Here we go again, my bi-annual foray into red carpet style. I don’t know why I choose to cover the Globes and the Oscars, since the really good stuff usually happens at the Venice Film Fest, Cannes, or even TIFF (probably because they are less gown-y and more cocktail-y) but there is something about these award shows that I’m attracted to (maybe it’s the element of sap). As I explained last year, I’m not so much into gowns in the traditional (well, red carpet traditional) princess-y sense. So you will probably never see a strapless mermaid number on this blog (although it might happen — never say never, right?). Here are five women that stood out for me last night, and avoided looking like they were going to the prom. 


5. Dianna Agron in Giles Deacon

I don’t follow Glee and I don’t know anything about Dianna Agron, but I’ve noticed that this girl has been making pretty interesting choices lately. She somehow managed to make this Giles Deacon laser-cut gown really cute, almost casual. Here is a gorgeous alternative to the strapless bodice, with that high ornate neckline. Plus I love that someone chose Giles Deacon rather than the usual suspects.

4. Kristen Wiig in Bill Blass
Some of you will find this dress boring, but I think it’s anything but. Kristen Wiig is not a strapless Princess gown type, nor she should be. I think this Bill Blass gown is the first time I’ve seen her looking like Kristen Wiig on the red carpet (you know the incredibly smart and funny girl that writes amazing poo jokes). I love the deep V cut with that little knot detail in the front — a really beautifully draped dress, sleek and simple.

3. Claire Danes in J. Mendel

There is something warrior-like happening with this gown that’s super interesting. It’s a tough gown, yet at the same time extremely elegant. It might have something to do with Claire Danes’ stature, which is very strong and athletic — she has beautiful broad shoulders that carry gowns so beautifully. I love this girl. She’ll always be Angela Chase to me. 

2. Tilda Swinton in Haider Ackermann 

1. Rooney Mara in Nina Ricci

If you are the type that can appreciate Tilda, then you most likely can appreciate Rooney Mara. There is something very similar about them; they can both appear extremely feminine while looking extremely androgynous at the same time —  this is somewhat of a art form (one I’m just not capable of). Rooney Mara is a vision in Nina Ricci, so wonderfully designed by Peter Copping with Ricci’s signature mini bows holding up the bodice. Those eyebrows, that skin, that little ponytail… I’m crushing a little. 

Honourable mentions: Kelly MacDonald in Lorena Sarbu (beautiful emerald short-sleeved gown), Emma Stone in Lanvin (it’s Lanvin!), and Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka (always a vision). 
Worst dressed: Angelia Jolie in Versace (stiff, stuffy, and old) and Leah Michelle in Marchesa (Las Vegas showgirl). 
Best male: Ewan McGregor’s skinny (Dior?) suit. This guy just gets cuter with age. 
Who was on your Best Dressed list?