Red Carpet Ready

This was the aim of designers as they laid out their pre-Fall 2011 collections. With the SAGs, Golden Globes, and almighty Oscars coming up after the holidays, designers everywhere are puttin' on the ritz in hopes that Portman, Bridges, and Jolie will find their gowns as good as that Oscar gold!

Here are a few picks from chasing pumas: The first is by Monique Lhuillier, white sparkly and perfect for winter awards, this may be something you spot on the red carpet this winter. The next is J. Mendel and is an ivory, bone gown. The next is grecian inspired gown from Helmet Lang laid over with an optinal lether bomber which is a must every fall, and would be a stretch to be seen on a starlet (the jacket, not the gown), but the stretch is what gives it flare and dare. Even more of a dare by French powerhouse Monique Lhuillier is a black romper suit with adornment on top. It is definitely something Angelina would wear. Finally, a Vera Wang, is a classic white silk dress pretty for the likes of Portman. We will just have to wait and see though if any of my picks come to fruition when the awards roll around. Stay tuned though more everyday ready to wear picks as well as makeup and hair forecasts to come!

WOW...On Repeat

Like the majority of shows, which have taken a seasonal hiatus to celebrate the holidays, we here at Chasing Pumas thought it only befitting that we do the same with our WOW section. Considering the power of last week's words , and their usefulness throughout this holiday season, we figured it best to keep them on repeat as a reminder of what the holidays should be about. Buon Natale!
Words of wisdom time: In an age of materials, forgo the ego this new year and celebrate old-fashioned Italian family, just like this family featured in LIFE Magazine years ago. Kick it old school with "cibo, famiglia, amici, e certamente un po di vino." Translation: "food, family, friends, and of course a little wine." As they say "nel vino c'e veritas." "In wine there is truth." Find your truth over the holiday table this year :) Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza, and Happy Holidays to all and to all a truthful night!

My Favorite Normal Size Model

After a long struggle with an eating disorder, and a revealing and inspirational tell-all Hungry(which I highly recommend), supermodel Crystal Renn has gone from having a successful supermodel career to a successful plus size modeling career (reaching a size 14 at her highest), and now it seems she is paving the way for the normal and real perfect size model. She was just featured in Zac Posen's Pre-Fall 2011 collection, sporting a slimmer figure, but I must say it is perfect. It goes back to the days of real supermodels: Naomi, Christy, and Tyra. This was when these models had size 6 figures to emulate, that were achievable. With abs, a booty and buns, there was something to grab, but not too much. We need more Crystal Renn's with the chiseled features and the non-skeletal, yet non-overweight figures that real girls can emulate. After all, clothes are bought by real women. Thanks Zac, let's hope the rest of fashion's elite catch on ;)

On the 3rd Day of Xmas My True Luv gave to Me

...a cute LCD (Little Champagne Dress) perfect and affordable to rock the new year in with. With an asymmetrical cut on the shoulder, a zipper, and the perfect shade, this dress is not only flattering for all, but can be found on karmaloop.com for an affordable $55! Now that's good karma!

Pazzo per Pucci

Step aside Fendi, Prada, and Gucci, a new designer, well old, but new to the "popular" scene, has hit Tinseltown and he is chasing pumas new favorite! Emilio Pucci was just recently praised and featured here for accentuating the sleek and sophisticated sexy that is Gwyneth Paltrow. Well, he has done it again. This time providing an understated, simple elegance for Kim Kardashian, as we have just received word that the white gown featured in her Christmas card was by the Italian designer. Not only do Emilio and I have an Italian heritage in common, but both share a passion for an understated, simple, and timeless elegance that only a classic white or even black gown can pricide. Someone put Pucci on speed dial. I am officially pazzo per Pucci!

Hottie of the Week: You Make Me Hard

Caught your attention didn't it? Well, this week's hottie is a bona fide one, and his name is Tom Hardy. This British import is not only hot, but bad, which him all the more desirable. He is not only covered in tattoos, but admitted to being bi-sexual, even though he is married to a woman. You probably remember his six pack and full pout from this year's hit Inception and can see him this coming year in quite a few films. Keep your eye out for this week's hottie in the new year. He's definitely more than just a hottie of the week, perhaps and more appropriately with the way 2011 looks for him, he may be the hottie of the new year!

Follow Me

Love the blog? Want more on the go? Pumas are fast so to keep up with the blog and everything you chase, chase me down on twitter. Follow the blog @chasingpumablog, and its creator @chasingpumas, for quick condensed versions of all the latest news, fashions, gossip, words of wisdom, etc. Happy chasing!

Pretty in Pucci

Gwyneth Paltrow was pretty in an Emilio Pucci long white sexy slit gown at the premiere of her film Country Song. While some fashion critics cut the dress apart, I think the sleek look combined with her hair and the back slits around the hips and derriere make it a slit above the rest. What do you say?

The Rumer is...

Well, it probably isn't a rumor anymore considering Badgley Mischka just confirmed that Rumer Willis, the daughter of Demi and Bruce, will be the next face of their line. Cute, but really? I have a feeling she should be thanking her last name for that one.

On the second day of Xmas My true Love Gave To Me...

Okay, so we started the 12 days last week with the Koolaburras spotted on Megan Fox and today we open it up with this gorgeous oxford cape from American Apparel. Similar ones have been spotted on the shoulders of Kate Bosworth and Natalie Portman. However, this one retails for a little less: $155. Girls, grab your man, your cape, and take flight like Wonder Woman in this one. Even more, if blue doesn't catch your fancy, this British import comes in black, tan, and valentine. Wrap it up at americanapparel.net.

It's a Kardashian Kristmas!

Kris Kardashian and her clan are taking over from the stern and rigid looks of their over airbrushed Kristmas Kard this year. While Kourtney dons a suit with her adorable little Mason and Lamar Odom adds some handsome height, Kim as usual takes center stage, with a stunning white gown and sleek bun emphasizing her extreme curves, and extreme family! The card screams Merry Kristmas and Happy Holidays, XOXO The Kardashian Krew.

Pink Cheeks

Megan Fox and her hubby of six months, Brian Austin Green, were spotted working on their fitness in L.A. yesterday, and Fox was acting more camera shy than usual sporting no mkaeup and UGGS. Perhaps that was the reason. However, when she turned around her hoodie read "PINK" meaning, sales of VS PINK department will surely go up this holiday season, as every woman I already anticipate will think donning the label will get them PINK cheeks as hot as hers.

Hit and Miss?

Angelina Jolie has certainly been a hit in the fashion department when it comes to making the promotional rounds for her new film The Tourist, and even scored a golden globe nomination, but the film itself hasn't been doing so well in the box office. Regardless, she remains quite possibly the hottest (alleged) home wrecker ever, donning black and the latest fall trends from Versace velvet, to faux fur jackets, and red lips.

WOW...On Repeat

Like the majority of shows, which have taken a seasonal hiatus to celebrate the holidays, we here at Chasing Pumas thought it only befitting that we do the same with our WOW section. Considering the power of last week's words , and their usefulness throughout this holiday season, we figured it best to keep them on repeat as a reminder of what the holidays should be about. Buon Natale!
Words of wisdom time: In an age of materials, forgo the ego this new year and celebrate old-fashioned Italian family, just like this family featured in LIFE Magazine years ago. Kick it old school with "cibo, famiglia, amici, e certamente un po di vino." Translation: "food, family, friends, and of course a little wine." As they say "nel vino c'e veritas." "In wine there is truth." Find your truth over the holiday table this year :) Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanza, and Happy Holidays to all and to all a truthful night!

Why So Serious?

While Russian beauty was recently spotted flying solo in ravishing red at the Blue ValentineScreening in NY, looks can be deceiving! It seems her and beau Ronaldo are getting molto serious as they are planning to spend the holidays together and Irina is let's just say hoping for diamonds under her tree.

Sidenote: her recent GQ Spain nude photos have hit a bit of a rock because she claims she never posed nude, however reps for GQsay au contraire! I think she is just trying to cover her a$$ (pun intended) because Ronaldo doesn't want people checking out the goods. After all, they are his aren't they? Photo courtesy of justjared.

Turn the Heat Up

Okay, so in this recession and weather that's tempting but hard to do. Here's a free way to stay warm this winter and get ready for spring. Alessandra Ambrosio was just spotted shooting for the Koton 2011 swim-wear campaign. It seems geometry is fair game as monokinis are taken to new dimensions. Slip on a fur jacket, a fedora, and boyfriend jeans with platform clogs and who says you can't wear a bathing suit in the winter?! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZvKuiTYH3UA&feature=player_embedded

A McQueen Dream

...was carried on by the fashion label's protege Sarh Burton for the Spring 2011 collection. From dramatic black to fur, the designer stayed true to Alexander McQueens' reputation. Check out more at style.com.

Turn on the Light

That was the theme at wonder boy Alexander Wang's Spring 2011 RTW show. From origami inspired cuts, to pure as white dresses, the season's show was pure as this winter's snow. With only brief hints of colors like teal and orange, one thing was clear: black was whack and white takes flight. Below is one of my favorites from the show, check out more at style.com

Let Me Upgrade You

Step aside Ugg, there are 2 new fashion faux paus taking the scene and they are taking a classic fashion mishap and making it a fashion fix. The classic comfy boots are getting a revamp with brands Koolaburra and Australia Luxe Co., and have been spotted on the likes of Megan Fox and Jessica Alba. Talk about staying hot, hot, hot, when the weather gets cold, cold, cold! From fringe to lace and leather, these new brands are screaming out to a classic: "Let me upgrade you," and I for one am happy to let them.

And the Color for Spring 2011 is...

Drum roll please! My fashion forecast for Spring 2011 is out and the winner is...orange! Yes, one of my least favorite colors is making its 70s revival in 2011 in everything from kitten heels to handbags. Oh and don't forget lace(love), low rise extreme flares(love), and kitten heels, which I also loathe are back in. Hey these looks aren't for everyone, and while I am only in love with half, what can you do? When you're in you are in, and when you are out, well as Heidi would say (just picture the accent) "You're out!"

Go To Spain

...without leaving the comfort of your home. Pick up the new Harper's Bazaar Espana edition featuring new it girl and Ronaldo's girl, Irina Shayk. Now that's prrrfection! http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3Djhvo4xrLDbM&h=aaa46

Say Hello to Marilyn

Not only will Miss Michelle Williams be playing Marilyn Monroe in a new biopic, but she will look faboosh doing so, just as she did at last night's premiere of "Blue Valentine." Pulling off the leopard look perfectly with her heels and her red lace dress, she topped off the look with a smashing new pixie cut. With the new platinum look she is certainly redefining the term Marilyn famously coined in the 50s: "blonde bombshell."

WOW

Words of Wisdom: Disney may have put it best when he said "A dream is a wish your heart makes," but I however see it as unfinished. Today let's expand that pumas, to say instead "a dream is a wish your heart makes, and your mind sets out to conquer." Conquer it pumas!

You Wanna Piece of Y-3

Y-3 took its fashion week promenade recently and what it showed was lots of simple color and pieces, starting with showing lots of tummy. The makeup was green lips and high fying hair for the men, while the colors were very monochromatic relying on the simple, red, white, and black staples. Y-3 seemed to in its very own way showcase a throwback to the future, proving that in fashion like with art, the impossible is very much possible. Photo courtesy of style.com.

'If Nautical Nonsense Be Something You Wish"

...than look no further to Tommy Hilfiger and his most recent Spring 2011 show. On the label's 25th anniversary, Tommy drew homage to his American nautical roots, with red, white, and blue of course! From oxford shoes to plaid menswear what's more American than that?

"What Goes Around Comes Around"

I have always been a firm believer in the wise old saying and now it is even being put to use in my shopping habits. My best kept secret for my favorite clothes ranging from college sweats to club dresses is found at the pumaness that is: karmaloop.com. They carry everything from Rebel Yell, to Wildfox, and Obey at the best prices. Forget singer 22. Their selection beats it. So beat your friends to the punch and catch a lil' karma I am throwing your way. The chase is on beatches!

Best Dressed of the VMAs

She may not have took home any moon men last night, but Ashley Greene takes home ones of th best dressed awards in my book with her black and white Giambattista Valli mini. The other winner taking the spotlight in more ways than one with her short Isaac Mizrahi number was former Hills star Audrina Patridge. Can't wait to see what costumes she dreams up next on Dancing with The Stars. Photos courtesy of hollyscoop.com and justjared.buzznet.com respectively.

She May Not Win Best Dressed...

But for me last night there was something different about Gaga's look. Yes, she always is different, but this time it was a good different. For some reason she looked prettier than usual. Is it just me? Take a look at Gaga in all her glory just before she took home 8 VMA's in an eye-popping Alexander McQueen. Photo courtesy of justjared.buzznet.com

WOW

Words of wisdom for the rainy day today: the sun is always shining for those that sparkle.

Why Pick One When You Can Have Both?

Not sure whether to go red or brown this Fall? Well, just as the leaves change color so do many a heads. But with the new trend on people like Drew Barrymore and Ashlee Simpson, its seems women can have the best of both worlds. Its called two tone hair and I am tempted to try it before summer officially ends. Because the ends are dipped in a lighter shade and the roots stay the same, it means less commitment and more fun.

Grey is so Yesterday

I know it seems the color grey as in nail polish is rotating its way back into the the style spectrum this Fall, but come on. That was so 2 years ago! This year I say dare to be different and as a puma aim for the hunt with a hunter green polish or take it to the next level and try a reverse manicure like the one below.

VB Debut

Victoria Beckham's Fall 2010 Collection hit the catwalk of NY this past evening featuring classic, well-tailored, silhouettes ranging in shades from pure white to even a sequin metallic gown. It was very posh to say the least and thanks to gossipcenter.com I can share my favorite piece from it with you. Happy Sundaying!

Say Yes to FNO

Who said Fashion's Night Out, September 10th had to last only one night? From New York to right here at King of Prussia, the fashion shows and festivities are just getting started, and in case you missed opening night, no worries. There are plenty more performances to come. If you can't make it into the VIP shows at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC, you can still catch great happenings and discounts at King of Prussia nearby. This weekend only stores are offering special discounts, makeup giveaways and beauty consultations free of charge. From the cute twenty bucks a pop tank supporting fashion week, to Bloomie's giveaway gift cards and promotional totes, just say yes to FNO.

Hottie of the Week

This week's hottie of the week has already been mentioned in another post...it's none other than Megan Fox, who has made the top 25 list of October's 25th anniversary issue of ELLE, and landed a cover. In the mag she displays her abs and thoughts on marriage, and was just recently spooted in all her hotness shaking it at the Toronto Film Festival. She is about to star in a new film with Mickey Rourke, her style gets better everyday as does her bod, and her new Armani underwear campaign vid will officially hit the web and home of teenage boys everywhere September 15. For now, you can enjoy a hint of what's to come by clicking the youtube link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q33PCv9hpI

WOW Time

Its words of wisdom time my lil' pumas. Ready for it? Here goes: why waste time with people who think your time is a waste?

Victoria Beckham Preps for a Posh Week

Victoria Beckham has been spotted and tweeting all over, as she recently relaunched her twitter account, and is prepping fer her own line to take Fashion Week. She was recently spotted in an all black Loewe dress and hair extensions coming out of her hotel. Looking posh and skinny as ever herself, she has recently noted that no size 0 models will be sporting her line. I guess she not only has to be the poshest one, but the skinniest as well. What's new? Anyway, before her clothes hit the catwalk you can catch her and David getting it on in the new ad for their latest fragrance. Just click on the link.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_VfpZqobOc

Fox is Canadian

..For a few days that is, as she and her hubby Brian Austin Green (whom you can catch on Desperate Housewives this Fall) were spotted at the Toronto Film Festival promoting her new Mickey Rourke film where she plays an angel. I have not yet received confirmation on the dress she wore, but from the looks of it I am going with her usual choice of Armani(possibly CK or Versace), but for now I am going with Armani. What do you think of her look. It is the usual for her, but nice.

Irina gets Intimate

The possibly most beautiful woman alive, sorry Megan Fox, was spotted last evening out in Italia promoting Voctoria's Secret brand Intimissimi and doing some shopping of her own. That's right, it's none other than Cristiano's love and hottie supermodel Irina Shayk. Just take it in. What else can I say?

Williams puts the W on W Magazine

Michelle Williams and co-star and possible beau Ryan Gosling take this month's cover of W Mag as they dish on their new film Blue Valentine. Besides the great styling and photos, her hair is back to long....but it's just a wig. Also, she is one of y favorite real actresses, reminiscent of Meryl Streep, she is Oscar nominated, poetic, and ethereal, with a classic Audrey Hepburn style and flair. To find out why I think she's one of the best and most stylish actresses/icons of our generation pick up the October issue of W on newsstands soon.

School is in Session

Listen up Folks! Last night officially marked the beginning of Fall Fashion Week around the world, and while I spent my evening watching the Bloomie's fashion show at King of Prussia, super-models like Gisele, Adriana, Irina, and actresses like Kim K., designers like Mary Kate and Ashley and even athletes like Cristiano were spending it all over. From the runways of New York and Gucci to the old streets of Paris, Jessica Stam and others were strutting their stuff and announcing giveaways to kick off this famous fashion week's events. Last night at KOP, the lips were ruby red, the hair was snooki like but up, and if there was one take away lesson to be taught from the evening it is fur, fur, and more fur! It will be interesting to see what Fashion Week brings in store from the rest of the world stage. For now we will be holding our knee highs and clutches in anticipation.

Best and Worst Dressed, Tressed and Plain Old Mess

Drumroll please! So the best dressed of the 2010 Emmy's goes to...well someone not even nominated or presenting. Instead, it is fellow journalist and Access Hollywood correspondent Maria Menounos. Though we've seen her in better makeup, her one of a kind, handmade with over 15,000 Swarvoski crystal Ralph and Russo cut-out gown took home the award. Curves in just the right places without looking classless, she could be little Miss Emmy. Way to go Maria! Hollywood starlets take note.

Runners up include:

Claire Danes, a close second in Armani Prive, and Kim Kardashian-it was cute but the goddess thing is old and the fit was too

also what was with the hair and makeup-it was like old Hollywood glam met goth chic, the heavy powder and red lips were reminiscent of Sandra Bullock at the Oscars. It was a throwback that should be thrown back to the 20s. There is a reason we live in 2010. The updos however, were better lots of twist and chic loose buns like I expected. Luckily, not many had their buns running loose though in their gowns, even Kim Kardashian managed to hide the junk in her trunk. Overall, ok some sparkle some flash but no real Hollywood shine, and Fallon was a fail trying to cover up the bad comedy by turning it into a musical. Is everything reverting back to HSM? That was so five years ago! And another thing...Tina Fey get over the black already. You've won three awards already and your slim, you don;t need the whole black is slimming thing. Try some color. It's an awards show not my mammy's funeral. I'll let you know when that comes around, I may need to borrow that dress. On the other hand, if I ever take a trip to Spain I'll call up Anna Paquin and borrow her matador costume...Alexander McQueen was a legend who made beautifully unique pieces. He has done better and Anna could've chosen better. Enough said, on to the next one...the Oscars are how many months away now?

Gimme Some Emmy!

The Emmy's are on tonight, and although we love to see what tv comedy wins, we are more eager to find out what the stars will have on. Tune in with us tonight on NBC at 8 to find out and check out this blog in the next few days to see who wins bets and worst dressed.

Scorcese+Chanel+Ulliel=Epic

Watch the newest short film advertising Bleu de Chanel. It is epic to say the least, and features French hottie Gaspard Ulliel being the man we do not expect. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG-nnDlnWrA&feature=player_embedded#!

Hugh Watch Out!

Hefner better watch his back, D&G has got it out for the big man with their big take on the bunny. However, instead of the typical furry tail and ears, they went the snow bunny route this Fall 2010 on the runway with furry boots and ears. Using heavy knits and one piece suits adorned in black and white, their exaggerated take on the slopes made me want to learn to ski, or at least dress the part. Then again isn't that what life is about most of the time: dressing the part? See fashion does have a deeper meaning to it: philosophy. Hey Drexel and other colleges why don't you offer a course in that: the Philosophy of Fashion. (For more from D&G's show, check out style.com.)

Jess Alba Strikes Gold at "Machete" Premiere

Jessica Alba struck gold at the premiere of her new action film "Machete" in LA. Although I have not received confirmation on whether it is a Balmain dress, from the texture to the lifted shoulder design, I am assuming it is, and boy did her curves pull it off. As if she needed to strike it rich!

Getting Serious?

Is it possible that playboy and bonified hottest man on earth Cristiano Ronaldo is getting serious with new lady and bonified hottie herself, Irina Shayk? Well, it certainly seems like it as the two were spotted the other evening ca-noodling with another sharing puppy dog eyes and laughs as they watched the U.S. defeat Madrid in basketball. On a sidenote: they embody evening out chic with Irina's sleek hair color and style, her short shorts and white low cut chirt to match his striped shirt and glistening locks. Brangelina watch out. These two are definitely the hottest couple on the planet now! Imagine if they had kids? Oooh too much for right now. Let's just soak them in.

Guilt By Gucci

Most of the times we'd pay not to feel guilty, but this new fragrance by GUCCI gives off the opposite effect. Just look at the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEy2bc2SVY8

A Bun in the Down Under Oven

Looks like another VS Angel is expanding her wings and family. Miranda Kerr, the famous Aussie model who just created her own organic skincare line and website, KORA, along with a book, and cute hubby-Orlando Bloom, is now adding baby to the list. According to sites, Ms. Kerr or Mrs. Bloom, has been preggers for 4 months. Well, she's done a good job of keeping the bun in the oven. Then again, she has been under the paps radar so really no surprise here. Congrats! In a few months the world will be an even more beautiful place!

Rocky Tonight

Check out a free screening of "Rocky," the Philadelphia story, at the Art Museum around 8. It's free, so your wallet won't be grumbling.

The Leaves aren't the Only Things Changing Color

While the leaves make way for the change of seasons by changing colors so should your hair. Whether you plan on darkening your waves or adding a black headband like we saw at Lagerfeld, your hair deserves a change. The colder months are usually the time when people get back to their roots, exchanging the bleach bottle for some black dye, but even for those like myself who have black hair to start with you can still make a change without going drastic. For dark hair girls like Kim Kardashian, the latest craze is to take it a shade lighter. That is, go from pure black to dark brown or mocha, either adding highlights or completely dying your dark, luscious locks. It isn't drastic, but it does say I welcome change. Looks like the leaves aren't the only thing that will be turning brown!

Black is Back

While nude is making its way in once again this Fall, you can always fall back this Fall on a timeless shade: black. Kourtney Kardashian was seen in a beautiful black jumpsuit leaving E! Studios yesterday after paying a visit to "Chelsea Lately." I am investigating who its by right now, but regardless its probably at least one hundred bucks. For those needing to save cash you can find similar ones for 70% off at singer22.com.