Sequins and stars go together like peanut butter and jelly, milk and cereal…gin and tonic.
The embellishment attracts attention, adds dimension to fabric and can make you feel instantly glam. On the flip side, shining bright like a diamond can go wrong too (like a stomachache or hangover you didn't see coming). It's such an ornate material that when not properly executed, it can cheapen, age and overwhelm what was supposed to be a high-fashion look.
On the 2016 Emmys red carpet, the sequence of sequins caught our eye. Everyone from Ariel Winter to Amy Poehler to Kirsten Dunst sparkled—some making best dressed history, and others blinding to the eye. Granted, anything sequin is hard to wear, but thanks to the ladies who were bold enough to wear the trend last night, we now know how to stun in all the right ways.
Sequins Will Emphasize Your Skin Tone: This is a plea to celebs everywhere—when choosing the color of your dress, consider your skin tone! If you have an obvious tan (à la Claire Danes), it's probably best not to match your golden skin with a golden dress. You want a hue that complements, not completely matches or contrasts. Love or hate Sarah Paulson's Prada gown, her very fair skin created the perfect canvas for her vibrant emerald-green dress. When in doubt, park it in neutral.
Avoid Going Top-Heavy: Sequins are heavy—we're betting a few of these gowns added five to 10 extra pounds on the actresses. Amy Poehler's shoulder-covering smock not only felt dated but looked heavy on her. The dress was wearing her; she wasn't wearing the dress. Showing some skin with lighten up the look.
Keep It Simple: We love how Ariel wore the same dress as Kylie Jenner; however, sequins are not one dress fits all. The high slit, cutouts and sheer paneling created a combo meant for Dancing With the Stars. Pick one lane and excel in that (see: Laverne Cox, who wore similar geometric burnouts but kept everything consistent).
Mix Sequins With Edgier Embellishments: At first glance, it may look like Kirsten was wearing head-to-toe sequins, but in actuality, it's more beading than sequins. Sprinkling in just enough obvious sparkle with other textures will keep the look timeless but visually striking.
Don't Go Overboard with Accessories: Pretty much all the actresses knew to keep the jewelry to a minimum. Perhaps there were drop-earrings here or a statement ring there, but they let their dress play center stage. Don't overdose on add-ons—it'll just distract from the whole look. If you want to accentuate your dress, follow in America Ferrera's footsteps and complement your shiny fabrics with stunning hair. Her romantic curls softened the luxe ornamentation, creating something pretty but modern.
Now you tell us: Which sparkly gown was your favorite ?