By MacKinley Lutes-Adlhoch Photos by Vanity Fair
For fashion lovers, The Oscars is like The Superbowl. Watching celebrities walk down the red carpet in outfits that cost as much as our cars has us in awe. Through the glitz and glamour, these looks are not only beautiful but serve as inspiration for outfits to come. I took to the internet to create four college budget-friendly outfits inspired by my favorite Oscars looks.
Janelle Monae
I think we can all agree this dress is a work of art. Monae looked phenomenal in this Elie Saab gown and donned beading like no other. Between her glowing makeup and headband (halo), this look has earned its place on every best-dressed list.
For my outfit, I styled a dressier look with black high-waisted slacks and a sequined crop top. Black heels and clutch keep the outfit simple and regal. Rings on rings on rings have been in for a while now, and this look takes advantage of that trend. I finished my outfit with some clean gold jewelry and lashes to die for.
Emma Stone
Emma Stone, America’s sweetheart, stepped out last night strutting her stuff in this gorgeous Givenchy dress featuring a subtle Planned Parenthood pin under the left strap. Taking a page right out of Beyonce’s book, she was reckless with this stunning look resembling an Oscar trophy itself.
I’ll be the first to say it, Emma single-handedly brought back fringe. Well, not really, but she did look pretty damn amazing in this gown. I created this evening look with a fringed, sparkly cocktail dress.
Clean and simple gold jewelry seemed to be the thing this year as Monae and Stone both adorned it. Strappy gold heels and a neutral bag add to the timeless glamour of the outfit. Emma’s signature red lip finished the look and added a touch of pizazz.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson always manages to look unbelievably beautiful, but she may have outdone herself last night. Henson exuded confidence and class in this Alberta Ferretti masterpiece.
She took the plunge and dove headfirst into not only the velvet trend but the off-the-shoulder trend as well. A more casual (and maybe less scary for the average Jane) way to combine these trends is with a cute denim skirt and some matching platform sneakers.
Silver jewelry was the move for this look, including a strong statement necklace that complimented her ensemble amazingly.
I’ve heard a dusty rose lip is the new nude, and its versatility shows in both the high and low-end looks.
Karlie Kloss
Human Barbie doll, Karlie Kloss, slayed the red carpet in all her 6-foot 2-inch glory. This Stella McCartney number gave off angelic vibes and allowed her American Civil Liberties Union support bow to be a focal point of the ensemble.
The striking monochromatic white outfit with a bright blue pop inspired me. High-waisted white jeans, a flowy off-the-shoulder top and white vans dress down the bold color statement. Silver accessories and the solid blue bag completely pull the look together.
I mean, who says there are rules as to when you can rock the color white?
Outfit boards made by MacKinley Lutes-Adlhoch on