From Cinderella's fairytale ball gown through to our modern-day heroine, Carrie Bradshaw and that infamous Vivienne Westwood wedding frou frou, women have long had a love affair with the high-voltage glamour of a red carpet-worthy gown. Look how much we still adore the vintage Valentino Julia Roberts wore when she picked up her Oscar.

Why you need it now

The Oscars might be over for another year but now more than ever women are looking for an excuse to dress up. Lucky then that fashion is in the mood for romance and glamour. Long lengths and beautiful, draped, billowy and embellished dresses were big news on the international runways at Bottega Veneta and Ralph Lauren. And at the recent Australian fashion week,Jayson Brunsdon and Aurelio Costarella showed that a beautiful gown never goes out of style.

What to look for

Playing to your strengths is crucial with the GG. The hot contender is definitely the one-shoulder gown (think Kate Winslet in YSL Atelier). But if you like to show some decolletage, strapless (done beautifully in black by Angelina Jolie) is always elegant and enduring, especially with statement sparkle jewels. For colour cues look to jewel tones of sapphire, aquamarine, coral, citrine, amethyst and emerald in soft silks or sumptuous satin. As for the detail, flounces, ruffles and bows can add character and volume in the right places but beware the bulk. And steer clear of sheer fabrics that reveal your underwear and looking too bridal; and yes that means erring on the side of caution when considering white (unless you are the bride).

Style to suit you

Petites look statuesque in column gowns with horizontal necklines. Look for a bias cut that drapes to the floor from the hip. Slim silhouettes shine in beaded flapper styles and liquid metallics. Pear shapes should go for Grecian glam, with lots of hip-skimming draping. Look for high necks and ornate belts to add volume on top and define your slimmer torso. Bigger breasted bodies look for V front and back (not too low as strapless can come at the expense of support). A design detail in the skirt adds balance to the whole look. Fuller figures should keep things straight and smooth with tonal panels at the torso to streamline the silhouette. A square neckline is best and consider a fishtail hem from the knee. All shapes should consider the smooth security of control shapewear because if it's de rigeur for Hollywood screen sirens it's essential for us. Remember the golden rule, if the dress is a knockout, keep the shoes and accessories simple.

Where to shop

For vintage, try Mrs Press. For a beaded dress, Collette Dinnigan is queen while Akira is the king of master draping and unique cuts. Aurelio Costarella's billowing creations have wow factor and Matthew Eager is the go-to man for simple glamour.

Five more ways to wear

* Classic = GG with fine belt, diamonte clasp, opera coat, beaded shoes and cocktail ring.

* Vintage = GG with waist sash, bow in back, faux-fur shrug, long gloves, pearls, pumps.

* Edgy = GG with leather belt, leather jacket, ankle boots and studded clutch.

* Romantic = GG with feather corsage, cashmere capelet, ruffled bag, strappy shoes and diamond studs.

* Sexy = GG with long pendant meeting cleavage, satin lapel tux jacket, peek-a-boo petticoat and sky-high stilettos.