It’s that time of year again, when Hollywood and heavy snow descend on Park City, Utah, for the Sundance Film Festival. Prepare to see plenty of stars in puffy jackets, enormous sunglasses and, God forbid, furry Ugg boots (It should be noted that these oversized boots look like a Sasquatch has swallowed each of your feet whole and won’t let go but if you need to keep your toes from turning blue, they get the job done). Sure, the stars are battling frigid conditions but is that a reason to look less than chic?

Thankfully, Liv Tyler ignored the cold when she ditched the eskimo jacket look in favor of some lighter attire for the premiere of "The Ledge" at the Eccles Center Theatre. Tyler created the perfect balance of comfort and style in a dark gray coat, patterned tights and tall, black suede boots. I love the jacket because it's not your typical peacoat. The oversized lapels look dressy, create the illusion of a super blazer/coat hybrid and give the piece a distinct menswear vibe. The patterned leggings are just plain fun, and the suede boots are functional. The fact that they don't bring to mind a certain furry animal is a definite bonus.

If you're tired of the classic peacoat styles, spruce up your winter wardrobe with one of these fun finds: The Adam by Adam Lippes coat on Yoox.com for $59, Globetrotting in Grey coat from ModCloth.com for $79, the Plush College coat from Zara for $59 or the coat with gathering on the side for $39, also from Zara.

Draw some attention to your legs without leaving them bare in a pair of patterned leggings. You can find them at most stores for $20 or under but here are our picks for the top four under $10: Split pattern tights by Free People for $9.95, Fashion-forward patterned tights from Charlotte Russe for $7.50, Basketweave tights from Anthropologie for $9.95, and the Hue Bold lace tights from Lord and Taylor for $9.44.

As someone who will willingly kill my feet all night for a divine pair of shoes, I'm always thrilled when I find a pair that looks great without the pain. These frugal finds should keep you warm and still turn some heads: Merona Kamiyah suede boots for $39.99 and the Mossimo Kailli Over the knee boots for $39.99. Victoria's Secret proves it can tackle more than just sexy lingerie with the Report Side-tie boot for $49.99.

Happy Shopping.

-- Jenn Harris

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

Photo top: Actress Liv Tyler attends "The Ledge" premiere at the Eccles Center Theatre during the 2011 Sundance Film Festival on Jan. 21 in Park City, Utah. Credit: George Pimentel / Getty Images.

Coat photo from left: The Adam by Adam Lippes coat. Credit: Yoox.com. Globetrotting in Grey coat. Credit: ModCloth.com. Plush College coat. Credit: Zara. Coat with gathering on the side. Credit: Zara.

Tights photo from left: Split-pattern tights. Credit: Free People. Fashion-forward patterned tights: Charlotte Russe. Basketweave tights. Credit: Anthropologie. Hue Bold lace tights. Credit: Lord and Taylor.

Boots photo from left: Merona Kamiyah boots. Credit: Target. Mossimo Kailli boots. Credit: Target. Report Side-tie boots. Credit: Victoria's Secret.

The buzz around red carpet interviews at awards shows is almost always drowned out by the same question: "Who are you wearing?" Last week's 68th Golden Globe Awards was no different...shocking. I don't mean to sound bored with it all and I'm the first to admit that I enjoy watching the red carpet arrivals more than the actual award shows, but every year I'm always left with the same burning question: "Yea, yea, Marchesa this, Armani that...but what about the jewelry?" When you're a fashion-obsessed little girl who finally wiggles her way into her mother's closet, you don't reach for the gowns -- you put your tiny feet straight into her heels, wrap her pearls around your neck and go for the diamonds.

Sure last week's leading ladies were dressed in designer bigwigs like Lanvin, Versace, Calvin Klein and Vera Wang, and fashion websites, including our own, went on and on about the 10 best dressed ladies of the evening, but an Oscar-worthy gown is always short of amazing without the right accessories. Would Catherine Zeta-Jones really sparkle in her Golden Globes Monique Lhuillier emerald green gown without her earrings? To be honest, that woman would sparkle in something as mundane as a burlap sack, but the earrings did help! Her diamond chandelier earrings draw your eyes to her gorgeous face and were the perfect accent to her strapless dress. Natalie Portman also looked stunning in her Viktor & Rolf gown but she gave her maternity glow a boost with her Tiffany layered diamond necklace. The piece definitely made a statement but still gives the look of a soft, dainty piece of jewelry.

A pair of diamond earrings and necklace are a given when accessorizing an evening gown but when you're waving to adoring fans why not give your wrists a little extra sparkle? 'The Closer' star Kyra Sedgwick rocked a bright orange Emilio Pucci dress at the Globes and adorned her right wrist with a number of chunky, shiny gold bangles.

It might be easier to clasp a dozen gold bangles on your wrist or fix a diamond necklace around your neck with a movie star bank account, but there's no reason why you can't go glam on a budget.

A layered necklace is the perfect way to make a statement with your jewelry but keep things looking refined. If you have a flare for the dramatic try this Lydell NYC Tiered Chain Beaded Necklace from Bloomingdales for $48, or the mixed metal Peggy Necklace from Chico's for $58. For something a little softer, the Fallling stars necklace from Banana Republic is $47.99.

The chandelier earring went on hiatus for a while but I think it's safe to say they are back -- at least on the red carpet. If you're looking for the perfect pair to wear to a charity gala check out these frugal finds: Chandelier drop earrings from Arden B for $24, Durol earrings in White Nubuk from Aldo for $13.98, Apt. 9 Jet-Tone Simulated Crystal Beaded Chandelier earrings on sale for $10 at Kohl's or the Nadri Crystal Teardrop Chandelier earrings from Nordstrom for $88.

When it comes to bangles, go for the gold and the more the merrier. Budget shoppers can look for bangles sold as a set, giving you a layered look without having to buy 10 bracelets. Mix in some chunkier pieces with stone, pearl or glass accents for fun. Nordstrom has a great set of bangles by Cara for $58. Layer the bangles with a set of four Kaya bangles from Chico's for $38 or the Astronomer's bracelet from Banana Republic for $39.50.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Top photos: Natalie Portman, left and Catherine Zeta Jones. Credits: Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images and Mike Nelson / European Pressphoto Agency

Middle photo: Kyra Sedgwick's bangles. Credit: Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images

Necklace photo from left: Lydell necklace. Credit: Bloomingdales. Peggy necklace. Credit: Chico's. Falling Stars necklace. Credit: Banana Republic. 

Earrings photo from left:Chandelier Drop earrings. Credit: Arden B. Durol earrings. Credit: Aldo. Apt. 9 earrings. Credit: Kohl's. Nadri Crystal earrings. Credit: Nordstrom.

Bangles photo from left: Cara bangles. Credit Nordstrom. Kaya bangles. Credit: Chico's. Astronomer's bracelet. Credit: Banana Republic.

Still can't get Gwyneth Paltrow's performance of Cee-Lo's "Forget You" on "Glee" out of your head? Neither can I! The 38-year-old actress is making it impossible to forget her as she seems to be everywhere, doing everything at once. Let's see if I can do this in one breath -- she has an Academy Award (for 1998's "Shakespeare in Love"), has been in ad campaigns for Estee Lauder and TOD'S, is a personal shopper/lifestyle guru on her website Goop, is the new brand ambassador for Swiss watchmaker Baume and Mercier, performed at the Country Music Awards, is a guest star on "Glee," and is hosting "Saturday Night Live" this weekend. "Coming Home," a song she sings in her new film, "Country Strong," is in contention for best song at Sunday's Golden Globe Awards too. Whew.  Leave something for the rest of us! Not only is she one busy lady, but whether she's on the red carpet or on her way to an interview, she looks great doing all of it.

While promoting "Country Strong" recently, Paltrow braved the New York weather for a "Good Morning America" appearance in an anorak with a face-framing warm fur collar, simple black tights and leather wedge booties by Balenciaga. Paltrow keeps her modelesque look even under the hefty jacket by revealing her long legs and adding some height with her booties.

We may live in sunny Southern California but we've been experiencing some seriously chilly winter weather and while it may seem hard to look sleek when layering is a must to stay warm, Paltrow shows just how to do it.

Warmer coats tend to be on the more expensive side but a London Fog Coat with faux fur hood from Macy's is only $69.99. This quilted down jacket is definitely heavy duty enough to keep you from freezing and the slightly fitted waist and removable faux fur hood will keep you stylishly warm. 

To keep your toes from turning blue, booties are the perfect way to keep your feet warm while satisifying your inner shoe diva.

Paltrow's wedge booties are genius for two reasons: One, they are warm and two, the wedge heel adds height without killing your feet. If you're more conservative with your shoe styles, try the Suedette wedge booties from Forever 21 for $27.80. If you're a little more adventurous, go for the Bamboo Liberate boots from Tilly's for $29.97 with a lace-up style and fur cuff.

These frugally priced warmer finds almost have me excited about the cold weather. Ah, who am I kidding? SoCal girls love the sun, but if we have to brave the winter chill we might as well look amazing doing it.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Upper photo: Actress Gwyneth Paltrow visits the "Good Morning America" taping at the ABC Times Square Studio in New York City. Credit: Ray Tamarra / Getty Images.

Middle photo: London Fog faux fur hooded jacket from Macy's. Credit: Macy's.

Lower photo, from left: Suedette booties from Forever 21. Credit: Forever 21. Boots from Tilly's. Credit: Tilly's.

Actress Emmy Rossum is well on her way to making a name for herself as a Golden Globe nominee (for "The Phantom of the Opera" in 2004) and budding fashion icon. Her most recent career endeavor is her role as Fiona in the new Showtime series "Shameless," where she plays the oldest sibling in the inappropriately shameless Gallagher clan.

Lucky for fashion fans, she's been busy on the media circuit this year, giving us plenty of envy-inducing outfits to fawn over. The 24-year-old starlet managed to claim headlines last week when she rang in the new year with a bang by going buff. No, not in the buff, but in the kind of low-key neutral color that turns heads without an excessive exposure of flesh. Rossum attended the New Year's Eve grand opening of the lavish Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas clad in a neutral nude colored, curve hugging dress by Julien Macdonald, gold Jimmy Choo heels and a cream Misela clutch.

Rossum elevated her neutral color with bands that snaked loosely around the dress. The color may seem delicate but the dress' body-conscious fit and thick straps are tough-chic and anything but subdued.

A neutral clutch and gold heels balanced all elements of the party outfit nicely.

You too can come off your holiday high of sparkling metallics and sequins and settle into 2011 with a more relaxed, neutral-colored dress. The bright colors and neon tones of spring are fast-approaching, so now is the time to take a color breather. Just keep things interesting with an eye-catching design. These delightfully neutral dresses should do the trick, without busting your post-holiday budget:

From left, the MM Couture by Miss Me Drape Mini Dress with sassy black waist detail for $92 on revolveclothing.com and the sexy knitted nude cut-out Bodycon Dress from TOPSHOP for $50.

For a simple clutch that is versatile enough to accompany you to all your 2011 parties, invest in one of these fun but neutral tones: BCBGeneration Maya Clutch available at Macy's for $48 or the Sparkle Nighttime clutch from Forever21 for just $7.50 -- that has to be less than the sandwich you bought for lunch yesterday.

For your heels, it might be fun to go vertiginously high, but any pair of strappy neutral heels you might already own will complete the look. Mix and match the bags and dresses to fit your budget and get ready to leap into a rainbow palette for spring.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Upper photo: Actress Emmy Rossum arrives at the Cosmopolitan Grand Opening and New Year's Eve celebration in Las Vegas. Credit: Ethan Miller / WireImage

Middle photo, from left: MM Couture dress by Miss Me. Credit: Revolveclothing.com. Knitted nude cut- out dress from TOPSHOP. Credit: TOPSHOP

Lower photo, from left: BCBGeneration clutch from Macy's. Credit: Macy's. Nighttime clutch from Forever 21. Credit: Forever21

[Updated January 5, 2011 at 3:52 PM. An earlier version of the post incorrectly stated that Emmy Rossum is 23-years-old.]

Sofia Coppola is the ultimate jack of all (Hollywood) trades. She's been an actress, director, producer, screenwriter, costume designer and cinematographer, and she's only 39. It doesn't hurt that she comes from Hollywood royalty; her father is Francis Ford Coppola, and famous cousins include Jason Schwartzman and Nicolas Cage. 

As part of a clan of Hollywood elite, Coppola is used to the flashbulbs that come with fame and has a unique sense of style when in the public view. She has a knack for being subtle in her wardrobe choices but always tends to add her own special twist, whether it be a cute clutch bag or, in this case, some sparkle.

At a recent screening for her new film, "Somewhere," Coppola attracted flashbulbs galore in a tank adorned with dark blue sequins; black pleated crop trousers; ankle strap heels and a clutch bag.

Her outfit looks sensible and conservative but fun enough to wear to the after party. And, indeed, sequined tanks are a playful, inexpensive way to spruce up any party outfit. Get your party on with one of these sequined tanks, all frugally priced of course:

From left, sequin and fabric mix tank from The Limited for $49.90, Michael Kors sequin tank from blufly.com fro $63, Peter Nygard sequin tank from Dillard's for $35.40, Calvin Klein tank from Macy's for $34.99 or this Simply Vera Vera Wang sequin tank from Kohl's for $48.

Give your new sparkly tank the attention it deserves by pairing it with some simple black trousers:

From left, Pleated crop pant from Express for $29.99, Signature pleated crop pant from Talbots for $56.24, Ella Moss Cassandra belted pant from revolveclothing.com for $74, or the Halogen Twill Drape trousers from Nordstrom Rack for $29.97.

For more ways to shine on New Year's Eve, check out these tips from resident stylist Melissa Magsaysay.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

Upper photo: Sofia Coppola attends the New York screening of "Somewhere" at the Tribeca Grand Hotel in New York City. Credit: Jemal Countess / Getty Images

Middle photo, from left: Sequin tank from The Limited. Credit: The Limited. Sequin tank by Michael Kors. Credit: Blufly.com. Peter Nygard sequin tank. Credit: Dillard's. Tank by Calvin Klein. Credit: Macy's. Simply Vera Vera Wang sequin tank. Credit: Kohl's

Lower photo, from left: Pleated crop pant from Express. Credit: Express.com. Signature pleated crop pant from Talbots. Credit: Talbots.com. Cassandra belted pant by Ella Moss. Credit: Revolveclothing.com. Halogen Twill Drape trousesrs. Credit: Nordstromrack.com

Kate Middleton is the envy of every girl who has ever dreamed of being a real-life princess. She is asked to lunch with the Queen of England at Buckingham palace, has the design of her much anticipated wedding gown causing a media frenzy and could well be a future queen herself.

As if becoming part of the English royal family weren’t enough, she took a prince off the market. That handsome man at her side is none other than the swoon-worthy, dashing Prince William, second in line to the throne.  After little deliberation, I have to revise my earlier statement:  Middleton is the super envy of every girl everywhere!   

As princess-bride-to-be, the 28-year-old is already preparing for her royal duties by accompanying her prince to their first official event since their engagement: the Thursford's Christmas Spectacular show in England for the Teenage Cancer Trust where they spoke with young people battling cancer.

Middleton looked poised, elegant and every bit the modern-day princess in a black and white Alice Temperly dress, textured black blazer, plain black heels and her best accessory, her 18-carat sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

Even if it's unlikely that any of us will become British princesses, it is possible to look like one -- and on a budget too. Feel like royalty in this London Times' black and white banded dress from overstock.com for $45.99. 

Any fitted black jacket or cardigan you already have in your closet will help keep you warm in this dress, but if you want Middleton's complete look go for a black velvet blazer like the Apt. 9 velvet blazer for $72 from Kohl's.

Step into some moderately high heels and stockings and you're almost at princess status, but what would a princess be without her jewels? We don't have any real sapphire and diamond rings in mind but what about some sparkly costume jewelry to give you a special touch of glamour without having to dip into a royal-sized bank account?

Slip one of these pretty faux rocks on your finger, or at these prices, all of them.

Forever 21 gems, from left: framed oval ring or the sophisticated faceted bead ring, $5.80 each; faux pearl rhinestone ring or faceted bead cocktail ring, $4.80 each; and the picture frame jewel ring,  $3.80.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Photo, top: Britain's Prince William and his fiancée Kate Middleton arrive to view the Thursford Christmas Spectacular gala in Thursford, England, Dec. 18. Credit: Sang Tan / Associated Press.

Photo, right: London Times black and white dress from Overstock.com. Credit: Overstock.com.

Photo, left: Black velvet blazer from Kohl's. Credit: Kohl's.

Photo, bottom from left to right: Framed oval ring, sophisticated faceted bead ring, Faux pearl rhinestone ring, faceted cocktail bead ring and picture frame jewel ring all from Forever 21. Credit: Forever 21.

All year we watch enviously
as celebrities parade down red carpets in gorgeous and sometimes outrageous gowns. Awards shows and movie premieres give us a close-up look at designer collections as actresses bring their A-game. And since Hollywood glamour is all about presenting your best self, why not have an entire awards show devoted to those who do it best?

It seems there really is an awards show for everything, and there's no exception when it comes to style. The entertainment industry’s fashion elite gathered Sunday at the Hammer Museum for the Hollywood Style Awards. Instead of pops of color or even black, Hollywood stylemakers started a new trend of snowy white tones on the red carpet.  Maybe the unseasonably warm temperatures prompted the actresses to create their own white winter. Whatever the reason, they put the “don’t wear white after Labor Day” rule to shame.  

Kate Bosworth covered up in a casual white tee and pale green floor-length skirt, and "Glee’s" Lea Michele went for a white patterned strapless dress, but the belle of the night was none other than actress Camilla Belle.

Belle looked perfectly chic in a curve-hugging Kimberly Ovitz architectural ivory dress with a pleated high-necked collar and cinched waist. She paired the structured dress with black satin Stuart Weitzman heels, an ivory-colored Maia N clutch and white gold jewelry by Cartier. Check out more photos from the awards.

Our frugal alternatives are winter white chic, and because we have your holiday shopping budget in mind, they're under $100.

On the left is a Jessica Howard Sheath dress from Kohl's for $84.99 and on the right is the pleated neck sheath dress from Ann Taylor Loft for $89.50. (Online shoppers at Ann Taylor Loft can take advantage of a 40% off promotion on this dress, too.) 

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Top photo: Actress Camilla Belle arrives at the 2010 Hollywood Style Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday. Credit: Dan Steinberg / Associated Press

Left photo: White dress from Kohl's. Credit: Kohl's

Right photo: White dress from Ann Taylor Loft. Credit: Ann Taylor Loft

The name Carey Mulligan is synonymous with the terms chic, alternative and all-around fashion it-girl. Wherever the petite, pixie-haired actress goes, she is sure to be dressed in stunning designer frocks that are far from ordinary. With the sparkling, cosmic Chanel sequin dress and jeweled cape at the Vogue Fashion Fund Awards and the countless gowns and dresses she’s worn while promoting the film “Never Let Me Go,” Mulligan shows it’s a good thing to break away from the classics. 

Mulligan's style choices exemplify a fearless free spirit, one that has the fashion world taking notice. Not only is she a regular on best-dressed lists for numerous fashion magazines and websites, but she also earned a spot on Vogue's coveted 10 Best Dressed list of 2010.

At the Moet British Independent Film Awards, Mulligan owned the red carpet in a Prabal Gurung poppy-colored dress with a large flower detail on her chest and a cinched waist. She paired the stunning red dress with a sparkly sequined Roger Vivier clutch and black peep-toe heels. The actress officially took home the award for best actress for her role in "Never Let Me Go," but she gets our award for best dressed of the night. The color of her dress and the chest detail speak for themselves, and the sparkly clutch is the perfect, delicate finishing touch.

A tasteful red dress is a way to stand out -- in a good way -- at those upcoming holiday parties. Here are a few rouge-colored frocks for less than $100 that will have you relishing the holiday spirit:
T Tahari red dress from Nordstrom for $99.50, one-shoulder red French Connection dress from Bluefly.com for $89.59, Sparkle and Fade chiffon dress from Urban Outfitters for $69 and the Winter Rose strapless dress from Ann Taylor for $99.99. 

For just a touch of sparkle, pair one of these clutches with a holiday party outfit or evening wear: Lulu Townsend sequined clutch from DSW for $36.95, Kate Landry "peacock" clutch from Dillards for $35 or the Sequin slouchy bag from Express for $39.90. Since the sparkly clutch is the essential party accessory, you'll need to find the perfect one for you, so check out more frugal finds from resident stylist Melissa Magsaysay.

Now that you're set with a new red dress and sparkly clutch, all you'll need is a pair of super simple heels to finish the look. A pair of solid-colored black heels from your own closet should do.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Photos, from top: Actress Carey Mulligan attends the Moet British Independent Film Awards at Old Billingsgate Market in London. Credit: Gareth Cattermole / Getty Images. Tahari dress from Nordstrom. French Connection dress from Bluefly.com. Sparkle and Fade dress from Urban Outfitters. Winter Rose dress from Ann Taylor. Lulu Townsend clutch from DSW. Kate Landry clutch from Dillards. Sequin bag from Express. 

It seems like actress Anne Hathaway is everywhere this year. She was recently seen on the cover of Vogue magazine, has been making public appearances galore to promote her new movie "Love & Other Drugs," and was just announced as co-host of the 83rd Academy Awards with actor James Franco. She's no stranger to the Oscars, with a nomination for playing the troubled Kym in "Rachel Getting Married" and has been in more than 15 films -- and she's only 28. Phew, just thinking about her career is making me a little fatigued, but for a busy girl, Hathaway always looks put together.

At a recent screening of "Love & Other Drugs" in NYC, Hathaway wore a tuxedo-inspired satin white shirt tucked into a long black Salvatore Ferragamo pleated skirt. I can't say if she was trying to emulate the essence of Carolina Herrera -- think Herrera backstage at a show in a crisp white shirt tucked into a long skirt -- but the simplicity of Hathaway's look perfectly channeled Herrera's signature class and distinction.

She radiates natural beauty with her silky, wavy hair, ivory skin and big brown eyes. At the premiere she kept her jewelry at a minimum, making her red lips her best accessory. Copying Hathaway's red lips are a big part of this look, but wearing uber red lipstick can be tricky so be sure to check out this week's "Your Stylist" column with Melissa Magsaysay on how to do it right.

For a shirt similar to Hathaway's you'll need a classic white or ivory blouse. Try this non-iron fitted sateen shirt from Banana Republic for $59.50 on the left. For an even more frugal aternative, get this Style&Co Rhinestone tuxedo shirt from Macy's for $24.98 on the right. Not only can you tuck these shirts into a long skirt for an evening look with heels, you can pair them with a pencil skirt or slacks for work and with denim on the weekends.

Long skirts made quite a comeback for fall. No longer just for the elderly school teacher clasping a ruler, these modern versions sit just above or on the waist and fall well below the knee in materials that range from leather to chiffon to jersey cotton. Hathaway chose a bulky pleated skirt, but for more versatility these skirts will allow you to pull off a variety of looks.  From left, the Investments long "Travel Smart" long gored skirt from Dillards for $21.60, American Apparel's Chiffon double-layered full length skirt for $58, long skirt from H&M for $19.95 and the Pleated Maxi from Topshop for around $65.

These white shirts and long skirts are super versatile and will work with a number of items you'll already have in your closet.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy, but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

-- Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Photo top: Actress Anne Hathaway arrives at a screening of her film "Love & Other Drugs"  on Nov. 24 in New York. Credit: AP Photo / Starpix, Marion Curtis.

Photo: Shirt from Banana Republic. Credit: Banana Republic.

Photo: Shirt from Macy's. Credit: Macy's.

Photo: Skirt from Dillards. Credit: Dillards.

Photo: Skirt from American Apparel. Credit: American Apparel.

Photo: Skirt from H&M. Credit: H&M.

Photo: Skirt from Topshop: Credit: Topshop.

The music industry's hottest and most talented stars took over the Nokia Theatre in downtown Los Angeles for the American Music Awards last weekend. Stars as different as Taylor Swift, Katy Perry and Ke$ha came dressed in outfits that ranged from glamorous gowns to edgy bandage dresses with long trains -- think Miley Cyrus, looking like an unraveling mummy -- to just plain odd ensembles.  

Some of the best dressed of the night were attendees who’ve never recorded a single note; the most memorable being actress Jessica Alba. Alba presented the award for favorite female country artist to Taylor Swift during the night’s festivities.

The actress could have been a stylish "Star Trek" extra in a futuristic, one shoulder black dress by Cushnie et Ochs, chunky gold and silver jewelry and ankle-wrap black satin pumps. Her updated version of the classic little black dress featured a one shoulder strap detail, and her minimalist color palette ended up delivering a maximum punch of style. She spruced up the dress with bold, eye-catching metallic accessories and heels with some definite character.

She let her accessories shine by keeping her pulled back ponytail simple and ditching the earrings.

We found some really great frugal finds that will give you a futuristic twist of your own or make great holiday gifts for friends.

For the one shoulder black dress, check out our picks for less than $100 (from left): Alice + Olivia one shoulder knit dress from Nordstrom, $54; Lush one shoulder knit dress also from Nordstrom, $38; one shoulder dress by bobi at Revolveclothing.com, $48; Walter by Walter Baker sateen dress, $91.99 at Overstock.com; and the Laundry by Shelli Segal dress, $71.99, also at Overstock.com. 

When it comes to accessories, the holidays are the perfect time to experiment with some playful eye candy. For an out-of-this-world look, these space-inspired pieces will do the trick (from left): Pyramid diamonds bracelet from Forever 21, $7.80; Chunky geometric necklace from Charlotte Russe, $8.50; silver wire cuff bracelet also from Charlotte Russe, $8.50; and Cara stretch bracelet from Nordstrom in gold, silver and bronze, $28.

For the shoes, slip your feet into one of these two pairs from Charlotte Russe: thick buckled ankle heels for $30 or the studded suede platforms in black or plum for $42.50. Both shoes feature ankle detailing and the studs on the platforms add a festive touch. For more holiday party shoes, check out some frugal picks from resident stylist Melissa Magsaysay.

Happy shopping.

Have an outfit you're dying to buy, but need a frugal alternative? E-mail us a picture. We're up for the challenge.

--Jenn Harris

jenn.harris@latimes.com

Top photo: Jessica Alba in the press room during the 2010 American Music Awards on Sunday. Credit: Jason Merritt /Getty Images

Photo: Alice + Olivia dress. Credit: Nordstrom

Photo: Lush dress. Credit: Nordstrom

Photo: Bobi dress. Credit: Revolveclothing.com

Photo: Walter Baker dress. Credit: Overstock.com.

Photo: Laundry dress. Credit: Overstock.com.

Photo: Gold bracelet. Credit: Forever 21

Photo: Necklace. Credit: Charlotte Russe

Photo: Bracelet. Credit: Charlotte Russe

Photo: Cara bracelets. Credit: Nordstrom

Photo: Black heel. Credit: Charlotte Russe

Photo: Suede platform heel. Credit: Charlotte Russe

Resident Image stylist and market editor Melissa Magsaysay soothes your sartorial woes in the weekly Your Stylist blog column

 
In this installment of “Your Stylist” I address the essential and often way too expensive evening bag. With holiday parties looming, most people are starting to think of a few festive looks that are dressy enough that your go-to leather tote bag or work satchel look totally out of place.

Having a couple of versatile evening bags in your wardrobe is important but easily overlooked since they slip into rotation only a couple of times a year. And considering that they generally only hold a tube of lip gloss, a valet ticket, one tissue and if you’re lucky, a slim cellphone (good luck stuffing a Blackberry in there), it’s hard to fathom paying the usual $200 and up it costs to get a good-looking, not cheapy-feeling bag.

A good evening clutch can be fun but should not compete with your outfit. Neutral shades are best –- black, metallic, champagne or dark gray. If you’re wearing a black dress, take the opportunity to add a pop of shine to the look with a metallic clutch.

My favorite clutches have that angular, Art Deco appeal to them. These two (top and above) from Asos.com (both $62.06) are small (but hey, they pretty much all are and the point of an evening bag is that it’s elegant, demure and out of the way) and make a great vintage statement. They are both under $100 (as are all the options shown here), because for a bag that you use for special occasions only, it’s nice to have something that looks great and stylish, but without having to spend the same amount you do on your everyday bag, a new pair of gorgeous shoes or your rent.

For a versatile option, this rectangular bow bag from French Connection ($68.96) does the trick. It’s got a bit of texture with the large bow and that festive holiday feel from the subtle sparkle.

An evening clutch doesn’t have to be over the top or expensive. It should be that final flourish that ties together the overall look and doesn’t eclipse your clothing. Unless you’re into evening bags as a conversation piece (Judith Leiber anyone?) then, try a few less expensive options that are super chic and fit for the swirl of upcoming social gatherings, but won’t break the bank or eat up your holiday gift-buying budget.

Send your style queries to melissa.magsaysay@latimes.com

-- Melissa Magsaysay

Photos: Top: Asos gun-metal bag with tassel $62.06/asos.com, second down from top: Asos check hard-case clutch $62.06/asos.com, second from bottom: French Connection bow clutch $68.96/French Connection, Bottom: Aldo "Indest" lace print clutch $45.00/Aldo

When 16-year-old Stephanie Green takes to the dance floor at Culver City High School’s homecoming dance on Saturday,  her dress is bound to get more than a few double-takes. The eco-conscious teen made it herself from salvaged newspapers, donated by neighbors. With its flattering, strapless design featuring a peplum and ruffled layers, the dress looks chic, didn’t cost much and makes a statement about recycling.

All the Rage was intrigued. (Besides loving fashion, we always like the idea of showing people how useful a newspaper can be.) We asked Stephanie to elaborate a bit.

ATR: Your homecoming dress is composed completely out of donated newspapers from neighbors.  How did you come up with the idea?

SG: It came to me while building the CCHS Robotics Haunted House. We were using newspaper to stuff dummies.  A friend was reading the Sunday paper and when I looked at its size I thought, “Wow, that’s a large amount!” I felt the paper to see how sturdy it was and liked its texture. I started pleating my skirt, adding more layers.  My final step was making the top.  Since I had absolutely no time to go and buy a new dress that fit properly, I came up with this cost efficient and environmentally friendly way to attend the dance.

ATR: Your design is as cute as the John Galliano for Dior newspaper dress (Sarah Jessica Parker sported a fabric version in Season 3 of "Sex and the City").  And, it’s certainly more affordable.  Are you trying to convey the message that you can look sleek without the steep prices?

SG: Absolutely. There are so many materials out there you can reuse. I’m even thinking of recycling my old Target bags into a dress.

ATR: How did you construct the dress?

SG: I started with a single roll of packing tape and about five L.A. Times Sunday issues. I continued with approximately the same amount of newspaper from several other cities. I used so much paper it’s hard for me to tell.

ATR: Is the dress really hardy enough for dancing?  Or will a tear here and there simply make the piece funkier?

SG: Well there is always the possibility of tearing. So as a backup, I’m bringing a roll of packing tape to the dance.

Stephanie has previous experience with paper clothes: she also made her Halloween Cruella de Vil Halloween costume from newspaper. That one was laminated, so no chance of rips, she says.

We'll be curious to see what's next.

-- Julie Neigher

Photo: Stephanie Green in her homecoming dress. Courtesy of Stephanie Green.