Even Jessica Chastain Had Problems With a Below-the-Knee Hem. What's the Secret to Pulling Off This Tricky Trend?

Ever Since Jessica Chastain hit the 2011 Cannes premiere of "Tree of Life," Hollywood insiders knew the stunning redhead would be a ring leader on the red carpet. But when the exquisite actress showed up at the Tony Awards on Sunday wearing a transparent lace dress by Mario Schwab we found ourselves wishing the hem were either a little longer or little shorter.

Don't get us wrong. Chastain could look regal in a paper bag. Plus, the intricate design played off her Harry Winston jewels and Giuseppe Zanotti heels well. But the tea-length hem just seemed a bit matronly on the sultry star.

This isn't the first time a celeb has missed an opportunity when sporting a below-the-knee hem. Fergie surprised fans last week with a modest Calvin Klein Collection dress at the amfAR Inspiration Gala. And Hilary Swank didn't do much better with an ankle-length, black-and-white Marc Jacobs frock at the same event.

Sarah Jessica Parker fared better when she arrived for the Forget Me Not Gala in a teal shift and velvet blazer. The dark hues, paired with high pointy toe pumps, seemed to elongate the frame. Zoe Kravitz also managed to pull off the tricky look with a black-and-white, leather-and-tweed ensemble.

So what are the secrets to nailing this hard-to-manage style?

Show Some Skin: It's impossible to make legs the focal point when most of your gams are covered up. The solution? Show skin on top instead. A strapless or sleeveless bodice will draw the eye up to a sexy collarbone or shoulders.

Wear Dark Hues on the Bottom: A mid-calf hem can make the skinniest girl look short and squat. A darker shade on the bottom will counteract that effect, creating the illusion of narrow hips and thighs.

Go For Skinny Stilettos: When all else fails, dust off your sky-high stilettos. A four- or five-inch skinny heel will make the body look leaner, balancing the longer hem.

Then put a smile on your face and carry yourself with confidence. Let's be honest: Attitude is half the battle!