Lucy Liu, Danai Gurira shine in yellow at Tony Awards

Fashion is one way to fight the deep sadness that can be overwhelming after violent events like those in Orlando this weekend. The Tony Awards staff utilized a simple silver ribbon to make a powerful statement of solidarity, passing out pins to all who attended the ceremony Sunday night.

The vibrant colors chosen by leading ladies also acted as a ray of sunshine in a fog of grey.

Lucy Liu, a presenter for the evening and alum of the stage, chose a bright yellow Zuhair Murad Couture gown with 3D floral appliqués. The plunging neckline, cinched with a cummerbund-style waist showed off the long lines of her shoulders and made her look like a dancer fit for any part.

Danai Gurira, The Walking Dead actress and playwright, went with a saturated Rosie Assoulin gown that had the same effect. Both women carried purple clutches, perhaps foreshadowing the solid performance of The Color Purple, which earned best revival of a musical. Heather Headley, who replaced Jennifer Hudson in the musical, also wore a yellow gown with abstract print.

Is it the Lemonade affect that is sparking so many citrus hues on the red carpet? Maybe, though it was already a top contender for the color of summer, thanks to some bright runway shows and Michelle Obama's State of the Union dress by Narcisco Rodriguez.

Let's hope the joyful shade continues to serve as a dose of cheer through this dark time.