The Best Of Oscar Fashion 2009

Despite being super slow at getting this recap together, I felt that I couldn't possibly let such a huge worldwide fashion occasion pass by without some mention - better late than never, right? You can read my "Oscar Commentary" here. Disclaimer: As always, I don't endorse or recommend the Academy Awards or any of the actresses mentioned in this article - their fashion is my focus. :)


I was positively thrilled that Kate Winslet finally won an Academy Award. She is such an amazing actress and has contributed to some of the most iconic films of this century and the last (although it saddens me that she plays so many inappropriate roles - including the one for which she won her Oscar - it would be lovely to have a talented actress who kept high standards and showed Hollywood a thing or two about beautiful movies. If you happen to know of one, drop me a line.).

Style trends remained very much the same as at the Golden Globes (check out my report here). If you're starting to think about prom, please take notes. :)

• I am pleased to see that A-symmetrical dresses continue to be all the rage, including lots that feature one shoulder strap. I like this style because it usually covers better and keeps the gown from having to be pulled up all evening - much more modest, not to mention comfortable. 
  
• Strong, confident dress shapes are very popular but, on the flip side, ruffles and lace are so in right now - yay for femininity!
  
• Jewelery was way over the top (what happened to being a classy minimalist?) and ginormous earrings seems to be the thing - bleh.
  
• There were lots of neutrals present and I just love white gowns, as long as the shade suits the wearer and there is enough contrast or color included to keep them from looking like an icicle. 
  
• Bold colors continue to reign, with deep, bright blue being a real stunner. Also, a lot of ladies wore purple (which is still a hot fashion color this Spring), but most of them didn't pick the right shade and ended up looking totally washed out. 
  

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The Best Dressed (IMHO):

Penélope Cruz

Three cheers for vintage!!! I just adore when actresses choose an antique classic to walk the red carpet - this one is by Balmain. The embroidery here is just amazing - it looks like lace until you see it up close. And the gorgeous ruched draping of chiffon - ahhh!!! Who wouldn't want such a Cinderella dress? The pearly off-white shade suits her complexion beautifully and she looks like a swan. And, for the record, I just adore her haircut. So like Audrey Hepburn in "Sabrina"! Oh, yes...

Anne Hathaway

This favorite of mine was another "woman in white" while wearing this lovely Armani Prive Spring ’09 gown. This shade almost has hints of pink and gold and complements her skin beautifully. I am usually not a "bling" girl, but I love the use of crystals and sequins here - she looks like a tall, shimmering goddess. And as much as I adore necklaces, the simplicity of the neckline looks so fantastic without one, and her dainty earrings, chunky bracelet and rings finish it off nicely. Overall, she looks softer and less severe than at the Globes (although I always think she's lovely). Go Annie! :)

Freida Pinto

This John Galliano dress stood out to me the first time I saw it (as did her lovely smile) and it has remained a favorite. I could do without the one sheer sleeve but I just love the way the neckline crosses and the shape of the bodice and skirt. The pin tucked (and horsehair hemmed) swirl of the latter is so pretty and the use of the beading is perfect. I think this is one gown that truly suits the wearer. The sweet simplicity of her pulled back and draped hair finish it all off nicely.

Kate Winslet

Here's some old Hollywood glamour for you. I love how this Yves St. Laurent gown looks like two separate dresses put together; one halter and one strapless. Usually, such a design doesn't work but Kate pulls it all together. The different tones of silk and the sheer overlay - featuring dozens of little rosettes - blend perfectly and give the effect of a gown worn in the glorious day of black and white films. The only thing I'm not so crazy about is her hair. The slicked back and waved look doesn't do much for her face shape. Besides that, there isn't much to complain about. As always, Kate's sparkling eyes and wide smile are her best accessory.

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There was a fair share of bad fashion choices as well. Heidi Klum was a rose-colored nightmare. Jessica Biel was wrapped in a satin bath towel. Tilda Swinton took another fashion dare and lost it. Sarah Jessica Parker was tacky and inappropriate. Sophia Loren just scares me stiff. Amy Adams disappointed me once again with a strange red creation. Amanda Seyfried's lovely shade of orange was ruined by weird proportions. And Natalie Portman had a fuchsia prom dress. It's a sad world.

Next year, I'm going to dress up and hold my own awards show. Anyone want to come? ;)