During red carpet events, a foolproof formula that celebrities typically resort to is a solid-colored dress, either in an off-shouldered form or a tube neckline. Oh, and let’s not forget the thigh-high slit. Last year though, we were really proud to see celebrities go for more campy looks, as evidenced by Lady Gaga’s modern Cinderella ball gown and Lili Reinhart’s fiery red tulle confection. This year, we’re glad to see even more celebrities embracing the attention-grabbing appeal of the campy look via statement sleeves and—what else—tulle, tulle, tulle! All that is totally admirable, but there's one micro trend we’re more than thrilled to see on the red carpet: Bold prints. This year, they came in different colors, scales, and fabrics, making it more exciting than ever!
It's easy to understand why people are intially averse to sporting prints on the red carpet. Some prints aren't flattering, and they can be tricky to style. Basically, the outfit's appeal relies largely on the print, and that can either be a hit or miss.
Luckily, some celebrities have grown more confident in donning prints and making the looks their own. Here are some of the commendable print-happy looks we've seen:
1. Zoe Kravitz in YSL
We're not only proud of Zoe for rocking polka dots on the red carpet, but we're psyched she chose to wear them in two different scales to keep things interesting. Let her style choice convince you to mix prints for your next formal occasion!
2. Taylor Swift in Etro
Psychedelic prints were totally big in 2019, but we love Taylor's refreshing take on it by opting for a floral version. It's romantic, vibrant, and nonetheless eye-catching.
3. Kaitlyn Dever in Valentino
Here's a combo that'll pack a one-two punch: a puff-sleeved dress in a predominantly pink floral print. Kaitlyn's Valentino number was a good choice because it's streamlined and stylish—not messy-looking at all.
4. Joey King in Iris Van Herpen
Joey's Iris Van Herpen optical illusion gown definitely takes the cake for "best in print." The sleek black-and-white number comprised of sculptural waves is almost like a lucid fashion fantasy. We bet this look will blaze a trail of trompe l'oeil ensembles in the future!
5. Laura Dern in YSL
If vibrant prints aren't really your thing, let Laura Dern show you how to render them in a moody way. Here, she wears a romantic YSL gown with golden appliqués, reminiscent of the baroque era. It's basically proof that prints don't have to be complicated.
6. Anna Paquin in Dior
Another celebrity who embraced dark romance was Anna Paquin, who sported an embroidered floral number with lace sleeves. Although the dress wasn't entirely flattering for her petite figure, we admire her attempt at old-world glamour.
So, just in case you have a formal event coming up and you're still clueless as to what your outfit should be, look to these courageous celebrities for inspiration. It's simply a matter of choosing what your favorite print is.
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