So it seems, TV stars no less about style (or elegance for that matter) than most Film stars these days. There will be no naming OR shaming on my account, but it must be said that some just didn't have it this year. And as I scour the net for images from American TV's big night out, I am reminded of my above mentioned statement. I think this year the problem was that, in fear of looking boring, many of the stars went 'cray-cray' with their look, sporting all forms of blinding colour, volume in the wrong places and OTT lace.
On a side note, I wanted to do something a little different today with my blog post. Not only am I going to name the trends, but if you read on, I'll be explaining how and why they suit the wearer in regards to shape, fit and colour. These 3 key factors are paramount in determining 'what-to-wear' to ANY formal event, let alone one that is aired to viewers all over the world. Hopefully, by the end of this post you'll have taken away some insider tips 'n' tricks on mastering eveningwear. You can thank me later ;)
Ariel Winter in Katharine Kidd
A softly printed gown is the perfect choice for a bright young star like Ariel. The bodycon top and flared skirt create a balanced overall look (flared skirts glide over hips and bodycon tops emphasise the bust). Also, if opting for a high neckline, be sure to show off a bit of leg, or vice versa.
Cat Deeley in Andrew Gn
Dior Red is the kind of colour that anyone can pull off, but as with any bright/eye-catching colour, the silhouette needs to be considered. Cat's gown is doing wonders for her figure, as the nipped waist and fish tail create an hourglass appearance (Cat has a naturally boyish physique so shaping is paramount!).
January Jones in Zac Posen
This is why black always wins. A classic red-carpet silhouette made modern with the use of crinoline supported organza (crinoline is a type of interfacing used to create volume).
Julia Louis-Dreyfus in Vera Wang
The easiest trick in the book for creating volume around the bust is the sweetheart neckline (curved lines = curves!). Deep reds also do very well on brunettes (winter colouring). Again, the hourglass cut creates the illusion of curves in all the right places.
Kat Dennings in J Mendel
Another great example of what a sweetheart neckline can do for your bust! Also, the sunray gathering around the waist is an alternative method of creating the hourglass figure.
Nicole Kidman in Antonio Berardi
Sequins can make or break a dress. To work, they need to have a design (like the wings pictured above). Loosely scattered or all-over sequencing don't work very well. Also, when wearing sequins, keep the silhouette simple (sleeveless column).
Kelly Osbourne in Zac Posen
If you're a rock chick wondering how to pull off an evening look, take note! Pick a pastel colour (eg. lilac) and a lustrous fabric (thai silk is a personal fave). Then you can go wild with mixing one-shoulder with a sweetheart neckline, hourglass silhouette with a billowing tail...the choices are endless but you need a good stylist ;)
Sarah Hyland in Notte by Marchesa
This sort of goes without saying, but you need to tan before you wear...uh...tan. You also need a bit of embellishment, like lace! Oh and brunette hair always seals the deal.
Sofia Vergara in Zuhair Murad
As with anything, there is always an exception to the rule. Earlier I mentioned that sequins are hard to pull off. Well, not for this fine lady. The key ingredient here is the slinky silhouette and the deep colour of the dress. Not something we should all try, maybe just something we should take inspiration from...
Tina Fey in Vivienne Westwood
A unique way of accentuating curves is the 'half-circle' or inverted curve neckline. The trick is to keep everything else really simple, with a hint of interest like lace trimming.
Zooey Deschanel in Reem Acra
Being Miss Deschanel, there is always going to be a twist. The sweetheart neckline here has a little extra space in the middle, and the skirt is asymmetric and full. A look for the quirky ones.
