On the Right Trach

We love when a young Hollywood starlet understands the concept of subtle sexiness. At a recent Victoria's Secret event, Michelle Trachtenberg -- who has a recurring role on "Gossip Girl" -- could have very well reached for the nearest skin-tight Herve Leger dress, avoided the appetizers all night and called it good. We're glad she chose style over sleaze.

The high-waisted black skirt features one of spring's hottest details: draping. It adds a little volume below the waist, but that doesn't keep Trachtenberg from owning every last pleat. Most of her peers would have opted for an A-line miniskirt here, only because they can't yet appreciate clothes that let them do the talking. Either that or they wind up looking like they rummaged through Grandma's attic when veering into non-20-something territory.

Trachtenberg avoids that mistake with her necklace and peep-toe pumps. The statement piece dangling from her neck is bold and unapologetically calling our attention to the plunge her blouse is taking. The shoes, multicolored with a platform, have a nice whimsy to them.

But, back to that plunging neckline: It's tasteful on all accounts. One, when it comes to her cups, Trachtenberg's aren't even half-full, so we only see a hint of cleavage. Two, the pleated shoulder pads and loose fit of the rest of the top quickly debunk any "hot mess" confusion. Three, she's old enough to take a plunge.

The patent leather envelope clutch she's carrying is the finishing piece to this well-styled ensemble and it proves she made it to the fashion big-league. No other bag would have made sense.

Bravo to Trachtenberg and her stylist. If you want to veer into a look that's sexy, but subtle, here's how to copy it.