If you watched the Academy of Country Music Awards show recently, you may have been slightly stunned by the enormous — and we mean enormous — burgundy gown that Carrie Underwood swished up to the microphone in. The dress literally filled the stage.

It was made by designer Rafael Cennamo, and, to be honest, we’d never heard of him. After some investigating, we’re betting a lot of you haven’t either. He’s not on the big-name radar. Working out of Miami, he creates couture gowns that are detailed, complex, striking and, a bit over the top.

A couple of celebs who have worn his designs are Audrina Patridge and Rosario Dawson, but neither of those dresses were as wild as what Underwood wore, or what we found on his Web site. 

His current couture collection consists of four dresses, Fire, Water, Earth and Air. Of course, since it’s couture, it would be tailor-made for the buyer. We couldn’t find prices, but don’t worry — we’re sure they’re high. Here’s a peek at what he’s created.

The Air dress (pictured at the top) is an amazing work of sleek white satin topped with an intricately pleated, shaped bodice that evolves into a big, floating creation that rises above the model’s face like a dreamy flower. Not for those who think less is more.

The Earth dress (above) is a lush golden brown ruched and horizontally pleated gown that flares into a mermaid skirt at the knee and puddles at the floor. Moving toward the bodice, a scattering of multi-colored crystals becomes a gentle extravaganza of feathers, crystals and beading at the bust.  A shimmery, transparent strap consisting of delicate leaves tops it off.  

Cennamo’s black Fire gown (above) starts with a sheer lacy halter neckline that descends into crystal embellished va-va-voom black lace at the bust. The dress turns gentle with delicate sheer netting accented with scattered beaded embroidery. Not content to stop the statement at the waist, the skirt is sheer and short in the front, trailing in the back, with what appears to be cropped satin tights underneath. You should check out the whole dress on his site (click “collections”).

Last but not least, the Water design (above) is the most restrained of this collection, but it’s a masterpiece of sleek satin that showcases shining shades of blue. Pleated and plunging at the bodice and cut-out in the back, the gown falls to the floor with more ribbons of ocean-inspired aqua shades at the hem.

We think we’ll be seeing more of Cennamo on red carpets around the world.

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