The Big Deal Look

By Lois Joy Johnson

Watching the Oscars, I was struck by how fabulous some stars looked: Meryl’s dress! Glenn Close’s earrings! The rest of us mortals, especially we women of a certain age, may not have to walk the red carpet, but we do have weddings, bar mitzvahs, reunions, galas and plenty of major events that require glamming it up. We're on our own here with no agents, PR people, managers, personal assistants, hair stylists or makeup artists to chime in on the choices. But you can get some star-like looks on your own. Here's how:

Do grown up sexy in a simple one-shoulder style... not cleavage! No one needs to see our sun damage, crinkles or saggy boobs (and we all have them, trust me). Even if you're seventy, your shoulders are still going to be the most elegant, sexy and womanly part of your body. A one-shoulder gown, whether it's a simple column or elaborately draped, makes every woman look like a goddess... even if she's 5'3" and a size 14. And no, you don’t have to dip into your IRA to buy them. (T by Tadashi One Shoulder Chiffon Gown, $198, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

If you hate your arms, wear a slim fitted gown with sleeves and forget about it. You don't need an evening jacket or a pashmina anymore. They look dated and stuffy. Designers have been paying attention to our need for coverage with sophisticated body- skimming gowns that actually have slim modern sleeves. This solves the problem of those over-air conditioned reception rooms we all complain about, too. And here's another dare-to-bare option : Some one-shoulder gowns push the asymmetrical look with one-sleeve camouflage. These work best on taller silhouettes, though. The best choices overall are comfortable but chic sleek matte jerseys, all-eyes-on-me metallics or sequins head to toe. (Tadashi Shoji Asymmetrical Ruched Mesh Gown, $248, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

Let Ruching Hide Everything If you've been stressed out, skipping the gym, hitting the Ben & Jerry's and living in double layers of Spanx use the mini pleats of ruching ( or shirring as it's also called) to disguise your so-called flaws.Nordstrom.com has a huge selection of priced-right formal gowns that gracefully disguise all so do pre-shop online before heading out. (Adrianna Papell Crystal Brooch Ruched Jersey Gown, $148, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

Wear color to counteract a sallow, tired complexion . Black and inky dark navy, plum or grey are always slimming, but sometimes you need the pop of color to brighten your skin tone and add warmth and energy to your look. Reds like these Allen Schwartz Prive and JS Boutique gowns lift every complexion- similar to the instant flattery of a red lipstick but in a more dramatic way. Don't be afraid to wear a bright color either- evening light calls for powering up the glow and glitz. (Allen Schwartz Privé Asymmetric Cascade Jersey Gown, $158, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

Add Killer Shoes This is not the time for subdued or "tasteful" pumps. Go for it with sparkly stilettos! (B Brian Atwood 'Laeticia' Sandal, $275, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

Don't Forget The Statement Jewelry These chandelier earrings will stand out even in a crowd! (kate spade new york “crystal gardens” chandelier earrings,($198, www.shop.nordstrom.com.)

About The Author

Lois Joy Johnson is a beauty and fashion blogger and the author of "The Makeup Wakeup."