Alright...I get to go to the Tony Awards (awards for Broadway performances) because of the industry I'm in. I've never been to a major awards show before; has anyone else? Obviously this one is a bit more stuffy than, say, the American Music Awards...but I seriously don't know how fancy a dress I should get. I've asked my coworkers what people have worn in past years (I only started working there in September, so this is my first time attending the awards) and they haven't been much help. I need something dressy, but not too dressy. It's worse to be underdressed than over, right?
Also, we get to go to the after-parties, which will be attended by celebrities, so I want to look snazzy, but on a smaller budget. Any ideas? The awards are in two weeks....oh, I'm screwed! Should I scour the racks of prom dresses that have been picked-over by tons of high school kids by now? I'd still fit in them...same size since my school days. Help!

Don't stress! I would just look for something understated, sexy and classic with GREAT shoes. Maybe splurge and get your hair/make up done so you look really polished and will feel confident. Not like a psycho bridal updo, just get it blown out or something.

Clothes-wise, I would personally not bother with a dress unless one really jumped out that I liked and just go with a nice, fitted skirt and a gorgeous top and killer heels. My ideal would be a gorgeous, fitted pencil skirt with a bit of a sheen, a nice somewhat sleeveless top in the same colour (maybe black is easiest at this point, easier to find and also less attention-getting) and then just get KILLER shoes and a cute clutch or spangly vintage bag to tie the outfit together. simplicity! I will look for pics for you for inpsiration.

Just using Rachel McAdams as an example, I just think she usually looks put together, but not in a "omg, look at that outfit!!" way, she just seems effortless and you just end up with overall good look that isn't caused by any glaring features in her outfit.

I still haven't found an ideal outfit pic for you, but I'll keep trying..

Thanks And yes, Rachel McAdams' style is nice...simple and chic and her outfits always look pretty comfortable.
Unfortunately I HATE HATE HATE my upper arms, so a sleeveless top is out of the question for me.
I'm actually not stressing as much as I was earlier, though...I'll figure something out. I was, however, hoping to find a really nice dress that could double-duty as what I could wear to a wedding I have in a couple of months.