Fashion

Get Lupita's Chic Summer Look

by Tyler Atwood

Lupita Nyong'o has an unmistakably elegant sense of style, as any fashion critic or red carpet aficionado can attest. However, Nyong'o's ensembles never appear overly decorous or stuffy; in fact, the actress prefers to lean in the opposite direction, often choosing pieces that make her audiences snap to attention with vibrant shades, optical patterns, and playful silhouettes. Nyongo seems to have never met a daring look she didn't like, and in a sea of celebrities who play it safe when it comes to the red carpet, it's refreshing to see an outfit that is out of the ordinary.

When it comes to achieving Lupita Nyong'o-esque style, it's important to keep fit, shade, and style in mind. Nyong'o maintains a devotion to relatively demure pieces which highlight her figure but don't show an excessive amount of skin. And the actress knows to how choose shades that are flattering on her skin tone, sticking with bright, saturated colors for her press appearances. Perhaps most significantly, the actress isn't afraid to try out modern silhouettes with a bit of an edge, as is exemplified in her choice of ensemble for the Maui Film Festival Friday. Nyong'o stepped out in a streamlined Calvin Klein dress paired with heeled sandals by Christian Louboutin. Unless you're besties with an A-list Hollywood stylist who can pass along designer wares, read on for the four items you need to capture Nyongo's gorgeous look.

Andrew Goodman/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

1. FITTED SHEATH DRESS

The key to Nyongo's look is a beautifully tailored, color block sheath dress in a flattering shade. The dress should hit just above the knee, or mid-calf for those who are more daring. ASOS CURVE's Exclusive Bodycon Dress With Colour Blocking And Stepped Hem is an ideal option for those seeking a chic plus size sheath, and Lipsy's Bodycon Dress is rendered in a beautiful cobalt shade for those who take sizes 2-12.

2. VIBRANT, STRAPPY HEELS

Lupita's perfectly coordinated look is made all the more enviable by her Louboutin sandals, whose multicolored straps mirror the colors in her dress. Jean Michele Cazabat's Orsola Patent-Leather Slingbacks add a pop of color and a bit of shine to a dress with orange or red woven through, but for a cool-toned dress, Edmundo Castillo's Divina Sandals will provide a stunning complement.

3. COLOR BLOCKED CLUTCH

When rocking this streamlined look, the last thing you want is to ruin the ensemble with a clunky tote. Follow Nyong'o's lead and add a matching clutch to your ensemble. Vince Camuto's Julia Leather Colorblock Clutch is both functional and ladylike thanks to its dimensions and beautiful, pebbled leather finish.

4. MATCHING NAIL POLISH

Nyongo must have the world's most accomplished styling team, because her ensemble is matched from tips to toes — literally. The actress's pastel manicure perfectly emulates the mint shade of her dress, an effort which makes the entire look appear more thoughtful. If you're wary of choosing a nail color that doesn't quite match your dress, try one in a matte taupe, cream, or black like Dior Vernis in Muguet.

Images: ASOS CURVE Exclusive Bodycon Dress With Colour Blocking And Stepped Hem, $54.30, asos.com; Jean Michele Cazabat Orsola Patent-Leather Slingbacks, $127.40, theoutnet.com; Vince Camuto Julia Leather Colorblock Clutch, $148, lordandtaylor.com; Dior Vernis in Muguet, $25, dior.com