Nicole Richie is NO Fashion Star in this Dress...

I think it has been proven on this blog, that designers can make some interesting decisions in regards to their creations.  And Nicole Richie, mentor on NBC's 'Fashion Star' is no different. Not only does Nicole have the jewelry line, House of Harlow, but she also has a fashion line, Winter Kate. And at this Fashion Star event in NYC, she combined both lines to make this look...and I wish she hadn't.

If  you have read 'To Burn or Fire' before, or are a first time reader, you will see I am big on patterns being proportional to size.  Nicole is only 5'1" and much too small for a big bold pattern like this and  the length of the dress makes her legs look even shorter than they are.  Finally the knot on the top of her head only adds to the upside exclamation point of this outfit.  Only thing I like, the reddish-orange shoes...

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

So much to say, so little time.  I will keep this relatively short and sweet.  Change the hair, less is more with this pattern of the dress, leave it down.  If we have to wear such a wild design, which she obviously loves since she designed it, make it less.  I would shorten the skirt and remove the sleeves.  If she is dead set on the sleeves, I would add a belt to add some shape.  With her arms down at her side, they just blend and she looks shorter and wider.  Just what every girl wants to hear!
As far as bad decisions go, I am sure Nicole and I would agree-probably not her worst one.  But as she is growing up, she is quickly becoming a fashion icon due to her bohemian style.  I don't think this is the best example of her Winter Kate collection, or lets hope not.  With that said, lets BURN the dress (or grow) and keep the shoes.  And no need to FIRE anyone...today!!!

Scarlett Johansson's not the Devil in Prada

With the movie Avengers coming out soon as one of the "Summer Blockbusters" I am expecting to see more than the average amount of movie premieres.  And we know what that means, more movie premiere outfits. The mostly male cast was all suited up at the last event, so they seemed to fly by unharmed (you know because Iron Man can fly), but Scarlett Johansson was not so lucky. 

At the London premiere, she wore a peplum dress, which has become especially trendy in 2012.  For those of you out there that don't know, per Wikipedia:

Peplum originates in the Greek word for 'tunic' and may refer to one of the following:

• A genre of Italian films also known as 'Sword and Sandal'
• Peplos, a kind of women's garment in ancient Greece
• Veil
• Short overskirt that is usually attached to a fitted jacket, blouse or dress

And although this peplum is a little more subdued than some of the others I have seen thus far on the red carpet, the patterns on Scarlett's dress make up for it.  I know mixing patterns is okay and in many cases required.  But one pattern has to blend into what we call a neutral.  Without it, it kinda of looks like this mish-mash of a dress you see above.

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

If the patterns attempting to mix weren't enough, she went ahead and added the also severely popular braided updo, adding yet a 3rd pattern.  And while I can appreciate her trying to tie her red heels into her outfit, they blend into the red carpet so much, she seems to missing her feet!  Change the shoes, step 1.  Step 2, I would of gone without the red (flowers?) on top...but designers can be designers. 

Scarlett, while your style has improved as you have gotten older and more famous, this was a huge miss.  And while it doesn't deter me from wanted to go see the movie, it makes me want to check out your wardrobe less.  So its too soon to say whether you need to FIRE your stylists, but you should certainly BURN this dress.  Sorry Prada, but even the devil wouldn't wear you!!!

Bad J Lo in this Idol Outfit

Now its been several years since I watched Fox's 'American Idol.'  Not since Kelly Clarkson won have I really turned it on and cared about the outcome. It isn't that I don't like Kelly, she was the only winner I did like, but I wasn't so much a fan of future contestants.  But I am still reminded about it on a regular basis, by commercials, people I know commenting on it and of course pictures. And last time I checked, AI was a family show?  Correct me if I am wrong...but would you wear J Lo's dress around your little kids?

(From Left to Right): Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson

We get it your thin Jennifer Lopez.  Your dating a 24-year-old.  Congrats...and you are possibly more popular than ever.  But is this really the best place to wear this Max Azria dress?  I will set aside the fine style she is accompanied with on stage, Steven Tyler gets a pass. (He has had a rough past and I LOVE Aerosmith.) And Randy, lets not roll up your tapered black jeans again, you yourself are not 24!  You look like you are wearing jeggings. 

Hmmm, how to save the outfit? 

If she wants to wear a tight form fitting dress, it shouldn't have slits in it-especially in the chest area-especially on national televisions 8pm time schedule.  I keep waiting for unmentionables to pop out...and you know which ones!  And even if you had the right place for this dress, I am not a big fan of the short sleeves.  And maybe its just this picture, but she looks a little stiff and not super comfortable.  But I guess I wouldn't either in this suit of armor.

What can I say, I picked on 'The Voice' and now its Idol's turn, I didn't think it was fair to single only one show out.  And since the Voice's judges outfits have been getting bit better (You heard me Cee Lo), figured I would offer some help to American Idol.  Jennifer, this is your 2nd strike.  One more...and.. I am not sure what happens, haven't had it happen yet.  I wouldn't BURN the dress, but the stylists or wardrobe department need to be put on notice.  You have one strike, two more and there will be no choice but to FIRE.  Although, I am guessing J LO had a hand in this...can you FIRE yourself?

Comment below...

Are Those Sleeves or A Sweater Jordis?

Perhaps it wasn't the absolute worst outfit I have ever seen, but it proved to be a HUGE distraction.  On Monday Night's Live Show on 'The Voice' Jordis Unga came out in a floor length gown.  On one hand, I give her kudos for attempting to add some class to her performance.  But the downfall?  I don't really remember her performance...AT ALL.

Not that her performance was bad, but all I kept doing was looking at her wondering if she had a patterned sweater on or if those were her tattoos?  As you can tell from the picture above she had a light pink mermaid dress on, which I will get to in a minute, with spaghetti straps.  And the way the straps hit her, what is now known to me to be tattoos, looked like it could be a 3/4 quarter length sleeve sweater.  And that is all I kept thinking about the ENTIRE TIME.  After looking back, I realizing most of her other outfit selections covered up her arms with actual sleeves, which may have been a smarter choice for her. 

(For a better look at dress, check out performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4SiGfLgCWE)

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

Lets start with the dress, not sure the mermaid style was the best for her figure.  It did portray a "softer" side for her, but maybe one that didn't bunch at her knees would of been a little more flattering.  And perhaps the thin straps of the dress didn't help with my confusion.  Maybe if the top of the dress had more material with a different neckline, it would of offset the tats a bit better. 

Spoiler Alert:  I am not saying this is why Jordis was eliminated from show last night.  But if I was so easily distracted from her voice by her outfit, maybe others were too.  And if Blake Shelton didn't chose her, America surely might of.  But good try Jordis and good luck in your music career.  No need to BURN the dress or FIRE anyone...just wasn't the right dress (or song?) for you!!!

But what do you think?  Comment below...

Vanessa Hudgens, Dancing with Herself at Coachella

Coachella Approved Outfits

So for those of you who don't know, Coachella is a Music and Arts annual festival held for two weekends in Indio California.  And last weekend (April 13-15) was Week #1.  Acts range from the Black Keys to Rihanna to Florence + the Machine.  And the celebrity festival-goers are just as random.  Its very laid back, so fashion isn't generally at the fore-front of outfit selections, especially with the rain and cold weather we had in California end of last week.  But that is no excuse...

I did look at this with a grain of salt, as this isn't my personal style of dressing and there were extenuating weather circumstances.  So to be fair, here is an example of "Coachella Approved Outfits" to the right.  Among the celebs with appropriate styling are Lea Michelle, Lauren Conrad, Kate Bosworth and Emma Watson.  These are all examples of the typical style worn and pretty much the best of the worst.

Vanessa Hudgens

However Vanessa Hudgens did not make that list as you will notice and here is why!  And a hint, its not because of her fine dancing skills. I am pretty sure, she has some sort of patterned dress on or bathing suit cover-up or long top?  With black lace thigh highs, mid-calf motorcycle boots and orange floppy hat to complete her look.  I would say she got dressed in the dark, but that wouldn't be fair to people who actually DO get dressed in the dark!  Or wonder if she went to play dress up at the local thrift shop on her way to the festival?  Nope still not fair, plenty of people find low-budget steals that are presentable...or so I am told.

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

Really?  There is no saving this outfit.  I understand this is our version of 'Woodstock' and its all about the music, relaxing...and the "herbal" enhancements, but honestly, this is tragic.

Vanessa, Vanessa, Vanessa.  A little effort or appearance of trying to look decent would of been nice. I cannot blame stylists for this one-it is all you.  So no need to FIRE anyone, but BURN the boots, thigh highs and dress.  You can keep the hat and maybe next time you will remember...people can see you, bad dancing and all!

Comment below...

Update: Voice Performers look Effortless...

I don't want to say that my post, 'Voice Performers look Effortless (In a bad way!)' ultimately influenced the decision of America and the Judges on the voice, but I think it helped!!!

Chessa's Last Chance Performance

After commenting on Chessa and Karla Davis's live show outfits this week, one of the two made a change in wardrobe, the other did not.  And a winner triumphed.  Karla wore almost the exact same outfit, while Chessa came out in floor length gown.  Not the gown was AMAZING, but it was a vast improvement.  (Check out my post: http://toburnorfire-fashion.blogspot.com/2012/04/voice-performers-make-it-look.html)

And wouldn't you know it...Chessa made it to the next round!!!  Congrats and your welcome for the advice.
Check out her performance to see her dress here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FmV2MnuUA8

Brooklyn wont SINK the Battleship...Yet!

I am personally very excited to see the movie 'Battleship' due out May 18th. (Hello Taylor Kitsch)  And the publicity tour seems to have set sail pretty furiously, as I keep seeing all the stars out on the red carpet.  And while most of model Brooklyn Deckers (I know she is an "Actress" now) outfits have been very good, we have a small miss here at the Sidney Australia premiere.

Brooklyn Decker in J Mendel

The tuxedo inspired J Mendel dress is actually very nice, if you pretend not to see the gold sleeves.  You remember when you were a kid and your friend would put their hands behind their backs and you use your arms to converse for them.  You would do all kinds of funny things, while they are trying to hold a conversation.  Anyways, it looks like she has her arms behind her back and its someone else arms standing in for her.  Am I wrong?  The sleeves just don't go with the dress.  And I cannot see any shoes, so sadly I cannot comment on those. At first glance, I thought she threw on a gold jacket, but then I realized, nope that was done on purpose. 

LeAnn Rimes & Nicole Kidman

And while I was looking for a picture of this dress, I found something even MORE amazing.  A few posts back I commented on a dress LeAnn Rimes wore to the Academy of Country Music Awards.  A dress similar to one Nicole Kidman had already worn.  Here is reminder to the right.  Well seems like Brooklyn Deckers stylists were a fan as well, only she wore it in black.  This Stella McCartney dress didn't get too much love from me a few weeks ago, but I think it is a little bit better on the model-turned-actress, than the country singer-turned actress. The cutouts are a bit different and its not a one shoulder dress, but I still think we could do without!

(On Right) Brooklyn Decker in
Stella McCartney

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

Since I already discussed the Stella dress, we will leave that one alone.  As for the J Mendel dress, lets rip off the sleeves and then there should be a vast improvement.

Overall, its not a terrible ding in the 'Battleship' armor for Brooklyn.  We are all allowed a few bad clothing choices (I just cleaned out my closest-I can attest to that.)  So no need to BURN the dress, just the sleeves...might be pretty.  And the stylists, from as far as I can tell, have done right by you, so need to FIRE.

But what do you guys think?  Lots of dresses, so little time to critique!

(To read the original post on LeAnn Rimes and Nicole Kidmans dresses, follow this link: http://toburnorfire-fashion.blogspot.com/2012/04/some-people-should-stay-away-from.html

Voice Performers look Effortless (In a bad way!)

We have come to associate certain things with watching NBC's 'The Voice' this season.  We of course have Cee Lo and his crazy outfits.  Now he has added a white cat, named Purrfect, which P.S. is rented.  Adam Levine and Blake Sheltons continued "Bromance."  And Christina trying to steal all the attention from even the performers on stage.  But last night besides what has been deemed some-what average performances were two outfits that stood out way more than the voices and judges shenanigans.  And I felt the need to comment, as usual...


Karla Davis

Lets start out with country girl Karla Davis, with her sequined dress and cowboy boots.  Now I can appreciate she went for something a bit nicer, as she usually performs in jeans and flannel shirts.  But this is your first live show-STEP IT UP MORE!!!  You don't, I don't care who you are, wear cowboy boots and a short sequined dress and think that is okay. (For a better view of her outfit during her performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K0CXcYrh5Go)

A little less drastic, but equally disappointing outfit selection, was Chessa's Navy and Red Capri track suit.  She tried to spice it up with a sparkly yellow top, but it came off sloppy. And then she threw on high heels.  Again, its your first live show, for millions of people in America to see.  And I know there is a comfort level, but she dressed up more for the battle rounds.  And the track suit isn't even Team Cee Lo's preferred team colors of Red and Black.  (For a better view of her outfit during her performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Im9ei0_UKt8&feature=player_embedded)

Chessa

Hmmm, how to save the outfits?

Karla's outfit is save-able, throw on a pair of high heels.  Simple fix, but do not go back to flannels-its National TV.  Chessa, scrap the warm ups and go glam, keep the sparkly top and build around it.

Lets be honest, this is your shot to make America remember you.  Our votes are what can make or break your time on the show and directly influence your career.  I know the show isn't called 'The Clothes' but even the boys made a effort for their stage appearance.   You are allowed to go a little crazy with your image on stage (i.e. Cee Lo) and get away with it.  I am still unsure who pulls the shots on the show, the artists or the coaches.  But the stylists of the voice, I am disappointed if you picked these out for them.  Karla keep the dress and boots, don't wear again together in front of me.  Chessa, the warm up suit should be for around the house or a casual event-not on stage.  And although not appropriate, no need to BURN.  But stylists or wardrobe department, do better, so we don't have to FIRE you!

What do you guys think?

Brooke Burke is Bad in Black

I don't watch 'Dancing with the Stars' anymore since the first season ended. Quick Recap: Actor John O'Hurley accused ABC of letting Soap Opera Star Kelly Monaco win, as she was on the networks 'General Hospital'.  So they had a "Dance-Off" and wouldn't you know, O'Hurley was awarded the trophy 2 months later.  I guess if you cry enough and are a big enough baby, you can get what you want.  So I didn't see the point of continuing to watch the program.   (Rant over.) 

I only saw a few minutes of it today, thank you DVR technology, and wished I wouldn't of.  In a show where wardrobe malfunctions happen often, I thought for sure one had happened to Brooke Burke's dress.  Then I realized, nope...its just the dress!

Brooke Burke (In the Middle)

And then of course after I saw it, I couldn't turn away.  (Sadly cannot find a picture front on)  But as you can clearly see, it looks like something has popped out.  And no its not just a camera trick or angle, it was just that bad.  The rest of the dress is fine, but lets be honest, who even notices it?  I was so distracted by trying to figure what the heck was going, that I didn't even see it was a floor length gown.  It didn't help that she kept her note cards covering the situation, but I was waiting for Janet Jackson moment.

Here is YouTube link, go about a minute in and you will see what I am talking about:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=op5BmQ5oL4g

Hmmm, how to save the dress?

If the dress was solid without the misplaced cutout it would be pretty and something I wouldn't of even noticed. Meaning an expected quality dress for a host of a television show. Or if she had something super sparkly on top of her head...who am I kidding, I still would of noticed what I am going to call "One Boob Cleavage"  anyways.

Sadly the picture to the left still doesn't do this debacle justice.  Brooke, I am sure your stylists are not to be blamed, but the wardrobe department surely should be.  I haven't said this in a while but...FIRE FIRE FIRE.  And then BURN this dress. 

What do you think?  Comment below or if you find one, a link to a better shot of the dress...

Some People Should STAY away from the Country!!!



Ashton Kutcher

 I know when I go to parties or events I like to look the part.  But some may take things a little too far.  For example, if your a newbie into the world of Country Music, as say an actor is, you might want to dress a little more down than the Country Stars themselves.  Ah, Ashton Kutcher, you traded your trucker hat for a cowboy hat, belt buckle and jacket that can only be described as "Barnish."  I can;t tell if he was trying to be serious, or popping fun.

Although Ashtons charm usually lets you get away with most things, the obvious being ignored for this blog,  I cannot let him get away with this.  I am not a country fan, so thank you for the shot outs on poor outfit selections at the Academy of Country Music Awards Sunday night.  And although I love a good red carpet award show, I wasn't sure what to expect for a country awards show.  Is Ashton's outfit an example of what they wear? Thankfully I was proven wrong.  The country stars themselves, who may be allowed to dress like this, as this is what they do, dressed better than he did.


L to R: Leann Rimes and Nicole Kidman

 However not all country stars passed the fashion test.  Leann Rimes wore a reddish-brown geometric patterned dress with white piping.  After looking for pictures, I found out not only was it a Stella McCartney dress, but Nicole Kidman wore a similar dress in November 2011.  Neither are great, but if I had to pick one or the other, Nicole's wins out.  Leann's dress is not flattering with the cut up her thigh, nor should those shoes go with that dress.  But what I want to know is why did she decide to dress like Pebbles from the Flintstone?  Tell me you see it...

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

I would like to see Leann's at least a little longer and maybe less white piping.  Those shoes have to go and that bag can go with it.  Even with the shortened version, that is a lot of pattern for someone her height.  Nicole is a good six inches taller than her-let the big girls wear those patterns Leann.  I know she wanted to go for a short Vegas dress, but this not a good example of one, nor appropriate for event.

All and all from what I could see, the awards show was fashioned about how I would expect it-a lot of cowboy hats, big belts, little blonde's and beer drinkers.  Ashton, stick with what you know best, acting and...leave it at that.  You are not a twenty-some anymore and at least when you were married you wore some classy suits.  And Leann, well BURN this dress.  It shouldn't be seen a third time by anyone, please put us out of our misery.  And to both of you,  based on these examples I am not sure you have or listen to stylists, so no need to FIRE...but maybe you can use your PUNK'd (Ashton) or 'How Do I Live' records sales (Leann) to buy one or a clue!  And Nicole, you are on probation for this one too...
What do you guys think?  Comment below...

Baylor Coach-Still Green in the Dressing Department



2012 Final Four Outfit

One of my other passions is basketball.  And since I don't play any more, watching women's college NCAA basketball is what I have left.  And if you have watched any games on television, you will notice one thing-the female coaches have terrible fashion sense.  And as I prepared to watch my beloved Stanford Cardinals play, there was a whole pre-game presentation on Baylor's Head Coach Kim Mulkey and how she is considered a "Fashion Icon." If this is what is considered a "Fashion Icon," then I apparently have no idea what I am talking about.

She said she does know many things, but how to dress isn't one of them.  So she relies on her friends who know designers, labels, etc. With friends like that...who needs enemies?

To the right is her outfit that she wore this evening in the Final Four game versus Stanford.  From far away, and I mean FAR away, it didn't look so bad.  But up close it was not great.  At least she didn't have hot pink shoes on to match her top. And she isn't wearing Baylor green!  Then while looking back at other outfits, they weren't much better, I found that I need to re-introduce you to shoulder pads.  Because although I am not a fan, Kim Mulkey and her friends certainly seem to be.



2006-2012 Outfit Selections

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

To be honest, I really don't care.  Baylor is in Texas and apparently they do do everything bigger in Texas, so I don't think it would matter.  I looked it up, she is only 5'4" and multiple pockets, big patterns and long jackets seem wrong on her.  And she sure does love her turtlenecks, oh sorry, her friends love turtlenecks.

So maybe I am a little upset and bitter, they did beat my Cardinals tonight.  But then again, they were supposed to (#1 ranking and all.)  But Kim, your outfits and whoever picked them out (I noticed you didn't name any names) are stuck in the 90's.  And I won't mention your hair cut...enough said.  But Kim, BURN these outfits and I suppose you cannot FIRE your friends, but you could try!

What do you think?  Comment below...

Katy & Heidi-The Kids Know Better...So should YOU!!!

Katy Perry

Yesterday was the 2012 Kids Choice Awards on Nickelodeon.  Its were all the kids and tweens get together, pick their favorite actors, actresses, singers, athletes and so on and so on.  But most importantly it is where famous people get covered in neon green slime.  Anything for the kids right?  Past slimees include Jim Carrey, Will Smith and in 2011, Katy Perry.  So one can only guess that that experience inspired this years outfit for her.

I know I am going to get in some trouble for this post, but so be it.  Not only is she from Santa Barbara and went to the same high school as me,  but a bunch of my friends love her (also including my mother.)  But that is no excuse, this is awful from head to toe.  Obviously we was channeling last years slimed outfit, but with the orange carpet and blue hair, it's what the youngsters call a "Hot Mess."  Besides that fact, she looks like she stole one of their lil dance outfits when they weren't looking.

Heidi Klum

And she wasn't the only one, although more subtle, Heidi Klum also had a not so winning number on. At least she was dressed for winter, but that dress and boots combo is not 'Supermodel' approved.  Again, very different than Katy's dress-yet makes for a nice canvas to slime on.

Hmmm, how to save the outfit?

We will start with Heidi's outfit first.  I would say pick one or the other.  If your gonna do that dress, which I am not sure is entirely right for a kids show,  change the shoes and add a pop of color somewhere.  If your gonna stay with the boots, pick a completely different outfit.  As for Katy...lets be honest, she goes for shock value first and I shouldn't be surprised to figure out that this outfit is not save-able.  She should give Heidi some her color, maybe her bright green shoes?

As far as I can see these two women have three things in common.  1. Both went to a Kids Awards Show. 2. Both are going or gone through very public, yet seemingly amicable divorces. And 3. Both have terrible style based on the photos I have seen of them recently.  Now Katy goes for pure gimmick and attention as we all know, she did marry Russell Brand.  I believe Heidi tries, but I just don't think has great fashion sense, but why should she?  She has had people telling her what to wear in fashion shoots most of her life. 

To Heidi, keep the dress and boots-just never wear them at the same time again.  Katy, BURN the entire thing.  And I know for a fact you have stylists, I have seen them among your giant entourage you bring to performances.  So go ahead and FIRE them too while your at it.  They can do better and so should you.  Your now an accomplished artist, everyone knows who you are.  Let us see your talent and not your terrible outfits.

But what do you think?  Would you wear any of these?  Comment below...