Our Picks For the Oscars - And We Don't Mean Who Will Win

The Succulent Wife

In honor of the upcoming Academy Awards ceremony, we thought we'd ask some of our favorite contributors to try their hand at styling their favorite nominated actress. They each created their looks on either Polyvore.com or Looklet.com . Who needs an overpaid Hollywood stylist when these succulent hausfraus provide these services at no cost?

Audrey van Petegem for Amy Adams: I am not sure if Amy Adams will win the Oscar (although she should) this year for her role in "The Fighter" but if she takes my advice she will be a winner on the red carpet (next year Amy, call me). I love the subtle style of the dress with the brightness of orange lips, earrings and clutch. With Amy's auburn hair in an up-do she will shine, because we know, it is all about the accessories. Aiden Mattox ivory chiffon beaded strapless gown, Giuseppe Zanotti sandals, Joan Shepp Petal clutch.

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Alex Purnell for Michelle Williams: Michelle is the hip ingenue. Her short 'do reminds me of Mia Farrow, so I choose a mini with a 60′s feel yet with an ethereal quality. Her red shoes give it an edge. Dress by Hoss Intropia, clutch by Roberto Torretta, heels by Lanvin for H&M.

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Natalie Greggain for Natalie Portman: I decided to dress Natalie P. with a sexy yet simple outfit. She's never been much of a show-off and the neutrals in this outfit will allow her natural beauty to carry the look. The gown provides room for her pregnant belly so she'll be comfortable, but the cross front accent shows the perfect amount of skin to allow her to feel sexy while remaining classy. Nude pumps - because they're understated, sexy, and even 5 inch CL's are comfortable. A classic Chanel flap chain bag because it functions as a gorgeous clutch, but when you get tired of holding it, the gold chain creates such a magnificent accent. Even superstar mama's get tired of holding purses all night. And an 18 Karat rose gold diamond wing ring as a tribute to Black Swan, of course. The vintage flower hair pins to add a bit a sweetness to her do. Comfortable, sexy, chic, all with mama in mind. Because who deserves to enjoy all of life's succulent pleasures more than mothers? Gown by Gucci, heels by Christian Louboutin, handbag by Chanel, jewelry by Anita Ko.

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Marjie Killeen for Nicole Kidman: Nicole is beautiful and regal but often appears inaccessible and uptight. I'd love to see her in something loose and free. She'd look gorgeous and accessible in this wild dramatic stunning purple dress with flowing hair and minimal accessories. Dress by Matthew Williamson, ring by Zanzlöza Zmycken.

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Shari Bonnin for Hailee Steinfeld: Hailee Steinfeld is the youngest nominee and it was only fitting that she set a new precedent of FUN for Oscar fashion. Being young, she really should not be bogged down by a long gown but wear a fun, flirty shorter dress and if it be black, then add color with shoes and accessories. Elie Saab dress, Bianca pumps, Alexander McQueen Skull diamanté clutch.


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Mrs/Dr. T for Helena Bonham-Carter: Still edgy, but with style, Helena's look is a perfect fit for her irreverent attitude. Who needs to mis-match shoes when you pair up feathers with S&M gloves? And you can never go Hollywood glam without an iPhone and big-as-your-head hair piece. Dress by Tex Saverio, gloves by Vogue, iPhone by Apple.

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Anne-Marie Kovacs for Melissa Leo: Melissa needs to move away from the generic "David's Bridal" gowns styling and into something more sophisticated and original. For her, I like the casualness and comfort of these separate pieces. The ethnic flair belt adds color, whimsy and texture. Skirt by Lars Wallin, Blouse by Tommy Hilfiger, belt by Manoush.


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Kristin Fast for Annette Benning: If I were Annette Bening, Best Actress Nominee Underdog and potential apple cart toppler of predicted winner Natalie, Black Swan Crazy Face, Portman, I would want to walk that red carpet in a look that kicks ass. And this look does just that. This form fitting and hand beaded sequined gown from Matthew Williamson will showcase Annette's amazing shape and the unexpected back, so sexy without being tacky, is just the sort of surprise that will slap a nominee right on a Best Dressed list. The accessories, from the geode and diamond jewelry, to the Jimmy Choo sandals are understated, confident will compliment rather than overwhelm her. Joan Rivers, I defy you to snark this.

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If you have come up with your own looks, let us know and we might just post them here.