Cathy Horyn is just about the most honest person in fashion, which is to say she is most definitely not the nicest. Case in point: a recent remark about the former-Charlene Wittstock.

Commenting on the 2011 International Best-Dressed List composed by Vanity Fair , Horyn applauded the choices of Christine Lagarde and the Duchess of Cambridge.

But as for the inclusion of the newly-crowned Princess of Monaco, the New York Times fashion critic wrote :

"Princess Charlene of Monaco was a stretch. Her style to me is something of a flat pancake, despite (or perhaps because of) the effort she applies."

Ouch. While it may be true that the former Miss Wittstock has a more classic, staid style, Horyn is hitting Princess Charlene where it hurts.

The royal told Vogue in July , "Finding my fashion feet has certainly been the biggest challenge," revealing the very public nature of her fashion choices to be rather anxiety-inducing.

As for Charlene trying too hard? We'd argue the Princess of Monaco tries no harder than the average royal or celeb by working with high-fashion designers for guidance who, for the record, speak highly of her style.

Giorgio Armani, who designed the princess's wedding ceremony and reception dresses, previously told Vogue UK , "Charlene is without a shadow of a doubt very beautiful...Dressing her is such a pleasure -- she knows how to wear my creations with the nonchalance and confidence of youth.

And none other than Karl Lagerfeld has embraced the newlywed, as Charlene explained to Vogue , "Karl took me to his workshop in Paris. He said, 'You are going to be a style icon. You bring a breath of fresh air and modern glamour to Monaco.'"

Not if Horyn has anything to do with it.

At least Charlene is in good company: Penelope Cruz , Lady Gaga and Christina Hendricks are all Cathy Horyn Take-Down Victims.

Read Cathy's full assessment of the Vanity Fair Best-Dressed List at NYTimes.com .