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!

Yellow is Having a Moment (in the Sun)

Kirsten Dunst & Elle Fanning

 It may not be the easiest color to wear, but it's definitely one of the cheeriest.  Yellow is springing up everywhere - from the red carpet to the streets.  It's sure to make you stand out in a crowd - and there's a shade for every skin tone, personality, and budget.

Clemence Poesy

Everyone from Chanel to J.Crew to Old Navy is bringing the color to life this season.  And in shades for everyone.  A pale yellow looks gorgeous on olive or darker skin tones, while a brighter marigold works best on fair skin. 

Elizabeth Olson

Lady Gaga

 There's a different style out there for all.  For those who want to brighten up a whole room, there are dresses of all shapes and styles.  And for others who just want to test out the trend, there are plenty of tops and accessories available.

Kirsten Dunst

It's not just celebrities with disposable incomes that can indulge in the look.  Here are looks out now at different price points for every shopper. 

Kate Spade Sierra Top $275

Loft Top $59.50

Tinley Road at Piperlime $69

So ditch the predictable blues, blacks and neutrals and go for a bright, bold color.  It'll brighten your day instantly, and might just make you see yellow in a whole new way.

Me in Banana Republic

Red Carpet: Golden Globes

Every year, the awards season begins with the Golden Globes.  And what a better way to kick them off than with a red carpet?  This year found many fresh faces and fresh styles.  Here were my favorites of the evening.

Indie star turned leading lady Michelle Williams won Best Actress in a Musical/Comedy for her role as Marilyn Monroe.  But she already won Best Dressed in my eyes before the ceremony started.  Here she is in Jason Wu.  I love the fitted velvet gown and adorable headband.  Very old-Hollywood!

This wasn't the first time up for Claire Danes.  Already a dramatic TV actress winner for her days on "My So-Called Life," Danes found herself making another winners speech for her performance in "Homeland."  This time around, she's a bona fide star in J Mendel - gorgeous from front-to-back.

 My favorite kooky actress was just as unique on the carpet as she is in her role as Jess on "New Girl."  Though she didn't win the Golden Globe, she still won on the carpet in her Prada gown.  Few could pull this look off, but on her, it looked just right.

The reviews were mixed on Piper Perabo's Theyskens Theory ball gown.  But I loved it.  Maybe because it was the only one like it on the carpet.  Maybe it was because of the confidence she carried with it.  Or maybe it was because all the usual leading ladies looked their usual selves.  But I'm all for someone taking a chance like she did.  After all, being risque and having fun is what the Globes red carpet is for.

There were home runs - and a few strike outs.  But they all have a chance to redeem themselves at the Academy Awards.  Here's to another exciting showcase in February.  See you on Oscar night!