Styling just like Simon, Randy and Kara preach on American Idol is about choices made. Taking risks on the red carpet can either pay off handsomely or become the butt of internet chatter and fodder for E’s Fashion Police. Red Carpet designer and commentator Randolph Duke’s said it best while covering ABC’s post coverage-On the Red Carpet. “The Oscars allow every person watching to be a critic”, not just editors get to critique what happens in fashion on film’s biggest night. Ready for my opinion?

Photo from Mlive.com (AP Photo/Matt Sayles

Charlize Theron wearing Christian Dior.

Charlize hails from the world of modeling before getting her big break in 1996′s Two Days in the Valley. Remember the white catsuit? I should I was one of Charlize’s bookers back then. It was abundantly clear or how about Cinnabon clear Charlize was bound for Oscar. Wearing a reinterpreted gown from the runway in Lavender and icy pink. Charlize looked as if she slipped on her dress quickly, tied up her hair and popped on a pouty coral lip. Ex-supermodel’s do effortless so super well.

Without the pressure of being nominated, why not use the red carpet as a runway? Had to kinda sorta be strategic considering Charlize is the celebrity spokesperson for Dior’s J’adore fragrance. Wearing Harry Winston earrings, the Dior seems stranger than it r is. Just  like art you either J’adore or……..

Pretty certain Cinnabon is happy for the comparison on Charlize’s chest too.

Style Tip-
Change one portion of your style and embark on a major style shake up. Don’t “not” take a risk because there are nay sayers. Raise your own fashion bar for follower’s to follow.

Photo from Instyle.com (Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty)

Carey Mulligan in Prada

Carey could have been a contender. Wearing a Prada black box pleat with Swarovski encrusted crystals. Great choice for Carey’s petite frame. Though Carey’s accessories choice, completely wrong.

Carey should have passed on Fred Leighton‘s stunning chandeliers in favor of highlighting her creamy skin and dramatic Mia Farrow inspired cut.

The fit of this dress was very flattering on Carey’s petite figure and the shorter hemline in front would have been a styling moment all on it’s own. The heavy
crisscross black straps on Carey’s heels ruined the drama of her unexpected hemline.

A beautiful barely there metallic strappy stiletto paired with a diamond post or tiny teardrops would have highlighted Carey’s Mia cut and her pale ivory skin. Could have been a best dressed contender. Sigh!

Style Tip-
Are you accused of fading into the background? Don’t let this post scare you. Evening wear demands more effort. Get your hair and makeup done for your most important events.

Photo from Nola.com (AP Photo/Matt Sayles

Maggie Gyllenhal in Dries Van Noeten

How Maggie dresses is connected to who she is as an actor. Maggie’s chic/cool strapless sheath included a barely detectable off balanced detail at the top of her bodice. Wearing a dress by designer Dries Van Noeten and Vintage Fred Leighton earrings/ bracelet. The print on Maggie’s gown points to the beautiful prints forecasting for Spring/Summer. Choosing a risky pattern is what set Maggie’s look apart. Patterns are rarely worn on camera. For me Maggie’s look was “done and done.”

My biggest note on Maggie’s appearance is how underweight she is. I tweeted playfully that Maggie could use a sandwich others tweeted back “and a bowl of pasta” “and a 7 layer chocolate cake…the whole cake”

Style Tip-
Simple strapless sheaths always a chic choice. Don’t be afraid to try an unexpected pattern. This pattern worked as it has a strong solid background, not to busy for the eye.

Double Style Tip-
Don’t put Hollywood’s too thin appearance into your mind set, most of the actresses on the red carpet really need to allow their bodies to rest at their natural weight.  Want to know how you look on camera? Shoot yourself and see what other’s see. esp. if you have the Imac photo booth.