IdealHeel™ Blog

If you happen to be out and about and catch glimpses of oversized hats and glasses the likes of something Cruella De Ville would likely wear, don’t panic. Yes, you are awake and what can be seen all around you actually has a perfectly good explanation — the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is of course known for the two minutes of actual racing, but more importantly (in our opinion), it’s known for the long lasting ripple effect it has on fashion and its notable presence all over the blogosphere.

Kentucky Derby Style

Of course the classic prep clothing is a staple, but what really grabs everyone’s attention are all the accessories. By accessories, we’re talking about over the top glasses and eyewear. Even if you’re not going to be at the actual derby, there are several parties to attend that are no less derby-esque. So, we’ve decided to scour through some of the Spring 2012 fashion looks for accessories that might provide some inspiration.

Kentucky Derby Style

Kentucky Derby Style

Maggie Mae Designs is a custom hat and couture millinery shop that continuously makes some standout pieces at every Kentucky Derby. According to CNN, “Sally Faith Steinmann of Maggie Mae Designs created this hat in honor of Arson Squad, a retired race horse, who belongs to the Old Friends of Kentucky, a facility for retired thoroughbreds. The hat was auctioned to raise money and awareness for the foundation. Steinmann’s love of horses inspires her designs.”

Kentucky Derby Inspired Hats - Maggie Mae Couture

MAGGIE MAE DESIGNS^® has also designed several other beautifully ornate pieces that should provide inspiration.

Hats also made a comeback on the runway this season. If you’d like to pull a hat off the runway and then possibly use it later on, here are a few of this year’s options:

Balenciaga Runway Hat

Jil Sander Runway hat

Nina Ricci Runway Hat

Giorgio Armani Runway Hat

If hats aren’t really your thing, or you’re just conscious about not being able to wear a costume hat again, then sunglasses might be an effective way to make a statement. Luckily, designers have put out a number of elaborately designed sunglasses that show that you’re serious about fashion. Here are some of this season’s standouts:

Bottega Veneta Sunglasses

Dries Van Noten Sunglasses

Rag & Bone Sunglasses

Rochas Sunglasses

Chanel Sunglasses

Linda Farrow Sunglasses

Linda Farrow Sunglasses

Linda Farrow Sunglasses for The Row

Cutler and Gross Sunglasses

Ray-Ban Sunglasses

KBL Sunglasses

Thierry Lasry Sunglasses

Prada Sunglasses

Mui Mui Sunglasses

Madewell Sunglasses

Lanvin Sunglasses

Karen Walker Sunglasses

Illesteva Sunglasses

So even if the Kentucky Derby isn’t really your thing, these amazing accessories are still something to be excited about. And these are some of the standout looks featured in Spring Collections all over the runway that will likely translate to everyday looks all summer long. If the Kentucky Derby IS your thing, then you are going to be in heaven today. Don’t be afraid to take some of fashion’s best accessories and incorporate them into your Derby look to make the ultimate  fashion statement.

The years of caked-on makeup are out, fresh-faced beauty is in. At least that’s the mantra that this bevy of au natural glamorous women follow, and it would be universally accepted if they had anything to do with it. As warmer weather rolls in, less is definitely more when it comes to makeup. Nothing is attractive about a clown face drenched in sweat and streaming across your face (just picture that as you’re gobbing on the foundation).

In fact, according to an article in Marie Claire, men are more likely to flirt with women wearing less makeup. As sad as this may seem for women who spend hours trying to perfect their look in order to bedazzle the perfect man, but it should also bring hope. Just think of how much time (plus money spent on products) you can save!

So let’s take a look at some pretty recognizable (and gorgeous) faces who eliminate gobbing on makeup from their daily regimen. And I must say, it seems to be working! (Thanks to WonderWall for some great insights.)

Gisele Bundchen

Let’s start with the #1 supermodel in the entire world, Gisele Bundchen. When it comes to her enviable waves, she says she doesn’t do much. According to Gisele, “I don’t do much. I wash it, but I don’t own a brush. When the ends get frizzy, I apply a little bit of shine serum to them. Then my hair looks done.” Makes the hour spent with a blow dryer, products, and a straightening iron seem a bit ridiculous…

Amanda Seyfried

This natural beauty somehow manages to glow without, well, doing much of anything. She recently shed some light on pulling together her natural look to InStyle, “”I just started wearing blush and realize how much more alive I look with it on.” Considering she recently started dating Josh Hartnett, she is one fab lady to be listened to!

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba has been known for her beauty for years, and she has revealed her very tangible beauty secret — curling your lashes. Sounds simple, but true! “Always curl your lashes, even when you don’t have mascara,” she tells Allure magazine. “I usually don’t use mascara that much unless I’m looking really tired and puffy-eyed. I curl my eyelashes and brush a little mascara on the tips.”

Elizabeth Olsen

The youngest Olsen sister and the latest “it girl” apparently took some cues from her older sisters when it came to applying makeup. “I usually wear mascara,” she tells StyleList. “[But otherwise,] all three of us don’t really wear much makeup.”

Emma Watson

This young actress always looks fresh-faced, chalk it up to great skin and bone structure, or what have you, but not to a highly manacured look. Opening up to StyleList, this is what miss Watson had to say about her makeup ritual, “I’m so pale – I’m English — I have to wear blush or some kind of bronzer. I’m big into cream blush,” she tells StyleList. “And I get my eyelashes tinted so if I’m not working or I have time off, then I can just be natural, which is really nice.”

Kate Winslet

This stylish Brit has been inthe spotlight for what seems like forever, and she just continues to look more and more amazing. So what’s her secret? She told InStyle U.K., “I believe in ‘less is more.’” In fact, she keeps her toiletries down to the essentials. “My most prized possession is my pair of eyelash curlers, which I wouldn’t sell to anyone,” she tells People.

Freida Pinto

Always wear sunscreen! At least, that is what knockout beauty, Freida Pinto, swears by. According to Freida, “I don’t have too many beauty tips, because I am not fond of wearing too much makeup,” she has said. “I always wash my face before bed. I can’t sleep with makeup on, even just a little bit. I like my skin clean. I wear sunscreen every day; that’s my cardinal rule.”

Natalie Portman

This talented actress never looks less than perfect, and it’s not because she travels with a posse of stylists. Au contraire. She’s a simple kind of gal. She revealed it being all about the eyebrows. According to Natalie, “Don’t overdo the brows,” she tells Australia’s Harper’s Bazaar. “Stop plucking now or you’ll regret it.”

See, proof that you don’t have to wear a ton of makeup to look gorgeous. Despite seeing these actresses all done up for photo shoots or red carpet events, they look just as beautiful in their day-to-day life. So enjoy the freedom of less trouble getting ready and more time spent enjoying yourself this Spring. The more confidence you exude, and the less you hide behind layers of makeup, the more approachable you are - two cents to live by this Spring.

I know we’re all big fans of what a great black and white outfit can do for you; black and white is classic, timeless, and all-around chic. In fact, we’ve even blogged about it a few times here at IdealHeel (see The Results are Black and White: A Timeless Fashion Trend for the Fall and Seasons to Come). Not that we’re saying that the appeal of black and white will ever go away, but black and gold is definitely the black and white of now. This black and gold trend has been showing up on red carpets, on the runways, and on the streets just about everywhere lately. Technically, we can’t say this is the first time (think Cleopatra), but it is certainly getting some leverage in Hollywood and starlets are looking better than ever!

One of the most recent showcases of this statement was displayed by Jennifer Lawrence, who has received heavy red carpet attention as of late due to her lead role as Katniss in The Hunger Games movie series. She was seen wearning black and gold at three different red carpet occasions back-to-back, and dare we say, she looked AMAZING.

Jennifer Lawrence at the premiere of The Hunger Games in Tom Ford from head to toe.

Jennifer Lawrence in two very golden looks: On the left, she’s in a Ralph Lauren gown that reportedly took 800 hours to make! On the right, she’s in a Prabal Gurung gown and Jimmy Choo shoes.

Of course I’m sure we all saw Jessica Chastain at the Oscars. In fact, she made our selection for best-dressed for the overall 2012 awards season (see Fashion Recap of the 2012 Awards Season). She looked fabulous in an ornate black and gold Alexander McQueen gown at the 2012 Academy Awards.

Salma Hayek brought some sultriness to the Golden Globes red carpet this year in a Gucci strapless gown.

Alicia Keys brought a futuristic vibe to the black and gold look at the 2012 Grammys in her Alexandre Vauthier dress.

Carrie Underwood channeled a Disney princess in this elegant Monique Lhuillier gown at the 2012 Grammys.

The Artist actress, Berenice Bejo, looked very flapper chic in a black and gold Gucci number.

Gwyneth Paltrow looked sleek and sophisticated in a Stella McCartney gown at the Grammys.

Rihanna channeled Michelle Pfeiffer in Scarface in a dress she co-designed with Armani at the 2012 Grammys.

Kat Graham is always one to push the envelope when it comes to fashion, and she chose a very intricate Falguni & Shane dress at the Underworld Awakening premiere.

Elizabeth Banks channeled a Greek Goddess in a one-should Versace minidress.

In fact, the Gucci Spring 2012 collection was featured on this dynamic duo:

Fashionista Zoe Saldana was recently seen sporting this look.

Chanel’s Prefall 2012 Parisian Bombay collection recently featured a lot of this signature look.

Black and gold is a very glamorous look from what you can see, so if you’re concerned that it can’t be worn in everyday life that doesn’t include runway wear, that couldn’t be further from the truth. We recently came across a great blog called Bows and Sequins that did a great job of showing how this look can be worn in a typical day.

And check out these seriously snazzy Sam Edelman satin pumps!

Honestly we could keep showing glitzy examples all day, but I think you get the point. Black and gold is live and well at several glamorous events and even starting to make a splash on the streets, in the office, and everywhere in between. The next time you’re out shopping or digging through your closet for something that will make an impact, consider a fantastic black and gold pairing.

Now that all of the major awards shows have concluded, it’s time to recap the fashion highs and lows worn by the best of the best actors and singers of 2011.

Biggest Head Scratcher Moment:

Nicki Minaj: Oh, what would be an awards show without at least one “Bjork in a swan dress” moments?  Nicki Minaj wins the head scratch of the year moment by showing up to the Grammys in a Catholic Priest robe custom designed by Versace. This original interesting fashion choice turned out to be part of her VERY theatrical performance later that night, so I guess it somewhat provides an explanation for her unusual outfit choice.

Nicki Minaj in a Versace robe at the Grammys

Head scratcher runner ups:

Lady Gaga: Of course Lady Gaga didn’t dissapoint, although her dominatrix-esque black and gold number did actually seem relatively subdued compared to years past. I mean the woman has arrived encased in a giant egg. This was tame. Although her face net didn’t exactly do much for keeping her red lipstick in tact.

Sasha Grey: The only reason Sasha Gradiva (apparently she’s a Russian singer) didn’t top the list with her machine gun adornment was because we didn’t even know who she was. The only explanation we have for her outfit selection is that she was trying to receive some notoriety…either that or she was not-so-secretly hoping to be cast for a Terminator remake.

Now that we’ve looked at some of the more “interesting” fashion choices at the Grammys, let’s recover some looks that were interesting as well…but in the best possible way:

Adele: Not only was this song bird the big winner of the night, Adele looked positively timeless and beautiful in Armani at the Grammys.

Katy Perry: Katy Perry should win an award for being able to match her blue Elie Saab gown to her blue-tinted hair and actually pulling it off. How does she do it?

Rihanna: Riri totally pulled off a Michelle Pfeiffer in Scarface moment in a dress that she helped design with Armani.

Gwyneth Paltrow: Gwyneth looked incredibly svelte in a black and gold gown designed by Stella McCartney.

Jennifer Hudson: Not only did Jennifer Hudson give a great honorary performance for the legend, Whitney Houston, she also stunned in an Alexander McQueen dress.

Now that we’ve re-capped some of the best-dressed chanteuses, it’s time to move on to the actress category. There are many shows to celebrate actor’s range of talents. With shows such as the Golden Globes, the BAFTAs, the SAG Awards, and the Oscars, there are several opportunities to look great…or not so great. Here are the women who consistenly looked fabuous throughout the entire 2012 awards season:

Angelina Jolie: Aww yes, not only did Angelina look iconic this season. Her now infamous leg-revealing Versace dress actually earned her the most popular internet meme of the year award.

Emma Stone: Seriously, this girl can do no wrong in our eyes. She consistenly manages to pull off perfection everywhere she goes.

Guiliana Rancic: This woman is a Titan of fashion…and life. She beat cancer this year AND was positively glowing in everything she wore.

Octavia Spencer: This well-deserving oscar-winning actress decided to go with one designer for every show and designer, Tadashi Shoji, certainly did not steer her wrong.

Rooney Mara: Rooney Mara stuck with simple well-tailored dresses throughout the season, which propelled her other worldly beauty to the next level.

Sofia Vergara: We’re convinced that this funny lady could show up in a sheet or curtain and still totally pull it off, but she consistently shows up looking flawless - making our theory somewhat difficult to prove.

Stacy Keibler: Looky there, George won an Oscar after all! Stacy was certainly the most glamorous arm candy seen this year. She even showed up looking like a life-like Oscar statue…now that’s a good girlfriend.

Viola Davis: Viola looked consistenly flawless at every appearance while saving her best look, pictured in the center for the Oscars. She also decided to go sans-wig to go for a more natural look. We say bravo. She looked absolutely stunning.

Michelle Williams: This one is a toss up for us. The Marilyn-playing actress showed up in two iconic looks for both the Golden Globes and the Oscars. Which of these two looks do you think worked the best for the pixie-cut beauty?

Berenice Bejo: This beautiful French actress showed up in a gorgeous mint Elie Saab gown. It perfectly set off her fabulous updo-enhanced red locks.

Rose Byrne: As always, Rose managed to pull off, artistic, sophisticated, and chic all in one look. Not any easy feat.

Tina Fey: This women has it all. Brains, personality, beauty, and obviously a ridiculous eye for fashion. Share the wealth Tina!

Milla Jovovich: Milla brought classic Hollywood glamour to the Oscars this year in an Elie Saab gown.

Judy Greer: Judy looked like a tall drink of water in this monument of a dress designed my Monique Lhuillier.

Leslie Mann: Actress and wife of Judd Apatow looked AWESOME in a midnight blue Roberto Cavalli dress and probably would have won our pick for the best dressed if it weren’t for…

Jessica Chastain: And the Winner of our pick for the Best Dressed this season: the gorgeous Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen. Jessica actually spoke in an interview about how most little girls dream of their wedding dress, she always dreamed of the perfect dress she’d wear at the Oscars when she finally become the actress she’d always hoped to be. We say, her dream came 100% true.

There you have it. Our picks for the best looks plus some head scratcher moments from the 2012 awards season. What are your thought? Who pulled off the best looks for you?

I start off with this photo because I want you to take a minute to take it all in. Your first impression is probably to the effect of thinking that it is a strikingly stunning photo, evocative of the very glamorous Jazz Age. Next you might actually start to wonder just who all these gorgeous women are. If they made the cover of Vanity Fair’s annual Young Hollywood cover, how you could possibly not know them?

If this scenario applied to you, first of all don’t worry you definitely aren’t the only one and secondly, these girls are somewhat “in costume” in all fairness. The fact that you might not instantly recognize the BIG-name actresses actually brings me to my refreshing point – a new crop of young Hollywood starlets are starting to become more recognized for their work than for their status.

All of these women have taken on at least one, if not multiple seriously meaty roles within the pasty year, but you haven’t seen them all over the tabloids and checking in and out of rehab. It’s still relatively early on in their careers so it’s not to say that this can’t happen, but the mere fact that they are building their “celebrity” based on talent rather than T&A is exciting nonetheless.

Upon deeper inspection, you might notice that not all of these women prescribe by the typical beauty notions of Hollywood. They don’t all look like they’ve had nose jobs, lip injections, liposuction, boob jobs or any other work done to make them fit into that perfect mold of unattainable beauty. Women like Jessica Chastain, Elizabeth Olsen  and Jennifer Lawrence have curvier figures, and are proud of it. Rooney Mara and Mia Wasikowska may not have your that “fake beauty” so many glamazons prescribe to,  but they have strikingly beautiful features that turn heads all the same.

Let’s take a further look into exactly who each of these ladies are. On the first page of the cover, clockwise from the top there is: Jennifer Lawrence, Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowska and Rooney Mara. On the second page cover clockwise from the top there is: Adepero Oduye, Shailene Woodley and Elizabeth Olsen. On the third page cover clockwise from the top there is:Paula Patton, Felicity Jones, Lily Collins and Brit Marling.

Let’s start with page one: Jennifer Lawrence’s first performance got her an Oscar nod in 2010 for her incredible work  in Winter’s Bone. This year she acted in Like Crazy alongside another cover girl, Felicity Jones. Felicity Jones is also quite genius herself, in more than one way. The brilliant actress attended Oxford University. Pretty impressive we know, but back to Jennifer. Jennifer Lawrence is set to play Katniss in the hugely anticipated Hunger Games later this year.

Jennifer Lawrence

Next up, Jessica Chastain, seriously where do we begin? Not only is she one of the most talented women in Hollywood, she is also the hardest working one. In fact, she recently made headlines for getting the part of Princess Diana in a movie adaptation of her life, but having to turn it down do to her insane movie schedule. Jessica Chastain has received incredible critical praise (including an oscar nom) for her roles in movies including: The Help, The Tree of Life, The Debt, Take Shelter, Coriolanus and other roles. She also has 6 other films coming out throughout 2012. She even attended Juilliard with the help of a scholarship from Robin Williams himself.

Jessica Chastain

The young Australian Mia Wasikowska has received nonstop critical praise since her work on HBO’s In Treatment in 2008. Since then, she’s played in The Kids are Alright, Jayne Eyre, Albert Nobbs, Alice in Wonderland, and several others. She also has a lot of BIG movies coming out later this year.

Mia Wasikowska

Rooney Mara, otherwise known as Lisbeth Salander from The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo has made a huge splash in the acting world this past year. This role was/is considered one of the most coveted roles played by a women within probably the last decade – and she did not dissapoint. In fact, she is nominated for an Oscar for best actress. You may have seen her in other roles such as Mark Zuckerberg’s girlfriend in The Social Network or on the red carpet with her actress sister, Kate Mara. After much scrutiny this actress proved she has what it takes with her chilling portrayal of a very troubled but genius girl. Interestingly enough, she comes from a football dynasty. Her families actually own and founded The New York Giants and The Pittsburgh Steelers. Pretty crazy, not quite getting the football vibe from the Mara sisters.

All of the other actresses have created equally impressive roles in the past year. Elizabeth Olsen, yes the younger and less publicized sister of the Olsen twins, practically came out of nowhere and blew everyone away in Silent House and Martha Marcy May Marlene. Shailene Woodley played George Clooney’s daughter in the highly acclaimed The Descendants. Adepero Oduye turned out a gut-wrenching performance in Pariah. You may remember Lily Collins from The Blind Side. She has been continually acting since then, even playing Snow White alongside Julia Roberts in the upcoming Mirror Mirror. What you may not know though, is her last name Collins comes from her father, Phil Collins. Brit Marling is another amazing actress who turns out pure genius on and off-screen. She attended Georgetown University and even turned down a job offer at Goldman Sachs to pursue acting. Last but certainly not least, Paula Patton has been steadily starring in some pretty meaty roles, slowly receiving more and more attention. She’s acted in Deja Vu, Precious, Jumping the Broom and Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol. She also happens to be married to Robin Thicke and is a former Berkeley attendee.

I guess what we’re just trying to get at is rather than see a three page spread of nothing but the same lemming barbie dolls who could be subbed in by any other pretty face, it is refreshing to see powerful, gorgeous young women with substance. In a time when celebrities receive notoriety based on who they’re dating and what they’re driving, this side of Hollywood and the representation of women in general, is seriously underrepresented and it couldn’t be more appreciated.  We know we’ll certainly be following  each of these lady’s careers with eager anticipation, and we wish them much success in the years to come. 11 points silver screen 0 points tabloids.

Seeing how you are reading an IdealHeel blog, emphasis on the “heel” part, I’m quite certain that you’ve all worn stilettos a time or two. Stilettos can be a challenge, but for a seasoned veteran it’s nothing more than a simple adjustment in stride and foot placement. (See Christine Tusa of Tusa Fitness’ expert advice on how to walk like a pro in high heels on Fashionably Yours.) Alright, so we’ll all agree - easy enough. Now is time for a real curve ball. How many of you can say that you regulary run/jog/briskly pace in your stilettos? *Pause while this soaks in* I am going to go out on a limb and say that a large number of you has significantly dropped off in your high heel certitude.

Check out this Video for more tips how to strut your stuff in stilettos with ease.

Well, I am here to say that there is no reason to! In fact, soon women and men in Dallas, Tx will be running for the Guinness World record for the most people running in high heels in one place! How and why is this all being orchestrated you might ask…. to that I say, “slow your roll sister!” I’m about to get there!

This happens to be the doing of an organization that is incredibly near and dear to our hearts. This will be the fourth year that the Stiletto Stampede for the Cure™ will be putting on a 100 yard dash in high heels. Benefits of which go towards funing programs created by the Stiletto Stampede nonprofit organization as well as towards the local affiliates of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. So basically, this is an innovative way to raise awareness and funds for advancements in breast cancer research. The Stiletto Stampede is geared toward a younger generation of people who don’t typically think they are at risk for breast cancer when in fact, this could be one of the most dangerous times to develop the disease.

IdealHeel has been a proud sponsor of the race since its inception in 2009 right here in Austin, Tx. IdealHeel has even created a signature hot pink pair of IdealHeels that is included in all participant’s race bags, so each person has the added security of support and balance while they are running. Running in high heels is also not as difficult as it sounds (trust me, I’ve done it several times – on the news no less). In fact, the stiletto craze is actually taking off throughout the state of Texas. The stampede has expanded from a race in Austin to now include races in Houston, Waco and Dallas with other nationwide cities potentially in the works!

Hot Pink IdealHeels

Check out this Video from last year’s race coverage!

The Stiletto Stampede has received some pretty great media attention and support as well. Currently FIAT is the title sponsor for all Stiletto Stampede races. They have even dressed a FIAT in signature hot pink and named her Francesca FIAT. Francesca tours all of the exciting pre-events and event days that Stiletto Stampede is involved in. And trust me, there are a lot of them!

Each stampede usually does a personal take on a full on post-stampde fashion show/pampering extravaganza with the help of all the gracious sponsors. There are also several high heel happy hours leading up to the race day, which act as a perfect opportunity to not only register for the events, but also to chat with other women or men about a very important and often under-discussed topic. At the upcoming Dallas stampede, there will be several exciting events held at the fashion store, Tootsies, a major sponsor for the event. The first 1,000 racers will even receive a commemorative pair of pink stilettos. These Nchantment Breast Cancer Awareness Shoes were created by Lauren Jones Footwear, designed by Nchantment Image Consultant Darla Parsons along with a collectable charm that will accompany each shoe and commemorate this World Record Stiletto Stampede event. The charms can be worn on the shoe, collected on a charm bracelet or necklace, or gifted to a survivor! Racers will also receive a Stiletto Stampede tank and a goodie bag stuffed with treasures. We will also be amongst some of the most fabulous fashion heavy hitters of the city with the experts from Where Wear in the City on board!

Stiletto Stampede has also developed a very instrumental post-surgical rehabilitative program for breast cancer survivors within the Austin community, suitably named BOOB CAMP. This gentle program offers both individual and group exercise programs which focus primarily on flexibility and range of motion exercises. The emotional aspect is also provided through peer support groups, all run by trained professionals in these respective industries.

So, I hope that gives you a better understanding of what the Stiletto Stampede for the Cure is and why SO many women are eagerly willing to run in high heels – because it is for a great and inspiring cause! We definitely know we will be there for the 2012 races, will you?? For more information about the Stiletto Stampede and more inspiration to spread the word, please check out the stampede website and/or facebook page. We hope to see everyone out there rockin’ their favorite pair of high heels with their IdealHeels!

‘Tis the season for resolutions. It seems you can’t walk into a gym without being bombarded by a flood of people or a restaurant without someone calculating calories to stay in line with their New Year’s goals. In reality, people really don’t even think twice about it, in fact our resolutions are often the topic of casual conversation over a salad with low-fat dressing, because this tradition is so engrained in our DNA.

Now that 2011 is almost over, it’s time to look back at some of the fashion highs from the last year.  Upon reviewing some of the greatest fashion moments, it became very clear that several of the best looks repeatedly came from the same group of well-dressed ladies.  Now we could just credit these fab girls for obviously knowing how to put an outfit together, although what would be the fun in that?  Instead each fashionable lady is going to go tête-à-tête with a “fictionalized” rival in a fight for the ultimate glory of winning grand supreme title of this  fashion showdown!

1. Elle vs. Dakota Fanning

Let’s kick it off with two natural-born rivals (nothing like brewing a little sibling rivalry).  These two ladies may be young, but they sure know how to put themselves together.   In fact, Vogue decided to do a story about just how fashionable and talented they think these pint-sized leading ladies are.  So who do you think is the top dog in the house of Fanning?

2. Ashley Greene vs. Kristen Stewart

Of course 2011 was another year that “Twilight” reigned supreme and well, those Twilight kids were seen everywhere. Everyone and their grandmas already know everything there is to know about K Stew and R Patz, but this year, several of the other cast members branched out and gained a lot of attention for separate projects.  With such a ridiculously attractive cast, it is hard pretty hard to make these girls look “bad”, but who would you say was the most sparkly vampire of them all?

3. Emma Stone vs. Evan Rachel Wood

Alright, now these two ladies are probably the luckiest leading ladies of the year or century for that matter!  Not just because they are young, rich, talented, and beautiful *psh BIG DEAL!  No, these starlets are likely still trying to catch their breath from their very fortunate smooch fests with no other than the Greek God himself, Ryan Gosling.  Emma Stone got to lock lips with Ryan during “Crazy, Stupid Love”, while Evan Rachel Wood christened her lips while filming “Ides of March”.  So what do you think?  Which of these glam gals was more worthy of Ryan Goslings saliva in 2011?

4. Blake Lively vs Rosie Huntington-Whiteley

2011 once again saw the rise of the bombshell blonde, much in parts thanks to the ample *cough* personality of two very gorgeous and charismatic young actresses, Blake Lively and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.  Not that bombshell blondes every truly go away, but this year they came back in style when Rosie Huntington-Whiteley not only was seen everywhere with her beau Jason Statham (you know the guy that all of your sig others have a total man crush over) but also replaced one very brunette and buxom Megan Fox, while Blake Lively won over not only Leonardo Dicaprio but also Ryan Reynolds in the SAME YEAR!  Now take a moment to soak all of that in, seriously??  Not only does this lead me to question which of them dressed better this past year, but I also want to know who is putting together the better action films during their free time?

5. Amanda Seyfried vs Oliva Wilde

Last year these girls were seen all over various red carpeta, but they just so happened to share the same one when they starred alongside one another along with Justin Timberlake in the movie “In Time”.  Now Olivia Wilde may play a woman a generation older than Amanda Seyfried in this movie (although that would be a completely ridiculous notion had their characters not been frozen in their 20s), but I dare you to say that she looked any more “haggard” than the much younger character played by Amanda Seyfried.  Or will you?

6. Zoe Saldana vs. Rooney Mara

These leading ladies kicked some major A$$ last year on the big screen, and they did so with some serious stealthy style.  Now both Rooney Mara and Zoe Saldana may have looked a little more on-the-rough-side in their respective films, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” and “Columbiana”, but who would really want to wear a full ball gown and heels when you are single-handedly ridding the world of evil doers?  Luckily, their grittier stripped-down looks didn’t transition to the red carpet.  In fact, I dare to say that these two ladies may have possibly looked the most glamorous, svelte, yet still edgey of red carpet dwellers in 2011.  What do you think?

7.Kate Bosworth vs. Miranda Kerr

Alright, I couldn’t write this entire blog without getting the least bit catty.  These two beautiful ladies are of course uber famous in their own rights, but they are related in that Kate Bosworth was a long-standing past flame of Orlando Bloom and Miranda Kerr is of course his current arm candy and mother of their adorable baby, Flynn.  Both of these ladies looked incredibly stylish this year, and Kate Bosworth even had the audacity to date Alexander Skarsgard (Eric from True Blood).  I guess she didn’t get the memo that he was saving himself for me….whatever.  Anyway, which of these glam girls do you think looked more petitely perfect all glammed up in 2011?

8. Florence Welch vs. Gwen Stefani

So this is a battle that has many parallels.  First of all, both Gwen Stefani and Florence Welch are female superstars in the music industry, and they both have very extroverted and unique senses of style, the only difference is that one has been making fashion waves for several years now while the other fashion genius is just beginning to scratch the surface.  So which fabulous chanteuse made more of an impactful fashion statement in 2011?

9. Amber Heard vs. Christina Hendricks

Now of course neither of the fresh-faced beauties were around during the 1950s, but other than their perfect complexion, you would never know it!  Both of these women have had big years with their acting careers, but they have also been swooned over for their fantasic curves that they like to show off with their Old Hollywood glam stylings.  Which girl did you think was the better pin-up in 2011?

10. Diane Kruger vs. Rose Byrne

Let’s take it way back to 2004, when two very beautiful model-esque ladies vied for the heart of Josh Hartnett in a little film called “Wicker Park”.  Of course, both Diane Kruger and Rose Byrne have made huge careers for themselves since then, especially including the last couple of years.  So what do you think, which of these incredibly stylish, high-fashion gals should have made off like a bandit with Josh Hartnett’s incredibly sensitive heart?

With so much glam, edginess, and style it can be pretty hard to choose, but too bad!  How can any of these ladies be considered the TOP FASHIONISTA unless they go against the stiffest of competition out there?  Which 10 of these 20 glam gals do you think ultimately deserves a spot on the coveted list of The Most Fashionable Ladies of 2011?

It’s almost impossible to believe that we are about to be celebrating a new year! It seems like just last week we were watching the ball drop for 2011 and now we’ll be welcoming 2012! Aside from Halloween of course, New Year’s Eve is one holiday that grants the opportunity to be a little playful with your ensemble or even dress downright MEOW for if you so please. How else are you supposed to kiss your prince at midnight right? Since according to the Mayans, this might be our last chance to celebrate a new year, you have to make sure that this year you pull out all the stops!

Very appropriately, the new movie New Year’s Eve starring an all-star cast will be out in theaters soon, and there are some pretty amazing new year’s clothing to be seen. In honor of this movie and this impending holiday, we’re going to take a look at some of the casts New Year’s themed outfits.  In your opinion who had the best interpretation of New Years inspired clothing?

Jessica Biel in Versace

Lea Michele in Emilio Pucci

Sofia Vergara in Zac Posen

Katherine Heigl in Dolce & Gabbana

Now that we’ve taken a look at some successful New Years-esque attire,  I thought it only fair that we try to put together our own interpretation of some New Years looks.  These outfits are also slightly more purse-friendly and accessible than the outfits shown above, considering most of the pieces can be found at local department stores.  Here are a few looks ranging from fun and funky to downright MEOW:

So what are your thoughts?  This New Years are you planning on being more of the hip funky dresser who will be piecing your outfit together or are you planning on looking downright classic and sultry to bring in the New Year?  Either way, IdealHeel would like to say get it girl and have a very Happy Holiday!

Whether it be something you gift during the holidays or something you decide that you have to get for yourself with all that holiday cash and gift cards, here are some amazing accessories that can elevate any outfit from good to WATCH OUT!

1. Tortoise & Blonde Glasses:

Thanks to Where Wear in the City for not only for their involvement with a cause we feel very strongly about, The Stiletto Stampede for the Cure, but also for motivating this first must have accessory.  These amazing glasses were showcased in the Finders Keepers Losers Weepers portion of their amazing beauty, fashion, nightlife and lifestyle blog.  These glasses are ultra modern and their website even includes a Virtual Try On feature.  How cool is that?   If the cutting edge style of these glasses doesn’t sell you (which honestly I don’t how that’s possible) then it might behoove you to know that Johnny Depp has been known to sport a snazzy pair of Tortoise & Blonde glasses .

2. Albertus Swanepoel hats:

Albertus Swanepoel is basically the beez neez milliner in the fashion industry.  His hats are consistently featured on the runway during New York Fashion with the list of designers utlizing his hats including: Marc Jacobs, Proenza Shoulder, Thakoon, Carolina Herrera, Peter Som, Erin Fetherston, Diane Von Furtstenberg,  Alexander Wang, Betsy Johnson, Nathan Jenden, Costello Tagliapietra, Jason Wu and Araks.  As if that wasn’t enough, Albertus Swanepoel has been nominated for several prestigious fashion awards as well as had museum exhibits based on his creations.  Given all of his accolades and beautiful work, you will be very happy to hear that Target will be featuring a Albertus Swanepoel line so that everyone will have access to his amazing work.

Albertus Swanepoel for Target

Ell Fanning in an Albertus Swanepoel hat

3. Revlon Expressionists Collection:

This new collection of cosmetics definitely has the ability to stop a room with the sheer brilliance and drama it can bring to a woman’s face.  In the words of Revlon, “Influenced by classic works of art from the Abstract Expressionism movement and exclusively designed by Revlon Global Artistic Director Gucci Westman, the collection features Fall’s most sought-after shades: eyes of silver and plum, lips bursting with Bordeaux, violets and pinks, and nails colored with eye-catching blues, purples and khakis.”

“I was inspired by the period of Abstract Expressionism where the artists, particularly the New York artists, evolved from black and white pieces and began experimenting with and implementing color into their art,” says Gucci Westman of the Expressionists collection’s origins. “I loved their use of colors, textures and composition and the freeness it implied. I integrated this into my collection by mixing textures for lips, eyes and nails and playing with shades – ranging from neutral beiges to bold violets, blues and Bordeaux. I wanted this collection to reflect a piece of art.”

4. Boots with Socks:

Yeah I said it, this season is all about pairing your funkiest socks/tights with a great pair of boots.  Thanks to the StyleMeBad blog for featuring this funky trend.  If this seems just too hard for you to imagine, let these pics serve as proof that this look can be oh so funky cute!

5. clutch clutches:

It is crazy that something as small as a clutch can make such a big statement, but that is exactly what it does.  There have been some very interesting and surprisingly utilitarian clutches showcased as of late.  Here are some of the highlights in my opinion:

Emi Jorge's Dancing Fireflies Clutch

Piero Guidi "Magic Circus" clutch

Alexander McQueen ring clutch

Alexander McQueen ring clutch

Stella mcCartney's Wooden Accordian Clutch

It’s the small things in life that really can take you by surprise and in the case of these fab 5 accessories, it is in a VERY good way.  Hopefully these sides-o-fashion have inspired you to bring a large dosage of attitude and style into the new year.