Then & Now

It has been a blessing that I have been able to represent Colorado at both the Miss Teen USA pageant in 2006 and at Miss USA 2011. Both experiences have made such a huge impact in my life and are full of memories that I will keep with me for the rest of my life. I thought it would be interesting to look at what changes I have made since 2006, and I can say it has been quite the improvement. I know for me as I Miss, I was a lot more focused on getting into shape then  I was at Teen, and I am so excited with what I was able to do with the help of Kent Paul and The Gym. I like to think my fashion sense evolved for the better, too. I mean, I went from polyester blue dress with feathers as a Teen to drop dead gorgeous MacDuggal Red Carpet Dream Dress as a Miss! I think I am same fun-loving person that I was at Teen, with just a little bit more life experience and maturity! Take a look at these changes:

GOWN PORTRAIT (Haha, same pose, nearly same face!!!)

GOWN COMPETITION (Again, same pose and face, Hilarious!)

FADIL (Little more smiley as a Miss)

PORTRAIT (Over the shoulder!!!)

BIGGEST IMPROVEMENT!!!!

If only I could do it just one more time!!!
<3 Blair

My Miss USA 2011 Experience Part One- Chop it Off!!

I am finally back in the CO after an unexpected extended stay in Las Vegas. Post pageant, my mom had to be hospitalized in Vegas. When her blood work was done, they discovered that her level that shows if you are susceptible to blood clots was over 1000, when it should be under 399. So they kept my mom for two days, but she is doing great now. We are just trying to get her in with a doctor to see why her levels are so off! Fortunately, my family and friends were still in Vegas, so I was able to spend time with them! Though a stressful conclusion, we are now all back home, and I have some time to write about my Miss USA experience. First up, Part One: CHI PHOTOSHOOT

On my way to VEGAS!!!!

I was excited when I found out that I was one of the girls who would be a part of the Chi Photoshoot prior to the pageant. That meant that I had to be in Vegas June 1st as opposed to June 4th. When I first got to Vegas on June 1st, I was overwhelmed with excitement for the weeks to come. I had been pumped up preflight when I arrived to the gate, being greeted by a group of girlfriends all wearing neon colored bras heading to Vegas to party. I couldn't help but think to myself, "This is what Vegas will be like!" I flew in with one of my sister states Wyoming, who is an absolute hoot. When we arrived, I was astonished to see an airport full of slot machines and full of people. Vegas is literally like no other place I had ever been to! And so the Miss USA experience began, with drivers meeting us at baggage claim, there to help us with all of our bags ( a huge thank you to all of the guys who were there to help us out, especially Mr. USA!) We arrived at The Planet Hollywood, where we checked in and then it was up to us to decide what to do with are few days of freedom. The only point those first few days we had to have a chaperon was when we were going to and from the Chi shoot, otherwise, we could do whatever we wanted until June 4th. That first night, Wyoming, DC and I decided to venture out on the strip to get some dinner, and find a pharmacy to get some snacks and other much needed Miss USA items. 

Again, I had to say to myself, "This is what Vegas is like." People everywhere, questionable flyers scattered across the streets, weird guys trying to attach wristbands to you so you could come to their clubs, and waitresses wearing crop tops and chaps as they serve you food. Now I had been to Vegas once before, when I was 7, though, so I definitely did not remember it being like this! But it was still so exciting to know that I had finally made it to Vegas, after 4 years of wanting this moment so bad! That first night, my roomie DC, aka Heather, aka Selena Gomez, aka unidentified Disney Cartoon Character, aka, new best friend, talked about our excitement for the weeks to come.

Creeper=)

Roomies!!

My Chi shoot was on June 2nd. I was in the 10 am group to head over to the shoot. We were immediately glammed up from head to toe. The stylist thought that I would have longer hair then what I did have, so I spent about an hour getting extensions clipped and taped into my hair. The end result was this long curly, big voluminous hair with bangs. I was dressed in a red Sherri Hill Bandage dress with turquoise jewelry to accent. After a few hours, it was my turn to shoot with the one and only Fadil. I was super excited and ready to strike a pose. Feeling fierce, I started hitting my best poses. We were about one minute into the shoot when Fadil decided he hated the longer hair, and wanted them to pin it up into a faux bob. So back to hair I went, transformed into a very Dorthy Dandrige look. And it was love all around. Fadil loved the hair shorter, the stylist loved the hair shorter, I loved my hair shorter. I was so inspired by the faux bob look, that I decided to go find someone to chop off my hair in Vegas. So Day 3, my mom and I spent all day long trying to find someone who would do it. Here is my mom in Denver calling all these hair salons in Vegas explaining my situation and me anxiously waiting to here if someone would do it. Finally at around 6 pm, I made my way to Miykael Parrish Hair Salon. It was a shock to them to here I was in a beauty pageant and wanted to chop my hair off short, but agreed to do it! I was there until midnight getting my hair cut and transformed. And I loved the end results. I headed back to the hotel with my new slick and short bob hair cut, still full of so much excited. Going to bed that night, I could barely contain myself. Tomorrow would be the day Miss USA officially started. And that in 2 weeks, someone would be crowned Miss USA 2011 So Amazing!!

COULD IT BE ME????

<3 Blair

A Growing List of People to Thank!!

This will be an expanding list of people who have come into my life and given me so much joy and inspiration to continue on chasing my goals and have aided in making these goals come true. I wish I could do more (and I am working on doing more), but for right now, this is the best way for me to let you know that I am so appreciative of your support!

My mom, for being my biggest fan, for sacrificing so much for both my brother and I so that we could follow our dreams and goals and for being my biggest source of inspiration. You are truly my hero,

My brother, HM3 David, for telling me how proud he is of his baby sister. I am very proud of you too, especially seeing you grow and be successful in the Navy. Continue to work hard,

To the McKaskills, thank you for letting my mom and I come into your home and not once asking for rent or what the game plane is. Besides my mom, I know you guys are my biggest fans too! I love you so very much.

To TaRhonda and Ken, without you guys, I would not have the voice to speak out about homelessness in our country,

Kent Paul for more than just helping me get into shape, but also for bringing people into my life that could offer support for both my mom and I,

To Carl, for truly caring and wanting the best for me in life, 

To Amy, Yanni and everyone at Yanni’s for being amazing people,

To Chris Williamson for kicking my butt in conditioning classes,

To Erica Cobb for helping me in every way that you could help

To Pat Smith and all of her beautiful friends who have become my family, you are so wonderful and I am so blessed to know you and have you in my life,

To Beckie Nelson and mom, for sharing Beckie's fashion talents with me and for being a friend,

To Abi Ferren for letting me borrow such beautiful and amazing pieces,

To Allen Dye, thank you for being patient with me, I have your dress!! Let's meet up soon!

To all of the Pageant Fans out there, those who are online, on boards, on blogs, on forums, or just out there in the world, Thank you for your constant support of pageants. Without you, Miss USA would not be around anymore. Thank you for keeping the dream alive for all of us girls who grew up saying we want to be Miss USA one day!
To TheRoadToMissUSA for your constant coverage of Miss USA 2011. It was great to have all of the pictures up on Facebook and to be tagged in all of them! Thank you for your support of all of us contestants! 

To The Gathering Place family, I love you guys! I hope to continue working with you all!

To the Monarch School, I hope I can come back and visit one day soon! Keep dreaming BIG!!

To Kurt, thank you for being a part of my family's life for so long and for always hoping for the best.

To Richard Custer, thank you for being a huge supporter and wanting the best for my whole family! It is amazing to have your support and to all the fans on the Blair Griffith fan page, just WOW! I wish I could meet everyone in person just to say thank you in person! 

To the boutiques in Texas for shoes and clothing to help me look amazing at Miss USA!

To Tessa, Danielle, Roland, Jennifer, Justin, Mark, Jessica, Cassie for coming out to Vegas and watching the show and for being amazing friends,

To Emma, Christine, Abby, Ashley, Stephanye, Maerag, Jessica, Kerry, Hilary, and so many more other friends, THANK YOU!!!!!! I am getting around to individuals, just give me a moment!

To Kari Kisch for teaching me how to look so beautiful and for being such a huge support system to me,

To Christina Sacha, without you, I would not be Miss Colorado USA,

Mary Wolfgang, Errol, Kolby, Irene, Jennifer, Lisa, Mazzie, Jade, Renee and so many others from my Saks family, thank you for your support!

To Ryan Griffith for giving me spirit!

To Caley Rae, GIRL, you are going to rock Miss Teen USA!!!

To Craig, Denise and Libby, and everyone at Future Productions for just everything, I mean you guys seriously have done SO MUCH!!

To Chelsea Cooley and AT Dunn, for being supporters of everyone! You are such beautiful people inside and out and its amazing to meet those who genuinely want to see everyone be successful in life!

To all of my Future Productions sisters, love you guys! 

To Terry Thomas for being there when my mom and I needed help the most.

To Donna and James for helping my mom and I and for being a part of our lives for so long. 

To The Murrays for always showing concern and wishing for the best. You opened your home to me when you didn't have to, and I hope to always be in touch with you guys!!

To Sean Dooley, thank you for doing such a great piece on my mom and I and for being an important part of my life journey.

To Ian Wenger, thank you for following my story and for wanting to see nothing but success for me!

To Super_J2007, Prescious.Grady, whisper735, rsaenzsaucedo, darrellall, hannahjosmith, ronapigi, jillianwoods, gcl311 and other paypal donors whose information I unfortunately do not have. I wish I knew you all in person, and if there was any way I could even get your first names, that would be amazing. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

To Jordan Black, please can I come to your wedding! Thank you for being more than a friend to me for so long! I mean we go way back! Haha, thanks for defending me and just being awesome! Love you!
To Dr. Morgan and Dr. Presley and everyone at Presley Ortho in Salt Lake City Utah: Words cannot describe how thankful I am to you all! You have given me a gift to last a lifetime. I have received so many compliments on my teeth, and I am so grateful for you guys for showing so much love and support to me! Thank you!
To Carly with Pageant Update for your awesome coverage of festivities during the pageant and amazing montages, especially the map of all of our faces! Even since I was a teen, my mom and I always check your site for the latest pictures!
To Jane Dunn and all of the Jack N Jill Family for your aid and support. You have helped my mom and I out in more ways than you know!
To Wishes are Possible for your help! You blessed my mom and I with so many important things that it is beyond amazing!
To all of the amazing Miss USA 2011 sponsors and supporters: To Chi, Diamond Nexus, Australian Gold, OPI, Sherri Hill, The Planet Hollywood, Rain Cosmetics, and the city Vegas, plus so many more: Thank you!
To the Miss Universe Organization and everyone who works for them: I am so grateful to be a part of such a great organization full of wonderful people who make me wish I could come back again and compete just to hang out with all of you again!
To my chaperone Heidi! I miss you! You are such a wonderful person and thank you so much for being there to support of all us contestants!

And the list will grow................................................

Prom 2011- Get the Look: Olivia Wilde Golden Globes 2011

One of my favorite looks from the Red Carpet this Award Show Season was Olivia Wilde's Marchesa ball gown! I loved her look from head to toe. From the simple smokey eye makeup, to the simple accessories, to the AMAZING Christian Louboutin ‘Bridget’s Back’ shoes, it was a great look! If you were looking to her for inspiration for your prom look, here are some ideas on how to recreate this look for you!

1. Jovani Strapless Tulle Dress 9254 $400

2. Jovani Short Sequin Dress 153985 $400

3. Interlude Short Strapless Tulle Dress 9021  $238

4. Sherri Hill Long Strapless Sweetheart Sequin Dress 2585 $700

1. Fahrenheit Yama 12-Sequin Bootie Ankle Boot $25.20 

2. Promise Opera Cut Open Toe Bootie $35.20

3. Vivian-2 Glitter Slingback Sandal $26.90

4. Promise Toshiba Studded Clog $30.20 

1. Urban Expressions Heart Clutch $29.95

2. Forever 21 Lacquered Petal Flower Studs $2.80 

3. Forever 21 Vintaged Rhinestone Ring $5.80

4. Forever 21 Bejewel Me Ring $5.80

<3 Blair

Award Show Season Red Carpet- Dress Like The Stars: Grammy's 2011

The Award Show Season is almost at its end, with just a few more to go (I personally cannot wait for the Oscars!). The great thing about the red carpet is seeing all of the looks and trends that are popular for the spring and summer season, which is even more perfect for those who are looking to dress up like their favorite stars for events like prom. Here are some of my favorite looks from the Grammy's Red Carpet, and some similar dresses that can help you look like your favorite celebrities!

Jennifer Lopez brings the bling to the red carpet. Capture the look with this Jovani Cocktail Dress 

Style #  7749 ($800)

Nicki Minaj's look might be too over the top for everyday wear, but animal print is definitely a great look for an evening event. Leopard print cocktail dress by 

Precious Formals Style# R55027 (

$258)

Love the Hi-Low look on Jordan Sparks! Get the same look with this Jovani Prom Dress Style #159200 ($440)

 Kelly Osbourne looked absolutely adorable and girly on the red carpet, and you can achieve the same super cute and ruffle look with this Jovani Cocktail Dress Style #158376 ($460)

 Jennifer Hudson looked sexy and stunning at the Grammy's. For a sexy yet chic look, go for this Sherri Hill Cocktail Dress Style #2438 ($350)

I love Janelle Monae's look. Go for a sequin tuxedo cut dress for a more feminine look, just like this Jovani Cocktail Dress Style #158332 ($545)

 Selena Gomez opted for a more sophisticated look at the Grammy's, and a similar look can be achieved with this Sherri Hill Evening Gown Style #2582 ($650)

 The transparent look has definitely been a trend on the runway for the past few seasons, but is definitely more appropriate for the red carpet on celebrities like Rihanna. However, you can get the stripped look and similar silhouette with this Prom Dress by Sherri Hill Style #1426 ($350)

If you want an update on the Grecian style dress, follow Jewel's lead by wearing a flowy dress in a fun color, like this yellow Jovani dress Style #8521 ($440)

<3 Blair

Pageant on a Budget- Designer Interview Attire

I personally think that the interview competition seals the deal for a contestant. If you really stand out there,  the judges will have you in the top of their minds during on-stage competitions. This is a chance for the judges to not only see if you can speak confidently, but also a chance for them to see your face up close and your body too! Which is why it is important to look fantastic. I think there are several different approaches on what to wear for an interview, so this is just one fabulous suggestion. 


Who doesn't love designer clothing? It is made well, fits fantastically, and makes you feel like a million bucks probably because it cost that much. One of my favorite websites is Rent the Runway because it allows you to rent designers such as Herve Leger and Preen for cost as low as $50. You can log on, choose from hundreds of dresses for various occasions by top designers, rent them for up to 8 days, and then ship them back for free! Rent the Runway also allows you to choose two different sizes for only $25 just in case one size doesn't fit.  They also carry fun jewelry that can help spice up your outfit. It is a members only website, but if you leave me a comment with your email address, I will be happy to send you an invitation! In the meantime, check out some of my favorite dresses for interview available on www.renttherunway.com.

Black Halo Jacket Belted Dress

rental: $50

A classic silhouette, perfect to show of your figure, with just enough interest at the neckline.

Proenza Schouler Peekaboo Shoulder Sheath

rental: $150

The cut out shoulders are just a simple yet sexy detail that adds on to this classic sheath dress.

Moschino Cheap & Chic Pretty Primadonna Dress

rental: $100

The color is beautiful, especially for darker skin tones, and the gathering helps add shape to the body.

Nicole Miller Steppin Out Dress

rental: $75

This is such a wonderful color and the neckline can help bring attention to a strong collar bone.

Herve Leger Lieutenant Bandage Dress

rental:$150

Herve Leger just hugs in all the right places, and again, if you have a great collar bone, this is a perfect neckline!

Herve Leger Sherbert Cap Sleeve Bandage Sheath

rental: $100

Love the color of this dress, and the shape is perfect too!

Preen Plaza Dress

rental: $150

I think one shoulders are great for Miss USA interviews, especially if tastefully done like this Preen dress.

Rebecca Taylor Daria Peplum Dress

rental: $50

This is a very Audrey Hepburn dress, very appropriate for a more conservative interview look.

Brian Reyes Urban Sophisticate Dress

rental:$100

Again, color can help you stand out. I love how this dress has a simple idea, but the color helps it pop!

Frank Tell Structured Skirt Dress

rental: $100

This dress is just super cute! I think it is very fitting for a Teen contestant, and would be great with a statement necklace.

images from www.renttherunway.com

And these are just a few of the options available! Again, leave me a comment with your email address so you can log on and see what a great tool this website is for interview attire!!

-Blair

Mondo Mondo Mondo!

So the time has come to do another wrap up on my favorite: Project Runway. It is late coming since the finale was last week, but it is a must! Of course, I was rooting for Mondo to win the whole thing. He is from Denver, and was actually one of the first people to inspire me to try to model here in the Denver area. I was excited that the final two standing were Gretchen and Mondo, since they were my two favorite designers in terms of clothing throughout the whole entire show. I would have loved to see April in the final three over Andy South, but at least she was still able to show a collection at Fashion Week! Here are some of my favorite pieces from each designer that showed a collection at Fashion Week:


MONDO:
Loved loved loved everything about his collection, from the hair accessories to the makeup, it was just a Wow for me! I would seriously wear everything from it, but I just love these shorts and the blouse with them. I would buy them both in a heartbeat!

Gretchen:
I wasn't as excited about Gretchen's final collection. I agree with the judges that it is very what is in fashion now and there are definitely items that would sell very well, which is why this is my favorite outfit simply for the silhouette she created with the cropped top and pants. It is cute!

Andy South:
Well, I do like the shade of green he used throughout his collection. And I also liked the influence behind it. I could see myself with these shorts!

April:
I loved April's clothing throughout the show. Yes maybe it was too black all of the time, but black is such a great color and she had a new view on how to use it. I love this jumpsuit she created, especially the ombre effect. And I like the headband too!

Michael Costello:
He definitely proved to be the underdog. Everyone only ever had bad things to say about him, but I really love how he kept his head up the whole entire time. Now, I am not a fan of the sparkle pants, but I love the chocolate brown fringe top, and I can imagine it as a full length  evening gown. I think it would be epic!

Michael Drummond:
For some reason I love this dress. It seems very Alexander Wang to me. I think it would be great as a longer maxi dress, perfect for the Fall/Winter with some boots. I would totally wear it.

Valerie:
I love how she used basically every color in the rainbow for her collection. I am intrigued by this blue romper number. Not sure I would actually where it, but I can somehow picture it someone like Lady Gaga, or even Beyonce, and it looks good.

Christopher Collins:
I like the color and idea behind this piece. I think it would be a great outfit for something like the interview competition at Miss USA if it was just slightly more fitted through the bottom. 

Casanova:
Definitely one of my favorite personalities on the show. I crack up when I think of his line, "I am making clothes for old ladys, sluts and flamenco dancers." I so wanted him to make it further along. He had great ideas in my opinion. Love this copper sparkly dress to pieces!

Ivy:
I love the simplicity of Ivy's clothes. Sometimes things just need to be basic, but beautiful, and I think Ivy does that perfectly. I could see her stuff selling against brands like Vince or James Perse. Its for the casual girl who still likes some uniqueness. This would be a perfect outfit for a trip to the beach.

pictures from Elle.com

I cannot wait for the next season of Project Runway!! I hope that more of my local designer friends can make it on the show. Or maybe I can just learn how to sew and make an appearance myself;)


-Blair