Golden Globes 2012: 5 Showstopping Dresses

By Marni Elyse Katz
January 17, 2012

The looks on the red carpet at this year’s Golden Globes ranged from sleek blacks and lovely nudes (Mara Rooney and Diane Lane) to wedding gowns look-alikes (Elle Macpherson and Jessica Biel). Texture and embellishment added interest (Madonna and Michelle Williams), while trumpet silhouettes in jewel tones reigned (Sofia Vergara, Paula Patton, Kelly Osbourne). We chose five ensembles that stood out for combining good taste with a bit of originality or edge. And of course, the stars who wore them shined.

1. Claire Danes

The actress originally known for teenage angst stood sleek and sophisticated in a black and white column by J. Mendel with a keyhole back. She told reporters that it was the first dress she tried on, calling it “minimalist, graphic, pretty.” She kept accessories simple, with an updo, red lips and simple Bulgari diamond studs and bracelet. Danes won the award for lead actress in a TV series drama for playing a CIA agent in Showtime's "Homeland.”

Claire Danes

Claire Danes (photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

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Jessica McClintock Black White Satin Rhinestone Gown

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Golden Globes 2012: 5 Showstopping Dresses

2. Sarah Michelle Gellar

We applaud the Gellar, who made vampires chic before their time, for daring choice of her blue and white inkblot print. While the silhouette of the Monique Lhuillier faille gown is fairly traditional, even princess-like, the color palette and pattern made it an original. Her high ponytail, dazzling smile, and simple Bulgari diamonds lent a carefree, breezy feel. She told reporters her two-year-old made the pick from the lineup her stylists sent over. We’re glad she didn’t go for the princess pink many a toddler we know would have chosen.

Sarah Michelle Gellar

Sarah Michelle Gellar (photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

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Coniefox Ombre Evening 1Gown

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3. Angelina Jolie

As usual, Brangelina amped up the red carpet, he in a three-piece tuxedo by Salvatore Ferragamo and she in a champagne and red Atelier Versace satin gown with an asymmetric neckline, ruching at the waist and slit up to there. With her lips a fantastic bright red to match the trim on her dress and clutch and her hair pulled back tight, the first-time director (whose "In the Land of Blood and Honey" was nominated for a Golden Globe) was drop dead sexy but not an ounce overstated.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie (photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

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Reese Witherspoon

Everybody’s favorite good girl played up her California girl style with loose, beachy waves that hung around her shoulders, softening her stunning red satin bustier gown straight from Zac Posen's pre-fall 2012 collection. A collection of Fred Leighton diamond bracelets adorned her wrists, but she left her neck bare. Yes, the trumpet silhouette was a popular one on Monday night, but the bustier top paired with her natural tresses and exuberant personality earned her a place on our list.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon (photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

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Evan Rachel Wood

While she can often come off stiff and older than her 24 years, "The Ides of March" actress opted for an iridescent hunter chiffon Gucci Premiere gown with feathers and sequins. The texture, shine, plunging neckline, and gentle train all worked together for a sophisticated yet playful look.

Evan Rachel Wood