The annual Academy Awards is a celebration of tremendous talent as much as it is a huge fashion fiesta—we all know that; and this year is no exception. While hundreds of stars dazzled on the red carpet, here are my top ten fashion favorites.

ANNA KENDRICK

One of the night’s biggest trends was a pale palette. Not only were the gowns tender and muted, even make-up was light. Despite her pasty complexion, the best supporting actress nominee was absolutely glowing in this Elie Saab Haute Couture gown. The tinge of pink, instead of washing her out, gave Kendrick an even more romantic appeal. Her dark hair was perfectly coifed and her face barely kissed by the make-up brush making for a fresh, airy look. She finished off her outfit with a Judith Leiber crystal clutch and Kwiat diamonds.

AMANDA SEYFRIED

Another starlet who played with the pale on pale theme. The silhouette of Seyfried’s mint green Armani Privé really brought this look a touch of classic elegance, made 21st century slick with the Swarovski embellishments and the actress’s bun. Again we see the slight touch of make-up, just enough to give her eyes more of a pop and her lips the perfect trace of tint. Another red carpet trend she pulls off is the diamond-encrusted bangle also seen on the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker among others.

CAMERON DIAZ

Possibly my absolute best dressed for the night, Diaz wows in this Oscar dela Renta creation and Cartier jewelry. The bubbly actress amped up the old Hollywood glamour with another key trend—a healthy helping of sparkle! Embellishments were everywhere on the red carpet; there were crystals on bustiers and clutches and all over the fabulous dresses. It was like Tinkerbell had sprinkled some fairy dust on everyone.

SANDRA BULLOCK

It was truly this woman’s night. She looked head-to-toe bathed in gracefulness. This Marchesa gold-beaded number stayed true to Bullock’s style and yet made her stand out like the star she is. This is another example of glitz done right, with her matching clutch and bracelet and sleeked hair. She finishes the look off with a beautiful pink lip and her ever-present smile.

MAGGIE GYLLENHAAL

Yet another actress that used striking pink for her lips was Maggie Gyllenhaal. The look at once becomes updated, add to that her stunning earrings and glossy do, she truly radiated beauty tonight. Let’s not forget her marvelous Dries Van Noten gown. Usually reserved for afterparties, in this case the print works to her advantage and gives her look that extra pizzazz.

RACHEL MCADAMS

Speaking of print done right, here’s another stellar look from presenter Rachel McAdams. The watercolor pattern on this Elie Saab gown was perfect for the red carpet. Again we see a preference for paler hues as compared to Gyllenhaal’s darker palette. The updo was another welcome touch, always adding sophistication and glamour. With her Lorraine Schwartz diamonds, Rachel ties the look together superbly.

ZOE SALDANA

The night’s boldest dresser—who also happened to actually pull it off. (Sorry, Vera)—was no doubt Zoe Saldana. The Avatar star went for drama with this Givenchy Haute Couture dress and milked every second of it as she ambled on down the carpet. Her skin tone complements well with the lavender hues, and the ruffles add a romantic air. And look! More crystals. This whole look is one to remember, and Saldana is definitely one to watch out for in the future.

MERYL STREEP

Toning down several notches now, here’s Meryl Streep in a pristine outfit designed by Project Runway alumnus Chris March. I was pleasantly surprised, seeing as the 16-time Oscar nominee usually dresses down compared to her contemporaries. This look is so appropriate for her, well thought out regarding cut, color, and accessories. Her make-up is almost completely nude and makes Streep look effortlessly flawless.

MILEY CYRUS

Of course I had to save this for last, or else my credibility might be in question. Well, haters be hating, Miley Cyrus looked gorgeous. Her top perfectly accentuating her enviable figure, and again rocking out the night’s soft hue and crystal-dusted trends. Her dress is from Jennifer Packham, who did an amazing job with the fit and design. Her slightly tousled bun keeps the look vibrant and young, but she just exudes great style overall. No matter what anyone says, she is a definitely a red carpet staple and she’s here to stay.

So that’s nine of my best red carpet ensembles from the Academy Awards. I said ten, though, and I couldn’t help myself but add a little musing on menswear. I know it’s a black tie event and it’s essentially impossible to really rate the men on their dress, but I must say that there is only one person who was flawless to a tee. Any guy who plans to attend a similar events would do well to take note.

Number ten on my list is TOM FORD, but I guess that’s expected from a fashion deity such as him.

I do admit I sometimes look forward to the red carpet pre-show even more than the actual Oscar Awards show. But with this much fabulous fashion to feast on, who can blame me? -GIO GIONISIO

via SKINNY VS CURVY and PEOPLE