The Best Fashion Moments From Oscar-Nominated Movies

When it comes to the Oscars, you know you can always count on red carpet coverage for the biggest fashion trends and most memorable dresses. But there are other sartorial instances worth calling out as well: the best fashion moments from the films themselves. Between the extravagant ball gowns in Cinderella and the period 1950s get-ups in Brooklyn, there are plenty of noteworthy looks to keep your eye out for — even if the film wasn't nominated for best costume design. Keep reading for 10 of our favorites, and don't forget to tune in to the Oscars on Feb. 28.

01
Brooklyn, Saoirse Ronan
Kerry Brown/TM and ©Copyright Fox Searchlight Pictures. All rights reserved./Courtesy Everett Collection

Brooklyn, Saoirse Ronan

After emigrating from Ireland to Brooklyn, NY, in the 1950s with just one suitcase, Eilis must learn to rebuild her life — and her wardrobe. As she starts coming into her own and feeling more confident, her style shines. This look is a quintessential '50s look, with a full-skirted tea-length dress, statement cat-eye sunglasses, and a kiss-clasp handbag.

02
The Danish Girl, Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander
Agatha A. Nitecka | © Focus Features /Courtesy Everett Collection

The Danish Girl, Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander

In this period drama, Einar Elbe and Gerda Wegener are married artists who struggle with Einar's transformation into a woman, Lili. The film takes place in Copenhagen and Paris in the 1920s, and the costumes take into account the vibe of both cities at the time, with Copenhagen being more conservative and Paris more free-spirited. The costumes also bring to light the liberating movement the fashion industry underwent, thanks to the likes of Coco Chanel.

03
The Danish Girl, Amber Heard
©Focus Features /Courtesy Everett Collection

The Danish Girl, Amber Heard

As a ballerina, Ulla spends her time performing across Europe. When she's not on stage, she expresses her wandering spirit through bohemian flair — think head scarves, kimonos, beaded jewelry, and flower crowns.

04
Cinderella, Lily James
Jonathan Olley/©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Cinderella, Lily James

With a fairy tale as iconic as Cinderella, dreamy dresses are to be expected. And nothing is dreamier than her complete transformation and debut at the ball, princess gown and all.

05
Cinderella, Cate Blanchett
Jonathan Olley/©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Cinderella, Cate Blanchett

Perhaps even more noteworthy than Cinderella's transformation is the evil stepmother's slew of jaw-dropping outfits. From extravagant hats to intricately embroidered coats and, of course, a gorgeous ballgown, she wows throughout the film with her distinct green color palette — a perfect complement to her red hair.

06
Cinderella, Helena Bonham Carter
Jonathan Olley/©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Cinderella, Helena Bonham Carter

What's a fairy godmother without a magical gown? This particular one has it all: layers of tulle and silk, intricate bead work, and a corseted bodice.

07
Trumbo, Helen Mirren
Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/©Bleecker Street Media/courtesy Everett Collection

Trumbo, Helen Mirren

As a gossip columnist in the 1950s, Hedda Hopper has a flair for the dramatic, which she showcases with one lavish headpiece after the next.

08
Carol, Cate Blanchett
Wilson Webb/©Weinstein Company/Courtesy Everett Collection

Carol, Cate Blanchett

Even though Carol is elegant and sophisticated, it's her beautiful mink coat (a rare status symbol in the 1950s) that ultimately catches the attention of a department store shopgirl (and eventual lover) in this period romantic drama.

09
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Daisy Ridley
David James/©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures/Lucasfilm Ltd./Courtesy Everett Collection

Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Daisy Ridley

While Rey wears the same ensemble for the majority of the film, her wispy, muted garb is a notable portrayal of the desert warrior trend that appeared on the runways of designers like Elie Tahari and Alberta Ferretti for Spring.

10
Mad Max: Fury Road: Abbey Lee, Courtney Eaton, Zoë Kravitz, Charlize Theron, and Riley Keough
Jasin Boland/©Warner Bros./Courtesy Everett Collection

Mad Max: Fury Road: Abbey Lee, Courtney Eaton, Zoë Kravitz, Charlize Theron, and Riley Keough

Furiosa and the Five Wives are another cinematic depiction of the desert trend: sand tones and billowy layers contrasted with tough utilitarian details.

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