The 54th Annual Grammy Awards were filled with mixed emotions as America mourned the untimely death of Whitney Houston, and celebrated the nation’s biggest names in music. Similar to the performances throughout the night, which were fabulous – and sometimes shocking (Nicki Minaj, anyone?), the fashion choices ranged from Lady Gaga’s always outrageous costumes to gorgeous but subtle gowns by both well-known and up-and-coming designers. Here are my top five looks – and you will be shocked by number one (I sure was!).
5. Adele
Queen of the 2012 Grammys, Adele looked classy in a black sparkling Giorgio Armani boat neck gown with three-quarter sleeves. Complete with bright red lips and Harry Winston jewels, the twenty-three year old singer looked regal on the red carpet.
4. Rihanna
In true Ri-Ri fashion, the singer sizzled in a super sexy yet simple black gown designed in collaboration with Giorgio Armani. According to Rihanna, the dress was designed to resemble Michelle Pfieffer in Scarface. The stunning star’s gold accessories – including her newly blonde locks – and sultry makeup completed this smokin’ hot ensemble.
3. Carrie Underwood
The beautiful singer glittered in a Gomez-Gracia staid long-sleeve, high neck, floor-sweeping gown with an open back. Underwood completed her look with diamond drop earrings, pink lips, and a simple black clutch. It’s not easy wearing white, but Carrie rocked it.
2. Kelly Rowland
Usually known for her outrageous and skimpy outfits, Kelly Rowland stepped it up this time looking elegant in a delicate, beige Alberta Ferretti gilded with silver flowers. Ms. Rowland completed her look with Lorraine Schwartz diamond earrings and cocktail ring. Watch out Beyoncé, Kelly’s inching into your spotlight.
1. Kelly Osbourne
Barely recognizable, Kelly Osbourne looks glamorous in a stunning one-shoulder Tony Ward glittery metallic gown. Normally, sporting lavender locks at an awards show would not fair well with fashion critics, but Kelly lets her quirky shine through while still looking glamorous and subdued, earning this TV personality the top spot.