Tag Archives: dwts

call me irresponsible – dwts: season 23 premiere

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I don’t plan on recapping every episode of Dancing with the Stars this season but, it’s one of my favorite shows so I’d like to check in on it every once in awhile. Last night’s premiere was pretty exciting, so I thought I’d share my takes.

ryan-lochte-ohh-face_dwts231

1. That kerfuffle with Ryan Lochte was an unsuspected bit of riveting television at the end of last night’s Dancing with the Stars premiere. For those who may have not seen, during Lochte’s judges’ comments protesters began creating a commotion and found their way to the dance floor. The two men were wearing shirts with Lochte’s name on them with a red X over it. During the broadcast, the cameraman didn’t pan away from judge Carrie Ann Inaba’s face but you could hear the yells of the protesters and anxiety in her voice as she was trying to figure out what was going on. I instantly took to twitter hoping to find out the deal from someone who was in the audience but to no avail. Luckily, the media machine was there to help us this morning with previously unreleased footage finding its way to the inter webs showing the men being taken down by security. Go to this People.com link, to see video of the incident from all angles – and even catch a video of Derek Hough asking the protesters who stayed in the audience to leave!

I was happy, and unsurprised, to see that all of the pros and celebrities are behind Ryan and his redemptive journey on the show.

Ryan’s thoughts on the incident: “I’m a little hurt. I came out here and wanted to do something I am completely not comfortable with. I came out there with a big smile and have the best fan support here.”

I felt bad for Ryan, and thought his dance was fun and full of personality. I hope that this incident isn’t the first of many, and we can all enjoy the show for the fun, sparkly, entertainment that it is.

2. The news may be covering the Ryan Lochte incident ad nauseam, but the real story going further into the season should be the star that is Laurie Hernandez. She was, in my opinion, the best celebrity that hit the dance floor last night. She is paired with the dashingly handsome Valentin Chmerkovskiy, who has a history of taking his partners very far into the competition. Laurie’s background in gymnastics gives her a leg up on some of her competition, like former Texas Governor Rick Perry, but even knowing that I was impressed with her. Her routine seemed more difficult than some of the other celebrities and her execution was great. She is my early favorite for the Mirror Ball Trophy.

3. A few other quick thoughts on this premiere episode:

bullet I’m so happy to see Emma Slater back as a pro but, I think her journey this season may be a relatively short one.
bullet Maureen McCormick is so cute in her excitement to be on the dance floor. And her last minute comment in her package that she just met Babyface was adorable.
bullet Blac Chyna sighting supporting her BFF Amber Rose.
bullet James Hinchcliffe is a dark horse in this competition. I had no preconceived notions about him coming in and was pleasantly surprised.
bullet I can’t believe Jenna Johnson and Jake T.Austin are the same age! She looks so much older!

Did any of you check out the premiere of Dancing with the Stars? Let me know what you thought in the comments!

xo
Em

simply the best-dwts:week 10

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After missing last week, I’m back to recap the two night finale of Dancing With the Stars.  Honestly, I sometimes had a hard time finding enough material to write these posts, so I don’t think they’ll be a staple around here when the new season starts in the fall.  I still love the show though, so I’m sure there will be some “checking in” posts.  I’m still working to figure out this blogging thing. Figuring out what I want to write about, and more importantly, what you guys want to read is pretty tough.  I hope you guys will bear with me. Enough about me, let’s get to the finale.

PetaNyleSpider_DWTSFinaleNot to bury the lead, but congratulations to Nyle and Peta on their victory!

Favorite Dances

1. There was something about Paige and Mark’s salsa that was so exuberant, feisty and full of life that I couldn’t help but smile and get teary eyed at the end of it.  It just seemed to be a triumph for both of them. Paige has become so confident through out this process, and I loved watching her having the time of her life on the stage.  Girl was giving faces! I don’t know what Len is talking about when he said there wasn’t enough hip action, but he cost Paige her perfect night.

2. Ginger and Val’s freestyle was the only one that I thought captured the spirit of previous freestyles – really inhabiting another character and having fun.  Ginger looked like a Hollywood starlet with her high waisted pants and pussy bow blouse, and I loved every second of it.

3. I don’t know that I agree with Carrie Ann that this was the best dance ever performed on Dancing With the Stars, but Nyle and Peta’s freestyle was pretty freaking amazing.  There were so many intense (and gif-able) moments in this dance, and the story about inspiring the deaf community was very beautiful. The only knock that I can think of for this dance was the fact that Peta didn’t choreograph it.  I give her credit for knowing when something isn’t her strong suit, but I always thought the professionals choreographing the routine was part of the deal.

Did Ya Catch That? 

ValExcited_DWTS Finale1. Val was really excited for the night.

Julianne DWTS Finale
2. Julianne Hough was in the audience last night, and I’m really surprised that Tom never went to her for comment.

Chris Soules_DWTS Finale Full
3. In honor of the Bachelorette starting this week (check back for my post on the premiere tomorrow), we have a Bachelor Chris Soules sighting.  Does anyone know who the girl with him is?  She was in many of his snapchats from the finale party as well.

Dressing With the Stars
Peta and Nyle did a country inspired quickstep for their redemption dance, and I thought that her white dress and denim top combo was really re-creatable for summer. (Clearly I’m a fan of the look if you check out my picture in the sidebar).

Outfit 11. Dress: Bobi, Shirt: J.Crew

Outfit 2
2. Dress: Adelyn Rae, Jacket: J.Crew

Outfit 3
3. Dress: Riffraff (I have this dress and absolutely love it!), Vest: Gap

What did you guys think of the finale? Were you excited Nyle won?  Let me know in the comments!

xo
Em

 

don’t stop me now-dwts:week 8

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Happy weekend, everyone! First, I want to say thank you for all the great feedback I got on my Key West post (if you missed it, you can find it here). I’m planning on sharing more of my life on here, and it means so much to me that you all enjoyed the post.  As anyone who knows is aware, my love for TV is also a huge part of my life, so I’ve got another Dancing With the Stars recap for you today!

Paige_Antonio Spin

Favorite Dances

1. Jodie and Keo’s Jive was my favorite dance of the night.  Sadly, it was also their last performance together as she got eliminated at the end of the episode. Jodie’s footwork was quick and accurate and I agreed with Len that she had become more comfortable on the stage.  This was evidenced by the moment when the two of them are fanning themselves while traveling across the dance floor, you could tell she was comfortable in character and just having a great time!

2. Ginger and Val’s Argentine Tango was actually not originally one of my favorite dances of the night.  However, after re-watching the episode, I was impressed by the technicality and skill that I imagine went into this dance (because I have no dance training and only know what I think looks good). I loved how it went from slow to fast, and you could feel the intensity, emotion, and intention behind the choreography changing.  Ginger is one to watch out for in this competition, for sure.

3. Team Len’s Judges Challenge Samba was the most fun dance of the night.  I’m well aware that this dance was not the most technically difficult but I’m a sucker for Len, and especially a cheesy, happy, dancing Len.  Some stand out moments: the giant cut out of his head in a rock formation, Wanya’s glitter six pack shirt, and the hip thrusts Len threw in at the end. If it was up to me, 10’s from Len all around!

Did Ya Catch That?

Waving Len1. See: Note above about my love for a happy and goofy Len.

Mark_Paige Producer Push
2. Paige and Mark apparently weren’t following their cues, and got pushed on stage by a producer.

Beverly MItchell
3. Beverly Mitchell made a trip to the ballroom this week, sitting behind Season 21 champion Bindi Irwin and her family.

Dressing With the Stars

Sharna WorkoutThis week, I want to bring attention to the athleisure wear that the female professionals dancers are wearing in the practice packages.  I certainly don’t look that cool when working out, but I can admire anyone who does.

Sharna Workout Tank
1. Sharna tops her outfit with a laid-back grey pocket tank.  For some reason, wearing loose tanks makes me feel pretty bad-ass, like a boxer or something, so I might be stocking up on these tanks soon.  This one is American Eagle and can be found here.

Sharna Harem Pant
2. I couldn’t find Sharna’s exact pair of floral harem pants, but these Lovers + Friends floral ones are pretty close.

NIke Wedge
3. I’ll never understand how these women dance like they do in heels, although these Nike wedge sneakers may make it a little easier for us mere mortals.

What did you guys think of this week’s episode? Were you sad, like me, to see Jodie go? Everyone still in the competition is so good, I hate seeing anyone go!

xo
Em

time of my life-dwts:week 6

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Hey there! I hope everyone’s week has gotten off to a great start, and you’ve gotten over the hump that is Wednesday.  This week on Dancing With the Stars, we had Famous Dances Week.  Although the dances for this week were fun, I don’t like that the professionals don’t get to showcase their choreography skills and creativity as much.  However, I can’t really complain about an episode that has Val in sequined shorts (I’m pretty sure I own the same pair, just ask my college roommates).

Val Sequin Hot Pants

Favorite Dances

1. Paige and Mark’s Austin Powers inspired jazz number was bright and fun, and reminded me of Mark’s Mario Bros freestyle that he performed with Sadie Robertson in Season 19. I’d be interested to know what style and dance they were originally assigned, but I doubt it could have been more fun than this one.

2. After a rough week last week, Kim Fields had a comeback with her and partner Sasha Farber’s jive, inspired by Hairspray.  I may be biased because I’m a big fan of the semi-recent movie adaptation of Hairspray (or really any movie with newly-single(!) Zac Efron), but there is something about the songs and atmosphere of Hairspray that make me smile.

3. Saving the best for last, obviously I loved Wanya and Lindsay’s jazz routine, inspired by N*Sync’s performance at the 2000 VMA’s.  I’ve always been #teamnsync so there is no way this wasn’t making the cut.

Did Ya Catch That?

Jake Pavelka1. The next piece of evidence in the “DWTS will let any past contestant come back to be in the audience” arsenal, is the appearance of Jake Pavelka, member of Bachelor Nation and Season 10 cast member.  I would’ve though Jake had fallen out of favor with ABC after his super awkward confrontation with ex-fiance Vienna Girardi, but you know, ratings.

2. I think Mark’s childhood in England is getting to him, because his accent in the rehearsal package was something I’ve never seen (heard?).

Swing_Startled Child3. While Alan and Brittany swing dance us back from commercials, they also startle a child sitting in the audience.

Dressing With the Stars

Ginger OutfitThis week I wanted to recreate Ginger’s 80’s Janet Jackson inspired look, worn during her and Val’s jazz performance. Some may say that this outfit is a little heavy for the upcoming summer season, but I think all of the different elements of the outfit make it perfect for those nights when you’re just not sure what the temperature is going to be.

Luxury Ginger1. For a pricier/more luxorious version of the outfit, you could pair this Commando bodysuit, with a pair of Prabal Gurung high waisted pants.  Top the whole look off with a Norma Kamali blazer.

Affordable - Ginger2. Another option is to minimize the pieces needed to make the outfit, and pair a sharp black jumpsuit with a more affordable blazer.

Ginger Accessories
3. To complete the outfit, just add a silver chain and some kick ass lace up booties.

What did you guys think of Famous Dances night? Excited for the Team Dances next week? And who do you think is going to home? Let me know in the comments!

xo
Em

 

movin’ on-dwts:week 5

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Dancing With the Stars is really on a rollercoaster this season, from the highs of Disney week to the (pretty much) lows of Switch-Up Week.  Obviously, we couldn’t expect to have the same chemistry between the celebrities and their new partners after only working together for 4 days, but I was hoping for a bit more than what we got.

Von Hip Wiggle Gif

Favorite Dances


1. Nyle DiMarco and Sharna Burgess danced the Viennese waltz to near perfection (if you believe the paddles the judges held up, not the scores they submitted to production).  It was ethereal and fluid, aided by the fog machine and Sharna’s angel-like gown.  It still amazes me how Nyle can dance so beautifully without hearing the music, but I’ve come to realize this man is just amazing.


2. Pairing Jodie Sweetin and Val Chmerkovskiy together was genius, as they both have similar intensity and drive to win this competition. I was happy to see Jodie bounce back from her disastrous performance last week, to close the show with this great Paso Doble.


3. I know that Doug Flutie is not the greatest dancer, but I love how he continues to strive and improve.  Although some dancers may have gotten better scores than Doug, not many other people achieved their best scores on Switch-Up week.  For that reason, Doug’s is one of my favorite dances of the week.  It may not have had the difficult of content of some other dances, but I thought he looked his sharpest and most accurate, and that made me happy.

Did Ya Catch That? Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 8.55.06 PM1. One of our favorite style stars from The Bachelor recaps, Becca Tilley, was in the audience Monday night!

Ginger Hubby Shimmy
2. Is Ginger Zee’s husband, Ben, lobbying for a spot next season? The man’s shimmy tells me yes.

DWTS Tom Russian Love Slave Joke
3. These hosts are seriously quick on their feet.  Who else could come up with lines like this?

Dressing With the Stars

Screen Shot 2016-04-20 at 8.49.37 PMThis week, I loved Paige VanZant’s costume, worn during her amazing Rumba with Sasha Farber.

Asos1. This dress, from Asos, has a similar embellished bodice, matched with a fairy tale tulle bottom.

LuLus
2. This dress, from LuLu’s, gives you an asymmetrical hemline, similar to Paige’s, but without the glitz and glamour (if that’s not your thing).  Plus, its a very affordable $52!

RTR
3. Although this rentable dress, designed by Badgley Mischka, is a maxi style, I think the detailed bodice is so gorgeous.  I couldn’t not include it.

That’s all I’ve got this week.  Any thoughts on Switch-Up Week? Are you glad no one went home? Let me know in the comments!

xo
Em

when you wish upon a star-dwts: week 4

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So if my last post was better late than never, this one must be ‘it’s ok if you skip a week because Disney week was worth the wait’? Most Memorable Moment week was moving, but the stories were so heartfelt, that not a lot of crazy stuff was going on.  This week, however, was Disney night, and anytime there is an animated gazelle dancing on my screen, I know we’re in for a treat.

Wanya Lion King Ending

Favorite Dances


1.  Witney and Von’s waltz was magical. I may be a little biased because I have a slight obsession with the newest live-action version of Cinderella, but I’m starting to think that movie may have been better if Witney was cast in the starring role. She looked EXACTLY like Cinderella, and the lights in her dress just made the moment even more magical.  Besides Witney’s killer costume, Von was graceful, charming and everything you could ask for in a prince. I think he’s finally in the game, and I can’t wait to see where this couple goes.


2. As a self-appointed “Belle” girl myself, I thought Ginger and Val really brought the atmosphere of Beauty and the Beast to life during their foxtrot.  While watching this dance, I actually had the thought that this looks like something out of a Broadway production, the set design was that good.  ABC goes all out Disney night (their parent company), and you could really see that at play here. I agree with Zendaya, when she said that even with all the amazing set design, you never lost Ginger in the dance.


3. Paige and Mark’s quickstep was the perfect number to end the night.  It had energy and Mark’s patented creativity which combined for a show stopping number. Paige didn’t miss a step, and I think this could be another couple to watch!

Did Ya Catch That?

Len does the Monkey gif1. Sometimes, world renowned ballroom judge Len Goodman does the monkey with Disney characters.

Doug Kickline Gif2. And sometimes, he just has pure joy on his face when Heisman winners do sicklines in  front of him.

Tom_Keo Hair
3. They say Dancing With the Stars is a family, and clearly they are right.  Right in the middle of judging, host Tom Bergeron decides to pick stray hair of Keo’s face. As it seems Jodie Sweetin says, “Ooook”.

Dressing with the Stars
Since everyone this week was dressed as a princess or an animal, I’m finding it hard to translate the costumes into relatable everyday outfits. So this week, we’re just going to pay tribute to the amazing costumes that the wardrobe department puts together, and to the kick-ass performers who wear them.

Witney as Cinderella1. If I haven’t gushed about Witney’s Cinderella costume enough, here’s a better look at it.  It seriously takes my breath away.

Sharna as Jasmine v22. In the first dance of the night, Sharna played the role of Jasmine in an amazing little spandex outfit.  Does anyone know where I can find her workouts?

Nyle and Peeta Tarzan
3. Nyle and Peta pulled off Tarzan and Jane in a very convincing fashion.  I mean, Tarzan didn’t wear clothes, so why should they?

What did you guys think of this episode? Did you think Marla was deserving of going home? And who do you think is next? Let me know!

xo
Em

fireball-dwts: week 2

Posted in Style, Television by

As the saying goes, better late than never, right? The week was capped off by a bit of flu, but I’m feeling on the mend and ready to post my thoughts on Week 2 of Dancing With the Stars.

Jodie Week 2 Dance

Favorite Dances

1. Jodie Sweetin kicked the night off right with this sexy number.  Much like Stephanie Tanner in Fuller House, Jodie owns her sexiness and isn’t afraid to put it out there.  It paid off with this sizzling samba.


2. I thought Paige VanZant’s salsa was amazing, especially considering the circumstances.  Partner Mark Ballas went down in rehearsals with a slipped disk in his back, giving her only two hours to practice with fill-in partner Alan Bersten. As host Tom Bergeron said, it’s truly a testament to the talent of the professional dancers to be able to substitute in on these complicated routines at a minute’s notice.


3. Although not the most technically proficient celebrity in the group, I really enjoyed Doug Flutie’s performance on Monday.  He appeared strong and in control during his Paso Doble with partner, Karina Smirnoff. I was also moved by the analogy he made between the fight in this dance and the fight against autism, a diagnosis his son received at the age of two.

Did Ya Catch That?Cody Linley1. They say Dancing With the Stars is a family, and I guess that’s true because they invite EVERYONE back to the ballroom.  This week in the front row, former Disney Star and Season 7 contestant, Cody Linley.

Noah Turn Around2. I loved this little moment between Sharna Burgess and her partner from last season, Noah Galloway.  I’m not quite sure if Noah was supposed to still be up in the SkyBox when they came back from commercial, but either way, Sharna had to tap him and remind him to turn around.  That is Dancing With the Stars etiquette!

Thumbs Up3. This guy, who claps when no one else does, and thumbs up when everyone claps. Love him.

Dressing With the Stars

Witney Week 2 OutfitThis week I was a fan of Witney’s coordinating two piece, which I learned in my research is called a Co-Ord.  If you can pull off as much skin and jewels as Witney, more power to you. However, if you’re like me and don’t think you could do it, I’ve rounded up a few similar options.

Asos Outfit Week 21. This outfit, from Asos gives you the jewel factor, without looking like a costume. You can buy the top here, and the skirt here.

Asos Week 2 OUtfit
2. If the first outfit is still a bit much for you (and for me it probably would be), a second option is this Co-ord.  Although not a floral, as Witney’s appears to be, this pink polka dotted number has the same retro vibe. You can buy the top here, and the skirt here.

Accessories Week 1
3. To finish off the look, add a pair of high top wedges, and a denim jacket!

What are your thoughts on Week 2? Sad to see Geraldo go? Hope Mischa finally finds her mojo? Let me know in the comments!

xo
Em

groove is in the heart-dwts: week 1

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Hi everyone! Is anyone else feeling the withdrawal that comes with the end of a season of The Bachelor? Thankfully, the glitz and glamour of the ballroom is here to fill our time, and I’m going to be honest, I don’t hate it.

Jodi Dance

Favorite Dances

1. Am I shameless homer? Yes. Am I going to apologize for that? Nope. From the facade of Geno’s steaks, to the dance to ‘Motownphilly’ by his best selling boy band Boyz II Men, I loved every moment of Wanya Morris & Lindsay Arnold’s routine. I think this partnership is adorable, and thought it was really clever that Wanya calls Lindsay his “Z-Pack” because she always makes him better. #TeamYayZee

2. I was excited to see two current football players hit the dance floor this season, and I think Von Miller came out on top (it doesn’t help that Antonio Brown plays for the Pittsburgh Steelers, see above homer comment). Von is a defensive beast, but is a soft-spoken poultry (not poetry) lover in the pre-performance package.  Witney and Von’s partnership is comical to look at, simply because he towers over the 5’3″ beauty.Von Miller Poetry

I wasn’t sure what a Super Bowl MVP could want with the Mirror Ball Trophy, but Von came out of the gate swinging. His moves were graceful, and Witney’s Foxtrot routine “went for it in a proper way”, (according to Len, I have no idea).  I think Von is one to watch.

3. Nyle DiMarco and Peta Murgatroyd blew me away. Jaw. Dropping. If I had not known before, I would never have guessed that Nyle has no ability to hear. Carrie Ann commented on the most remarkable part of this partnership when saying that Nyle wasn’t just on time with the dance, but really found the pocket of the beat with his movements. I’m excited to learn more about Nyle as the season goes on, and see how this partnership grows.

Did Ya Catch That?
One of the best parts of Dancing With the Stars for me are the little background moments that everyone may not pick up on and the behind the scenes packages.

Nick Viall DWTS1. As a companion of Bachelor and Season 19 contestant, Chris Soules, we can see Bachelor Nation member Nick Viall lurking behind Amy Robach and Robin Roberts as Tom Bergeron interviews them.

Theguy32. This guy.

Von Dance 23. Bravo editors, for pairing this dance move of Von’s with a straight into the camera stare of a steer.

Dressing With the Stars

Erin DressI loved Erin Andrews’s DSqured2 dress last night, and I’ve found a few dresses that gave me the same vibe for your next formal event!

DSsquared21. This dress, by the same designer as Erin’s, has a similar neck and is paired with an open/statement back.

Adam Lippes2. Although this dress has long sleeves and a deep-V neckline, the gold chain detail along the back adds some edge, just like Erin’s.

Rent the Runway3. If you’re not in the ball gown market (and really who isn’t?), you can rent this Halston Heritage dress here. The sleeves and neckline are almost identical to Erin’s, with a skirt that has a little more drama.

What did you guys think of the premiere episode? Any early standouts for you? Let me know in the comments!

xxEm