Every spring we plan for the big nights. Oscars. Golden Globes. Grammys. Get comfortable, pour a glass of something wonderful and watch to see how good—or how awful—the celebs look. Are the “latest” trends still the latest? Or have they been declared DOA (Done & Over Already)? For most of us, these are the most accessible runway shows there are, and we tune in to see, hear and pass judgment.

This year, the color trends are running fast and strong in favor of pale earth tones: taupe, caramel, French vanilla, mocha, café au lait, and cocoa. Paired with complementary pastels like pink rose, peach, apricot and cream, these colors create the soft feminine look that captured the spotlight at each of the shows.

• Charlize Theron in an airy lemon chiffon gown complete with accent ruffles at the hip and shoulder.
• Julia Roberts in shimmering cocoa with a plunging neckline.
• Nicole Kidman in a gold and cream flapper-style dress complete with sequins from Yves Saint Laurent.
• Uma Thurman in periwinkle lavender over flounced ruffles and a lilac tulle underlay.

On the flip side, the stark contrast of basic black remains a hot choice—Liv Tyler’s vintage-style Givenchy Couture gown with its square neck and low back was accented by shimmering satin ribbon trim and a sweeping train.

For accessories, white metals far and away finish first in the jewelry category. Think platinum, titanium, white gold with diamonds, or sterling with cubic zirconia. Brand-name jewelry designs are a growing trend for 2004. Vibrant bead and gemstone colors crackle with energy against the rich, subtle hues of clothing fabrics. Popular, right-hand rings play host to both branded diamonds and colorful semi-precious stones. Jewelry styles are long, linear and ultra-feminine. Chandelier-style earrings continue to be fiery favorites with a stunning array of complex layers or segments. This season’s spin-offs include cascade and stiletto styles that pick up on the long, linear themes without giving up the texture and complexity of chandeliers. Sarah Jessica Parker’s beaded spiral hoop earrings defined an entirely new and sizzling look. Waist brooches are an old idea made new again and seen atop a gathered sweep of fabric or at the lowest point of a plunging neckline (in front or in back) or simply set low on the hip where a drop-waist comes to rest. At the leading edge, too, are wide cuff bracelets and bracelets or rings that intertwine and wrap around fingers and wrists.

Click here to find a jeweler who will help you cast the starring roles in your style line-up.