Red-Carpet Review

It was all glamorous gowns and dazzling diamonds on the red-carpet runway at the 75th Academy Awards Fashion Preview.

Held March 4 at the grand staircase just outside the Kodak Theatre, the event was hosted by this year’s fashion coordinator, Patty Fox, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Fox was named fashion coordinator by this year’s Academy Awards producer, Gil Cates.

Designers displaying fabulous frocks included Bob Mackie, Christian Dior, David Cardona, Elie Saab, Escada, Gianfranco Ferre, Kevan Hall, Richard Tyler and Valentino. Freacute;deacute;ric Fekkai and Co. glamorized models with hair and makeup.

Gowns came in all shapes and designs—from simple, sequined or strapless to brightly colored, black or beaded. The color olive appeared in all shades and styles. Whether or not we’ll see it at the ceremony remains to be seen. At press time, the Academy had canceled the traditional red-carpet arrivals and most celebrities were expected to wear more-subdued clothing.

The glow of diamonds was overwhelming. Again, the spectacular stone will be the jewel of choice for this year’s Oscars. The translucent gems came in all shapes and sizes: delicate on dangling earrings, bold on rock-like drops, and stunning on sparkling bracelets. In total, there were about $75 million worth of rocks on the runway. The jewels were furnished by Chopard, De Beers, H. Stern, Hammerman, Harry Winston, Martin Katz and Vivid Collection. —Joselle Yokogawa