Cover Girl: Katie Holmes Pops Her Collar For Marie Claire

KATIE HOLMES  covers the November issue of Marie Claire magazine popping her collar in red leather for what just might be my favorite editorial she’s done in a very long time. You may have seen this issue floating around the internet or at your local newsstand, but I think it’s due time I express my interest in the fashion frenzy that surrounded this daytime photo shoot.

In the issue Katie sat down with Galt Niederhoffer, who wrote, produced and directed her in the 2010 film “The Romantics”, at a Brooklyn diner to talk about the next chapter in her — including her clothing collection and new film projects.

I can’t say that the cover of Katie — clad in a red leather trench coat from the Resort 2012 Collection by Yves Saint Laurent — is my favorite. It’s kind of bland. Fortunately the shoot got more and more interesting as it went on.

I’m thoroughly disappointed that only the top portion of this Michael Kors gown was seen. It’s honestly one of my favorite looks from the collection, and while I can suck it up that she’s not in the acid green version — I just can’t forgive Marie Claire for the photo crop.

For this gorgeous profile shot of Katie on a pool lounger, she’s wearing a Lanvin mustard gathered silk gown from Resort 2012. The gown has been cropped once again, but in this case, I think it works. I also love the un-clipped shoulder detail as the sleeve slides down her arm.

After finally seeing this Resort 2012 orange and black plunging neck gown by Vionnet worn for an editorial — I will say I’m pretty impressed —  I love the way it was used. Fashion director Nina Garcia made the dress wearable by adding a hot pink Zero + Maria Cornejo bandeau top that she paired with a matching Alexis Bittar bangle. Katie’s shoes are Christian Louboutin.

The gloriously gust of wind allowed me to see the double splits in the skirt that weren’t visible during the presentation of the collection earlier this year. To keep her brunette locks on their best behavior, Katie used John Frieda “Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon”.

Nothing like taking a dip in the pool wearing a designer gown. A kelly green gown by No.2 1 envelopes around Katie’s body in this photo. I love how there’s not a drop of water on her face; while everything else is soaked, her make-up is flawless. Katie is wearing Laura Mercier “Face Illuminator”.

Katie suits up in swimwear from Michael Kors for an alternate cover.

The wind-blown hair, metallic golden details, and a sassy smirk?

Why wasn’t this the original cover?

The November 2011 issue of Marie Claire is on newsstands now!