
It's Oscar Sunday and the world is preparing for Hollywood's biggest night.
Apart from the red carpet style extravaganza, fashion's biggest moment at the Oscars is the award for Best Costume Design. This year I had the wonderful experience of interviewing the nominated costume designers for
California Apparel News' annual Hollywood Stylist's issue. The Q&A format reveals the behind-the-scenes expertise and inspirations costume designers use to dress actors for the big screen. The art of costume design is without a doubt one of the most important aspects of filmmaking. It is the bridge that transforms the actor into a character. This year's nominations range from the reality-based 1950's clothing worn by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet in "Revolutionary Road" to the 18th century splendor of the aristocratic "It Girl" played by Keira Knightley in "The Duchess." Nominees include Albert Wolsky for "Revolutionary Road," Michael O'Connor for "The Duchess"; Catherine Martin for "Australia"; Danny Glicker for "Milk"; and Jacqueline West for "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."
The timeless style of each is sure to inspire fashion trends off screen.
Here are some fashionable looks from each of the nominated films.

photo:
film.com"The Duchess"
It's amazing when a costume seems to be really over-the-top, but this fox trimmed hat and muff worn are so fashion forward. And that's why Giorgiana, the Duchess of Devonshire was a trend setter of the time. Fur-trimmed hats and accessories are key for Fall and I'm sure this look will inspire some avant-garde renditions of the look.
photo: news.com.au
"Australia"
Catherine Martin created fashionable clothing for a British aristocrat played by Nicole Kidman in the late 1930s epic
war drama. She transformed her look for the Australian Outback and created this beautiful chinoiserie inspired gown for a ball scene. And did I mention how great Hugh Jackman looks in this white suit? The look is striking especially since he wears stockmen's clothing throughout the entire movie.

photo:
cinematicpassions.wordpress.com"Milk"
Danny Glicker meticulously researched the 1970s to create the costumes for "Milk." The film chronicles the life of Harvey Milk, gay rights activist and the first openly gay man to be elected to political office in the United States. With political figures such as Michelle Obama inspiring fashion trends, other political leaders such as Milk are sure to inspire a fashion following - especially at a time when gay marriage is at the height of controversy. Bring on the 70's!

photo:
cinematical.com"Revolutionary Road"
Vintage is back with a vengeance due to "Mad Men" mania and films like "Revolutionary Road." Two time Oscar winning costume designer, Albert Wolsky, designed the iconic 1950s look of the film which is sure to inspire fashion trends.

"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
Jacqueline West created a century of style for Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt in the film rendition of
F. Scott Fitzgerald's short story. Blanchett is always chic and her look for the film was inspired by ballerina Tanaquil Le Clercq and Audrey Hepburn. And I'm sure Pitt's iconic look inspired by Gary Cooper, Marlon Brando and Steve McQueen will continue the obsession with classic Americana far beyond Spring.