Style Harmony

Even stars need makeovers especially since they are public figures. What more us, ordinary folks. Talent alone is not enough; they need stylists to amp up their image to increase their star power in view of fierce competition and media glare. It is always interesting to watch the transformation of ordinary folks to mega superstar. Still hot on the American Idol Season 10 which just wrapped up recently (Scotty WON!), I was bowled over my Carrie Underwood, former Idol Champion, in her short geometric sequin dress. She looked stunning, and even more so in that mini white shorts and off-shoulder silver glittery top she wore during her performance. Just some years ago, she had real BIG hair (she’s country!) and wore prom glittery dresses which made her looked 10 years older. Now, she has been transformed from a southern belle to the glamorous artiste that she is today. Kudos to her stylist! Carrie’s new image is sleek, sexy, fresh and elegant.  Celebrities also need to update their image to stay relevant and modern for their adoring fans and to get more publicity. With more publicity, of course comes more business opportunities. Carrie Underwood is now the top earner of all the Idol winners! Current season winner, Scotty McCreery, is only 17, still at school. Obviously, when he first entered the scene, he was your typical American country small-town boy in his Abercombie & Fitch baggy tees, jeans and flip flops! Oh gosh, wearing flip-flops to an audition that could change your life forever?? But that’s what teenagers wear, sporty, laid-back and very casual. But now that he is a champion idol, his stylists are working hard to revamp his image to be more marketable and to look like a celebrity. Observing his personality, roots and personal values, I would recommend an elegant style for his new image. He does possess a natural confidence, is gentlemanly and meticulous (noted the way he carefully selected songs that highlighted his best strengths). These are traits of the refined, polished and elegant man. It is also a style which is most suitable for people who are public figures and often need to attend opening nights, be on stage and network with important folks. The elegant male style consists of well tailored or bespoke suits, fine quality materials like silk, wool, high grade cotton (Scotty said he only sleeps on egyptian cotton!), subtle prints like pindots and pin stripes. Colours would be neutrals e.g. navy, gray, camel, black, charcoal and taupe. He looked exceptionally good in blues (see his CD cover on top). I believe once his image is refined into the elegant gentleman that he truly is, he will have a bright long career ahead of him! So if you are thinking of a change in career or a promotion, ask yourself “Is my image helping or breaking my goals?”

Scotty_After

Scotty_Before

Carrie_Before

Carrie_After

One can never say no to flowers. So when I was checking out the bazaar at Orchard Central last weekend, I simply could not resist stopping by a booth that was fully laid out with the prettiest display of floral and vintage inspired necklaces. The beautiful creations were carefully handcrafted by Serene, owner of Serenite Designs. The style is elegant, pretty and feminine. Reminds me of Miriam Haskell’s creations (see below), one of my favourite costume jewelry designer from the 1920′s.

Necklace by Miriam Haskell

Serene explained that each piece is specially handcrafted by her and she combined vintage costume jewelry with modern beads. For example, the yellow beaded necklace I bought; the pendant was actually a vintage earring. I just love the vibrant colours and vintage look and it is easy to wear with skirts, dresses and jeans. There is also an array of pastel coloured rose pendants mixed with howlite beads. I got this charming piece which is a coral peach rose pendant with turquoise beads and a little bird charm; perfect for my summer dresses. You can also order custom-made pieces and even bring your own vintage collection for Serene to turn it into a personalised costume jewelry. For more information, visit www.serenitedesigns.etsy.com.