Charlize Theron's 7 Rules for Wearing an LBD

It may not be the most comforting thought in the world, but there are some Hollywood celebrities out there who are just absolute perfection every single time they step out on the red carpet or hop into their SUV to make a coffee run. And, because you can't exactly change it, you can choose to either love them or hate them based on their flawless faces, gorgeous bodies, and unfailing eye for style. Charlize Theron is just one of those perfect women (to me, at least) and I couldn’t love her more for it.

Whether she’s wearing a structured showstopper at the Oscars or stunning sparkles at the Met Gala, the South African–born actress and longtime face of Dior never looks anything less than beautiful, elegant, and ultra high fashion. So naturally, when you see her wearing something again and again on the red carpet, you start to take notice and have complete confidence in copying her style.

Which was exactly the case when I saw the A Million Ways to Die in the West star rocking yet another LBD at her most recent movie premiere, proving she has quite a few tricks up her sleeve — seven, in fact — when it comes to styling this wardrobe staple.

1. Leave it loose and relaxed for a casual-chic style

If I had a body like Theron's, I would be showing it off at every turn in curve-hugging, figure-flattering numbers. But the gorgeous actress knows laid back can be lovely, too, especially when it comes to wearing a relaxed LBD, like the Stella McCartney version she wore to her most recent photo call in London. Get the look by choosing a piece with bell sleeves and a slightly cinched waist to keep it from looking sloppy.

2. Don't be afraid to show your undergarments (and a lot of skin)

That may sound like the makings of a totally un-tasteful ensemble, but when paired with a flirty, feminine shape with delicate lace embroidery — like the Christian Dior dress Theron sported at the A Million Ways to Die in the West Los Angeles premiere — it's nothing but polished perfection.

3. Finish it off with all-black accessories and a little bling

Sure, there's something to be said for using a bright pop of color to liven up an all-black look, but keeping accessories dark to match your LBD creates a sleek, streamlined effect that's immediately chic. Make like Theron in her Givenchy ensemble at fundraising gala earlier this year and pair your dress with a few sparkly jewels, too, for just the right taste of glitz and glam.

4. Create a few illusions

Not quite feeling a cutout LBD? Go for the next best option by styling your classic look with a few illusion panels — like the slimming side versions on Theron's Dion Lee number at CinemaCon 2012 — for a look that reads both sexy and stylish.

5. Keep it super-structured for an instant sense of sophistication

Nothing says polished and elegant like a tailored sheath dress, particularly when it comes with structured shoulders and the subtlest side slit, like the impossibly chic Lanvin LBD Theron wore to the 2012 Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards Gala.

6. Let a little lace peek through

It's the quickest way to look insanely sexy, yet totally tasteful when paired with a midi length and flared hem, like the one found on Theron's Alexander McQueen dress at a 2012 Golden Globes celebration.

7. Finish it off with a black blazer for a power ensemble

Take your LBD straight from a night out to a day in the office by throwing on a structured blazer over a knee-length sheath dress for a look that reads strong, serious, and just the slightest bit sexy.