I had a ball watching the Academy Awards last night with good friends Meredith and Laurel. We had lots of fun cheering on the nominees and discussing our favourite outfits. In my opinion, this year’s red carpet looks were more exciting than recent years because of the ample variety in dress silhouettes and hairstyles. Classic strapless gowns in neutral colours worn with statement earrings were NOT the only combination of the evening. There were many sleeved dresses, colours, short hairstyles and statement necklaces, all of which boosted the style quotient of the show.

In order, here are my favourites for the night. 

Favourite Dresses

  • Cate Blanchett: My favourite actress wore my favourite look. Cate’s black sculptured John Galliano sheath dress with statement turquoise necklace ruled the red carpet. I loved its architectural draped train, textured fabric and frayed armholes, giving it just enough edge. The turquoise necklace made the look and complemented the mischievous twinkle in Cate’s bright blue eyes. The bright blue softened the harshness of the black and complemented her pale peach skin and strawberry blonde hair. I’d have preferred her up-do to look a little less fashionably messy, but her make-up was flawless and she was hands down my best look of the night. 
  • Lupita  Nyong’o: WOW. Her white Calvin Klein beaded pearl dress was spectacular and danced against her skin tone. The classic pearls were stunning against her funky short hairstyle. 
  • Dakota Johnson: I loved the asymmetrical jewelled shoulder detailing of this Saint Laurent dress. I don’t usually like ponytails with formal evening gowns, but Dakota’s fringe suits her to perfection, and added a playful element to the look. 
  • Scarlet Johansson: I loved the spunky combination of Scarlet’s disconnected and polished short ‘do with the streamlined bottle green Versace columned dress. The matching necklace was unique and fab. 
  • Octavia Spencer: Octavia has made my best dressed list three years in a row because without fail she looks elegant, refined and poised in her extremely flattering Tadashi Shoji gowns. 
  • Margo Robbie: I loved the sheer long sleeves and plunging neckline of the gown that somehow did not seem inappropriate or too revealing. 
  • Marion Cotillard: The white graphic self-colour polka dot Dior Couture frock was best from the side and back and looked incredible in motion. 
  • Oprah Winfrey: Vera Wang did a superb job with Oprah’s extremely flattering gown that showcased her curves to perfection. Soft, pretty and feminine. 
  • Chloe Grace Moretz: I loved how youthful and relaxed Chloe looked in this dress because it’s hard for a very young lady to not look overly mature at the Oscars. A frock with pockets, the floral pattern and her beachy natural hair worked like a charm. 
  • Kelly Osborne: Kelly pulled off a very dramatic black dress with the best of them. The high-low hemline and lace detailing lightened the heaviness and harshness of the black, as did her body art and pastel purple hair. Matching the colour of her clutch with her hair was a fun touch. 
  • Julianne Moore: Her off-white Chanel strapless silhouette was unique and refined. The rows of polka dots were fabulous, and Julianne looked very comfortable and relaxed all night. Retro, graphic and elegant. 
  • Lady Gaga: I have a high appreciation for the edgy outfit complete with red rubber gloves and coral hair adornment. Over the top, yet completely appropriate. 

Best Dressed Blokes

  • Eddie Redmayne: His ink blue Alexander McQueen tuxedo worn with white shirt and black tie made his eyes sparkle, and was my favourite of the night. Ultra dashing. 
  • David Oyelowo: Brilliant to see a bloke wear a dark red suit and waistcoat with verve and confidence. Handsome. 
  • Neil Patrick Harris: As the host, Neil wore many suits, but his burgundy jacket with black trousers was my best. 
  • Benedict Cumberbatch: White tuxedo jackets are trending and Benedict wore his with panache. 

Best Hair 

Best Acceptance Speeches

  • Eddie Redmayne’s modesty and enormous excitement was captivating. His beautiful voice was the cherry on top.
  • The screenwriter who thanked his dog Larry stole my heart. 

Favourite Moments

  • Jared Leto rubs off the lipstick mark left on Patricia Arquette’s cheek just before she gives her acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress.
  • Lady Gaga flawlessly sings the Sound of Music’s “The Hills Are Alive”.
  • Julie Andrews hugs Lady Gaga after her performance, completely overwhelmed and touched by her tribute. 

I was routing for Whiplash so I’m extra pleased that the movie went home with three awards. And now it’s over to you. What were your favourites?