The New York Narrative

Hi Everyone,

While it’s New York City Fashion Week there’s not a chance in hell I’d be able to cover all the looks from front rows to parties, so instead, you’re getting some of the finest and frightening looks from the Toronto International Film Festival this year!

Award season has just begun and while we’ve already seen looks from Venice, TIFF is the next stop on the festival bandwagon.

Take a look, be sure to check out looks from TIFF last year, and enjoy! l

— Christian

Amy Adams, Tom Ford- “Nocturnal Animals” Premiere

Let’s start this off right with chic, chic, chic: Amy Adams rocking all kinds of Tom Ford.

Ms.Adams is the luckiest gal in town donning tons of custom Tom Ford pieces while promoting their psychological dark noir thriller, “Nocturnal Animals.” Again, the fiery redhead went for classic, simple Old Hollywood that she does oh-so-well and Mr.Ford excels at.

Her cream asymmetrical gown has a beautiful overlay with built in bustier and sexy side slit. Those shiny waves and just the right amount of Gold wrapped diamonds matching Gold Louboutin platforms only elevated her offering.

Amy Adams, Tom Ford- “Nocturnal Animals” Press and Photocall

From Mr.Ford’s recently shown Fall Collection, Ms.Adams chose a 70’s-esque belted up (slightly Bondage) leather top cinched at the waist pairing it with a Hitchcock pencil skirt and severely pointy Tom Ford heels.

Approachable yet, “I can kick your ass in two seconds,” would sum this up.

Amy Adams, Alexander McQueen- “Arrival” Premiere

Rounding out her Red Carpet lap at TIFF, Ms.Adams rocked a McQueen column gown with tiers at the hips and crystals at the neck. A sleek pony wrapped in velvet and megawatt smile enhanced the sophisticated choice.

Think it’s safe to say 2016 belongs to the redheads: Amy Adams and Emma Stone.

Jennifer Connelly, Louis Vuitton- InStyle & Max Mera TIFF Party

From Classic to very Fashion, Jennifer Connelly stepped out in two daring Louis Vuitton looks from BFF Nicolas Ghesquiere and the risks paid off.

Her first choice was a Nascar themed body con dress with asymmetrical hem and bitch stompin’ boots. Slightly tousled hair and LV box clutch grounded the look. Doesn’t hurt that she’s giving us body-oddy-oddy and is easily the coolest chick on that Red Carpet.

Jennifer Connelly, Louis Vuitton- “American Pastoral” Premiere

Ms.Connelly’s second LV selection was a sexy leather zip up gown with super cool claw mark detailing at the chest. This detail was featured in The New York Narrative’s Team Iron Man segment of the Captain America Fashion post on Black Panther, so it’s nice to see in come to fruition on someone so cool.

Her hair, those eyebrows, those eyes…she legit keeps getting better with age. I saw no footage of her walking in this thing, but, I can only imagine she hopped around over strutting as per usual.

Lupita Nyongo, Mary Katrantzou- TIFF Private Dinner Sponsored by Tiffany & Co.

Lupita Nyongo’s Mary Katrantzou jumpsuit is so psychedelic and coo-coo crazy you can’t take your eyes off it. Is it a train-wreck? Is it amazing? I don’t know, but I know I love it even if I shouldn’t.

Lupita Nyongo, Carolina Herrera- “Queen of Katwe” Premiere

Lupita’s second look, a zesty Carolina Herrera column gown with insanely beautiful electric Blue flowery crystal embroidery and matching headpiece, is absolutely outstanding. One of my faves from her.

Natalie Portman, Prada- “Jackie” Premiere

…I mean…

Natalie Portman, Dior- “Planetarium” Premiere

Never thought I’d prefer a (forced) Dior sponsored look over personal style but this Dior fits the soon to be mother far more than whatever that Flower Power Prada thing is.

Taraji P.Henson, Naeem Khan- InStyle & Max Mera TIFF Party

I have no idea what the hell Taraji P.Henson is doing anymore.

Did she get this in Atlantic City at a gift shop? Between those tacky lace-up heels and her new Blonde do, that just looks like dead hair, I am baffled. Where’s Cookie?

Taraji P.Henson, Vintage Yves Saint Laurent- “Hidden Figures” Premiere

See above…

Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Tom Ford-“Nocturnal Animals” Premiere

DAYUMMM.

Ellie Bamber, Tom Ford- “Nocturnal Animals” Premiere

Since Venice, Ellie Bamber has been on a whirlwind promo tour for Tom Ford’s “Nocturnal Animals” giving us some seriously fantastic looks.  Ms.Bamber’s sexy Tin Man mini feels much more appropriate for the 19-year old’s style over her more sophisticated crushed velvet gown in Venice. The metallic hue also compliments her hair fantastically.

Shailene Woodley, Elie Saab- “Snowden” Premiere

I have never, and I mean never, been taken aback by anything Shailene Woodley has worn on a Red Carpet. This is such an amazing look for her I’m speechless. I am praying she keeps this up.

Emma Stone, Rochas- “Katie Says Goodbye” Official TIFF Party

Coming off some seriously fantastic praise and Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival for “La La Land,” Emma Stone made her way to TIFF on what will surely be a very busy promo tour for the young actress.

Ms.Stone chose a metallic brocade Rochas dress with matching D&G sparkly sandals and tight waves. The look is very 40’s, which isn’t a bad thing, but I’m not totally blown away like I have been with Emma’s past choices.

Emma Stone, Chloe- “La La Land” Press and Photocall

Much more in Ms.Stone’s wheelhouse, her flowy and exaggerated Chloe blouse paired with high waisted shorts and Jimmy Choo heels is simple yet stylish. Cool Ray Bans and a crossbody keep the look youthful.

Emma Stone, Chanel- “La La Land” Premiere

…then the premiere happened. Digging this from the neck down, it’s actually a stunning piece by Chanel and excellently paired with them Louboutin’s, but what is up with that Blair Waldorf headband?

The bouncy waves and hair accessory make this very, very cutesy which would be more appropriate if she were 14. Ms.Stone usually gets the cool-girl thing down pat and super sleek straight locks would have totally enhanced this. I’m rather disappointed, something I never feel with Emma.

Naomi Harris, Dior- “Moonlight” Premiere

Thankfully I was saw once I saw Naomi Harris who showed up on the Red Carpet looking absolutely stunning in a simple Dior dress with tons of sheen and complimentary accessories. The British beauty’s make-up glowed and her hair was perfect.

Thank you, Naomi, and I cannot wait to see “Moonlight.”

Fan Bing Bing, Eli Saab- “I am not Madame Bovery” Premiere

Fan Bing Bing knows how to make an entrance. The International star doesn’t play around when it comes to the Red Carpet and TIFF is no exception. Ms.Bing Bing’s crushed velvet long sleeved gown was flanked by a gorgeous flounce filled with embroidered painted birds. Total Fashion fantasy.

Nicole Kidman, Nina Ricci- “Lion” Premiere

Loving the slight Goth nature of Nicole Kidman’s striped sequin Nina Ricci dress, but wishing her hair was a more interesting. Maybe they kept it straight to follow the lines of the dress? It looks like straw and a super sleek high pony would have sufficed.

Reese Witherspoon, Ulyana Sergeenko- “Sing” Premiere

Reese Witherspoon has been making excellent choices all around from Fashion to Film to Television. I’ve always liked Reese but she’s been getting better and better lately.

Ms.Witherspoon stepped out in a dramatic off the shoulder bod-con button front Ulyana Sergeenko brocade mini and leg lengthening nude Louboutin heels. Her hair was bouncy and shiny (not to mention youthful and refreshing) and she looked so damn happy her confidence seemed infectious.

Elizabeth Moss, Stella McCartney- “The Bleeder” Premiere

I’m firmly on the fence when is comes to Elizabeth Moss’ style, but I am into this 100%: she looks hot! Arguably  the dress is a little too short and bordering on drunk Club-Girl attire but the “Top of The Lake” actress has never looked better.

Naomi Watts, Roberto Cavalli- “The Bleeder” Premiere

Now this is a vast improvement from Naomi’s outing’s at Venice recently. Ms.Watt’s Twiggy lashes and beachy lob compliment her gorgeous Cavalli gown with tassel ties and boho vibes. Keep this up, Doll.

Ethan Hawke, Dior Homme- “The Magnificent Seven” Premiere

Ethan Hawke can get it in his Dior Homme modern suit paired with a crisp White shirt and shiny shoes. Classic sexy Menswear at it’s finest.

Rachel Weisz, Alexander McQueen – “Denial” Premiere

Rachel Weisz’s frothy Alexander McQueen embroidered gown could totally doubt as an outfit change for Glinda in “Wicked,” and I’m totally OK with that. Stunning.

Olivia Wilde, Greta Constantine-“Colossal” Premiere

Even with that Dior comeback Ms.Portman should take some Maternity style advice from Olivia Wilde  because she’s figured it out. The gorgeous actress rocked a 70’s classic long sleeved low cut gown with pendant necklace and some gorgeous hair. That whole glowing thing is clearly true.

Brie Larson, Alexander McQueen- “Free Fire” Premiere

Brie Larson is not afraid to stand out on a Red Carpet, and her TIFF arrival for “Free Fire” was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Rocking a lacy embroidered McQueen stunner, the Oscar Winner exuded confidence and not mention was giving us Witchy Realness. This isn’t for everyone, but it’s certainly for me.

Ms.Larson’s hair is ashy for “Kong: Skull Island” reshoots but we’ll most likely get her signature Bronde hue back for her role as Captain Marvel, thought I was digger her Auburn locks at Comic Con.

Anne Hathaway, Rodarte- “Colossal” Premiere

I think most of us haven’t been thrilled with Anne Hathaway for quite some time now. Fair or not, it’s the truth, but the brunette beauty is making me change my tune due to her phenomenal outing at TIFF and unique projects in the works.

Both Fashion-forward and well executed, Annie’s cream embellished lacy Rodarte number with tiers and billowy sleeves was a total standout. Eclectic yet sophisticated, I am hoping for more of this kind of Annie come Award season and less of this kind of Annie.

Anne Hathaway, Givenchy- “Colossal” Afterparty

Changing into another winner, Ms.Hathaway’s Givenchy leather overalls and sheer trench combo is a standout and I’m entranced. It’s such a cool- girl look I’m chocked the likes of Emma Stone hadn’t scooped this one up.  The half top-knot keeps both looks modern and refreshing.

Justin Timberlake, Tom Ford- “Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids” Premiere

Mr.Timberlake’s Tom Ford monochromatic plaid suit paired with the most gorgeous shades of Green from tie to pocket-square is very luxe and very beautiful.

Jennifer Garner, Peter Pilotto- “Wakefield” Premiere

Honey, you wash that man right out your hair! Hot Mama Jennifer Garner looked stunning in a Black and patterned Peter Pilotto fishtailed dress with the bounciest hair and a smokey eyes. Jen’s always looked amazing to me every since “Alias,” but this may be one of her best looks yet. Simple can go a long way.

Suki Waterhouse- “The Bad Batch” Premiere

Why is Suki Waterhouse dressed like a fancy librarian? Such a snooze compared to Venice.

Jason Mamoa, Dolce &Gabbana- “The Bad Batch” Premiere

I have no idea what is going on here but I’m afraid if I say he looks like a Gay Willy Wonka, Aquaman will kick my ass.

Kate Hudson, Cinq a Sept- “Deepwater Horizon” Press and Photocall

It’s no surprise to any loyal The New York Narrative reader I’ve a love/hate relationship with Kate Hudson’s fashions. Kate as a gal I love; seems super cool and a kick-ass Mom. But sometimes the girl veers into very, very dangerous territory. It’s still fun to see her on the Red Carpet because you don’t know what to get.

Ms.Hudson’s at TIFF to promote “Deepwater Horizon,” a very serious true story, and it seems she’s dressing more on the fashionably conservative side. Her Cinq a Sept ensemble of exaggerated bellbottomed jumpsuit and varsity track jacket paired with silky smooth hairs and Grey pump is totally appropriate and appealing.

It’s nice to see Kate again as her plastic surgery has finally settled, looking more like herself again.

Kate Hudson, 3.1 Phillip Lim- “Deepwater Horizon” Press and Photocall

I really love when Kate Hudson wears a suit. She looks incredibly sophisticated with an air of 70’s charm that seems to fit her perfectly. Her 3.1 baby Blue striped suit is like a modern “Working Girl” and those bouncy extension filled waves are a perfect match. Nude Louboutin’s complete the class.

Special thanks to Ms.Hudson’s stylist, Sophie Lopez, as her Instagram is the only place these Kate looks could be seen.

Kate Hudson, Alexander McQueen- “Deepwater Horizon” Premiere

While having sheer dress/gown/blouse fatigue as it’s been anywhere and everywhere for the last 3+ years, Kate’s sheer embellished McQueen gown is so incredibly beautiful I’ll allow it. When Ms.Hudson wants to bring it, she brings it, and the glamour is unmistakable. Zooming in on each and every piece of diamond embellishment this is really a piece of art.

While va va voom sexy, yes, it’s doesn’t go into skank territory which is refreshing. The dark manicure and pulled back hair really brings the look together.

Chris Pratt, Ermenegildo Zegna-“The Magnificent Seven” Premiere

Hubba-hubba, Chris Pratt’s plaid and pinstripe combination is well tailored and a gorgeous color scheme. He’s looking very dashing, but Bro fix the collar.

Scarlett Johansson, Haney- “Sing” Premiere

Ladylike yet incredible cool, Mr.Pratt’s Marvel Sister Scarlett Johansson was Red-hot in a romantic Haney mini with sartorial bow and well placed cut-out. While covering up that rockin’ bod, ScarJo is still serving us total babe and is the definition of effortless.

Pompadour hair—which I am still totally into— and platform heels give the look an air of Downtown cool. Ms.Johansson keeps on being someone I am extremely excited to see at any event.

Michelle Williams, Louis Vuitton- TIFF Private Dinner Sponsored by Tiffany & Co.

My initial reaction is to roll my eyes: another Michelle Williams Louis Vuitton platinum “Rosemary’s Baby” combination, but I’m totally won over.

 

Haley Bennet, Prada-“The Magnificent Seven” Press and Photocall

I’ve no clue who Haley Bennet is but apparently she’s in “The Girl on The Train” and a total standout so you heard it here first folks: Haley is someone.

Totally someone by my standards alone looking  as radiant as she does in a brocade Prada shift with a corset belt and embroidered velvet heels. Carefree waves and dewy make-up enhanced her perfect promo look…say that five times fast.

Haley Bennet, Dior-“The Magnificent Seven” Premiere

Glam for the premiere, Ms.Bennet chose an ivory Dior embroidered bodice dress in a signature shape for the French house and statement necklace to compliment it. Her Louboutin’s sparkle and ground the look but of her two I prefer the Prada; seems happier in it.

Ziyi Zhang- “The Magnificent Seven” Premiere

Ziyi Zhang was elegant, sophisticated, and statuesque in her velvet gown with Gustav Klimpt like embroidery and a simple diamond bracelet. Incredible.

Bryce Dallas-Howard, I.D. Sarrieri and Roland Mouret- “Black Mirror” Episode Premiere

First off, why does Bryce look absolutely terrified and why is she standing like that. Anyways…her lacy lingerie I.D. Sarrieri top paired with a luxe velvet Roland Mouret pencil skirt is very sophisticated and a great alternative to the simple blouse.

Sidenote: if you haven’t seen any of “Black Mirror,” run to Netflix and check it out. Rotating cast. Terrifying. Super messed up. You’ll enjoy.

Bel Powley, Roberto Cavalli- TIFF Private Dinner Sponsored by Tiffany & Co.

Couldn’t tell ya who Bel Powley is. What I can tell ya is that her Seafoam Cavalli suit was so interesting it made me Google her. Why can’t more people dress like this?  Talk about making a splash.

Rashida Jones, Stella McCartney-“Black Mirror” Episode Premiere

Rashida Jone’s Black jumpsuit feels so been there done that. As does her hair. As does her overall look. Kills me because I think she’s wonderful, but is anyone else really tired of her whole schtick? We get it: you love the hot nerd thing.

Dakota Fanning, Dolce & Gabbana- “Brimstone” Premiere

I don’t know what’s gotten into Dakota Fanning but I like it. Her crushed velvet dress was super sexy with a metallic brocade back, embellished buttons, and stunning flower pieces at hip and shoulders. Vampy make-up and a high pony made the look modern while daring. Well done, honey, keep it up.

Ryan Gosling, Gucci- “La La Land” Premiere

Just the right amount of cuff. Perfect fit. Excellent grooming. All Men should take a page from Mr.Gosling when it comes to dressing for evening. While slightly textured with subtle polkadots, Ryan’s suit is that fantastic mix of classic but standout and the lack of tie is a welcome change.

Olivia Cooke, Gucci- “Limehouse Golem” Premiere

First off, I’m shocked not more people wore Gucci at the festival. Secondly, Olivia Cooke is a great up and coming actress and I couldn’t be happier to see her in this, slightly overwhelming, number with sparkles on sparkles and ruffles on ruffles. A sleek hairstyle would have been preferred as the dress is a lot, but I can’t play God now can I?

All images courtesy of Getty.

© Copyright 2016 The New York Narrative. All rights reserved.