She may not be a huge critical success yet, but let's agree on this: Sonam Kapoor could win a style war with one hand tied behind her back.

The actress spent the past week at the Cannes Film Festival, where she wowed us with look after look.

Sonam shared the red carpet with Bollywood faves Aishwarya Rai and Katrina Kaif and ended up outshining them. That's not an easy thing to do — Aishwarya, is well, Aishwarya, and Katrina is a long-standing favourite.

So how exactly did Sonam steal the spotlight? Let us count the ways.

1) She's not afraid to take risks

Case in point: this spectacular, flouncy Elie Saab gown.

This gown received its fair share of criticism, with some comparing Sonam to Big Bird. But we disagree. The red carpet is made for bold fashion choices. Why play it safe when you're in the spotlight?

And then there's this daring look — worn to the Chopard party.

Compare her look to Aishwarya's. Aishwarya also chose Elie Saab but decided to play it relatively safe in an aquamarine gown with sheer details and a simple silhouette. The colour's kind of garish and combined with her hair, done in classic waves, the whole thing adds years to her age. A safe gown like this should've been paired with an edgier do.

Also in Elie Saab, Aishwarya disappoints. — Photo: AP

2) Her makeup and hair are always on point

The best thing about Sonam is she's always age appropriate. She rocked bright pink lips with her Elie Saab gown, a nod to the outfit's playful vibe. And when her blue Ralph and Russo dress demanded she channel Old Hollywood, she rose the occasion with striking red lips.

The lips have it! Combined with fresh clean skin Sonam glows.

In contrast, check out Katrina's first major Cannes red carpet look. Katrina dyed her hair red for the occasion but the look went horribly wrong. The red dragged her down, making her look washed out and taking away from her fresh beauty — very Katy Perry, and not in a good way.

Her (also safe) black and grey Oscar de la Renta didn't help matters — it was far too 'old.' We can't help but sigh at this missed opportunity.

Katrina's red hair makes her look washed out.

3) She flaunts her best asset — her smile!

Sonam looks bright and approachable and lets face it — just plain happy thanks to her bright smile. It is really is her best asset, and she knows how to use it. Here she is totally outshining Andie MacDowell.

Note to actresses on the red carpet: smile more!

4) She does sexy right

This Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla sari had us drooling. When Sonam wants to add some heat she commits to the look fully, as with this racy blouse. She totally nailed this one.

Those are all the ways Sonam rules the red carpet — and how she makes it all look so effortless, is a lesson for all aspiring fashionistas.