After months of watching the years biggest films of the year, waiting with bated breath for the announcement of the nominees and getting all dressed up for that big night, the Academy Awards are a little like a wedding day after a long engagement. While the actors and actresses are probably relieved that they don't have to secure venues or make arrangements for cakes and bridesmaids, they do get to spend ample amount of time figuring out which gown or tux to wear and other styling options.
We won't lie, while some of the nominated movies are interesting, it's the fashion that really gets out attention. The Big One as far as awards shows are concerned, we're anxiously anticipating the upcoming Oscars this Sunday, the second of March. In honor of the those who are going to win a golden statuette in style this weekend, join us for a three-part look at the best dresses worn to the Academy Awards in the past. From sparkly embellishment to bold colors and shapes, come see our favorite gowns from years past:
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| Julia Roberts wore this stunning black with white piping vintage Valentino gown in 2001 to accept her Oscar for Best Actress for her role in Erin Brokovich sparking an increase in starlets donning vintage dresses for awards shows and movie premieres. |
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| One of the most beautiful women on the planet, Halle Berry knows how to pick a dress. The glittery gold Elie Saab frock (left) that she wore in 2003 was stunning but it was the year before that was her fashion crowning moment: also Elie Saab, the rich taffeta skirt paired with strategic embroidery was the icing on the cake when Halle became the first African-American woman to win an Oscar for Best Actress for her role in Monster's Ball. |
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| A woman of poise and elegance who takes a few calculated risks when it comes to fashion, Cate Blanchett donned this buttercup yellow Valentino Couture gown with a garnet sash (left) when she picked up her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Aviator. Though not nominated in 2011, Cate had another fashion moment in this lavender Givenchy gown with neon and beading accents. |
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| Jessica Alba hasn't won an Academy Award yet but she certainly knows how to dress - like this gold and lace Versace gown she wore to the 2006 Oscars. |
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| Anne Hathaway appears on our list more than any other actress and with good reason! Her rich red, one-shoulder, asymmetrically draped Marchesa gown complete with floral appliques was a sweet hit in 2008 while her strapless Armani Prive in sparkling silver hits a bolder, sexier note the next year when she was nominated for Best Actress for her role in Rachel Getting Married. |
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| Not known for being the most adventurous when it comes to fashion, Gwyneth Paltrow surprised us all in this jaw-dropping crisp white Tom Ford creation. The dress alone is stunning but the matching cape elevates it to the next level of amazing. |
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| This bright red-orange a-line Valentino gown is not just a perfect color for Jennifer Aniston, it's also the perfect shape for the Friends actress. |
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| Angelina Jolie knows how to dress for her body type - this black Versace Atelier gown is anything but basic with the interesting neckline and slit-up-to-there. |
