Anna Kendrick looked demure in this light, ethereal Elie Saab Haute Couture gown. This was one of the more successful Oscar looks that debuted on the Couture catwalks in January. Rachel McAdams also wore Elie Saab, a billowing watercolor print gown, and she looked great to.
Not only was Sandra Bullock the best actress winner, she was also a winner on the red carpet in this antique beaded Marchesa. The dress was heavy, but it was totally worth it. Simply stunning.
Gabourey Sidibe, also in Marchesa, saved her best look of the award show season for last. This cetrainly was, in her words, "the money look." The color and cut of the dress were perfect for her.
Elizabeth Banks went with Versace and what a good choice! The ruffles on the skirt and were fun and flirty and the swirled, gathered fabric drew attention to her small waist.
Cameron Diaz looked stunning in shimmering gold Oscar de la Renta. Keeping the hair and jewelry simple with just a pop of bright red on the lips were key to pulling off this look.
In an awards so season when many celebrities played it safe, Jennifer Lopez did not fall into the bland trap by donning a sweeping Armani Privé gown. Surprisingly, she claimed that one of the reasons she loved this dress so much because she could walk in it despite its abundance of fabric. (Photo: x17)
The best dressed of the night, in my opinion, goes to Carey Mulligan who sparkled in Prada.
There were a few more looks that I liked (such as the always classy Kate Winslet in YSL) but the prevailing trend on the red carpet was toned down. I applaud those who took risks, but found that some of these risks did not pay off. Zoe Saldala's Givenchy Haute Couture gown, while breathtaking on the runway, just looked too busy on the red carpet. Sarah Jessica Parker wore Chanel Haute Couture, but although it was draped nicely, the yellow color made her look more like a Oscar statue than a shining celebrity. I think she would have faired better in one of the white or pink versions. Charlize Theron's custom made Christian Dior was a great color but the large rosettes that covered her bust were awkward and distracting. Miley Cyrus, in Jenny Packham, appeared to be slouching the entire night and the bust of her gown seemed disconnected from the skirt. Vera Farmiga was another Marchesa fan and her dress made the biggest statement of the night with the biggest ruffles. I'd never wear it but it's good to see someone who's not afraid to wear what she loves. Congrats to all the winners!
