What I enjoyed about this year's Oscars was the chance for some red carpet newbies to shine.

Though I was super disappointed red carpet superstars Cate, Reese, and Nicole were either absent or didn't walk the red carpet, it was nice seeing new enthusiastic faces. Especially Benjamin Button nominee Taraji Henson. Every time the camera chose her, she was smiling and bright. Her buttercream Roberto Cavalli confection was absolutely delectable, I wanted to eat it up. The tiered cascading gown also had the perfect size fishtail, not too overwhelming, but still dramatic. I'm sure you also noticed her vintage necklace — 19th-century Fred Leighton. She gave a nod to the red carpet (and added a punch of color) with her burgundy silk Mary Norton clutch.

To see my other two favorites, read more.

I didn't realize how much I missed Natalie on the red carpet until last night when she floated by in her orchid pink Rodarte. I started to get bored with all the neutral hued gowns, so Natalie held my attention. The asymmetrical ruched bodice and Swarovski crystal detailing are sweet, subtle touches. She wore simple Kwiat vintage diamonds — vintage studs, a large deco cuff, and stackable rings — all the better to let her lovely hued dress and gorgeous face shine. Her vampy nails added some spice to her sweet ensemble.


Both of the ladies from The Wrestler looked stellar last night; Evan Rachel Wood and Tomei both made our Best Dressed poll. Marisa's dove gray Versace got better and better by the minute. And did I mention she worked it? She had one of the most precise trains and she vogued like crazy; Tomei's got the red carpet thing down. The spirals and folds on the skirt fanned out to create such an awesome effect. Her totally toned arms wore a cool Van Cleef & Arpels diamond and sapphire bracelet while she also showed off a diamond ring and lapis lazuli and diamond earrings.

Source and Source