The title of this post is a line from Bugsy Malone, which I can’t help but say whenever anyone mentions The Oscars but it’s particularly apt, this year. I’m so disappointed with the sartorial offerings on the red carpet, this year. Not known for risk taking or pushing the envelope, the red carpet catwalk has remained safe and ,dare I say it, rather stale, this year.
Now, I haven’t read anyone else’s critiques of this year’s outfits and no-doubt the more educated and knowledgeable people will have completely opposite views to me. But, then, isn’t that what art and fashion is all about? What are your thoughts on this year’s red carpet fashion?
Here are my favourites.
Penelope Cruz in Armani Prive – Two words Grace Kelly. Her glossy fake-bobbed hair and structured yet delicate clutch bag oozed old 1950s Hollywood glamour. The super flattering cornflower blue was lovely on her dark skin, proving that you don’t have to go all coral brights to bring out your skin tone.
Gwyneth in Tom Ford – This was a brave & bold outfit, a welcome sight of the red carpet. This was my statement piece of the evening, with detachable cape and shoulders to cut glass. My 1980s wannabe side got very excited. I wonder if she dropped her choc-ice down the front?
Angelina in Versace – I can’t bare the woman. She makes me angry. This dress made me swoon. Imagine my confusion! Stauesque, elegant, sophisticated. These words are much over-used but god damn it, they’re true. The fabric makes you wants to curl up in it and go to sleep. There’s no need for jewellery or even a handbag, the dress does it all. Jessica Rabbit, eat your heart out. Where did she keep her chewing gum, though?
Emma Stone in Giambattista Valli – This is pure unadulterated awards ceremony worth clobber. The colour is striking with her pale skin time and the high pussy bowed neckline makes her shoulders appear wider and so her waist even tinier! Whilst it’s a very classic shape it has a very modern hemline and her simple hair and bracelet make sure all our attention is on the frock, as it should be. If I owned this dress, I would wear it every day.
My least favourites.
Natalie Portman, Dior – I usually love Dior but the fabric of this dress make it look like bridesmaid dress from Debenhams, which has a matching satin pashmina. I sort of see what they were getting at but the print and the wishy washy red do nothing for one of film’s great beauties. Such a shame.
Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton – This just reminds me of Peaches & Cream Barbie. It’s all a bit ‘twee’ , whilst at the same time trying to be ‘edgy’ and , in my opinion, failing. It is far too fussy and overwhelming for her tiny frame. nice bag, though.
Rooney Mara in Givenchy – Whilst, arguably, one of the ore innovative options on show, the 1960s Barbarella-esque shape of this fashion forward frock does nothing for her bustling and her posture. In most pictures she just looks awkward in it. It probably looked stunning on a Paris catwalk but it’s just not practical (practical????) for an awards ceremony. I do salute her brave choice, though.