The New York Narrative

Hi Everyone,

It’s that time again: looks from the week!

We are skipping The Weekly Round Up here at The New York Narrative this week as nothing really moved me to share with you Kids. Just get outside, it’s going to be glorious this weekend.

Looking over all the Red Carpets and Press Junkets, I actually had to pull back and take away a few looks this week including only the good, the bad, and the Steven Tyler.

So take a look, sound off, have an amazing weekend, and enjoy!

— Christian

 Elizabeth Olsen, Saint Laurent- “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

Let’s kick is off with my best dressed lady and gent from both this event and the week. The Scarlet Witch herself Elizabeth Olsen looked Supherheroine chic in head to toe Saint Laurent. Between her embellished high neck caped mini— which was very in the spirit of the Superhero flick— those killer platforms, and complimentary hair and vampy make-up this was beyond a winning look for me.

My first instinct was wishing she had kept her hair down favoring the wavy deep parted do she’s been donning, but having her hair up keeps the look more formal and showcases that gorgeous neck detail. Ms. Olsen keeps playing the cool girl card with each look rather then succumbing to a formulaic approach to the Red Carpet. It’s beyond refreshing giving her a super confident glow.

Chris Hemsworth, Calvin Klein – “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

Moving onto the best dressed Man: Chris Helmsworth in Calvin Klein. Besides the fact he always looks incredibly sharp in a suit, Mr.Helmsworth looked particularly suave in this striking blue extremely well tailored suit paired with crisp white shirt, just the right shade Purple tie, Louboutin lace-up loafers, and impeccable grooming. Need I go on?

 Scarlett Johansson, Balmain- “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

Well, it had to happen at some point after being so on fire: I was let down by Scarlett Johansson. That said, I’m not so much let down as I am wishing she wore this to another event. While I’m obsessed with her pompadour hair and killer good make-up, I like her Balmain hippie-dippy jumpsuit but just not for this event. I see this as a chic daytime offering with her hair and make-up styled as it was at the MTV Movie Awards.

Good look, wrong event. Come back strong Scar Jo!

Aaron Taylor Johnson, – “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

I am into Aaron Taylor Johnson’s Gray-Green velvet blazer but much like Scar Jo, I wish this has been at another event…in, like, November. It’s Spring! Lighten up! I will say wife Sam Taylor Johnson’s black Chanel offering is much better than her last Red Carpet outing. But still, not wowed…kind of a snooze.

Michelle Monaghan, Antonio Berardi- “W Stories” Event in LA 

Michelle Monaghan’s Antonio Berardi separates confuse me just a tad. I have a thing for her because she always keeps it interesting on the Red Carpet but I can’t help but think this should have been saved for editorial rather than an event with flash bulbs. The pattern is so hard to look at and while I love the cherry Red Louboutins, that Bottega Veneta clutch is completely out of place.

Rachel Weisz, Celine- “I’ll See You in My Dreams” Premiere 

Rachel Weisz has to be one of my favorite actresses; she is poised and an absolute chameleon on screen. She’s been MIA from the Red Carpet for a while which bums me out because she always brings such Old Hollywood glamour. Apparently she left that at home instead choosing an aging Celine ensemble resembling a bad 90’s Laura Ashley print. To say I was disappointed, is a massive understatement.

Rachel Weisz- “I’ll See You in My Dreams” Press Conference 

Another bust. Totally granny and it pains me to say that…plus, hoops?

Reese Witherspoon, David Koma- 2015 ACM Awards 

Reese Witherspoon keeps impressing me, especially in this super fun mirrored David Koma number with fitted waist and flared skirt. While I like she is stepping out of her comfort zone a bit, I do wish she’d surprise us with something new in the hair department. The do is a little too Soccer Mom for such a statement piece. She’s on her way though.

Michelle Monaghan, Mary Katrantzou- Mary Katrantzou Exclusive Initials Collection Launch

This really wasn’t Ms.Monaghan’s week, was it? Donning a mutli-dimensional Mary Katrantzou look I am equally unimpressed as with her Antonio Berardi. Also, what’s up with he shoes? Ouch. Kudo’s for trying?

Claire Danes, Narciso Rodriguez- The Performance Space 122 2015 Spring Gala

Has motherhood changed Claire Dane’s style for the better a la Scar Jo? Ms.Danes was a tall drink of water in pal Narciso Rodriguez’s textural jumpsuit with illusion panel front. I don’t even mind that this is a little figure skater-y one bit; between her on point hair and make-up and minimal styling she’s absolutely selling this look. Maybe it’s the tan that’s making her so striking?

Dakota Fanning, Zac Posen- “Franny” Premiere 

We looked the other way and Dakota Fanning went and grew on up. Looking regal and kind of cool, Ms.Fanning donned a signature silhouetted Cream Zac Posen off the shoulder flirty dress with metallic Brian Atwood Platforms. This would have been far better had she not worn a Skittle Orange lippie…it’s not working, nor are the pin straight locks. I would have loved a messy ponytail. Would have kept it youthful.

 

Miranda Lambert, Bibhu Mohapatra- 2015 ACM Awards 

I’ll just say it: this is one of the worst Red Carpet looks I’ve seen in a long time. Miranda Lambert looks great; she slimmed down and looks happy and healthy. That said, why did she pick such a rough gown to wear? It’s incredibly unflattering from the crushed boobs to the illusion paneling and Angelina-esque leg opening tipped off with a metallic pointed heel. It’s not sexy, in fact, she looks about ten pounds heavier in this…dress?…or whatever you want to call it. Someone needs a new Stylist.

Jana Kramer, Jay Godfrey- 2015 ACM Awards

I have no idea who Jana Kramer is but I love the country star took the opposite approach as many of her peers opting for simple rather than embellishment on embellishment. Her Black and White Jay Godfrey gown is a breath of fresh air in a sea of “too much.” Also, how pretty is she?

Rose Byrne- The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon 

Rose Byrne made an appearance on Jimmy Fallon in a two piece Bronze ensemble showing a sliver of her very toned torso. Like a few others on here, loving this look but for another season entirely. What’s going on? It’s not even that cold out everyone.

Michiel Huisman, Thom Sweeney- “The Age of Adaline” NYC Premiere 

If you need a Menswear Springtime suit reference, then all eyes to Michiel Huisman in his fantastic Thom Sweeney three piece suit. Perfect fit, length, color combo, and cuff length. Masculine grooming done right, and overall handsome effect. Bravo, sir.

Jeremy Renner- “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

Taking a cue from co-star Mr.Helmsworth, Jeremy Renner also kept with the Blue theme donning a very sharp look topped off with classic Aviator sunglasses and purposeful facial hair. This look is almost a ten for me, but, that Black “Night at The Roxberry” shirt is keeping me from loving it 100%.

Blake Lively, Monique Lhuillier- “The Age of Adaline” NYC Premiere 

Blake Lively should get a medal this week for wearing TEN Looks one day and then another six to seven the following promoting what will bound to be on Lifetime in fifteen minutes, “The Age of Adaline.” Unfortunately, Ms.Ryan Reynolds may get a gold star for quick changes but not for every look donned.

Most of her Fashion choices this week look as if they were pulled straight from Serena Van Der Woodsen herself’s Gossip Girl closet circa 2010. Take for instance this archive Monique Lhuillier: while making quite the impact, doesn’t it feel dated and been there done that? It’s like Ms.Lively won’t graduate from 2012 big gown or go home kind of thing. Just not modern.

If you’d like a full look at Ms.Lively’s looks, check it out here. It’s a lot of Fashion in a short amount of time so prepare yourself.

Blake Lively, Monique Lhuillier- “The Age of Adaline” NYC Premiere Party 

Switching gears completely for the after party, Ms.Lively chose wisely in a Black Monique Lhuillier ensemble featuring a sheer bodysuit adorned in stars under a Menswear inspired le smoking jacket dress. This is the kind of Blake Lively I want: modern and unique. Her hair is up, cooler accessories, she’s in Black…this is so much more interesting than any of her other looks. Easily one of the few I liked in her marathon week.

Blake Lively, Antonio Berardi- The Late Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Donning another sleek look, Ms.Lively also hit a home run in her Black embellished Antonio Berardi body con dress on Jimmy Fallon. Again, it’s modern and cool rather than princess-y or dated. Keep this up, please Blake. We beg of you.

Blake Lively, Marc Jacobs- “The Age of Adaline” Press 

Choosing a very, very chic Marc Jacobs look for a morning interview, I’m not so sold on it for Ms.Lively. While it looks great on her (the jacket is too much, I’ll admit) I don’t get “Marc Girl” from the Blonde. It’s almost like she’s playing dress-up. Chic dress up, but dress up nonetheless.

Blake Lively, John Galliano- “The Age of Adaline” Press 

More in her wheelhouse, Blakey-poo chose a John Galliano patterned mini with lace up heels and contrast print coat. While I applaud taking on such a Fashion risk, I’m not sure it paid off so well. Interesting enough, but looks a little forced and dare I say cheap.

Blake Lively, Rocksanda Lockwood- “The Age of Adaline” Press 

Clearly trying to get some attention, her Rocksanda Lockwood eye catching ensemble did just that. I’m a little torn on this one as part of me loves the bold color and complimentary Louboutin’s, but the other part of me is rolling my eyes so hard because it’s so “Designing Women”…I am a man torn.

Blake Lively, Kristinit- “The Age of Adaline” Press 

There isn’t a single good thing to be said here…

Blake Lively, Cushine et Ochs- “The Age of Adaline” Press 

Sugary and sweet, Ms.Lively’s Cushine et Ochs ensemble is just the right amount of Upper East Side Housewife to make me cringe. Too. Much. Pink.

Olivia Wilde, Dior- “Sleeping with Other People” TriBeca Premiere 

Like Blake, Olivia Wilde had a very long week of promoting her latest film at the TriBeca Film Festival. I considered including more of her looks but most were misses over hits and I didn’t want too, too much negative energy on The New York Narrative.

Ms.Wilde chose a Navy sequin and cotton futuristic Dior look with Nudist sandals and a fishtail braid. Even long sleeved and high necked, I absolutely love this look for now. It’s super cool and fresh, not to mention she looks wildly confident. Sorry for the pun…ick.

Teresa Palmer, Johnathan Saunders- Warner Bros. Presents The Big Picture

This is a Springtime look, people. Teresa Palmer looked radiant in her Red Johnathan Saunders separates in Las Vegas and as sick of a peplum as I am, the colors and styling is so on point that the blonde’s whole look is just a win. I have no idea if she can act, but she looks great here.

Taylor Schilling, Thakoon- “The Overnight” TriBeca Premiere 

I want to like Taylor Schilling’s PJ inspired polka dot Thakoon dress, but it’s looking like she draped a scarf over her breasts and ran out the door. Nope.

Julianne Moore, Givenchy- TIME 100 Gala 

Giving us Disco Inferno Diva Realness, Julianne Moore looked all kinds of glittery in head to toe Givenchy at the TIME 100 Gala this week. While Black, there’s so much texture and dimension here (not to mention she is doing asymmetrical which she rarely does) it’s fresh and fun for the Oscar Winner. I am into the beachy waves as they keep the look high-low, but I am missing better make-up here. A smokey eye would have brought this Studio 54 fete home.

Rosie Huntington- Whiteley, Alessanda Rich- harper by Harper’s BAZAAR Launch Party

We get a lot of looks from Ms. Rosie, but, this is not one I am a fan of. Anyone else getting Beverly Hills 90210 from this?

Elizabeth Olsen, Elizabeth & James-  Meet the Filmmakers Q&A, “Avengers: Age of Ultron” Apple Store Regent St. London 

Ms.Olsen was on the promo parade in London sitting down for a Q&A on her upcoming Blockbuster. I included her casual event appropriate look because every single one of my girlfriends has asked how to do a casual look that is still cool and work appropriate. This is it right here. Oversize oxford tied short in the front, Black skinnies, cool shoes (Chanel, in this case), and a great deep part do. Effortless and office appropriate for a casual Friday.

Sophia Bush, Elizabeth & James- Michigan Avenue Cover Party 

Switching gears a bit, Sophia Bush looked fit and gorgeous in a body con Port Elizabeth &  James dress with lace up detail and Stuart Weitzman lace-up sandals she wore on her promo work last week in NYC. While I still don’t care for the brassy shade on blonde she is rocking, I like everything else about this look. I am a tad surprised she didn’t do a berry lip, but I can live without it.

Rose Byrne, Altuzarra- “Adult Beginners” NYC Premiere 

From one winning look to another, Ms.Byrne stepped out this week in a vampy and sexy Victorian-esque Altuzarra ensemble with lace up heels, tassel belt, and pin straight locks. The sheer trend should make it’s way out unless it’s done in a classy way like this; her contrast bra doesn’t even throw me off because Ms.Byrne is oozing sophistication. The front slit keeps the look balanced, and I am mildly obsessed with that tassel belt.

Chris Evans, Gucci- “Avengers: Age of Ultron” UK Premiere 

Chris Evans (who I had the pleasure of meeting today) looked handsome and classic in a three piece pinstripe Gucci made to measure suit with contrast baby Blue shirt and odd Orange socks. The socks don’t even bother me…look how handsome he is. He’s even more striking in person and incredibly nice, trust me.

Steven Tyler – 2015 ACM Awards 

I mean, because why not…

Dianna Agron, Louis Vuitton- TriBeca Film Festival Press 

Keeping with the cool girl trend this week, Dianna Agron made the round promotings her own projects at the TriBeca Film Festival in a chic all Black Louis Vuitton zipper front dress, box trunk clutch, and multi-strap pointed heels with embellished snaps. Punky hair and a smokey eye rounded out this downtown cool look.

Olivia Wilde, Etro- TriBeca Film Festival Press 

Ms.Wilde’s Etro separates arejust the right amount of 70’s by way of color, but modern enough that it doesn’t look like Disco is dead. Topped with a grommet studded jacket and contrast heels, the brunette beauty looked super cool in all the right ways. Classic Aviators and pin straight shiny, shiny locks completed her look.