2014 was the year of the crop top, palettes of black and white, and as usual, stunning starlets. It wouldn’t be right to head into the new year without profiling some of the best looks we’ve seen on the red carpet this year. Without further ado, here’s our countdown of the best red carpet looks this year.
10. Charlize Theron
Just when we think black has run its course in originality, stunners like this Dior—worn by Charlize at the Academy Awards—show up on the carpet and surprise us!
9. Margot Robbie
Jumpsuits were everywhere this year, offering a much-needed alternative to the evening gown. Of all the ones we saw, Margot Robbie’s was our favorite. Sleek and elegant, this Elie Saab creation was definitely a winner that made us want to run right out and buy one for ourselves.
8. Cate Blanchett
Shimmer and nudes covered the carpet, but the award show MVP Cate’s Giorgio Armani dress stood out for its ethereal embellishments. The dangling Chopard earrings didn’t hurt either!
7. Mindy Kaling
The sea of black continued into the Oscars after party with Mindy wearing this peplum strapless dress from her Mindy Project costume designer, Salvador Perez. The simple yet sophisticated cut is the best our dream bestie has ever worn on the carpet.
6. Elizabeth Banks
It may have been rare, but pops of color—mostly reds and oranges—did spring up. Elizabeth’s printed Elie Saab, worn to the Mockingjay premiere in London, was a true showpiece that had everyone talking.
5. Emma Stone
Emma had several big red carpet moments this year, but we just can’t get the ombré Thakoon separates she wore to the Met Gala off our minds. With just one ensemble, she showed us how to properly pull off the crop top trend and recreate the Elsa braid.
4. Sarah Hyland
When crop tops started creeping back into style, we never dreamed they could translate to the red carpet. But suddenly they were everywhere, daring us to try them, too. Sarah Hyland’s Emmys look, designed by Christian Siriano, had us dreaming of classy ways to show a little skin in the summer heat.
3. Kate Hudson
Capes were also in abundance this year, but Kate Hudson’s glistening number set the bar high. Her Versace’s plunging neckline and effortlessly billowing shoulders made it a total standout at the Oscars.
2. Lupita Nyong’o
Many would argue that Lupita should be topping every best dressed list because of striking red carpet moments like this one at the Golden Globes. This red Ralph Lauren off-the-shoulders cape was America’s first major introduction to the fashionable woman who would rule the carpet for months to come.
1. Blake Lively
There was really no question who would be topping our list this year. What was difficult was deciding which of her looks to feature. From the Met Gala to Cannes, this was Blake Lively’s year to shine. In the end, this gorgeous black and white Gucci Premiere pulled ahead of the pack for its timeless Old Hollywood feel.
Who topped your red carpet best dressed list this year, collegiettes? Who do you predict will stop us in our tracks on the carpet next year?