Saturday 23 February 2013

Oscars: Dress to Impress

The atmosphere in Hollywood must be electrifying in the run-up to the 85th Academy Awards. An army of people has been working around the clock to make sure everything goes smoothly and the stars are now surrounded by an entourage of style savvy insiders to make them shine.  


Zac Posen and Marchesa
Zac Posen and Marchesa (photos edited from vogue.it)


Some celebrities prefer to wear made-to-measure gowns on the red carpet by embracing the best couture can offer while others are happy to wear dresses which come straight from the catwalk. So I have browsed the latest Autumn/Winter 2013-14 collections to find the most suitable pieces for the Oscars.

"In fashion everything - the entire body, hair make-up, fabric - is all used to create a performance. " Richard Avedon  



Jenny Packham and Marc Jacobs
Jenny Packham and Marc Jacobs (photos edited from vogue.it)


The shows are still running - now in Milan - but there are already a few dresses clearly conceived for a special occasion such as this one. The focus is obviously on the winners of the evening and the most successful box office films generally receive the majority of the awards. This is as questionable as the discrepancy between men and women directors and films could definitely be more diverse.



Versace and J. Mendel
Versace and J. Mendel (photos edited from vogue.it)


There is still a long way to go but this is undoubtedly a very special evening, eagerly awaited by those who love film and fashion. Images of stars on the red carpet are shared instantly across the world as they naturally attract attention. You could always anticipate a high level of expectation during the Oscars ceremony but nowadays it's even more so.



Gucci and Temperley London
Versace and J. Mendel (photos edited from vogue.it)


Stars are expected to look flawless and incredibly beautiful. It is highly entertaining but it's important to realise the illusory aspect of it all and not get caught up by the irresistible seduction of fortune and glory. We all have our own path and life is too precious to be wished away.

"I don't think any actress would say doing the red carpet is not terrifying. The way to get through it is to pretend. It's a fantasy, like walking into a fantasy world." Rachel Weisz 



Marchesa and Jason Wu
Marchesa and Jason Wu (photos edited from vogue.it)


Nonetheless, films can be powerfully captivating and a talented actor can inspire us and challenge fixed attitudes towards others. Daniel Day-Lewis definitely falls into this category. Above all, enjoy the evening and be amazed by how beautiful your favourite star looks!   



Tom Ford and Oscar de la Renta
Tom Ford and Oscar de la Renta (photos edited from vogue.it)




Other related blog posts:
Couture Fit for Stars
Golden Globes Style
Cannes Red Carpet and Female Directors