Fashion Look of the Day Blake Lively Ushered in This Bold Spring Trend in the Sexiest Way Welcome to Look of the Day, where we feature the single most conversation-worthy celebrity outfit we can't stop thinking about. Love it, leave it, or shop the whole thing below. By Eva Thomas Eva Thomas Eva Thomas is a senior commerce writer at InStyle, where she pitches, writes, and strategizes around all things fashion, beauty, and celebrity, always approaching her shopping content in a fresh and exciting voice. InStyle's editorial guidelines Published on March 21, 2022 @ 03:38PM Pin Share Tweet Email We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Blake Lively. Photo: Raymond Hall/GC Images Blake Lively just served some major looks in New York City, proving once again that when the dress code calls for "black tie," she delivers — but in a non-basic way, of course. She was photographed on March 18 arriving at the Gem Awards at Cipriani in Manhattan, and the first word that came to mind when we saw her outfit was… wow. Lively looked cool! She looked edgy! She looked sexy! A triple threat that's not always easy to achieve in a single outfit, but alas, Lively accomplished it with ease in her Sergio Hudson leather cutout dress that showed off her toned midriff. Accessorizing the sexy LBD with black Christian Louboutin pumps, a Chanel bag, and glittery drop earrings added some more welcome touches of elegance. The cutout detail on the dress really stole the show. Lively's was quite bold, but the cutout trend — which is poised for big things this spring and summer — comes in all levels, from more subtle slashes at the shoulder to entirely-exposed backs, which means you can pick and choose the degree of boldness you're feeling that day. Free People has a great maxi dress that offers an easy, low-commitment way to wear cutouts this season. Picture it paired with crisp white sneakers for a stylish weekend 'fit that's both comfy and cute. If dresses aren't your thing, you'll also find a slew of cutout tops, like this flattering Astr the Label one made from a lightweight rayon blend that's perfect for spring and summer. The cutout trend is worth test driving for various reasons. Obviously it looks incredibly cool, but it's also a simple way to get some much-needed ventilation when the temperatures rise. Shop pieces inspired by Lively's $1,895 designer dress, below. Get the Look: Free People Piper Midi DressShop now: $70; freepeople.com and nordstrom.com Bardot Arden Waist Cutout Stretch Cotton Poplin MinidressShop now: $129; nordstrom.com Reformation Alexei Long Sleeve Cutout Tencel Lyocell Blend DressShop now: $148–$178; nordstrom.com Alice + Olivia Havana Cutout DressShop now: $285; nordstrom.com 4si3nna Kira Waist Cutout DressShop now: $128; nordstrom.com Astr the Label Shoulder Cutout BodysuitShop now: $41–$59 (Originally $59); nordstrom.com Bardot Londyn Cutout BodysuitShop now: $48 (Originally $69); nordstrom.com