Emmys 2012: Ocean-inspired styles on the red carpet

The under-the-sea theme has been big on the runways the past couple of seasons, as seen at Monique Lhuillier, Chanel and elsewhere. And now at the Emmys, where we’ve spotted several red carpet mermaids dressed in ocean-inspired styles -- Sofia Vergara in a backless teal, hand-beaded Zuhair Murad gown, Heidi Klum in a super-sexy aqua chiffon Alexandre Vauthier gown slit thigh high and Julianne Hough in a risqué, strapless sea foam green corset gown dusted in sequins by Georges Hobeika. But Nicole Kidman takes the prize with her stunning white column gown with scale-like embroidery in every shade of blue by Antonio Berardi. A truly modern take on the mermaid trend.

PHOTOS: Emmys 2012 best dressed

PHOTOS: Emmys 2012 worst dressed