1. Zoe Saldana at the Oscars
Rule: Don’t combine too many trends into one dress.
From the bright ruffles to the blinding rhinestones, this looks like a recycled eighties prom dress that had an unfortunate meeting with the Bedazzler.
2. Nicole Richie at the Oscars
Rule: Do channel retro-glam.
This long-sleeve stunner proves that you don’t have to show cleavage to be sexy, or douse a dress in rhinestones to sparkle.
3. Charlize Theron at the Oscars
Rule: Accentuate your assets, Don’t embroider them.
The flowery details on this dress aren’t whimsical, they’re simply ridiculous. And while Charlize Theron is one of Hollywood’s most stunning beauties, this dress manages to steal all of the attention. When choosing a dress, it’s important to pick the one that illuminates the wearer in the best light, and doesn’t steal it from her.
4. Demi Moore at the Oscars
Rule: Do pick a dress that fits and a color that flatters.
Demi Moore’s dress is pure perfection. The peach tone and tight-fitting waist create a sexy, yet subtle silhouette. While the cascading ruffles add a glamorous touch.
5. Jennifer Lopez at the Oscars
Rule: Don’t wear a dress with enough fabric to create an extra gown.
Embracing your hips is one thing, but adding an extra pair is quite another. This over-the-top detailing is reminiscent of Glinda the Good Witch from the Wizard of Oz, and not in a good way.
6. Sandra Bullock at the Oscars
Rule: Do dare to sparkle.
The 2010 Oscars was Bullock’s time to shine in the spotlight and she picked the perfect dress to wear in it. The silver sparkles paired with lacey details formed a dress that is just like Sandra Bullock-modernly elegant and simply stunning.
7. Tina Fey at the Golden Globes
Rule: Don’t wear a dress that’s big and busy.
If Fey had chosen a sleek silhouette, this pattern could have created a quirky, yet modern and sleek gown. Instead, the awkward length and poufy skirt made this dress look unflattering and silly.
8. Lea Michele at the Emmys
Rule: Do have fun with fashion.
This ruffle gown was an edited version of the type of dress every little girl dreams about. By keeping it simple on top and wearing her hair in relaxed waves, she kept the look from becoming too overdone.
9. Madonna at the Met Costume Institute
Rule: Don’t Live in the Past.
30 years ago, the material girl would have rocked this look in the same way she did similar ensembles. But times have changed and it’s time that Madonna’s style change with it. The 52 year-old has certainly aged well, but this get-up looks like a desperate cry for her distant youth.
10. Emma Watson at the “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Premiere: Part 1”
Rule: Do wear feathers.
The Harry Potter star was right on trend in this feather and lace frock. The lace bodice made her look all grown up, while the feathery skirt kept her look fun, flirty and fabulous.