Five tips to take the red carpet to the real world

by Starley Murray / KENS 5

Posted on February 28, 2011 at 9:20 AM

Updated Monday, Feb 28 at 10:33 AM

Awards season conjures up visions of sharp tuxedos and glamorous gowns. And oh yeah: people who can hold their own in those high-end fashion statements.

But you can utilize the same strategies from national image expert Starley Murray’s red carpet styling approach. Just because a celebrity has a presence in the public eye doesn’t mean they will naturally have the same presence on the red carpet.

San Antonio has had its share of red carpet events with plenty of high glam moments and glitterati fashion statements, and some of these looks have been seen on the yellow carpet for the movie premier of "The Alamo."

We can all benefit from knowing celebrity artist secrets and behind-the-scenes image strategies for our special occasions and real-world scenarios. Your wardrobe will be under the most scrutiny, but the following tips will help you look like you belong in your award-winning attire:

1. Work Your Body

Most celebrities put in the work to fine-tune their shape to look toned and fit in their fashions, and so can you.

Even if you just integrate several one-minute exercise motions into your everyday actions, it will help. Try doing 10 squats each time you get up in the morning or before you get into your car.

The compound effect does make a difference while maintaining the tone you already have. Add weight resistance to build muscle for that healthy shape.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator to gradually increase everyday cardio activity and lower your suit or dress size. Create a plan that fits your life and serves your body goals

2. Have Hair with Contrast

My celebrity artist strategy is to plan a complete look with each of the aspects of your appearance supporting each other, such as matching your hair style to your attire. Just look at the whole picture.

If fact, you can actually look at your face in a series of online hair styles to change up your hair style while staying with what fits your face shape.

High gloss or well-planned messy looks are two popular styling techniques. Men and women both have more of a red carpet look when their hair style is different than their everyday styling routine, but the look needs to be in line with the wardrobe.

3. Get Glowing Skin

Men should keep their skin clean and clear or use strategically trendy facial hair that matches the hair style and wardrobe.

A little-known fact is that most men on the red carpet have a little help with their facial hair from an eyeshadow to fill in where the hair growth is not consistent with the look of the facial hair style.

Both men and women can get that off-the-red-carpet glow with smooth, exfoliated skin. The slight sheen is emphasized with a mica mineral-based face or body lotion. Women love to wear the extra shimmer in makeup on their eyes and cheeks as well as their shoulders.

4. Show Your Award-Winning Smile

Celebrities have dazzling white teeth, throwing their bright smiles in the direction of every camera when they're walking the red carpets and interviewing with all the talk show hosts. Whiter teeth can make you look more refreshed and healthy. 

If you can’t avoid foods that stain your teeth, try using a straw and rinse your mouth with water after consuming potential teeth-staining drinks.

There are many teeth bleaching options, but remember to avoid tooth whitening that is brighter than the whites of your eyes so you can maintain a balanced, natural look.

5. Get a Million Dollar Look on a Budget

While many celebs have the privilege of borrowing from high-end designers, you can still shop on a budget and look like a million bucks. The secret is to plan well in advance.

High-end attire usually hits clearance after the holidays or during the summer. Don’t forget to work with a tailor to get that customized look. There are also entire clothing lines that focus on reproducing the hottest looks on a budget.

You don’t need lights and the paparazzi to make an entrance or to walk with pride. With a confident attitude and your own personal style you can walk your own red carpet every day!