Jennifer Jason Leigh in Roland Mouret at the Critics’ Choice Awards

“The Hateful 8” star Jennifer Jason Leigh attends the 21st Annual Critics’ Choice Awards at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.

We’ve long noted that film actors whose heyday is situated at some point prior to the 21st Century often have the hardest time navigating the red carpet when their careers experience an upsurge. Michelle Pfeiffer is the poster child for this phenomenon because despite her decades-long rep as one of the most beautiful women in the world, she always steps out on the red carpet like she expects to be stoned by an angry mob.

Jennifer, from a style perspective, is doing a bang-up job in her awards season poledance and all the credit must go to her and her stylist for making good choices. This dress is relatively simple, but it’s also very flattering and photogenic. But good lord, woman. Try not to look like someone just flashed you on the subway.

We get that she’s probably not a big smiler. She never did strike us as one. No one’s saying she needs to grin like an idiot. But honey, the scowl is not helping. When you’re in front of a wall of screaming photographers, find your safe space and let your face go totally neutral. You’ll look mysterious and people will want to know what secrets lurk behind your inscrutable visage. But right now? Honey, you look like you’re trying to read the instructions on a bottle of ibuprofen.

Also: your borrowed jewelry is lovely but you need to find a more subtle way of showing it off. You’re skirting right up to the “Price is Right model” line. Bring a clutch next time.

We tease because we love. She looks great.

Style Credits:
Roland Mouret Black and White Off-The-Shoulder Gown
Sophia Webster ‘Rosalind’ Crystal-Heel Satin Sandals

[Photo Credit: Getty Images, Joe Sutter/PacificCoastNews]

• Awards
• Critics Choice Awards
• Jennifer Jason Leigh
• Red Carpet
• Roland Mouret
• Sophia Webster