Rock any red carpet event

Want to make an entry into a big event like an A-list celeb? Here’s how you can take a paparazzi-approved picture, avoid a wardrobe malfunction, and rock any red carpet.

It’s all about the cocktail dress

So what if you don’t have the six-figure budget or 13-person glam squad that your favourite stars do, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look stunning. It’s really all about the dress, anyway. Have a cocktail dress handy. Cocktail has become the new black tie, so you can always get away with a cute little black dress (LBD). And that LBD can be green, blue or purple. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune on it. Find clothes that are transformational.

Keep the purse small

Sure, it would be great to lug along some backup makeup, an extra camera, and a pair of flats for when the night’s winding down, but then you’d have a suitcase. Nothing ruins a great look like a big-ass daytime purse. Understand that you can’t be prepared for everything, and take a clutch. Just make sure it doesn’t make too big a statement. After all, it’s an accessory.

Don’t overdo the makeup

You may think that this is time to go all-out with your makeup. Whatever you do, don’t. This is not the time to try something new, like 12-inch fake eyelashes. A little bit goes a long way, adding that you should pick one thing that’s easy to finesse but doesn’t require constant upkeep. Bold red lips are great but don’t do this and a smoky eye. Pick one.

Go for some killer heels

Always wear a heel when venturing to a party. Platforms are the easiest in this set to walk in, but test them out in advance — wear them around the house for a couple hours to make sure you can stand and walk in them without toppling over. Also, make sure the shoes are padded so they are a bit more comfortable.

Whatever you do, make sure you moisturise

If you are going with bare legs or arms, don’t forget to moisturise! Better yet, mix a bit of loose shimmer powder or even a little foundation to your body cream before applying.

Be strategic with jewellery

Always focus on one statement bold piece per look. But be careful — don’t overcrowd your neck, arms, and fingers with jewellery. If you’re wearing earrings, you can wear a bracelet, and if you are wearing a necklace, you can wear a ring.

Draw a line between sensual and lewd

To avoid showing too much skin with your dress, as with your makeup, be sure you are playing up one feature and not all of them. If you have a high slit, it is best advised against going in for a plunging neckline. If you have a backless dress, keep the hemline from creeping up too high. If nothing else, show your shoulders. That’s a great feature on anyone.