"Glee" star Lea Michele had a bright idea at the 2010 Tony Awards. Photo: Getty Images
The style expert/judge on Oxygen's fantastical reality competition "Hair Battle Spectacular" has been prepping six fashion segments -- including a primer on red carpet trends -- for the E! network's always popular pre-show.
As if that's not enough, she's also busy working with her long list of clients, including "Glee" cast members Heather Morris and Naya Rivera as well as "The Bachelorette" Ali Fedotowsky (Albanese styles her for events and magazine shoots).
Taking a break from her fashion closet, Albanese chats with StyleList about red carpet trends and who she can't wait to see at the Aug. 29 ceremony.
StyleList: What Emmy-night trends should we expect this year?
Lindsay Albanese: Expect a lot of metallics. Other trends you'll see are embellishments and a ton of pastels and cream.
SL: How hectic is it prepping for the Emmy Awards?
LA: Extremely hectic! There is so much work that goes into getting every last detail perfect: the bag, jewelry, shoes, alterations. It takes days of preparation. What most people don't know is there's a tug-of-war between stylists for the best shoes, bags, and dresses. When pulling from showrooms and PR companies, we are all trying to get the same things at the same time!
SL: What's the biggest mistake celebrities make on the red carpet?
LA: When they deck themselves out in too much jewelry. If you have huge earrings, please, no necklace too! I would also be happy to never see a satin bias-cut gown on the red carpet ever again in my life!
SL: Who can't you wait to see on the red carpet this year?
LA: Lea Michele! The press is going to be clamoring to photograph her because she's so popular now. She's young enough to wear anything she wants and take that risk! I hope she brings it!
SL: Your vote for the Emmys' best look ever?
LA: It wasn't an Emmy look, it was Eva Mendes at last year's Golden Globes. She showed up in a Dior gown and a Van Cleef & Arpels turquoise bib necklace. I was flat-out mesmerized. I definitely had the "Oh my God!" face on.
SL: And the worst?
LA: When Paula Abdul [whom Albanese has worked with] showed up in a yellow gown that was actually wearing her. When you're petite, you sometimes can't wear major, elaborate gowns because they look too compact on a smaller person.
SL: Who always gets it right?
LA: Olivia Wilde: She always takes a risk and I love that.
SL: Which celebrity always wins the "Hair Battle Spectacular" of the awards season?
LA: Sarah Jessica Parker always shows good hair! People don't realize that bad hair can ruin a good outfit. Hair frames your face and sets the mood of your look.
SL: How do you deal when your red carpet styling is panned by the critics?
LA: You can't please everyone! What really matters is that when your client walks out the door, they feel like a million bucks. If for one second I'm guessing my client isn't feeling that, then I make them try on more dresses.
SL: What will you be wearing on awards night?
LA: I'm really into mixing trends with classic pieces. Right now I'm into dressy shorts, lace, and tailored pieces. I only like to wear things I'm comfortable in!
Meanwhile, check out the nominated cast of "Glee" and their photo shoot for Emmy magazine.