A surprise invite to a stylish soiree can sometimes leave you stumped — unless your wardrobe’s fully stocked with glitterati gowns.

Exclusive events don’t fill up the calendars of most mere mortals, but you still want to look ravishing when you get a rare chance to strut your stuff on a red carpet.

These five elegant evening outfits from today’s fiercest stars should let your imagination run riot.

Rihanna

The Bajan beauty has become a style icon during her meteoric rise to the top of the charts.

And she’s never been shy when it comes to choosing uncompromising outfits.

The fabulous flower-power dress she donned at this year’s Met Gala was no exception — the Comme des Garçons creation was replete with patchwork petals and a short-cut skirt section to add a little signature spice.

If you really want to turn heads at your event you’ll look as ravishing as RiRi in something similar.

Kim Kardashian

Kim is another celebrity princess prone to flashing flesh during photoshoots.

But she tends to tone it down for evening events with more sedate body-con dresses that still showcase her sleek curves.

Kim favours designers like Versace and Juan Carlos Obando — but you can find a similar evening dress for a snip from AX Paris.

J-Lo

It’s hard to believe that this legendary Latina just turned 48 —she still looks as terrifically toned as she did in the 90s.

And she showed her banging body off to full effect at her birthday party in a naked dress that left guests’ mouths agape.

Kudos if you’ve got the confidence to pull off this look — but check the dress code for your event carefully in case something more demure is mandatory.

Bella Hadid

The stunning supermodel stole the show on the Cannes red carpet this year with a racy red quilted ball gown.

And she topped off the terrific outfit with silver snake jewellery and fierce feline eyeliner — unleashing her inner animal to eager snappers.

But pushy paparazzi should be careful — rumour has it she’s very friendly with World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua.

Bella looked spectacular in red and it’s perfect if there’s a colourful theme at your party.

Thandie Newton

Thandie thrilled Westworld fans at the Screen Actors Guild awards by unleashing a futuristic Western frock that perfectly referenced the smash hit show.

The ankle-length Schiaparelli gown featured wild horses and soaring eagles — but a black asymmetrical collar provided a subtle animatronic edge.

If you love the cowgirl look you might like to splash out on a pair of candy purple Gucci boots for your own Western outfit.

If you’re invited to a themed event then there’s more scope to let loose in the style stakes — but if the dress code’s less specific it’s usually better to opt for something slightly more conservative.

But wherever you’re headed, these five-star outfits should set you up for an evening to remember.

What are your top style tips for an evening event? Share your suggestions in the comments section below.