A formal event, be it prom, homecoming, or the upcoming holiday season are all perfect excuses to step out in old classic Hollywood style. It’s sexy, elegant and timeless – the Hollywood glamour look of old is sure to make you the belle of any ball/date night/whatever your plans may be.

Fortunately, there seems to be a return to the classic beauty, with many of today’s stars taking cues from silver screen big names like Marilyn and Liz. The name of the game is classic silhouettes and sparkly accessories (fave!), which means it’s easy for you to recreate the golden feminine and sophisticated looks.

Below is some inspiration to get you started including my modern take on everyday Hollywood glam. Be sure to visit Peaches Boutique in Chicago, IL for even more inspiration.

• Show off your curves.

Jean Harlow was the epitome of Hollywood glamour in her rather slinky evening gowns. So, if you have your heart set on showing off your curves, look to Jean for inspiration. She used to wear curve-hugging, bias-cut gowns in gorgeous liquid satin. It makes for a beautiful, body conscious silhouette, sure to turn heads.

• Classic black gowns are the way to go.

Thanks to the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Rita Hayworth, classic black evening gowns are definitely not boring. In fact, old Hollywood glamour black evening gowns are an incredibly sophisticated way to pull off a classic, glamorous look. You can pair your classic black dress with glitzy, chandelier earrings and a long black pair of gloves, all guaranteed to ooze that old Hollywood style.

• Go for stylish shimmer.

Marilyn Monroe, Kay Francis and Jeanette MacDonald used to exemplify iconic glamour, ala-Hollywood in glittery, floor-length gowns.

In fact, one way to ensure all eyes are on you at your formal event while still capturing the glamour of old Hollywood is to cover yourself in sparkly sequins and shimmery beads. Many a starlet were big fans of embellished evening gowns, and it’s easy enough to see why! It’s the perfect way to outshine everyone else in the room with such eye-catching styles.

Need more inspiration? Look for photos of stars in the 1930’s who just oozed old Hollywood glamour in sequined and beaded gowns. Marilyn, especially, was a big fan of bedazzling vintage-style gowns, often in shimmery silver.

Add a faux fur shrug and long gloves along with a handsome date and you’re all set for an unforgettable formal event in show-stopping, glamorous style courtesy of old Hollywood!

As for designs, floor-length, shimmery and strapless or spaghetti strap dresses are the way to go. Pair with simple shoes, sparkly earrings and bold makeup along with vintage hair styles to pull off the complete look. Don’t forget a small clutch bag for makeup and perhaps a faux fur or shoulder wrap for the finishing touches.

Going old Hollywood glamour style for your next formal event is sure to turn heads and ensure you really are the belle of your ball. Plus, it’s just fun to dress up the way red carpet stars of old used to!