Fashion
13 Oscar-Worthy Gowns On A D-list Budget
The 2014 Oscars are on Sunday, and even though your invite obviously got lost in the mail, no need to get yourself down. Even industry insiders sometimes get the boot from the red carpet. So although you may not be going to the ultra-exclusive event, that doesn't mean you can't dress like an A-lister stalking down the red carpet to whatever Academy Awards viewing party you do end up at. But unless you're a mega A-list star, the couture confections worn by award-winning actresses are not exactly in the realm of budgetary possibility. Instead, try these 13 Oscar-worthy gowns that even a D-lister can afford.
Long Sleeve Cut-Out Gown
Sleeves on gowns have become a red carpet trend in recent years, and this jersey dress version with a sexy teardrop cutout is also über comfy.
JS Boutique Beaded Jersey Gown, $259, lordandtaylor.com
Sequin Gown
The Oscars are all about standing out from the crowd, and what better way to achieve that than with this slinky, eye-catching sequin gown in a gorgeous inky blue.
Lauren by Ralph Lauren Sleeveless Sequin Gown, $280, macys.com
Metallic Adjustable Gown
Be like Stacy Kiebler circa 2012 and look just like an Oscar statuette by wearing a draped metallic gown. Bonus: this dress can be worn six ways ranging from strapless to long sleeved.
KamaliKulture All In One Gown, $40.10, amazon.com
Grecian Gown
This Neo-classical look is not only a classic, it’s also the perfect gown to officially welcome Spring (whenever that may come).
Aqua Grecian Pleated Blouson Gown, $258, bloomingdales.com
One-Shoulder Thigh-High Slit Gown
If you really want to make a statement, make like Angelina Jolie’s leg and sport a sexy, thigh-high slit, perfect for showing off that provocative cowboy-like stance.
Hailey by Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Jersey Gown, $98, nordstrom.com
Art Deco Gown
Add a little Gatsby glamour to your red carpet look with this beaded gown.
Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Gown, $198, nordstrom.com
Emerald Gown
Rich, vivid greens are the perfect contrast against the red carpet and stars who sport the color for the Oscars just seem to glow in photos.
Julian Taylor Emerald Cap Sleeve Rhinestone Detail Gown, $59.50, bluefly.com
Pleated Gown
Tadashi Shoji made headlines in 2012 when Octavia Spencer wore his dresses to every red carpet during awards season, culminating in the famous Oscar dress in which she won Best Supporting Actress. Make like an Academy Award winner and wear Tadashi, as this romantic gown has all the pleating and expert tailoring Shoji is known for.
Tadashi Shoji Portrait Collar Pleated Mesh Gown, $298, nordstrom.com
Printed Gown
Traditionally, printed gowns are often seen as too casual for the red carpet, especially at the Academy Awards. But this abstract print is subtle with just enough sheen to allow you to achieve red carpet perfection.
Intermix Printed Silk Keyhole Gown, $149, intermixonline.com
Ball Gown
What’s an awards show without a big, puffy ball gown to make you feel like a princess?
Boutique Taffeta Cap Sleeve Gown, $229, bloomingdales.com
Wrap Gown
Another red carpet favorite, Zac Posen always makes the most elegantly draped gowns. This wrap jersey version is super flattering and a lot more affordable than his hot-off-the-runway designs.
Z Spoke by Zac Posen Jersey Wrap Gown, $241.99, 6pm.com
Shoulder Detail Gown
If you prefer to go the simpler route of demure colors without the sparkle, ensure you still command spotlight with artfully sculptural shoulder details.
A.B.S by Allen Schwartz Midnight V-neck Rose Shoulder Gown, $219.50, bluefly.com
Embellished Gathered Gown
Another way to use your shoulders to achieve look-at-me status is by using rhinestone brooches to give your look that perfect dash of brilliance.
Lauren Ralph Lauren Jersey Gown, $180, nordstrom.com
