It's that time of year again, when the entertainment world gets excited about the Oscars and the madness that surrounds Hollywood's biggest night of the year. Everybody has an opinion on which film should take home the Best Picture trophy and who should walk away with the statuette for Best Actor and Best Actress.<注1>

　　But it's only after the ceremony is over that the real analysis begins. People critique the acceptance speeches, rate the host on his or her performance, and scrutinize each and every attendee,<注2>from their hairstyle right down to their socks.

　　Which got me thinking; how could we use this designer-sponsored event and turn it \into\ useful and practical fashion advice?

　　Celebrity couples

　　I've always been amazed at how good some celebrity couples look on Oscar night while posing for the cameras and walking down the red carpet. But how do they do it?

　　Their celebrity status and good looks help a great deal, but these aren't the only reasons they look so great. There are actually some simple tricks<注3> that you and your girlfriend can use to look just as great.

　　Keep in mind that these are only fashion tips, so while they will help you look better as a couple, they won't save your relationship. Also keep in mind that many celebrity couples receive free consultations from the world's top fashion experts on matching their outfits, accessories and shoes, which also helps keep the fashion don'ts to a minimum.<注4>

　　Below are some simple tips that will help you and your girlfriend shine like the stars for your special occasions.

　　Red carpet looks

　　It's not realistic to build your wardrobe based on what famous people wear for Oscar night, since their clothes and shoes are likely loaners,<注5> but there are tips that transcend the actual clothing.

　　It's all in the attitude.

　　You don't have to be in front of the camera or at an upscale<注6>event to look your best. So put your best foot forward<注7> everywhere you go. Smiling, laughing together and being supportive of one another will convey happiness and togetherness, and make you look good as a couple regardless of your clothing. But don't force it; just be happy.

　　The stars you should learn from...

　　Color coordination: Will Smith & Jada Pinkett Smith<注8>

　　Paying attention to details, like the color of your ensembles<注9>, is one way to look your best as a couple. Subtle color coordination \where\ clothing is concerned can add a lot of flair<注10> to your overall style as a couple. A fine example of that is how Will's white shirt and gold-patterned tie match perfectly with Jada's gold and white dress.

　　But don't overdo it because wearing too many of the same shades can also look pretty tacky<注11>. Matching accessories such as your tie and your girlfriend's purse is a perfect example of how to go about it.

　　Keep it simple: Benjamin Bratt & Julia Roberts<注12>

　　Okay, so the relationship didn't work, but the point I'm trying to make here is that opting for a classic look is a safe bet whatever the occasion. Both with perfect smiles on their faces, Ben is clad in a classic black suit and white tie, blending perfectly with the detail on Julia's timeless black dress and platinum<注13> jewelry.

　　As a general rule, couples should try to stay away from ultra-trendy clothing because that's harder to pull off.<注14> Classic styles and colors are much easier to coordinate, and ensure that nothing clashes.

　　Opposites attract: Tom Cruise & Nicole Kidman<注15>

　　This may be another bad example of everlasting love, but you've got to admit that Tom and Nicole looked good together ?on glossy paper anyway and they're also the perfect example for my next tip. Nicole is wearing a flashy yet elegant lime green dress with embroidered details, which perfectly offsets Tom's more traditional black tuxedo<注16>.

　　Contrasting bright colors and avant-garde<注17> styles with more traditional ones is the perfect way to set you apart from the rest of the duos<注18> at the event. Generally, you should wear the more traditional outfit while your girlfriend makes an entrance with a flashier getup.

　　Get ready beforehand

　　Try on your outfits together a few days before the big event so that you actually have the time to spot any clashes before it's too late.

　　Finally, make sure to pay attention to all the basics of fashion and grooming<注19>, and most importantly, abide by the dress code that the event requires.

　　Have a great time and until next time, keep on styling<注20> with or without your girlfriend.