Awards Special: The Emmy's

The Emmy's were last Sunday, and we've been collecting our favourite looks since then! We're bringing them here to you with tips on how to achieve a similar style the next time you have a formal-wear or red carpet event :) For those of you who like to take fashion to its fullest, you could even integrate some of these styles into your daring, everyday look.

1.) Heidi Klum in Armani Prive - The multiple layers and the asymmetry of this dress are flattering on so many body types, because it draws attention away from the usual problem areas of the body and the multiple tiers actually help elongate the body.

2.) Nicolette Sheridan in Angel Sanchez - This dress reminds me of the gowns on last seasons Alberta Ferretti runway. Purple is definitely the colour of fall 2008 and the texture of the fabric makes a dress anything but boring, despite a simple silhouette. 

3.) Evangeline Lilly in Elie Saab - Monochromatic colours are another big trend this fall as are metallics. The pattern of both on this column gown is flattering on all skin colours and reflects light away from the body, so as not to create awkward shadows that highlight the most unflattering areas.

4.) Eva Longoria in Marchesa - Not sure about the overall 20's, flapper style look from head-to-toe, but a cocktail dress is always the easiest way to stand out. The large bow across the chest distracts from the lower half and the thigh-grazing hem line makes the most of your legs, even if you're as petite as Eva.

5.) Olivia Wilde in Reem Acra - Champagne colouring and crystal embellishment on a dress may seem better suited for a wedding gown, but the cap sleeves and empire waist make it much more believable as a red carpet gown. The overall silhouette is extremely flattering for all body types, and accentuate the arms and chest without being over-the-top. The empire waist elongates and helps shorten a longer torso and makes legs seem longer (even though you can't see them!) This is definitely my pick for most wearable for ANYBODY!

6.) Sandra Oh in Oscar de la Renta - This is definitely a risk, but at least it's a trendy risk! Lace is certainly "in" this season, and what better way to start off the year with a bang than with a full-on, floor length lace gown? The best way to wear this look is by keeping everything very monochromatic (preferably keeping everything the same colour, with only a "pop" colour if absolutely necessary), choosing a simple silhouette (I would prefer an even shorter, cocktail-length dress), and minimizing the makeup, hair, and accessories. The dress is a bold statement on it's own - there's no need to clutter up the look with bright pink platforms and a bold lime-green clutch. Stick to simple studs or small drops earrings, a small silver bracelet, and a black satin clutch. 

7.) Cynthia Nixon in Calvin Klein Collection - Now THIS is how you wear colour on the red carpet! The mustard coloured bag would usually be out of place against the seafoam green gown, but Cynthia makes it work (thanks Tim Gunn). The simple detail on the bust is all the detailing you need on such a beautiful dress. The one cuff and earrings is a popular look in jewelry, and saves the neckline from being cluttered with necklaces (think Rachel Weisz at the 2007 Academy Awards - how perfect would it have been if she had left that necklace at home?!!?) Remember: when pairing jewelry with your formal outfit, veer on the simple side. Less is always more when it comes to evening wear, except in certain circumstances (if you have a plain, black dress, feel free to try a bold, chunky necklaces or a large ring). 

8.) Christina Applegate in Reem Acra - Again, combining metallics with a more neutral base colour is very flattering. While we may not suggest a large bow and/or train, feel free to play around with the silhouette. Another tip this ensembles inspires is to not forget to complete the look head-to-toe. We've talked about the hair, the jewelry and the gowns of course, but DO NOT forget the manicure and pedicure! Nothing ruins beautiful shoes like unkempt feet. Nothing ruins a beautiful ring like unkempt hands. Christina's choice of dark reddish/purplish nail polish are what really completed the look. The metallics and light blue with the dark polish? I'm already planning on a similar combo for my next event :)