The red carpet is all about the glamorous dress – but sometimes it’s nice to see something a little different, and the suit jacket is the perfect alternative.

As Mr Yves Saint Laurent, king of Le Smoking, would tell you, it can be a veritable winner in the style stakes if done correctly.

Sandra Bullock showed us the power of tuxedo in this Alexander McQueen spring/summer 2012 jacket and trouser combo. She was in New York last week to promote her new film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close and chose to wear this daring look on the red carpet.

We love the belt detailing on the jacket and the way it hugs Sandra’s waist. The slinky satin material also gave it an evening touch and prevented it from looking too ‘career woman’.

She accessorised with huge sparkly rings and a gorgeous silver clutch bag while her glossy straight hair and smoky eye completed her look with a certain je ne sais quoi.

Full marks for the lady in Le Smoking!

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