Haute 100 New York Update: Carolina Herrera Reveals the Secret Behind Perfect Red-Carpet Style

Carolina Herrera is no stranger to red-carpet glamour. Her classically elegant gowns, which often feature vintage materials such as antique lace and taffeta cut in a clean and modern style, have been worn to top industry events by stars such as Eva Longoria, Renée Zellweger, Jessica Simpson and Uma Thurman.

Although red carpet events, like last night’s Academy Awards, can often feel like an endless parade of flashy sequins and long trains, Herrera believes that style shouldn’t be complicated. “A simple dress is much more difficult to wear than one with ruffles and flowers and big sleeves. There is a perfection to a dress that is incredibly cut,” the 74-year-old designer told The Independent. “I don’t like trends. They tend to make everybody look the same. For me, it’s important in fashion to have individuality: take that look and own it.”

When it comes to accessories, there’s one item that Herrera insists all her clients have: a full-length mirror. “I like everything to look like you are wearing it because it’s part of you,” she explained. “When you’re wearing something you feel comfortable in, you move better.”

Herrera also encourages her customers to experiment with their fashion choices, be it through a colorful belt or a bold pair of shoes. “I like accessories that you can add to a look to make it unique,” she declared. “Fashion should be fun. It shouldn’t be labelled intellectual. You cannot have a dress hanging on a wall. It’s not a book, it’s something to make you happy.”

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