Last Week, Stars Found Inspiration in Pre-Fall and Bold Color

As unimpeachable as the LBD may be for a big night, come summer it always takes a backseat to vivid color for a hot night out. Last week as temperatures rose, stars turned to brights and jewel tones worn head to toe for maximum wow.

More than being merely “pretty,” these fashion moments were surprising, directional, and relevant. At the CMT Music Awards, Kate Bosworth gave the audience a thrill in a sparkling seafoam dress from Prabal Gurung’s Pre-Fall 2019 collection. Compared to the 10-gallon hats and revealing minidresses worn by some attendees, Bosworth’s strapless gown of raw-edge chiffon and iridescent paillettes was a vision. Likewise, Outlander star Caitriona Balfe gave the annual For Your Consideration events a touch of runway relevance in a mint green floral number from Marc Jacobs’s newly launched line, The Marc Jacobs.

Shades of pink were equally effective. Issa Rae joined AFI’s tribute to Denzel Washington in a deep blush gown from Zuhair Murad that utilized her favorite silhouette (deep V to a nipped waist) to great effect. In London, Gugu Mbatha-Raw brought a touch of sweetness to the Royal Academy’s summer exhibition in Erdem’s flirty and full shirtdress. Mbatha-Raw paired the smocky number (originally shown over a long skirt) with bare legs and gold Nicholas Kirkwood heels, an inspired choice that resulted in a standout look.