I'm not sure what made me rewatch Scandal for the twelfth (ish) time a few weeks ago. There's something about witnessing Olivia Pope dominate that makes even leisure time feel productive, so I always find myself going back.

Olivia Pope's style is classic and iconic. Half the fun of the show is the opportunity it provides for pre-planning my professional wardrobe in my head (white hat and all).

My point in telling you all this is that I have a deep appreciation for Kerry Washington's styling. She carries herself – on and off camera (by off camera, I mean off Scandal camera; I've never met Kerry, but I imagine she's just as glamorous in real life) – with a refined elegance that I've always admired. And that's precisely why she's always an anticipated red-carpet "best dressed" of mine (of everyone's, really).

At last night's 71^st Primetime Emmy Awards, Washington dazzled – she literally dazzled – in French designer, Alexandre Vauthier.

There's always something so powerful about women – women with the world at their feet, with designers fighting to dress them, with limitless gowns at their disposal – opting for pants. There have been many incredible menswear-inspired red-carpet looks that are recalled fondly by fashion gurus and living-room-couch-viewers alike, but there was something about Kerry's that stood out.

First, I applaud the full coverage – in ninety-degree LA weather, no less – proving once and for all that sexy elegance is something that can be achieved without bare legs and plunging necklines.

Second, Kerry's glam was impeccable. That pony – with the fringe bang! The definition of chic. And Kerry's quick to give credit where credit is due, posting a cute glam squad video to her Instagram before the show.

Third, I commend Kerry for respecting her role. She wasn't nominated; this was not her Cinderella moment. Washington represented herself as a television fan: one that just happens to be fabulous as can be. She did what every presenter should do: she let her elegance speak for her, balancing the understated with the impactful.

Finally, Kerry stood out from the crowd! Not that she disregards trends, but Washington was careful not to get lost in the sea of, well, red and pink color-block dresses.
I think maybe this Thank You would have gone to Mandy Moore in Brandon Maxwell had it not been for the half-dozen copy-cat looks.

To Kerry Washington's 2019 Emmy's look, Thank You. I will never forget you.