And the Oscar Goes To...

No other night of the year gets me more excited about fashion than that of the Oscars.  I love the anticipation of who will wear what, what trends will be on the carpet, and if anyone will make the mistake of showing up in something that will keep them on an all-time worst dressed list.  But most of all, I wait for that moment when I see the one look that makes my heart race.  The one I didn't see coming but will love for years to come.  Here are some of my favorites from actresses of years passed.

#1 Favorite Oscars Look: Audrey Hepburn in Givency, 1954

At the time of her Best Actress Win for 1953's "Roman Holiday," Hepburn was a fresh-face to Hollywood.  In fact, her role of Princess Ann was her first lead.  The Oscars weren't nearly as big an event then as they are now.  In fact, Hepburn ran to the ceremony after her stage performance in "'Odine" and  didn't even change her hair and makeup.  Now that was a true Hollywood star.

Audrey Hepburn in Givency

 

 

 #2 Favorite Oscar Look: Michelle Williams in Vera Wang, 2006

In a brilliant color not often found on the red carpet, Williams stole my breath away in this Vera Wang number.  It was her first Oscar nomination that year, and even though she didn't win the award, she certainly won best overall look in my book.

Michelle Williams in Vera Wang

 #3  Favorite Oscar Look: Julia Roberts in vintage Valentino, 2000

America's sweetheart had finally gotten a meaty enough role to become Oscar's sweetheart as well.  Everyone knew that Roberts would take home the gold in 2000 for her role as Erin Brockovich, but they didn't know she'd also steal the show in her vintage Valentino gown. 

Julia Roberts in Valentino

#4 Favorite Oscar Look: Charlize Theron in Christian Dior, 2005

Following up the year after winning Best Actress at the Academy Awards is no easy feat, but Theron still managed to steal the spotlight.  Her blue Christian Dior gown started off a trend still found on the runways - layers and layers of ruffles.  Many actresses have tried it since, but none have carried it off as gorgeously.

Charlize Theron in Christian Dior

#5 Favorite Oscar Look: Reese Witherspoon in Nina Ricci, 2007

It was the awards season of her big makeover post-divorce from ex-husband Ryan Philippe, and she made it clear that it was his loss.  Sure, she wasn't nominated for her acting in 2007, but she surely was on everybody's best dressed list that year with her purple Nina Ricci gown and fresh new haircut.

Reese Witherspoon in Nina Ricci

So here's hoping one of Hollywood's starlets shows up tonight in a real show-stopper.  Because sometimes (especially on the red carpet) it's not about who you are, but who you are wearing.

Girl's Got Style: Kristi Jacobs

Kristi Jacobs is about to say "I Do" at her fairytale wedding in August.  But fitting into her gorgeous, dream wedding dress isn't why she took the leap into a lifestyle overhaul nearly two years ago.  Kristi wanted to get fit, be healthy, and most importantly, be happy.  Not one to ever back down to a challenge - she went all in.  Kristi hired a personal trainer, stuck to a calorie restricted diet, and dedicated time each day to work towards her goal.  

And boy did it pay off.  Always an upbeat, sunny person, now she glowed from within and was bursting with confidence - and soon she found her wardrobe hanging off of her new body.  Kristi needed new clothes to reflect how great she felt on the inside as well as looked on the outside.

So Kristi and I hit the ground running (no pun intended) to find out what style suited her.  She needed perfect balance of all she is: a combo of athleticism, brightness, functionality - and a dash of girly-ness. 

We found jeans at Gap, feminine tops and dresses at Loft, and great basics at Banana Republic - a store she never thought she would be able to shop at, but always admired.

That first shopping trip was over a year ago and now Kristi is a pro at finding things on her own - and has a great wardrobe to show for it.  Full of bright colors, mix and match pieces, and some fabulous dresses, Kristi has something to wear for anywhere life takes her - for work, weekends, or that upcoming bridal shower. 

So if you're looking to get into shape or boost your confidence - let Kristi be your inspiration.  She's looking fabulous - and not looking back!