Emma Roberts shows off her undergarments in sheer outfit at National Book Awards

The National Book Awards typically isn't the go-to red carpet for sexy ensembles -- but Emma Roberts tried to change that this week!

The actress made an appearance Wednesday night in a gown that at first looked library-appropriate, but on second glance proved to be quite a bit more daring: The floor-length Ulyana Sergeenko number is completely sheer from top to bottom.

Roberts looked confident as ever as she showed off her black undergarments in the sensual number. Although it was a bit more risqué than we would've expected for such an event, the checkered pattern and vintage-style oversized bow gave a modernized 19th century heroine vibe. Is it too bold to say Jane Austen would've been pleased?

Also looking lovely at the event were Anne Hathaway and Cynthia Nixon, both of whom opted for dark colors on the chilly November evening. Hathaway paired her black long-sleeved maxi with champagne tassel earrings, while Nixon's tweed dress was very English teacher-chic.

Both Hathaway and Nixon spoke at the podium during the event, and while it doesn't appear that Roberts made a speech, she was spotted leaving afterward with a handful of books. Happy reading!