by Johanna Osborne

The big night finally came and all the stars stepped out at the 2014 Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre on Sunday (March 2) in Hollywood. Literally an explosion of all things beautiful and fabulous, this is one time when everyone wants to impress and us eager armchair viewers soak up every sparkly morsel. With some of the most stunning gowns in history being debuted on this red carpet, there is always the chance of a blunder, an attempt to wow that instead ends up falling a little flat (Gwyneth Paltrow knows what we are talking about!). But overall this is one time where you can be guaranteed sequins, silk, couture and style like never before, an unmissable event that radiates energy and excitement. Just think of all the time and effort that goes into such an event, the grooming and preening alone takes days, even weeks of preparation – hats off ladies and gents! And not even a little rain could put a damper on things, 2014 is officially the year of the red carpet umbrella as stars shielded their expensive gowns and elaborate hairdos from the elements. And even though we are miles away from the grand ole US of A, we felt we were there – eagerly watching and waiting, ready to bring you our favourite gowns of the 2014 Academy Awards! There was an unmistakable trend towards neutral blush tones, sparkly vintage style gowns and some pops of colour in emerald and red, not to mention deep plunging necklines a-plenty. Have a look at our faves… did we miss anyone?

Guiliana Rancic looks amazing in a Paolo Sebastian dress, Forevermark diamonds, Sergio Rossi shoes, and Judith Leiber clutch. So polished and chic. And not to mention more than a smidge bridal!

Kelly Osbourne in a cream Badgley Mischka gown with an emerald beaded overlay, gold drop earrings by Solange Azagury, and a perfectly-suited matching gold clutch comes up trumps this year. From the neck down anyway, the hair not so much to our taste.

Embellished, sparkling dresses are order of the day. And Maria Menounos does not disappoint. Backless gown with milk maid braids also adds a little raciness to an otherwise innocent look. We love all of this!

Louise Roe wearing a Pronovias dress and Chopard jewellery at the 2014 Oscars. We love the colour!

 
Dios mío Sofia! Wearing a Roberto Cavalli dress, Brian Atwood shoes, and a Rodo clutch this Colombian goddess can do no wrong!

Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o not only took home the coveted Golden Award, she also topped the fashion stakes in her ah-may-zing Prada gown!

OMG – these two never disappoint! You can almost feel the energy around them crackling! Brad in Tom Ford tux while Angelina chose a sparkly neutral-toned Ellie Saab dress, and accessorized with a Ferragamo clutch and Robert Procop Jewels.

In her best post-Nori look so far, Kim finally steps out in colour (rather than the neutral palette Kanye has her sticking to) and we LOVE the red with her raven hair. Stunning.

Moments before taking away the BEST ACTOR crown, here is Mr McConaughey and his gorgeous wife. Matthew is wearing a Dolce&Gabbana tuxedo, Christian Louboutin shoes, and Chopard watch. Camila is rocking a Gabriela Cadena gown, Charlotte Olympia shoes, and Lorraine Schwartz jewels. Divine couple! Nearly – but not quite – as good as Brangelina.

If I were going to the Oscars, this is the dress I’d pick. Julie Delpy looks lovely in a beautiful Jenny Packham dress, Chopard jewels, and Jimmy Choo shoes.

In keeping with the trend, Best Actress Oscar winner Cate Blanchett sporting the “nude” colour du jour, looks stunning in an Armani creation.

 
That woman just never ages and always looks amazing! We adore Goldie’s Versace gown – so simple and stylish.

These two have always liked to ride the wave of cutting edge fashion, and with Karl Lagerfeld as her bestie, it’s little wonder that Diane chose something a little sheer, a little chic and a lot sexy for this special event. It’s Valentino of course and Joshua is wearing Berluti.

Only months after giving birth Jenna Dewan looks amazing in Reem Acra, on the arm of her popular hubby Channing Tatum.

Like mother like daughter, Kate Hudson is no stranger to best dressed lists. We just love her ueber-sexy retro glam look supplied by Atelier Versace dress and Neil Lane jewels.

Jennifer Garner is ombre perfection in her silver tulle tiered fringe gown with micro bugle and bead embroidery by Oscar de la Renta. Hard to believe this mother of 3 is 41 years old!

Alexander McQueen would be proud – his legacy lives on. There’s something about a brunette in deep navy that simply spells old school glam and Sandra Bullock is no exception.

Looking like an Oscar’s statue come to life is Australia’s own Miranda Kerr. How beautiful can one girl be? Orlando, you let your goddess get away!

Evan Rachel Wood looks stunning in an emerald Elie Saab gown. Wow! Charlotte Olympia shoes, Judith Leiber bag, and Neil Lane jewels complete the flawless look.

Last but not least – that skin, that fabric = perfection! Gabrielle Union, you look divine!