Courtesy Carolina Herrera; John Shearer/Invision f

Julia Louis-Dreyfus may have kicked off her Emmys preparations by washing her hair in the kitchen sink, a fact (and photo) the Veep star posted on her Instagram account earlier today with the following description: “This is how it began yesterday at the kitchen sink. #Emmys2014 #glamour.”

But you didn’t expect Louis-Dreyfus to show up for the big night in a dishrag, now, did you? So, glamour it is. The Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series contender (and last year’s winner!) is a total knockout in a stunning custom gown by her go-to designer, Carolina Herrera. “Working with Mrs. Herrera and her team is a dream come true,” the brunette beauty tells PEOPLE.

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The raspberry draped dress features an asymmetrical hemline, a twisted and draped halter neckline, a cinched waist with contrasting skinny belt, an open back with criss-cross leather straps and gathering in all the right places. “It’s very heavy and it’s gold, and I love it. And I’ve just now forgotten the designer,” Louis-Dreyfus gushed during the E! pre-show (she later revealed it’s Lee Savage).

Hairstylist David Gardner (the very same who was washing her hair in the sink) shared a shot of the star in full prep mode (with the product used to achieve her incredibly perfect blowout). We wouldn’t mind a similarly “glamorous” night at home ourselves.

Courtesy David Gardner

Check out the sketch and the finished product on the Emmys red carpet, then tell us what you think in the comments. Are you loving her look?

–Susannah Cahn