Simply said, the 2005 Emmy Awards seem to have revived old-world fashion, which seemingly escaped recent awards shows. This exciting change of direction might easily be attributed to the recent arousal of top-notch designers to up the elegance in their latest runway collections. The close timing of New York City's fall Fashion Week certainly must have influenced the ladies at the top of our best-dressed list.
The women of Wisteria Lane, best recognized as the always-stunning "Desperate Housewives" cast, exceeded all expectations in perfectly coordinated jewel tone gowns. Ravishing redhead Marcia Cross knew exactly what color would work to bring out her glowing complexion. She looked spectacular in an emerald satin gown with intricate beading along the bodice, compliments of designer Elie Saab.
Co-star Eva Longoria, leaving her Emmy Award nomination snub behind her, shined in a Roman-inspired bright coral dress, complete with a keyhole cutout and standout gold bracelets. The gown, designed by Ava Sanchez, was a definite knockout.
The always-enticing Nicollette Sheridan took a more modest route in a light pink-pearl strapless gown and a gracefully upswept ponytail to match.
Although Felicity Huffman sparkled in a ruby-colored Kevan Hall gown with slim cap sleeves, her best accessory remained the winning smile she slipped on after receiving the Emmy for "Best Actress in a Comedy Series."
If there was an award for "Most Cinderella-Like," however, the award would most surely go to the enchanting Terri Hatcher. In a sapphire blue chiffon gown by J.Mendel, Hatcher dazzled fans with an elegantly flowing train and a crystal banded empire waist, all befitting of a princess. She certainly wins for most attention-grabbing housewife and our overall best dressed.
Glamour girls of "The O.C." Rachel Bilson and Mischa Barton were equally chic in two delightfully charming numbers. Bilson was an absolute standout in a short, silver strapless dress. Bilson's best gal-pal and co-star Barton kept it fresh with low-key makeup and a youthful face. She walked the red carpet in a shimmery nude gown with charming gold beading.
Sandra Oh, star of "Grey's Anatomy," took a similar route in a light taupe tea dress that bubbled with flirtation in only the most gracefully unassuming way.
Jennifer Love Hewitt might take note of Oh's success for next time, as she floundered yet again in evoking the memory of her late fashion icon Audrey Hepburn. Her sloppy beehive and dark eye makeup proved to be just too much for her frou-frou black Dolce and Gabana frock.
Viewers should still refuse to give up hope in the power of a short black dress, though. Lovely lady Charlize Theron restores our faith in an "ohh-la-la," vintage couture beaded flapper dress with lace trimming. Strutting the circa 1920s look, we are reminded of just how elegant the look of a vintage Coco Chanel dress can be.
Also bewitching in black was "Lost" star Evangeline Lilly, who looked lovely in a Monique Lhullier creation. With a floral beaded bustier and black tulle skirt to match, this up-and-coming actress goes straight to the celebrity "It" list.
From bold colors and classic black to stylish statement jewelry and strapless elegance, these hot celebrity ladies were bedecked in head-to-toe glamour and left nothing to spare.
