2014 Emmys Red Carpet

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Tonight was the Emmy’s, so you know what that means: my fashion critique.

Sofia Vergara will stun in pretty much everything. That, and her styling squad knows how to perfectly tailor a dress to her every curve. Love the green ring with it!

Here’s Matthew McConaughey and his wife Camila Alves, who I think looks better than her hubby here. The dress is almost a Beyonce/ J.Lo duplicate. So who wore it better? Alves, Beyonce, or J.Lo?

Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting. I don’t like the dress on its own, however, paired with her pixie cut, the messiness of the dress kind of works. And she looks good in the dress.

My camp alum! She looks happy and pretty and no complaints here.

Olivia Pope…. thinks it’s Halloween? Kerry Washington: I’m not a fan. It’s a beautiful dress, with the sequins and the color and the fit. However, it’s not Kerry Washington or her alter ego Olivia Pope. The hair and makeup are too dark for the summertime Emmys.

Allison Williams. Gorgeous. Top pick. Love her dress. Love her. She’s tall, so basically she can pull off anything. Looks great.

Kristen Wiig all-in-white. Too saggy in the boob area and DO NOT wear black shoes with a white dress. Who gave her permission for that? Just no.

Hayden Panettiere. Perfection. And she’s pregnant. She’s happy, she’s glowing, she looks great.

Here’s THE worst: Lena Dunham. What were you thinking??? It’s so bad, from her hair, skirt, top, it’s all wrong. Fashion Police, over here!

Lizzy Caplan. Who? Janis Ian from “Mean Girls.” Love the sleek, polished look, but not the white train. Should have been all black. Color-blocking is out on the red carpet now.

January Jones. LOVE IT. The texture, the hi-low skirt. Tailored to perfection. TOP HONORS.

Sarah Hyland looks young and beachy. And I like the look and the hair. It all works, unlike her hosting duties at the Teen Choice Awards a couple weeks ago. Love the crop top and full skirt. Makes her look taller. Perfect. LOVE.

ADAM LEVINE. And his wife, the supermodel. Why’s he here? But, he does know how to wear a suit. Just one question: No tie, but sunglasses are okay?

Another “Modern Family” starlet, Ariel Winter. It’s nice. I like it, it just seems a little too casual and old for her. But, it’s tailored well. So, props to her tailor.

It’s great to see Melissa McCarthy all dressed up and happy, smiling. She owns her curves, which makes her an even better role model/celeb.

KeKe Palmer. Too prom-my, I think it’s the satin fabric– that’s not forgiving. Also, for a young girl, too much cleavage action. Get your tailor to cover up a little. This dress, as is, would be better suited for an older star.

Who were your standouts and fashion flops?

And visit http://www.emmys.com/awards/nominees-winners for all the winners.

24Aug2014

Sorry it’s been awhile!

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Hi again! I’m so sorry I haven’t posted in awhile. 1. I’ve just moved into my dorm for my sophomore year, 2. I’ve been helping with freshman move in which takes a lot, and 3. Writers Block.

But, I’m back now, and I hope to continue to update this blog on a weekly basis.

Since, the VMAs and the Emmys both happen to be this week, I will be posting a Red Carpet post, as soon as that happens, so something to look forward to.

MY PREDICTIONS REGARDING RED CARPET FASHION:

MTV VMAs

Ariana Grande, who will open the show with her “Bang Bang” collab (as spoiled by Frankie on Big Brother), will probably wear something floral, pink, or black; same silhouette and same hairdo.
Sam Smith, who’s nominated for Artist to Watch will prob show up in jeans, sneakers, and blazer, like most the guys (Dylan O’Brian, Jason DeRulo, etc) on the carpet.
Beyonce, the winner of the Video Vanguard Award (no idea what that is) will probably go super couture or sexy; either way she’ll rock black, possibly with lots of sequins and glitter.
Taylor Swift: As she is about to release a new pop album, 1989, she’ll probably try to look like a pop princess (like Ariana) or go with her signature Old Hollywood style.
5 Seconds of Summer: As new nominees and performers, they’ll probably show up in whatever rehearsal clothes they have. I mean, have you seen their concert apparel?
Fifth Harmony: I mean, I’m not sold on their music, but they’ll probably go over-the-top as if attending a high school homecoming dance, just like every other event they go to.
Kim Kardashian [West]: Is there anywhere in Hollywood she won’t be? She’ll probably wear some sexy, tight outfit that most mothers would never wear, but hey, she’s a Kardashian and married to Kanye.
Miley Cyrus will be there, and who knows what she’ll where.

EMMY AWARDS

I’m expecting lots of mermaid style gowns in red, white, nude, and maybe blue.
Claire Danes: Most likely some white or silver classic gown. Maybe Ralph Lauren?
Kerry Washington: If Olivia Pope doesn’t influence her fashion…. I’d love to see her in crisp white ala Miss Pope.
Melissa McCarthy: I love seeing her in the glamorous gowns and looking girly, something she hasn’t played since Sookie on “Gilmore Girls.”
Emma Roberts (my camp pal, well, sort of): Something dramatic. Either a short dress or a long dress with cutouts across the midsection.

Let’s see how these predictions play out. Keep an eye out for my Post Red Carpet entries!

24Aug2014

2014 VMA Red Carpet Fashion Trends

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Here we go, reviewing the must-see looks of the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards.

Looks like Ariana Grande went edgy for this red carpet, way edgy. But, I guess it works when it compares to “Bang Bang.” And look, her hair’s the same– I predicted that right!

Could that be Miss Taylor Swift? I knew we’d see a more pop version of the songstress tonight, and that’s what this romper/bodysuit/leotard (what do you call it?) calls for. It does look a little… dull. She needed some element of bling to stand out. Now, it just looks like she’s headed to dance class.

Chloe Grace Moretz must be sweating in this. Seriously, this is in L.A. and we can tell it’s sunny—just look at her shadow! So, why would you put a young girl in long sleeves and long pants in August? But, it’s very preppy and well-tailored and I love it. Perhaps it’d work better on an older star?

Last time we saw Miley at the VMAs was when she “danced” all over Robin Thicke. But, now she’s back again and looks very lackluster here. This seems like a street outfit for her, not a red carpet look.

Nicki Minaj. At first I thought this dress was too sexy, but I’m liking it more now. It’s perfectly tailored, and I like how even though it’s a minidress, her shoulders are covered. To keep it looking classy, girls should show one aspect of their bodies. (Nicki chose legs, and so the rest is covered and looks classy and better.)

Jordin Sparks looks good in this tailored white number. Speaking of, will she ever become known for more than just Jason Derulo’s girlfriend anymore? She has such a good voice from what I remember.

JONAS SIGHTING. Nick, and supermodel girlfriend, were on site and he rocked a navy plaid suit. Still the cute Nick we hard-core crushed on in middle school.

I-G-G-Y is here in this gorgeous gown. Normally, I’d say gowns are to formal for MTV events, but this is an exception. It’s edgy enough with the chains and different enough that it looks good on her.

ED! Looks like he brushed his hair, for once! (Inside joke from when I met him.) Looks very chill, which matches the tone of his music. Have you heard multiply? Well, you should.

PLL star Lucy Hale. Okay, I love her and her fashion, and even this look. However, she’s too petite for this long skirt. Don’t get me wrong I love the skirt and the crop top together, it’s just a problem us short girls have, especially with a wider skirt like this one.

Former Bachelorette and current E! host Ali Fedotowsky: I like it. The pantsuit, the giant necklace– I really think it looks good and fits the VMAs. If I’m right, and she’s there as a journalist, then I think she’s perfectly dressed for the award show.

Here’s the thing: I love this dress. It’s super couture and perfect for the VMAs, however, I just don’t love it on her (Ashley Rickards). And the shoe choice: it’s way too formal with the dress and for the nature of the event. A strappy heel would have been much better.

5 Seconds of Summer makes their VMA debut. Do you think they were given one blazer and one oxford to “dress up a little” and the rest just had to improvise with stuff from their own closets? I’m mean, actually though. And while, I’m at it: what is with the bandana in the messy flop of hair on Ashton at the end? Just no.

I already commented on Jordin’s dress, but here’s her and boyfriend Jason DeRulo. Since they are both in white and grinning very happily, do you think they’re trying to tell us something? Perhaps a new piece of jewelry for her left hand? (Just my thoughts.)

Alright, what do you think? And head over to MTV to watch award show live.

18Aug2014

Theatricality is a must at a Katy Perry concert.

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Yes, that’s how I spent my Sunday night: at the Katy Perry Prismatic world tour stop in St. Louis. I thought I’d recap, review, and rehash the fashions and the happenings of the show

At the beginning, there were glow-in-the-dark warriors (her dancers) doing aerials across the stage. Pretty impressive. Then, Katy comes out (bursts through a giant triangle in the floor) and singing “Roar.” (Which I knew would be the opening song.)

Then she went into “Part of Me” and practically yelled every lyric. Not so endearing.

With the fashion, I was expecting a hell of a lot, knowing what Katy Perry is capable of. Her first outfit is very couture with glow-in-the-dark abilities.

Very edgy and couture, especially this shot. But, it is indeed a crop top and skirt.

Then, she appeared sitting sidesaddle on a mechanical horse to intro “Dark Horse.” Personally, I think this song would do better with black costumes as opposed to gold sequins and purple (here in a bodysuit). Honestly, I ended up dancing more to Juicy J’s section in the song than Katy’s and he wasn’t there.

Here’s her Dark Horse apparel. But what is that skunk-pharoah hairdo? Not good.

During the first several songs, including “Legendary Lovers” (which didn’t have a good crowd energy), a father sitting behind me kept yelling for my entire row to sit down. You do realize this is Katy Perry? And it was during her big dance hits! Who would actually sit during that concert?

For the song that “put her on the map,” “I kissed a girl,” Katy appears in a lilac bodysuit. very couture. Like. Although, I did not like the background vocals that yelled the lyrics out. KP lacked energy for her first major hit.

Then, we kept waiting for the standard long dance break and guitar riff for her to change into another ostentatious couture outfit.

Then, it’s Welcome to Kittywood with a cat themed set to sing “Hot N Cold.” She’s wearing a pink sequined leopard inspired bodysuit and her face was completely emotionless during that set. It sounded robotic and creepy, including the normally-upbeat chorus. Do not like.

At this point, KP has yet to address the crowd. Total dislike.

Then she sings “International Smile” and I can’t hear the vocals, there’s way too much bass. I don’t know what she onstage changed into, but it looked very haute couture, to which, she does a runway walk to Madonna’s Vogue. Do you think Katy is gunning for a guest judging spot on ANTM? After all, she treated her concert like an over-the-top fashion show.

Next set is at the very tip of the triangle stage, covered in sunflowers. She adds, “I just had to change into something more SPARKLY.” She sounds a bit, crazy.

She’s sporting rainbow-colored hair; clearly a wig, KP.

I love the bottom of her flower dress, so couture. I’m not crazy about the over the top sparkly bust.

Clearly, Katy the cartoon character is here tonight.

She sings “By the Grace of God” and for the first time all night, I can actually hear her vocals, which are pretty good. It’s a beautiful ballad and really shows her passion for music and performing.

But that wig! It’s almost making a mockery out of her beautiful song and vocals. What a shame.

Then, the first support act, Ferras pops out to duet “Legends Never Die,” which wasn’t bad. He was weird hair, but I like his song. Pretty vocals, Katy’s voice too.

She brings out a glitter acoustic guitar for “The One That Got Away.” It’s a ballad-remix. It sounds pretty, but so sad. Hmm….

Then, she infuses that with “Thinking of You!” It’s one of her old hits I loved! Thanks for bringing that back, KP! Definitely one of her old best songs.

She goes into “Unconditionally” and the crowd lights up their flashlight apps. I love the song to begin with, but Katy’s dancers made butterflies that flew around, that made it way too adorable for the song.

Towards the end, I was no fan of her costumes. Too crazy and out there. Stick to the couture. Much better.

Her new song, “This is How We Do” sounds totally synthesized and I didn’t like that.

She goes into “Teenage Dream” and “California Girls,” where she changes some lyrics to fit the town. And she sports what is a couture version of a sexy Tinkerbell costume.

At 10:57, it’s time for the encore. She appears in a pink vinyl dress turned bedazzled nude body suit for “Birthday” where she celebrates a local girl’s bday. How sweet. And she does that at every show! Then, she flys across the audience.

She ran across the stage and hi-fived members of her band. How down-to-earth. I love it when stars act like regular people.

Then, she plays “Firework” wearing a firework-inspired ball gown with blue glitter pants underneath, which I want. The song sounds just like vintage Katy, including her old hairstyle of long brown hair with a bang.

At the end, her triangle stage fold up with her inside, the opposite of how the show started.

All in all, it was very theatrical and over-the-top, but, nonetheless, it was entertaining. I had fun.

16Aug2014

My [Must Listen To] Summer Music Playlist, Part 2

Posted in Pop Culture by msiwak

As you recall, earlier this summer I had compiled a list of the songs I was obsessing over this summer.

I’m here to amend that list:

1. “Bang Bang” by Jessie J, Ariana Grande, and Nicki Minaj

To be honest, I started to enjoy this song after seeing the amazing choreography to it on So You Think You Can Dance! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVPQhXm_1cI) And now, I’m obsessed with it.

2. “Chasing the Sun” by Hilary Duff (aka Lizzie McGuire!!)

Lizzie McGuire is back! And this time with a super-sweet Top 40 song that is perfect for summer! Love.

3. “Break Free” by Ariana Grande feat. Zedd

Yes, another Ariana track is on the list, but I can’t help it–she’s just that talented.

4. “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea & Rita Ora

Okay, I guess I’ll put this on here. Simply because it’s catchy.

5. “Maps” by Maroon 5

Another ‘maybe’ song, but hey, it’s catchy and I’m enjoying it.

6. “Amnesia” by 5 Seconds of Summer

Love this ballad! And I’m waiting for a routine on SYTYCD!

7. “Good Girls,” “18,” “Mrs. All American,” “Social Casualty,” “Voodoo Doll,” “Greenlight” by 5SOS

And lastly, here’s a feminist-inspired country number:

Happy listening! xx

10Aug2014

My Summer TV Obsessions

Posted in Pop Culture by msiwak

Here’s what I’m watching this summer, and obsessing over.

Big Brother

I recently have become so obsessed with CBS’ Big Brother. I don’t know how to explain it, but it’s fascinating to watch. Here’s my rundown of the contestants that I’ve seen:

-Amber: Curly hair. Caleb and Cody love triangle.

-Caleb: Country boy aka “Beast Mode Cowboy” who loves Amber, almost to the point it distracts his game.

-Christine: Quiet. Only girl in the large alliance, ‘Detonators.’

-Cody: He’s so pretty. That’s about it.

-Derrick: Clearly, the leader of the group. My pick as to who will win the whole thing.

-Donny: The one with the beard. Team America member. Quiet, I guess.

-Frankie: Ariana Grande’s older brother. Loves show tunes and pink hair. AND as of today, won a Battle of the Block two-person challenge by himself!

-Hayden: He’s what? A pedicab driver?? Does he surf? Wait, he was on the Deans List? Possibly in love with Nicole.

-Jocasta: Bowties. Always on the Block.

-Nicole: What’s with her voice? Does she always have to win HOH? And what’s going on with Hayden?

-Victoria: Why is she still here? She has no athletic prowess and always loses competitions. Seems prissy.

-Zach: WHY IS HE ALWAYS SHIRTLESS OR IN THE SAME FLORIDA GATORS SHIRT AND PINK HAT? Also, Zankie bromance.

So You Think You Can Dance

As a dancer myself, I’ve become obsessed with So You Think You Can Dance recently. I mean, I watch Dance Moms for their choreography, why not SYTYCD? All their choreographers need Emmys!! Ohmygosh, Travis Wall’s (and Mandy Moore’s) routines though. Incredible. I have no idea who will win: maybe Rudy, Tanisha, or Ricky??

Chasing Life

After I watch Pretty Little Liars, I’ve come to enjoy Chasing Life. (And yes, that’s Cappie from Greek, who will play Kristoff on Once Upon A Time.) It takes a TFIOS twist when April (Italia Ricci) gets diagnosed with leukemia. But, she plays a journalist (well, an intern) and as a Journalism major myself, I like it when TV characters resemble things about myself or ordinary people in general–someone I can relate to.

Switched at Birth and The Fosters

I’ve been watching these ABC Family Monday night shows, and it’s getting so addicting. First, there’s Switched at Birth where I get to hone my ASL skills (mostly the only reason I watch) and then The Fosters, which is J.Lo produced is so dramatic and not what I expected from former Disney stars.

Pretty Little Liars

Of course, PLL makes another appearance. It’s getting so predictable. But, as soon as that happens, the writers throw us another curveball and I’m reminded why I watch the show. That, and the fashion. Plus, they’ve done a good job at employing love interests (I mean, let’s discuss Ian Harding, Keegan Allen, and Tyler Blackburn. No complaints from any girl.)

Dance Moms

I watch it purely for the dancing, because these little girls are insanely talented. As a dancer myself, I’m envious at what they can do at ages 8-12. I actually tune out the mama drama that occurs— I don’t care. I watch simply as a dancer to applaud these supremely talented little girls and their studio’s choreography.

The Bachelorette

I know it’s over, but one of my June/July guilty pleasures had to have been The Bachelorette. And I squealed when it was revealed Andi and Josh were engaged. Not to mention, I like following all the happy couples that result from the show on Instagram. And side note: I’m still hopeful that [farmer] Chris, Andi’s castoff, will be the next Bachelor.

Hope you all enjoyed reading this, and hopefully some of y’all will consider watching these shows in the future.

10Aug2014

Teen Choice Awards were quite fashionable

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

Tonight on FOX was the annual Teen Choice Awards. I thought I’d break down some of the best red carpet style of the night.

Ariana Grande is fast becoming one of the top artists of the summer. (Have you heard Bang Bang? You should.) Her style is very uniquely her, and she looks just like her brand. The only thing: I never realized how much hair she has??? (It’s so thick… Twins!)

The Vampire Diaries’ Nina Dobrev looks fun and edgy in her crop top and shorts. So perfect for summer! And love that side braid she’s working! However, I’m not loving her facial expression—hello? You won a surfboard at the TCA’s… Act like the star you are (As Tyra Banks of ANTM would say, ‘Smize.’)!

IT’S LIZZIE MCGUIRE. SHE’S BACK. Not only is her newest song “Chasing the Sun” the perfect catchy summertime hit, she looks modern. Once again, Hilary Duff is the perfect fashion role model. I love her top and skirt, and even her stilettos, however, I’m not loving her pose– it just looks awkward.

Pretty Little Liars teen queen Lucy Hale looked pretty in red this evening! Gorgeous, but a little overdressed perhaps?

16-year-old starlet Bella Thorne is trying too hard to dress older. While I LOVE this super couture dress, it’s too mature for her. (Maybe someone like Lucy Hale or Ariana Grande would wear this better??) And, from one girl to another, PULL. IT. UP. And another thing: throughout the TCAs, we saw her commercials for Candies brand– she had no enthusiasm for the set or anything. As a communications major, she didn’t sell the brand, the clothes, anything to me. What’s the hurry to grow up, Bella? Stay young as long as you can. You’ll have time to dress like a twenty-something when you get older; don’t rush it.

I don’t know much about The Band Perry, but I love the main girl’s dress. Gorgeous, high fashion, and kind of works at the TCAs. LOVE. No complaints from this blogger.

Taylor Swift, who may or may not have a new studio album coming out soon, wore this outfit, and to be honest: I’m not feeling it. While I think it’s an adorable ensemble for an ordinary summer day– it doesn’t flow for a red carpet, unless someone like Bella Thorne or Chloe Grace Moretz were to wear it. Love it for a summer day or on a younger star, but Taylor didn’t wow me. AND, when she was presenting, she didn’t show her personality… What’s wrong, Taylor?

Demi Lovato. While I wasn’t a fan of her on-stage apparel, this dress is classy and simple. However, it’s the TCAs–the place to be edgy and fun, not like you’re going to the Emmys or something. This doesn’t scream, “Demi Lovato,” and for her brand, it should have. Gorgeous dress, but not for her. Maybe Taylor Swift or her pal Selena Gomez should have chosen this dress instead?

Who are your Best Dressed picks?

8Aug2014

Advice for college freshmen I wish had someone told me

Posted in Miranda Goes Global, Miranda Tries New Things by msiwak

I’m sorry it’s been awhile since my last post. I’ve been busy at my internships (I’ve been doing work for three companies) and I’ve had a severe case of writers block. But, I’m back!

For today’s blog, I thought I’d focus on college life, since I’ll be headed back to school in a few weeks.

1. Find a floor plan of your dorm before you move in. Most college websites will have a page on dorms, and often it will include a floor plan. Use that to find out how much space you’ll have, closet size, and whether your floor will be coed or not (which will dictate the type of bathroom you’ll have.)

2. Budget your money. Whether we are talking about your meal plan or your actual cash funds, it’s crucial to keep in mind how much your are actually spending. I know one girl who went crazy with online shopping that her mom freaked—that’s something you should keep a handle on. It’s easy to shop online, especially when you’re not at home, however, all those bills add up… and don’t forget about shipping costs too! For me, I’ll shop if there’s a really good sale and if there’s some piece I have to have. And keep in mind, free shipping and free returns deals websites will have.

3. Keep in mind the size of your space. Do not bring your entire wardrobe. It’s a waste of space and you won’t end up wearing at least half of the things you brought. I know for me, I overpacked on shoes. I basically brought every pair of boots, heels and wedges, sandals and flats I owned. And it took up way more space than I care to admit, not to mention I didn’t have the time and place to wear them all.

4. Check the prices of textbooks before purchasing. Textbooks are so expensive… it’s not worth buying them new for every class (it adds up!). You probably will never need it ever again after class or you may only need it for one week, so it’s better to rent them. Check your bookstore’s rental policy or sites like Chegg and Amazon. (However, with those, make sure you order them in advance so they won’t be backordered.)

5. Don’t arrive to college thinking you only can do one thing. While you shouldn’t be overly involved in every activity under the sun, it’s still nice to be involved in several things, and you’ll make more friends. I know people who never did anything except scrape by in their classes and party Thursday-Sunday. And when you’re trying to get a job, going to frat parties won’t look good on your resume. So, join in! There’s so much to do—take advantage of it. Another thing, many people believe Greek life is the pinnacle of college life, and if you join then that’s the only thing you can do. FALSE. There are many types of organizations to join; Greek life is not an all or nothing activity. I’m in a service sorority. We are a Greek sorority, but we have a much greater emphasis on service–which seems better than just going out and partying nonstop, and bonus–it’ll look good on a resume!

6. Don’t focus on Rate My Professor too much. While it’s helpful for a general consensus about a teacher, don’t overanalyze. Focus on the class, not the teacher or the time preference. Because if it’s a class you enjoy then a teacher’s review or the time it’s offered won’t matter.

7. What to bring: Mattress topper, power strip, first aid kit, tool kit, plunger, bathroom cleaning supplies (if you have own bathroom), pictures to hang up of your friends and family, vacuum (if there’s a carpet), shoes to wear in the shower, Command hooks. Keep in mind how much space you have before buying an area rug or a sofa—make sure it’s something that will fit.

Those are some of my tips. Have a great time as a new freshman at your college!

3Aug2014

My concert-filled Saturday night!

Posted in Pop Culture by msiwak

My Saturday night on August 2 was spent in my hometown of St. Louis, Missouri at the OneRepublic concert (who were supported by The Script and American Authors), none of which I had seen before.

(I’m going to be posting pictures from tonight. Please ignore the bad iPhone quality! And with OneRepublic, I ended up running out of storage. Whoops! #iphoneprobs)

To start off the night, American Authors were first on stage. In fact, upon entering the arena, I heard on the radio they expected to be very “buff” at the show tonight.

American Authors, the Brooklyn-based band, sounded very chill, throughout their entire set. I liked it.

Next, The Script took the stage. Did you all know they hail from the U.K.–more specifically, Dublin? I did not, until they kept saying “litrelly” instead of literally. During the first song, lead singer Danny O’Donoghue ran through the crowd.

Then, they played Breakeven.

After much anticipation from their new album, The Script debuted their NEW single, Superheroes tonight! So good, loved it!

To lead into Nothing, O’Donoghue borrowed a fan’s phone and called her ex-boyfriend to sing him the song. At the end of the song he added, “They’re never ever getting back together.”

O’Donoghue even added they keep coming back to St. Louis because of [and I quote!] “the good bars and the good hangovers!” I actually laughed out loud at that one.

Next, they played For the First Time. O’Donoghue spent an entire song in the crowd, even approaching where I was sitting in the way back!

They then asked for everyone to light up the stage via their phones and they sang Hall of Fame. They sounded very chill live. Loved it.

Finally, after twenty minutes in between, OneRepublic came on stage.

They played the entire first song behind a giant white sheet, where their shadows alternated, making a cool effect.

They had plenty of cool video effects, on both the main screen and the smaller screens further away. They then played Secrets.

They then led into All the Right Moves. It was a very chill (which is fast becoming my favorite word for this post it seems) performance, and lead singer Ryan Tedder’s piano solo! Woah, talented. Also, he seems like such a chill dude, based on this performance and the things he said. (Like, “So ominous” and “it’s a pub song” to intro Only Live Once.)

Then, Tedder grabbed one of the cameras filming him, and started to film the fans! How cool.

Tedder, a few songs later, came back out alone, sat at his piano, and played Apologize and then a cover of Stay with Me by Sam Smith, a song I’m loving this month!

(I ran out of storage here, but it was so pretty!!)

Tedder then adds that he doesn’t “normally write songs about people. But, if you stay true to who you are for 85 years..” Which is how he ended up writing, and performing, a song about his grandfather, the preacher. Oh my gosh, the VOCALS!

OneRepublic should definitely stick to more ballads… To show off their AMAZING vocals more! During a guitar solo, Tedder says, “That was flawless.” Yes, it was. So, was the whole performance.

I think that the little bits of personality a performer adds to the show makes it so much better. Because knowing the band’s having fun, makes the audience have more fun. And with Tedder, they did that.

Talking about writing songs, Tedder said, “If something gives me goosebumps, I operate on the assumption that others will get them. [And that’s what he writes.]… That’s how Kesha confused me,” he adds with a laugh.

He then adds, “Can you help me out? I have no idea what I’m doing. As usual.” Clearly meant as a joke, it segued them into Counting Stars, the big hit of early summer.

He said some funny lines about being in St. Louis for prior gigs playing less than 100 people, but it’s very much an inside joke to St. Louis, so I won’t repeat it here.

Then, it was his son Copeland’s fourth birthday, so he asked us to wish him a happy birthday for him. Awww. Then he plays I Lived, which he wrote for his son.

“Thanks for hanging with us St. Louis,” Tedder says. (Sings) “Beautiful.”

For the encore, they sang Love Runs Out, a cover of What a Wonderful World to which Tedder said, “I wish I wrote this song!” and If I Lose Myself. He then realizes he was supposed to get us to sing happy birthday to his son. So, he goes to record it and adds, “Will you help me be the coolest dad ever?” and then, “Do we have enough battery? Because that would suck.” Rest assured, there was plenty of storage available, unlike my phone.

I think it would be so much fun to be a journalist on tour with an artist! Another thing to add the journalism career wish list of mine.

Tedder has some great vocals! I was pleasantly surprised, because you can’t hear those types of pipes on the radio—it doesn’t do his range justice.

At the end he said, “This is ‘If I Lose Myself.’ Stay around for three and a half more minutes. I promise it won’t suck!” Lol.

Confetti falls. Song ends. Crowd erupts in applause. “Thank you, St. Louis.”

Great show. For someone unaware of most of the music from these artists, I enjoyed it.

1Aug2014

Getting Fashion Inspiration from TV

Posted in Fashion, Pop Culture by msiwak

It’s no secret that “Pretty Little Liars” is one of my all-time television guilty pleasures. But as much as I live for the drama of the plot, I’m obsessed with the wardrobe put together by costume designer, Mandi Line. (You may recall her work from MTV’s “Faking It”, Abc Family’s “Greek”, “The Clique” movie, Lifetime’s “Drop Dead Diva,” among others.)

My personal style as inspired by PLL: I’m mostly a Hanna or a Spencer, though Aria has some pretty cute pieces.

Here’s what Mandi Line said about our favorite Liars’ signature looks:

Aria’s (Lucy Hale) eclectic, trendy style

“Aria wears trends but she doesn’t do it because they’re cool, she does it because likes them.”

Spencer’s (Troian Bellisario) old-school, preppy style

“I want to make sure her story looks like she stole something from her mom’s closet, yet she went shopping and topped it off with something classic. I always say Spencer is classic with a twist.”

Emily’s (Shay Mitchell) athletic, simplistic style

“Emily (Shay Mitchell) to me has had the biggest arc of all the characters because when she came out with her sexuality, she also came out with her strength to speak what she was feeling through her fashion.”

Hanna’s (Ashley Benson) trendy, girly style

“Hannah, or Ms. Ashley Benson, is probably the funniest and most wild one I have. She always wants shorter, sexier and higher heels. Over the seasons she has gotten more risky.”

Check out Mandi Line’s full interview with Huffington Post here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/07/pretty-little-liars-best-dressed_n_4549404.html

The four girls have very distinct plot lines, something that is shown through their wardrobe. Hanna is very glamorous, trendy, and girly. Spencer is classic preppy. Aria is the eclectic risk taker when it comes to fashion (i.e. wearing multiple prints and making it work). Emily is the athletic tomboy, which is the polar opposite of Shay’s real-life glam style.

Which Liar are you most like? An Aria, Hanna, Spencer, Emily, or a mixture?