by Monique Frausto
The red carpet is a celebrity's runway and a place to show
off the hottest dresses of the season. This year's Grammy's and Academy Awards
were no exception. Divas were daring and rock stars were rebellious, and there
was no shortage of shock and awe in Hollywood for both of these nights.
While fashion has no limits, it may be a little hard to
recreate a red carpet look without going directly to the designer or finding a
knockoff. It may also prove difficult to find the same looks in plus sizes.
That's where fashion inspiration comes in.
To inspire means to influence, and while most of the
celebrity looks were easy to recreate, some were not. But, that shouldn't stop
a true fashionista from achieving a glamorous red carpet look; imitating
something as simple as a gown's color scheme or silhouette can serve as
inspiration and make a statement.
At the Grammy's the ladies were definitely representing. Hillary
Scott of Lady Antebellum rocked a sophisticated Roberto Cavalli gown. This is
definitely a look anyone can pull off. The maxi dress is a chic silhouette that
can be worn in many ways, especially with various accessories. The little black
dress just got a lot longer.
Dancing with the Star's Julianne Hough stunned in a
Catherine Malandrino creation. The plunging neckline is a daring move, but with
the right amount of confidence, it can be definitely be done. Prints have been
known in the past to be a plus size "no no," but not in today's curvy world.
Wear them proud!
R&B songstress Monica went bold in a Stephane Rolland
work of art. Dresses are taking shape, but if this style is too daring let it
inspire a dress with an asymmetrical cut. There's no reason to shy away from a
dress with an edge.
The Academy Awards red carpet never disappoints. Black Swan's
Mila Kunis was lovely in a lavender lace Elie Saab Haute Couture gown. Simply
elegant in ruffles, this feminine look is inspired by spring and embraces the
natural shape of the body.
Actress Mandy Moore sparkled in a Monique Lhuillier design.
This gown was the showstopper of the night and for good reason. It was beyond
ethereal and was made for a princess. Let it inspire a look that can be worn
for a fun night out with the girls.
Newcomer Jennifer Lawrence wore a simple, yet elegant red
gown from the Calvin Klein Collection. Although stunning, the minimal look isn't
for everyone. Make any special occasion red hot with an elegant gown.
There's no end to the possibilities when fashion
inspiration takes over. Bring out the diva, the rocker chick, or the movie
star. It's the red carpet...let it inspire you.
