This year's Golden Globes had an outstanding lineup of nominees, and while the award winners are validated for their work, it is the red carpet where hours of dressing, hair and makeup talent are noticed. This year, there seemed be an abundance of reserved high necklines, some boringly conservative and some exceptionally stylish. Sexy is always in with those who go for risqué with an ultra-low cut, but it is the risk takers that grab the real attention - those who had a little personal touch or out of the ordinary detail when all others just strive to be perfect.
The Highs
Angelina Jolie - with unusual detailing of a neck-skimming, lipstick red, angled flap over one shoulder, atop a sleek, form-fitting ivory Atelier Versace gown, paired with sparkling red lips, Angelina looked like a movie star superhero. On any other woman this dress would overpower, but Angelina works it and makes it sexy too.
Claire Danes - Stepping out in a crewneck with unique detail, Claire's black and white J. Mendel gown makes her look sharp and not fussy. The waist and capped shoulders were textured with elegant black weaving allowing for hints of white to show through and give some oomph to the simple straight-line cut.
Dianna Agron - The Glee star turned heads in a high neckline, red hot Giles Deacon gown with exquisite front detailing of floral lace that featured two swan heads turned out at each shoulder, giving a tattoo effect. Though the bottom half was made with layer upon layer of lace, the silhouette was sleek. Even with a lot going on, this dress looks beautiful rather than busy.
The Lows
Evan Rachel Wood -With sophisticated slicked-back short hair, all eyes were on Evan's Gucci Premiere deep emerald green mermaid-style gown with down-to-there neckline and exotic tail trim of feathers. She claimed you could find her by following the trail of plumage she left behind!
Charlize Theron -With an ultra-plunging neckline, long train and billowing draped waist detail, Charlize's Dior Haute Couture gown was nothing short of dramatic. However the nude, pale-pink color paired with nude lips made her a little washed out. A pop of brightness somewhere would have been appreciated.
Emma Stone Using color for high impact, Emma's eggplant and fuchsia low-cut Lanvin toga-style gown was a show stopper with black cap sleeves studded with sequins and black leather belt with a bejeweled eagle buckle.
The Risk Takers
Nicole Kidman - Only the tall and graceful Nicole could pull off a Versace gown that gives almost a warrior uniform effect with gold metallic beading, fitted pleated breast plate on a pale grayish-blue, body-hugging gown. If she wasn't so darn elegant and gorgeous, this dress could be a heavy metal horror show.
Madonna - It's no surprise Madonna would take a risk by pairing one black, fingerless leather glove with her stunning silver and emerald Reem Acra gown. Somehow it just looked right on her! However, the top of the dress appeared a little too tight on the breast line.
Zooey Deschanel - how cute is this "New Girl" star in a fun, almost mod, straight line Prada gown with green beaded top and silver necklace neckline topped with a haircut reminiscent of '60s girl groups. She scores extra points for the manicure she showed off of little tuxedo tops painted on each nail. That's personality!
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