While the winning films at this year’s Academy Awards explored controversial topics, the favorite fashions lighting up the Kodak Theatre were uncomplicated, unpretentious, and simply beautiful. Both Knightley and Hayek worked the keynote asymmetrical neckline and—along with the marigold-bedecked Williams—added to the vivid kaleidoscope of dresses that ultimately gave the red carpet’s revered hue a run for its money. And as awards-show sweethearts Witherspoon, Thurman, and Swank wowed us with demure cuts, Huffman sizzled in a plunging black Zac Posen sheath. For returning us to the ladylike stunner, the best dressed get a Glam standing ovation. —Mari Tzikas
