Christine Oparin: Glam Shots

Name: Christine Oparin -Country: Ukraine -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: Leandro Lopez -All photos arecopyright to its rightful owners.

Mariela Aparicio: Glam Shot

Name: Mariela Aparicio -Country: Costa Rica -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: Leandro Lopez -All photos are copyright to its rightful owners.

Nick Verreos Attends Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, Backstage, Fashion Show and After Party Pics!!

Pink Fabulous, Ethnic Mixing Provides VS Supermodel Fabulousness, my New "Boyfriend", Mantilla 2.0, and my St. Louis Sister from Another Mother--Read on...

Presenting Pink: Nick Verreos at the "Step-and-Repeat" Pink Carpet, 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, Lexington Avenue 69th Regiment Armory

About three weeks ago--on November 8th--I flew to NYC for some business pitch meetings. But there was something else I had to do: I was asked to do some "Backstage and Pink Carpet Coverage" for a new forthcoming fashion/lifestyle YouTube web show "LookTV" for the 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show!

Heading Out: Nick Verreos, pink watch on wrist, Starbucks coffee in hand, red "Florence Italy Bag" in arm, ready to do my LookTV interviewing duties, The Marcel at Gramercy Hotel, NYC

Naturally, I was happy to oblige and provide my "OMG! I LUV Supermodels!!" self to all the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Fabulousness. As you know, the actual show was televised last night on CBS but yes, it was taped back in early November (it takes time to edit it and make it look even more FAB!).

Pink Robe Princesses: (Left to right) Models Caroline Winberg (Sweden), Julia Stegner (Germany), Cameron Russell (Boston, USA)

Trying to get to the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show backstage area--even as "official press"--was like trying to get clearance to enter The Pentagon (I'm just assuming, since I've never tried to go to The Pentagon). After getting my photo taken, my ID checked (yes, I'm GAY and don't mind seeing half-naked girls, thank you VERY MUCH!), with my camera and sound men in tow, I was ready to head into the "Pink Chamber".

Backstage Madness: Backstage--as you can see above--was a madhouse. I had covered a VS Fashion Show Backstage before so this was "a piece of cake" for me--but even my "crew" was like "Oh Dear!": too many gorgeous women, too many reporters, too many make-up-and-hair people and too many Blackberry-carrying pr agents and model bookers trying to pretend to look busy. Of course, I began spotting all the VS girls: Adrianna, Alessandra, Candice, Chanel, Miranda (first names only!). I immediately got to work. At one point, as I was interviewing Miranda Kerr, a guy strolled on by us, and said "hey!" and gave her a kiss. It was Kanye West. Yes, kids, Kanye! (didn't realize he was shorter than me). Later, of course, he would be performing.

Pardon Me Gorgeous, Can I Interview You: Nick Verreos with model Shanina Shaik, from Melbourne, Australia. Shanina has the most delicious skin color, piercing eyes and beautiful hair. I soon found out why: her mother is of Lithuanian and Australian heritage, while her father has Pakistani and Saudi Arabian roots. Note to People Wanting to have babies: YOU NEED TO MIX. Mixing cultures gives you future Victoria's Secret Supermodels!

The $2.5 Million 2011 Fantasy Treasure Bra: On display backstage at the 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. It was created by London Jewelers. Its President, the lovely Candy Udell was there--along with her big tough bodyguard (he was actually a total sweetheart).

I was backstage for about three hours, interviewing every girl I could get my microphone in front of--asking them everything from "How excited are you to be in the show?" to " Can you give us your best Bitchy/Sexy/Loving Look to the camera!". They were all a DREAM, and yes, supernaturally beautiful. Once you are back there, up-close-and-personal, you: A) realize they are Genetically-blessed "Super Creatures" all 6 feet and size ZERO of them, and B) That I am just a sub-human mortal who needs to hit the tread mill more often and stop my addiction to Fettuccine Alfredo!

Now, onto The Show!

David Paul and Nick Verreos, 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, Lexington Avenue 69th Regiment Armory

Partners-in-VS Fashion Show Crime: I was lucky enough to have gotten TWO tickets to actually see the show (after I was done with my backstage filming/interviews), and so naturally, I brought my NIKOLAKI design partner for life, David Paul. He put on his best Zara jacket (he looks so handsome!) and we made our way to our seats.

The Performances:

Kanye and Jay-Z: Kanye West first performed by himself doing "Stronger"--wearing a black velvet and multicolored printed bomber jacket from the Versace for H&M Collection (which back then, hadn't even been out yet--naturally Donatella gave him one ahead of schedule). Then, he brought out "surprise guest" Jay-Z to do "N***** In Paris". I'm not necessarily a Kanye or Jay-Z fan (I'm more a Kylie type of boy!) so I had no idea what they were singing or rapping but the crowd was loving it, as we were all forced to get up and do our best head bobbing and arm up-and-down swinging. Needless to say, they were great!

Nicki Minaj did her "SuperBass" song during the last "Club Pink" section of the VS Fashion Show, which seemed great to have a fun and sassy ending to the entire extravaganza. I do know this song (thank you very much!) so I was singing along. Miss Nicki also had a bunch of hot-and-sexy dancers onstage with her as part of her performance.

My New Boyfriend: Adam Levine and Maroon 5 also performed and to be honest, they were MY favorite performers of the night (just because I really like the song "Moves Like Jagger" and I really, really like cutie Adam!). But yes, he's taken, as you can see from the above photo, with his girlfriend, Russian-born model Anne Vyalitsyna. They were SO cute together, especially when he kissed her on the cheek as she posed at the end of the Swarovski crystal covered catwalk.

The Fashion Show and Models:
The Show was divided into six different sections: "Ballet", "Super Angels", "Passion", "Angels Aquatic", "I Put A Spell On You" and "Club Pink". The Collection of Fantasy Couture Lingerie/Costumes/Sassy Sportswear was designed by Todd Thomas and its Creative Design Director was fashion editor and stylist Sophia Neophitou-Apostolou. Lots of the creations seemed to be sub-contracted out to many different designers and costume houses. They created some wonders, for sure!

Here were some of my favorites (with my "Nick VS Fashion Show and Model Scores"):

Mantilla LOCA--Doutzen Kroes (Netherlands): During the "Passion" section, Doutzen came out in this STUNNING oversized lace embroidered and Swarovski crystal-encrusted Mantilla and Peineta "Wing" ensemble. It was INSANE: this should seriously be Miss Spain's national costume for the next Miss Universe pageant! Oh, I forgot, she also wore Victoria's Secret Miraculous Bra and matching panty. VS Fashion & Model Score: 9.9

Catwalkin' In The Rain--Izabel Goulart (Brazil): This was one of my favorite pieces of the 2011 VS Fashion Show. This was during the "I Put A Spell On You" segment. She wore a custom striped bra and panty, Giuseppe Zanotti Designed black boots and TWO MOVING PARASOLS (!) attached to her back. These "Parasol Wings" were created by Ted Southern. I remember sitting there in the audience thinking "She's got TWO moving umbrellas as her Wings! You Go Izabel!". VS Fashion and Model Score: 9.8

Miss Oceania 2011: This was one of my favorite non-winged looks from the show, worn by French model Constance Jablonski in the "Angels Aquatic" section. The 2011 VS Fashion Show Run-of-Show Booklet (which was on my seat) credits this gorgeous beaded and feathered gown to Jolibe Atelier. Kudos on an amazing dress Jolibe Atelier, whoever you are: I need to see this gown on the next Miss Venezuela...or a really SCANDALOUS Figure Skater (a mini version perhaps?). VS Fashion and Model Score: 9.9

SuperWoman: Model Anja Rubik (Poland) is the DEFINITION of a "Super Angel" in this out of control ensemble. She's got the Victoria's Secret BioFit Bra and Incredible Panty (somewhere in there), a leather body suit and hand-painted (by Jeff Fender Studio) silk cape, all created by "By Barak" and thigh-high yellow boots by Zanotti. All on top of Anja's ZERO-FAT 5'10" figure that could make any woman--who might have a tinge of insecurity--not want to be within a mile radius from her. VS Fashion and Model Score: 10!

Inflatable Supermodel: When the beautiful Joan Smalls (USA) stomped onto the VS Fashion Show--wearing a blue Latex Bodysuit from "House of Harlot" and what seemed like just a regular ol' cape, something KRAZEE happened at the end of the runway: her damn cape inflated and stood horizontally erect for the rest of her walk! "Oh No She Didn't!" is what I uttered to David. I think EVERY Gay in the audience stood up and gave Joan a standing ovation right then and there. VS Fashion and Model Score: 10!

My New DIVA: I could barely talk when this STUNNING beauty stomped onto the catwalk. I was like "Who the H*** is that???" Her exotic face, her 6-foot long legs (she is actually 6 feet tall!), her 31.5" bust: 23" waist: 33" hips body (perfect for Haute Couture), her walk, everything was like she was a Goddess from the Amazon! Well, in fact, kind of: Lais Ribeiro is from Brazil, of course. Oh, and she's also a mom! VS Fashion and Model Score: 10!

St. Louis Star: Last but certainly not least was what I considered "The Star of the Night", model Karlie Kloss, from the Good Ol' U. S. of A! This was Karlie's FIRST TIME modeling in a Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. Why? She just turned 18 and well, you have to be 18-and over to model in the VS Fashion Show, so she finally made it! For her first time, Miss Karlie BROUGHT IT, huney! The walk, the come-hither wink, the playing to the audience to get them excited and the shaking of the hair as the "Beyonce Fan" hit her right at the end of the runway...it was as if she'd been doing this for AGES! To be honest it put some of the "old timers" to shame (not naming names, kids!). VS Fashion and Model Score: 10!

The After Party at Dream Downtown Hotel NYC:
After the show, David and I headed to the Dream Downtown NYC Hotel where the official 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show After Party was held. All the models were there--sans their costumes and runway creations of course.

What Models Wear to Cocktail Parties: Lais Ribeiro (Brazil), Emanuela De Paula (Brazil), Behati Prinsloo (Namibia), 2011 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show After Party, Dream Downtown NYC

They were all in very chic cocktail dresses or long gowns (I know: gowns!). Also, it was interesting that I didn't see ONE model in a tight Herve Leger "bandage dress". A couple of years ago when I also covered the VS Fashion Show, EVERY other model wore one to the After Party. Not so much this year. Kanye was there at the After Party of course, holding court with a bevy of beauties and his friends, and so was Adam Levine (my cutie!), his girlfriend, model Anne V. and the rest of Maroon 5. I even spotted Donna Karan, HUNK of all HUNKS actor Joe Manganiello (OMG!) and bearded (trying-to-be-incognito) Jake Gyllenhaal.

Nick Verreos with model Anais Mali of France--I interviewed Anais backstage before the show so it was very nice seeing her after the show--she did an outfit change--from her pink VS robe to a long grape-colored satin gown with a high side slit with blue-green inside lining. Anais is another gorgeous ethnically-mixed model: her mom is from Chad and her dad is Polish.

St. Louis Beauty: I was so exited when I saw MY Star of The VS Fashion Show Night, the gorgeous Karlie Kloss. I had to stop her and annoy her with my gushing. Also, since she's from St. Louis Missouri and that's where I was born (I know!), I also wanted to give her some "St. Louis Kisses"!

Midwest Stunner: Karlie was SOOO sweet--no attitude, no "why are you bothering me, I'm at a party..." NADA. Her parents done taught her right. Simply beautiful inside and out--even in my brief meeting. Also, notice in the photo above, where her waist is, compared to me next to her: her WAIST is at the same level as MY CHEST! Those legs went on for FOREVER! Soon after that, David and I decided it was time to call it a night and end our amazing Pink-Fabulous Victoria's Secret Fashion Show Day.

Hasleen Kaur: Glam Shot

Name: Hasleen Kaur -Country: India -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: All photos are copyright to its rightful owners.

Pageant Minute: The new Miss Spain is Miss Barcelona Andrea Huisgen

Una Diosa Española

Olé : The newly crowned "Miss Spain 2011" Andrea Huisgen Serrano, who represented Barcelona

This past Sunday, Andrea Huisgen Serrano, Miss Barcelona was crowned Miss España (Miss Spain) 2011, at the Palacio de los Sueños in Seville, Spain. She is expected to represent Spain in the 2012 Miss Universe Pageant next year (where she will be known as "Miss Spain 2012").

Gracias Chicos: Andrea Huisgen "Miss Barcelona" being crowned "Miss Spain 2011" by her predecessor, Paula Guillo (right photo, in red gown)

Andrea, who was studying law (don't they all say that?!--or engineering or bio chemistry!) and also modeling (of course)...

Modelicious: Model photos of the new Miss Spain 2011 Andrea Huisgen (as a blonde)

Andrea Huisgen stands 1.81 meters (5'11") and is 21 years old. She was born in Barcelona Spain to a German father and Spanish mother and speaks 4 languages--Spanish, German, English and Catalan.

Feathered Gown Queen: Andrea Huisgen "Miss Barcelona"--and soon-to-be crowned "Miss Spain 2011"-- in her ivory strapless "Princess" ball gown of satin and feathers with crystal thin belt. To be honest, I am not a fan of this gown but still, she looked very "Beauty Pageant Perfect". However, the look is a bit dated and well, about five minutes away from a Quinceañera. (Keep reading below for an UPDATE regarding their gown choices...)

At first when I saw photos the beautiful new Miss Spain, I thought "Boy, she's got kind-of a "Venezuelan" air to her...(in terms of her stance, aplomb, hair, make-up...). So, it came as no shock when (after a little web research--yes kids, I do my Homework!) I learned that she was trained by Venezuelan Pageant "Trainer" and Missosologist (Pageant Expert/Fan) Ricardo Rodríguez, alias El Soplón.

The Day After: The beautiful--and newly-crowned "Miss Spain 2011", Andrea Huisgen, being interviewed the following day after her win

Ricardo has been preparing her with oratory, runway, make-up and hair, protocol, as well as all the other necessary "classes" needed to have a winner. It payed off, because, yes, she won! Could Ricardo be the new Osmel Sousa?? One thing's for sure, his "Day Rate" should go up.

Top Three: (Left to right) First Runner Up (Primera Dama de Honor) Miss Las Palmas Aranzazu Estévez, Miss Spain 2011 Andrea Huisgen, and 2nd Runner Up (Segunda Dama de Honor), Ana Amparo Crespo

Peineta (Spanish Hair Comb) Bathing Beauty: The new Miss Spain, Andrea Huisgen "Miss Barcelona", in her Official Swimsuit Photo for the Miss Spain 2011 Competition

Blush Beauties: There were Ten Semi-Finalists and they all had to model in Swimsuit as well as Evening Gowns, of course. Interestingly enough, during the evening gown portion, all the Semi-Finalists wore gowns in the same color: nude/putty/blush.

One Shouldered Señorita: Andrea (above) wore a one-shouldered draped gown with Empire-waist crystal trim detail that was very pretty and seemed to be one of those "high-low" gowns. However, I feel if you're going to show a "high-low" (short in the front/longer in the back) gown, the difference should be greater. Here, it looks like her gown is too short. She still looked gorgeous though.
**UPDATE on the Gowns: I actually heard from her fabulous Pageant Trainer--"El Soplon", Richard Rodríguez --via Twitter (the beauty of Social Media!), who told me something I already suspected: that the gowns were sponsored and that they actually were "given" their gowns the day of, the actual pageant and therefore, the girls had "little choice".

Fashion Diva:

Hostess With The Fashion Mostess: María José Suárez, co-host of the televised "Miss Spain 2011" Contest (above with Agustín Bravo). María José is a TV Presenter in Spain as well as of course, a former Miss Spain (in 1996). The Spanish Celeb Magazines just LUV her! She also wins my unofficial "Best Dressed of Miss España TV Show" Award. Wearing the same blush-colored type gown as the Semi-Finalists during the contest, she still somehow stood out for her elegance and overall "I've Won Already Ladies!" pose. This gown fits her to perfection. Note to the new Miss Spain: it's not too short...you barely see the shoes! Good job María José!

Sequined Goddess: And above (as any good DIVA TV presenter, María José had an outfit change), she looks STUNNING in a gold-and-blue ombre sequined strapless gown. She's almost looking at the new Miss Spain as if to hint to her "Mija, THIS is the gown, you should wear next time...at Miss Universe!"

Felicitaciones to the new gorgeous Miss Spain, Andrea Huisgen!

Click below for video showing HIGHLIGHTS of the new "Miss Spain 2011", Andrea Huisgen, during the contest and being CROWNED:

Cassandra Becerra: Glam Shot

Name: Cassandra Becerra -Country: Mexico -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: All photos are copyright to its rightful owners.

Figure Skating Fashion Minute: Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia--The Men!

Soccer Balls, Chippendale's Dancers and a Dracula peplum...It's The Men !!!

World Cup...of Skating: Russian Figure Skater Sergei Voronov in a soccer ball-inspired stretch Lycra top and black pants, Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia 2011-2012 Season--Keep reading below to see if he made my "Love It" or "Not So Much" of The Men's at Cup of Russia Figure Skating "Fashion Two cents" Review

Over the weekend, the Rostelecom Cup--or Cup of Russia (of figure skating)--happened at the Megasport Arena in Moscow Russia...

Megasport Arena, Moscow Russia

In my last post, I talked about the costumes I somehow missed during this whole 2011-2012 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Season, for The Pairs. Now, I am on to The Men...and the costumes that escaped my well-trained Fashion Designer and Figure Skating Fan "Eye". Shall we get started:

Artur Gachinski of Russia: It seems fitting since it is the Cup of Russia, to begin with a Russian figure skater--and his costume choice. For his Free Skate entitled "The Demon", utilizing music from "Interview With A Vampire", "Bram Stoker's Dracula", as well as "The Red Violin", he wore an all black ensemble featuring beaded applique over the very tight outseam of the pants as well as accents on the top "jacket" section (center front, collar, cuffs).

As he skated (and especially, when doing his turns), I loved how the peplum "flapped" in the wind. I liked this costume: it reflected the music, the theme and still seemed masculine and dark. If I had one critique: I would have liked maybe...some Red! (to signify the blood of the Vampires).

Artur has been dubbed the "new" Evgeni Plushenko (above)! Plushenko was great in mixing a bit of artistry with a lot of the athleticism--and making his "Dorothy Hamill-esque" layered shag move in the wind. And Gachinski does all that. Also, they have the same coach, and many people have commented on the fact that Artur Gachinski is inspired by his movements, and he's pretty much suggested that Plushenko is his Idol. But Plushenko also knew to add some color in his costumes. Take note Artur.

Konstantin Menshov of Russia: Continuing with the Russian boys, it's Konstantin Menshov. Menshov got 8th place (out of eight) at the Rostelecom Cup this weekend and for his Free Skate, he chose to skate to "The Race" by Yellow, Kill Bill's "Battle Without Humanity", and Debussy's "Clair de Lune". His all black jacket and pant look was very Ski Instructor at some FABULOUS--and very exclusive--James Bond-ish Ski Resort in Cortina Italy. It also had the "essence" of Keanu Reeves in "The Matrix". Maybe that should have been his soundtrack. Just sayin...

Andrei Rogozine of Canada: For his Short Program, Moscow, Russia-born (don't ask, it's Figure Skating!) Rogozine skated to "Broken Sorrow" and "Fanfare" by Black Violin. Somehow, I also haven't talked about this young figure skater--and his costumes--in my "Figure Skating Costumes" blogs here. For this skate, he wore a metalized gunmetal-colored above-elbow sleeved shirt featured placket pocket accents and a large Fleur-de-lis applique on the back. I liked the sort of "Western Tex-Mex" aspect of the shirt--even though that had NOTHING to do with the music or program. Also (on a good note), I am usually NOT a fan of the "Wear-a-belt-with-your pants as part of your Grand Prix Costume" but...I liked his big buckled silver one here. However, the overall iridescent look was a bit "Chippendales Las Vegas Goes Line Dancing at a French Club". Go figure.

Sergei Voronov of Russia: For his Free Skate to Leoncavallo's "Pagliacci", Voronov's costume was a bit of a mishmash of a "Sexy Harlequin" Clown/Stripper: his silver-grey and black ensemble has cut-out applique in "Argyle"/diamond shapes, stand-up asymmetrical collar, center front "tears of a clown" in red, and a side-front chest illusion opening that "travels" dangerously near his thigh. There is A LOT here: A) I love that it's "different" but, B) It's very Cirque du Soleil after waaaay too many pre-Dinner Show drinks! It almost made me wish he would have gone this route:


Now, let's finish with Mr. Soccer Ball:

Yes, kids, it's "Mr Pagliacci" Sergei Voronov of Russia and his "Soccer Ball" ensemble. For his Short Program he skated to "The Final Game" by Hans Zimmer. THANK GOODNESS his costume had something to do with the soundtrack to his skate. Well, just a bit--in terms of being a sport-themed look; it's actually from a BASEBALL-themed film "A League of Their Own", which has NOTHING to do with soccer, or a soccer ball for that matter. Why his top is printed like one is yes, beyond me. But...somehow, I still liked it: it was kitschy, "graphic" and definitely caught my "costume eye attention". Soccer or Baseball, it's still kind-of Figure Skating Fashionable...to me!

*Next Up: The Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia Ice Dancers and Ladies!!!

Agnes Benitez: Glam Shot

Name: Agnes Benitez -Country: Puerto Rico -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: Leandro Lopez -All photos are copyright to its rightful owners.

Tatiana Sayapina: Glam Shot

Name: Tatiana Sayapina -Country: Russia -Pageant Joined: Miss Earth 2011 -Photo Credits: Leandro Lopez -All photos are copyright to its rightfulowners.

Figure Skating Fashion Minute: Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia--The Pairs!!

A "T.G.I. Friday's" Waiter, a Futuristic Couple and a BIG Statement Making Necklace...

Referee & Feathers: Katarina Gerboldt and Alexander Enbert of Russia show that it's not just the Ice Dancers who get all the "Costume Fun"

This weekend was Thanksgiving Weekend for the USA but in Russia, and Moscow to be exact, it was "Cup of Russia" Weekend! Yes, kids, if you've been keeping score with my "Figure Skating Fashion Review" Blogs, we are now onto the sixth and final leg of the 2011-2012 Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series, before the Grand Prix Finals which will be held in Quebec City Canada December 8-11.


This year's Cup of Russia is also known as the 2011 Rostelecom Cup, named after one of the chief sponsors, Rostelecom, the Russian state-owned telecoms provider is a based out of Saint Petersburg and Moscow. But enough about that, let's get to the COSTUMES, and in particular the ones that stood out in my eyes--either good or not-so-good. Also, since I probably have discussed EVERY Pair, Ice Dancing couple, male and female figure skater--while reviewing the costumes from the previous five Grand Prix--I am trying to stick to skaters who somehow missed my "Nick Costumes Two Cents".

First up are The Pairs:

Gerboldt and Enbert of Russia: For their Short Program, Gerboldt and Enbert skated to "Gopher Mambo". One would usually expect this very fun Latin music during the Ice Dancing competition and not in the Pairs--so, it was a nice change from say the "usual musical accompaniment subjects" like , Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake" or Ravel's "Bolero" (continuing reading below). Their costumes (I am assuming) were supposed to parallel the "kooky" cha-cha-cha of the Mambo music backdrop--as well as be a little "Latin" in its styling and bold colors. I liked the bright purple of her feathered-and-beaded dress and his vest.

But at the same time, I don't know what a black-and-white striped shirt had to do with Mambo. He looked like a Referee at a Gay Football Match--or the head bartender at a T.G.I. Friday's!

Maybe he should have followed the costume footsteps of Laila Ali and Maksim Chmorkovskiy from "Dancing With The Stars" back in the 4th season of that reality TV show (above). I liked how the costumers used the purple there and well, not made him look like a referee/waiter!

For their Free Skate, Russians Gerboldt and Enbert skated to "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" (a popular music choice for Figure Skaters and Pairs in particular) and yes, it was a more toned down-and-elegant costume change. The bronzed and silver-white colors go well together but yet again, I am dumbfounded as to what these Disney-perfect Prince and Princess looks have to do with a musical/film starring Catherine Deneuve, who sells umbrellas with her mom and then falls in love with a young auto mechanic.

Stolbova and Klimov of Russia: Since we are talking about the Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia, it seems appropriate to stay with the Russians--in terms of my Pairs Costume Review. These two placed fourth overall and therefore almost made it to the medal podium. For their Free Skate, they skated to a modern arrangement of the "Polovetsian Dances" (from "Prince Igor"). Again, I was surprised (in a good way) to see such vibrant and rather creative costumes for a Pairs competition. Her asymmetrical blue-green with gold-and-black midriff corset and belt was unusual and looked a bit like she couldn't decide whether she was Dracula's Mistress or a Russian Princess from the late 1800's--and I liked that costume juxtaposition. However...

Prince Igor, the Hollywood Toys & Costume Version: I was a little "on the fence" with her partner, Fedor Klimov, and his grey with gold-and-black "Armour" detail ensemble. I get the period Russian Prince-like details but somehow, it still looks a little bit like a cheap "Halloween" get-up one can get from "Hollywood Toys and Costumes" on Hollywood Blvd. But it certainly showed off his toned physique: his legs and booty are KRAZEE!!!

Sprockets in Russian: For their Short Program, they skated to a "modern interpretation" of Ravel's "Bolero", they chose to look a little futuristic/modern. But somehow, they both ended up looking like extras from Saturday Night Live's "Sprockets" TV sketch...

Modern Asymmetrical Work Out: Fedor wore a silver tank top under a navy blue sheer blouson top and Ksenia, she had on a silver crop top under a boat neck/off-the-shoulder (I guess the designer couldn't decide!) sheer blouse all attached to an asymmetrical skirt-dress silhouette. It was all very "Jane Fonda Work Out Video--the Space Odyssey 2001 Edition". I do have to give it to them in terms of looking a bit contemporary. Even if their version of contemporary looks a bit like it was from 1996.

Finally, I want to discuss a Pairs team from the USA:

Cain and Reagan of the USA: For their Rostelecom Cup 2011-2012 Short Program, they skated to Henry Mancini's "Moon River" from "Breakfast At Tiffany's". Naturally, they tried to vibe a little of the movie and especially Audrey Hepburn's iconic Hubert de Givenchy ensembles in the use of all-black plus of course THAT big ol' necklace:

However, I wished the necklace Ashley Cain wore was actually more like Hepburn's in the movie. Or...that the costume designer would have incorporated it into the costume, like in a pearl-and-sequined embellishment detail on the neckline that's attached to the rest of the ensemble.

It just looks like an after-thought here. Like she went to the nearest Moscow Department Store and bought the biggest necklace she could find! Also, the shape is more Elizabeth Taylor "Cleopatra" and less Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly.

Finally, for their Free Skate to "Doctor Zhivago", they chose to go an elegant black-and-ivory route with their costumes and not go too "Period Costume-y". I actually think it's rather great that her partner, Joshua Reagan looked more FAB than she did. It was ALL about his white elbow-sleeved "Jacket" with black piping.

The flap-over style reminded me of the Balmain "Napoleon" jacket (above). Together in their Free Skate costumes, both Ashley and Joshua looked perfectly paired (with their matching black-and-ivory), still relevant to the music and wow, quelle surprise...not tacky or "kooky". A rather "contemporary" take on Dr. Zhivago. Yeaay for them!

*Next Up: More Rostelecom Cup/Cup of Russia Costumes...Stay Tuned!!!