Well, I have to admit to some disappointment over last night’s fashion.  I kept hoping I would LOVE something, but nothing got me too excited.  However, there’s a silver lining; few red carpets have so vehemently reflected and forecast trends.  Anyone looking for fresh wardrobe ideas could have picked up on plenty of signals about where the trends are heading.

First we’ll talk about color.  There were three big color stories of the evening.

1. PURPLE

Sandra Bullock*, Rose Byrne**, Jane Krakowski+, Leona Lewis+

2. METALLICS

Toni Collette*, Jennifer Garner*, Olivia Wilde**, Anna Paquin**

3. PALE/ PASTELS

Maggie Gyllenhaal*, Nicole Kidman+, Drew Barrymore*, Felicity Huffman+

And there were two major structural trends.

1. ARCHITECTURAL

Marion Cotillard*, Christina Aguilera**, Kate Hudson+, Tina Fey+

2. RUFFLES, RUFFLES EVERYWHERE!

Heidi Klum+, Anna Kendrick+, Christina Hendricks+

So what’s the takeaway from the red carpet and how might someone incorporate it into their wardrobe?  I’d concentrate on three elements:

1. Definitely get something purple. It’s been a hot hue for a few seasons now, and it doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere.  There’s at least one flattering shade for everyone, so add a splash or two to your closet.  I’d check out purple shoes, scarves, jewelry, and cardigans.

2. Add a dash of shine. Metallics appear to be a hot look for spring and summer.  Check out shimmery tanks, camisoles, and handbags to incorporate this trend.

3. Find a ruffle that works for you. Yes, this is a love-it-or-hate-it look, but if you want your wardrobe to look totally up-to-date, I’d find one you like.  One blouse or skirt should do the trick, and just remember: Ruffles don’t have to be juvenile.  With the right piece, they can be sophisticated, softening, and sexy.

Another big story from last night’s fashion?  Divisive dresses.  Several of the evening’s big dresses left stylewatchers divided- most notably Chloe Sevigny’s, Drew Barrymore’s, and Sandra Bullock’s.  My thoughts on those three?  Hmmm…

Chloe Sevigny was what I’d call a noble failure.  Floating down the red carpet, her extreme ruffles looked absolutely diaphanous.  But viewed head on, the whole gown was much too imposing.  I believe the gown would have worked if it had featured an asymmetrical ruffle down one side instead of so much cascading everywhere.

from EW.com

Drew Barrymore was a total miss for me.  Much has been made of those weird sea urchin details and the odd placement of the one on her hip.  But the biggest problem in my opinion is the drab color, which is totally unflattering for her.  She’s looked much, much prettier before, and I have no doubt she will in the future.

from EW.com

After a little thought, I’m giving Sandra Bullock a thumbs-up.  My first impression wasn’t great.  Anytime you wear a vivid color, you’re fighting the “80s prom” effect, and the peculiar, iridescent material didn’t mitigate that one bit.  Overall, though, the purple flattered her enormously, the fit was great, and I loved the sheer sections of the gown, which gave it a very couture feel.

from EW.com

Oh, and my favorite and least favorite from last night?

Ginnifer Goodwin- So chic she wins me over even though I'm not a fan of knee-length for black tie events! (image from Style.com)

Diane Kruger is so gorgeous, but nothing about this worked for me! I'm looking forward to her Oscar gown... (image from yahoo.com)

* image from EW.com

** image from Style.com

+ image from yahoo.com