Red carpet tips

Redheads like Nicole Kidman can look stunning in scarlet. Leighton Meester's waist is slimmed by puffed shoulders. Calista Flockhart's small frame suits delicate chiffon.

Going to the Atlantis party? Karen Clarkson, stylist to the stars, shares her red carpet tips.

1 Don't forget what suits you - if you don't look good revealing acres of flesh off the red carpet, the chances are that look is not going to work for you on it.

2 If you are slim with a small bust, delicate chiffon dresses will look good - try Nina Ricci, Galliano or Alberta Ferretti. If you are curvier, opt for something structured, such as Vivienne Westwood, that supports all the bits that need supporting.

3 Colour is key. Unless you are a star (and therefore guaranteed to be noticed whatever you wear), don't go for black. Opt for something opulent and striking, like red. Everyone looks good in red, even redheads. Nicole Kidman wore red to the Academy Awards. A dress I chose for Natalie Imbruglia is red and she looked incredible in it.

4 The puff-shoulder look is extremely useful. The more you accentuate your shoulders, the slimmer your waist and hips will look. The Empire line is also extremely flattering; it makes your legs and body look longer.

5 Don't dismiss a dress you don't like the look of on the hanger; try it.

6 If you have something you don't like about yourself, such as the tops of your arms, then cover it up. Likewise, if your legs are your best asset, don't hide them - try something with a front split. Remember, you need to feel confident and comfortable. Accentuate your assets and hide the parts you don't like is the red carpet motto.

For more on Karen Clarkson, visit www.karenclarkson.net