Picking my favorites from the red carpet at the Oscars this year was surprisingly easy. There were a handful of truly stunning gowns, a lot of mediocre, and very few fashion "misses."Just after watching the red carpet I was able to name my top four looks, without spending the next day agonizing over photographs and trying to narrow it down. I wish every awards show was this easy!
As far as trends go, there was lots of sparkle: beading, sequins and elegant embroidery. Many actresses wore white, looking gorgeous and sophisticated, and various blush/neutral/nude shades were also popular. Most beauty looks were refreshingly natural, with soft makeup and relaxed hair, and jewelry seemed very minimalistic compared to recent years.
There were a couple of fashion disappointments for me on Sunday evening. I really, really didn't like the gown Viola Davis choose. The color didn't flatter her, and the fabric and seams looked a little strange. And while I am fan of Viola forgoing a wig and showcasing her own short hair, I think that the red/brown shade is wrong for her skin tone. So sorry, Viola! You know I adore you and wanted you to win!
Bérénice Bejo was a similar story. I did not like her dress, and thought the pale minty green color was terrible for her. And, like Viola, I think she needs to go back to a darker hair color. The red/brown hair and makeup looks she's been sporting recently do no suit her.
That said, here's my picks for the best dressed women on Sunday evening...
Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen
This whole look just blew me away. If I had to pick a favorite, Jessica would be it! The black of the dress set off both the incredible gold embroidery and her beautiful skin. Rarely have I seen a gown that has such perfect fit. It looked superb from every angle. The hem hit right where it should, and the train was stunning. I also loved Jessica's golden dewdrop earrings, and her soft, tumbling hairstyle. I don't always like "casual" hair with an elegant dress, but this just works.
Milla Jovovich in Elie Saab
Talk about old-time hollywood glamour! This gown caught my eye immediately. The fit and drape were gorgeous, as were the thousands of softly muted sequins. (And I've always been a big fan of one-shoulder designs!) Milla's hair and makeup were very retro, while still remaining sleek and modern, and I loved her jewelry and clutch choices. The beaded cuff on her wrist was a work of art.
Octavia Spencer in Tadashi Shoji
Another one of my favorite ladies from The Help made me very happy on Sunday night. Octavia looked fantastic all through the awards season, but she definitely saved the best for last. She's been faithful to Tadashi Shoji at every major event, and with good reason. This gown was immaculate, from the beading to the draping to the silhouette. I've seen many similar style gowns completely miss the mark, but this dress was so flattering and just perfect. She deserves a fashion statuette along with her Best Supporting Actress award.
Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton
Michelle Williams has been one of the most beautifully dressed actresses of the year, and while this gown was very different from the one she wore to the Golden Globes, it was equally stunning. I loved the coral color. It's rather an uncommon red carpet choice, but it worked perfectly with her skin tone, soft makeup, and simple jewelry. My only (tiny) complaint was that there are a lot of little details happening on the dress, but the silhouette and fit are perfect for her.
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So, those are my picks of the evening! Do you agree with my selection? Who were you favorites? (And who do you think made the horrible "Worst Dressed" list?)
I hope you all have a lovely week. I'll be busy with rehearsals for Annie, and shows this coming weekend, but I'll see you all afterwards! God bless.
-Amanda
Images: Just Jared
