Shop Talk is written by Ottawa Magazine editor Dayanti Karunaratne and Ottawa Magazine account executive and fashion maven Sarah Fischer.
Ahead of Oscar night this Sunday, SHOP TALK catches up with Erica Wark on what (and who!) is standing out on the red carpet. If you haven’t seen her on the side of a bus or on the OFW runway, Erica is the resident fashion expert on The Social, a fashion contributor on Marilyn Denis, and a regular fashion expert on eTalk.
SHOP TALK: Who are you most excited to see on the red carpet and what do you think she will wear?
ERICA WARK: That’s a toughey. I’d have to say Lupita Nyong’o, Cate Blanchett, and the ever-glamorous Sandra Bullock! I’m hoping Lupita will continue to knock our fashion socks off and rock something big, bold, and beautiful! She’s been wearing colour like nobody else … let’s hope this colour train continues. As for Cate? Well, she’s got haute couture down pat. But she’s a major risk taker, where the risk is ALWAYS worth the reward. I’m hoping she’ll wow us in something from Balenciaga, Lanvin, or Prada. Sandra is a wild card. Her normal “classic” sophistication has been thrown out the window. She’s been far more daring and a lot more fun – maybe a Prabal Gurung or Marchesa?
ST: Who has been the biggest disappointment on the red carpet so far?
EW: Hands down Jennifer Lawrence in Dior, Dior, Dior. Don’t get me wrong, I love the fashion house and I understand she’s under contract, but I’m so sick of the strapless boring dress they keep putting her in! She’s so young and has such a bold personality; it would be nice if her Oscar gown emulates that.
ST: Which man’s style will stand out the most on the red carpet?
EW: It’s a tie between Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto. They’ve not only been cleaning up the awards for both best and best supporting actor, they’ve also been nailing the red carpet scene. Looking forward to seeing what they pull off on Sunday night.
ST: If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be and what would you put them in?
EW: Ha ha! Wow… I don’t know, there are sooo many. I’m a huge fan of Diane Kruger – she’s a fashion maven. I also love Gwyneth’s style — and Lupita! She’s been a star this award season. I can’t wait to see how her style evolves.
ST: Who’s your favourite designer for red carpet attire?
EW: Can’t say a favourite, but I’m obsessed with the fresh designers out there like Prabal Gurung, Peter Pilloto, and Mary Katrazou. But I also love the classics like McQueen, Gucci, and Armani Privé.
ST: Who is the most daring celebrity on the red carpet scene and do you like the risks she is taking?
EW: I’d say it’s definitely Cate Blanchette. You can tell she dresses for herself and herself only. She oozes confidence and grace like no one else; and she’s always wearing something spectacular.