By: Erika Nolan, Regional Director and Instructor on Mar 1, 2011

The 83rd Annual Academy Awards last night brought out the stars in all their glory.  The glamour was everything from romantic to chic; gowns embellished with crystals and feathers; simple column gowns and artful pieces straight off the Paris runway.  The red carpet was speckled with color but some of the best were the metallic silver, blush and nude tones.

My favorite look of the night was Michelle Williams.  Maybe I am just bias because of her sexy pixie cut but she looked stunning in the breathtaking Chanel Haute Couture gown, simple lines with intricate beading.  The silhouette complimented her figure perfectly and the silver accented her skin and hair beautifully. I was also relieved to see pale natural skin on a majority of the actresses.  So refreshing as I was getting tired of the artificial orange spray tanned look from previous years.  Michelle's makeup was flawless too; smoky eyes and a pale lip, one of my favorite looks.  Her image is reminiscent of my favorite actress of all time, Audrey Hepburn.  Unforgettable!

I loved Gwyneth Paltrow’s Calvin Klein metallic dress and don't get me wrong, I love Gwyneth's style,  but it is the prime example of dressing wrong for your body shape.  She is thin, flat chested with no waist and the sleek column dress accented these features instead she should have worn a dress that gave her the illusion of curves.  Also, the metallic color was overwhelming to her complexion instead of complimenting her natural skin tone. A fabulous dress, a gorgeous actress but unfortunately, it was the wrong dress for the girl, too bad, maybe next time.

After Sandra Bullock's miss at the Golden Globes she made up for it last night.  Wearing “red” on the Red Carpet can be tricky as you are at risk of clashing but she pulled it off.  The Vera Wang strapless gown was sophisticated and elegant. I especially loved that she pulled her hair off her face so we could see her gorgeous bone structure.  Sensuous red lips are always appropriate for evening, she nailed it. The only accessory I would have changed would be her handbag; she should have carried a Judith Leiber minaudière not an alligator clutch.

The pre-show fashions are the best part of the night.  The award ceremony is a bit dull at times but Christian Bale's Best Supporting Actor acceptance speech did make me teary, so heartfelt and genuine; you could hear the emotion in his voice. I must say the hosts, Anne Hathaway & James Franco, were less than captivating as I almost nodded off a few times.  Anne Hathaway better kick it up a few notches for my brother in law in the next Batman film, “The Dark Knight Rises”.  We would hate to see her miss the mark.

We have to remember the occasion is not just about the fashion but celebrating their craft.  It is always inspiring to see so many enigmatic people and talented actors all in one place at one time.  For them it is work and for us its entertainment, as we get to lounge in the comfort of our own homes, sipping wine, enjoying the eye candy!

Until the next time, find your style!

Photos from style.com