wrap!

One last view….

I grab my goodie bag and follow the crowds out of the building to the tune of Justin Bieber’s “Sorry.” I walk outside where suddenly I’m being pelted by raindrops. I scurry down the street and find that a pub has an overhang I can stand under until my Uber driver arrives. Many people have the same idea, including one winner from the night. Guess who? CHRISTOPHER BAILEY, aka the genius behind Burberry’s biggest moments, AND he was standing right beside me for a moment in time. I still can’t believe THAT happened.

Ah, that was such an incredible night to celebrate the best of fashion here in London. I had an incredible time and truly enjoyed every moment of it. Definitely one of my favorite nights in London all semester and a memory I’ll always treasure…

17Nov2015

Music Review: One Direction’s “Made in the AM”

Posted in Pop Culture by msiwak

Hi everyone,
Being that I’m currently in London, England, I thought a music review about a locally-grown boy band was a bit necessary… Agree? Let’s take a closer look, track-by-track, of the newest album to come out of U.K. hometown favorite One Direction.

1. “Hey Angel”

First off, I would like to preface this by saying that this randomly popped on shuffle as the Tube in the morning arrived at the Angel station. True story, so that’s perfect right there. Okay, now back to the song. It’s catchy and makes me want to dance. However, the lyrics: if they are calling out the “angel” to “come to the other side,” are they insinuating that they are on the evil spectrum, like a devil persona? But, lyrics aside, let’s get back to dancing along.

2. “Drag Me Down”

This song has been out since summer, and I have to admit that I still can’t believe I heard the boys sing it LIVE for the first time on Good Morning America. (An awful mistake I will never again.– To clarify, that’s in reference to the waiting and the weather, not seeing them live for free.)

3.”Perfect”

Again a popular hit, but I can’t get sick of it. It’s such a good tune and it is still my alarm every single morning. (Hey, shouldn’t it be?) But seriously, if you don’t think Harry (who wrote the song) wrote it based on T.Swift, listen closely to one specific line at the end about “if you’re looking for someone to write break-up songs about.” Not a very tricky mystery, Mr. Styles.

4. “Infinity”

Okay, so I really liked this as the first preorder track. But, as now I have the entire album, I kind of almost forget about this hit. It’s not bad, it’s just fairly typical of the One Direction sound.

5. “End of the Day”

This is a fun, upbeat song that makes me want to sing (and dance) along. Nothing else to say about it. Also, yes Liam, this is a perfect instinct where your lyric (once again) references hospitals. (Note: this is a reference to something Mr. Liam Payne discussed at the 1D concert I was at in London.)

6.”If I Could Fly”

I. LOVE. THIS. BALLAD. It’s so beautiful and soft, I love it! One of the only ballads about true love. However, I guess should it actually be called “For your eyes only” or something, I mean they say that way more than the actual title which is only muttered at the very beginning of the song.

7. “Long Way Down”

Another good slower tune. I also would like to point out that I do dance along to this track. And it’s harder to dance to, but I have. Anyway, the song, it’s really pretty and I like it. One of my faves.

8. “Never Enough”

This has a very different, but still good, beat. It’s upbeat and fun; I like it. However, the “random noises” you hear between lyrics sounds like something out of the Lion King… Now that I said that, I’ll never be able to un-hear that. Also, this is a song that Liam thinks he could sing over and over again (Haha, anyone catch that small reference to the older days?? Okay, I’m done now.) for the rest of his days, so that indicates something. And you could, I’d be fine with that. It’s really good and fun.

9. “Olivia”

It is so interesting how the first eight seconds shows how the recording process happens, I like that– it’s interesting. It’s upbeat, but not my favorites. The chorus where they sing “I love you, I love you, I love you…. Olivia,” it sounds a bit like they were saying a line and like “word vomit” essentially followed the line; that’s what it sounds like. (Note: No offense to any Olivia’s out there screaming of joy about a track that share their name.)

10. “What A Feeling”

This has serious flashback vibes, with the music and the title. But, that aside, it’s good, in a very retro vibe. The chorus where they all sing together, reminds me of the boys’ X Factor days of all singing in harmony.

11. “Love You Goodbye”

Every album needs at least one break-up song, right? Rumored to be based on the emotional heartbreak of the break-up of Louis Tomlinson and long-time girlfriend Eleanor Calder, it is very emotional and I like it. But then again, ballads tend to be my preference.

12. “I Want to Write You a Song”

Not my favorite song, but it’s still a cute song about an innocent first love story. This seems to have some indie, songwriter, playing-guitar-around-a-campfire vibes embedded in this tune, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

13. “History”

OKAY, WE FINALLY MADE IT HERE. This is definitely one of my favorite tracks on the entire album. I love the music, the lyrics, everything. I love it. And the meaning about it being for the fans is to sweet. Especially, how Niall and their songwriting team brought in the fans to sing on the chorus, like it’s truly for and by the fans. Adorable. Also, that part that “this is not the end,” is a perfect reminder that the boys are going on sabbatical/hiatus (Note: this is in reference to an interview conducted by Nick Grimshaw on Radio 1.) It’s such a cute dedication to the fans and how much they support the boys each and every day.

14. “Temporary Fix”

Love this song! I love the upbeat tempo, and it’s giving me serious “Alive” vibes. For those who don’t know, “Alive” is one of my favorite songs from the “Midnight Memories” album. It’s fun!

15. “Walking in the Wind”

Not my favorite song, but it’s still a cute song. This gives me some indie, songwriter, playing-guitar-around-a-campfire vibes, again not a bad thing. Also, very reminiscent of older hits ala “Story of My Life.”

16. “Wolves”

Upon re-listening to this track, I’m liking it even more! It’s fun, upbeat and I’m enjoying it! The intro is giving me like 50s vibes? Right?!? But, it’s dance-y, also reminds me of “Alive,” which I like.

17. And finally… “AM”

This is very cute. A little cheesy that it’s a song about how good memories are “made in the a.m.” But, it’s adorable.

This is really good FIFTH album boys. I hope you enjoy your… hiatus, and when you come back, know that you’ll still have a fan right here.

14Oct2015

Paging Monsieur Lagerfeld… at the Mademoiselle Prive exhibition

Posted in Fashion, Miranda Goes Global by msiwak

Hi all! I’m back after quite a fashion-involved morning here in London. So, the Saatchi Gallery is currently hosting the “Mademoiselle Prive” exhibit, featuring the careers of Gabrielle Chanel to Karl Lagerfeld at the Chanel brand. It’s a “journey through the origins of Chanel’s creations capturing the charismatic personality and irreverent spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld.” And it was nothing less than pure perfection. I loved it! And luckily, I didn’t have to queue to get in as I saw a long queue waiting to enter upon my exit. I thought I’d give you a sneak peek of the exhibit below with some photos:

Entering the exhibit through a pretty garden!

Giant diamond necklace inside a cage inside a giant “diamond.”

Pearls, pearls and more pearls!

Gorgeous. Breathtaking.

See the logo at the bottom?

See the logo at the base?

An original bottle of Chanel No. 5!

Lagerfeld made a gardenia out of tweed… yea…. It’s gorgeous.

Labyrinth garden room, like Miss Chanel’s for inspiration.

Lagerfeld custom designs for the exhibit!

Lagerfeld’s personal snaps of celebs and models in Chanel.

Movie made by Lagerfeld himself.

Just beautiful.

Only slot machine I’d want to play… The Chanel one.

Embroidered details.

This is a fantastic exhibit, and I highly highly highly recommend to anyone that’ll be in London through November! It’s so worth it!

4Oct2015

Releasing my inner fangirl at a One Direction concert in London

Posted in Miranda Goes Global, Pop Culture by msiwak

So, last Monday was the day I went to the ONE DIRECTION concert in London!!! (Can you hear my inner fangirl shrieking?) It was so incredible to see the boys live for the third time, and this time in their home country! 🙂 It was a great night. Now, on to some of the great highlights from their fourth show in London:

Harry told Karen Payne (Liam’s mum), who was there with his older sister, to “stand her pretty a** up” during the show. And they were seated in the same side of the stage as me. No biggie. But, what Harry said was so him and absolutely hilarious.
When reading signs, Liam and Harry found a couple there on their anniversary and they said they had their first kiss watching Elf, to which Harry said, “nothing like… to put you in the mood.” Oh, that’s so Harry…
Liam spoke of how all of his lyrics are about skinny jeans, hospitals and drinking… Well, he’s not wrong… I wonder what a psychologist would say about that one? (And yes, Liam: psychology is a real word. Note: this is a reference to an interview they did with Ellen Degeneres.)
Liam asked if his mum and sister were liking the show. Awww, he’s too cute.
During WMYB (and the whole encore really) Liam and Louis had a huge water fight, chucking entire contents of several water bottles at each other while Harry/ Niall were singing their parts… It was hilarious.

There were so many amazing moments, songs and it was so awesome to be able to see them at their real height and see their faces! 🙂 Ready for some pictures?