Red carpet: The bold, the glamourous

The red carpet at the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards held in L.A. was shining with glory as stars walked onto it sporting a variety of classy and irresistible evening wear. The BET Awards are known for daring looks and this year was no different. While there were only a few classy gown moments, most of the stars opted for shorter and more summery hemlines. Although whites and blacks dominated the red carpet, some of them did manage to turn heads with a pop of colour. Here are a few of our top picks from the dazzling evening:

Michelle Williams



The Destiny’s Child singer looked stunning in a Nicci Hou peplum-shaped white gown paired with a metallic belt around the waist enhancing her sexy curves. With her hair blow-dried in voluminous curly locks and a dramatic dress that fitted her like a glove, Michelle definitely got us going gaga over her.

Naya Rivera



The Glee star looked sassy and chic in a loose, full-sleeved, Emilio Pucci dress. She brought a heavy dose of glitter and sparkle to the red-carpet but still managed not to look too tacky. Rather, she successfully caught our eye in this seemingly comfy and uber-stylish embellished mini.

Jordin Sparks



The American Idol winner and singer Jordin Sparks brought the much-needed dose of colour and print on the red carpet in a Clover Canyon mini and a pair of immaculate white heels. She looked fresh and appealing in the on-trend, mirrored botanical print, loose waves and her million dollar smile.

Lil’ Mama



Rapper Lil’ Mama stole the show in a fully embellished black floor-length gown. She put her best foot forward with a voluminous bob and a rather dramatic outfit that made everyone else seem a little down-played. Her glam get-up is scoring high on our style-o-meter.

Gabrielle Union



Actor Gabrielle Union kept it simple and sweet in a bright red, strapless cocktail dress by Zac Posen. Her petite figure complemented the dress well. She looked effortlessly gorgeous in strappy platforms, a neat straight hairdo and minimal accessories.

Paula Patton



The Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol actor was hands down the true winner in white. Paula looked elegant and classy in a sheer white Max Azria gown and hoop earrings. We love how the actor keeps it simple and sophisticated in the SoCal heat with minimal accessories. However, her hair definitely needs a pump up!

Brandy



The ’90s pop star sported an en vogue lace shift dress with a high collar by Michael Cinco. She looked fabulous in her short curly hair-do and smoky eyes. However, we wish she would have paired her dress with stylish strappy heels instead of these heavy-on-feet, matching ankle boots.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 3^rd, 2013.

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