For the first time ever, the Golden Globes red carpet was a sea of black in support of the Time’s Up initiative, standing in solidarity with victims of sexual assault and harassment, with the men also wearing Time’s Up pin badges or black shirts with their suits.
Aside from an empowering message, these stars also had us inspired when it comes to rocking black for a formal event.
Enliven your black outfit with a sprinkling of silver. Dakota Johnson went with a statement detail at the back (and a silver buckle at the front), Jessica Chastain flashed a hint of shine at the bodice, while Mary J. Blige flaunted her curvaceous figure in Alberta Ferretti, which featured a silvery sleeve and skirt panel.
Jessica Chastain in Armani Prive, Dakota Johnson in Gucci, and Mary J. Blige in Alberta Ferretti.
Images: @jessicachastain/Instagram, @kateyoung/Instagram, @therealmaryjblige/Instagram
Can’t decide between the drama of a ballgown or a leg-baring style? Go for high-low hems. They’ll create the illusion of gams that go on forever, too. (Check out these flirty dresses with high low hems for your wedding day.)
Heidi Klum in Ashi Studio, and Kendall Jenner in Giambattista Valli.
Our rule of thumb for sexy brides looking to dress tastefully is usually to bare cleavage or your legs, but Kate Hudson came along in this sultry Valentino number and basically had us taking back our words – if you dare to take the plunge, of course.
Image: @sophielopez/Instagram
See also: BOAT TO SCOOP: FIND THE BEST WEDDING GOWN NECKLINES FOR YOU
Sheer, pleated fabric is an elegant and modern way to introduce texture into your outfit.
Diane Kruger paired hers with an embellished cape (anyone getting Helen of Troy vibes here, too?), while Jessica Biel’s Dior number had velvet detailing that contrasted starkly with the soft tulle.
Diane Kruger in Prada, and Jessica Biel in Dior.
Image: @micaelaerlanger/Instagram , @robzangardi/Instagram
See also: 9 GORGEOUS TULLE WEDDING DRESSES THAT ARE LIGHTWEIGHT, ROMANTIC, AND TIMELESS
Angelina Jolie’s red carpet ensembles never fail to evoke effortless, sensual elegance and this Atelier Versace number is no different. With plumed sleeves, a sheer neckline and gathered waist with a fluid shape, we’re getting major Old Hollywood vibes.
To give it extra oomph for your big day, consider statement earrings or a glittery hair clip.
Image: @versace_official/Instagram
See also: VINTAGE GLAM! 11 EVENING GOWNS FOR AN ELEGANT CELEBRATION
Lace and sheer layers never fail to look both red carpet- and wedding-worthy.
Laura Marano in Rita Vinieris, Ashley Judd in Elie Saab, and Catherine Zeta Jones in Zuhair Murad.
Image: @ritavinieris/Instagram, @eliesaabworld/Instagram, @catherinezetajones/Instagram
These stars took the minimalist route with structured and fuss-free route, but with eye-catching necklines.
Reese Witherspoon in Zac Posen, Emilia Clarke in Miu Miu, and Greta Gerwig in Oscar de la Renta.
Image: @petraflannery/Instagram, @petraflannery/Instagram, @oscardelarenta/Instagram
At the awards, Alison Brie announced, “Tonight is about women wearing the pants, so I chose to literally wear the pants.”
Several other celebs echoed the sentiment with chic jumpsuits, luxing up the look with a splash of white and floral details (Alexis Bledel), as well as glamorous overskirts.
See also: FORGET GOWNS! HERE ARE CHIC SEPARATES FOR YOUR WEDDING!
Alexis Bledel in Oscar de la Renta, Christina Hendricks in Christian Siriano, and Alison Brie in Vassilis Zoulias.
Image: @oscardelarenta/Instagram, @csiriano/Instagram, @vzoulias/Instagram
Another way to jazz up an all black outfit – go for glistening fabric. We love Kerry Washington’s edgy take with sheer black booties; it’s great for an evening look at an unconventional wedding venue, like a watering hole or a stylish restaurant.
Giuliana Rancic in Sherri Hill, Issa Rae and Kerry Washington in Prabal Gurung.
Image: @giulianarancic/Instagram, @csiriano/Instagram
If you’re gunning for a demure look that’s still sultry and head-turning, take your cue from these leading ladies decked in formfitting lace pieces.
Nicole Kidman in Givenchy Couture, Penelope Cruz in Ralph and Russo, and Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton.
Images: @juliavonboehm/Instagram, ralphandrusso/Instagram, @petraflannery/Instagram