200 Celebrity Looks We Love
200 Celebrity Looks We Love
To celebrate our 200th issue, InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein handpicked 20 of Hollywood's best-dressed women, each in 10 quintessential looks. Yes, that's right-200 iconic fashion moments, from Beyonce's straight-off-the-runway turn in Balmain to Natalie Portman's stunning Givenchy. Check out our 200 favorites, starting with our current cover girl Gwyneth Paltrow.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Stella McCartney, 2008
"Paltrow gives the illusion of giving something away, while still having a kind of ladylike reserve," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "This sexy mini, by pal Stella McCartney, plays up her best assets and shows off her killer body."
Gwyneth Paltrow in Donna Karan, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"This gown was custom-made for Gwyneth," says Donna Karan of her design. "It's so ethereal and perfect with her coloring."
Gwyneth Paltrow in Lanvin, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Leave it to Mrs. Chris Martin to give Lanvin's goddess dress a rocker edge with Balmain gladiator heels.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Stella McCartney, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
This Stella McCartney seems fit for a 21st-century princess, worn with deco-inspired diamonds and a structured clutch.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Marni, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Marni at an event in Milan, she changes up her natural beauty routine with red lips, dark nails, and an angled bob.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Valentino, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
Sleek equals stunning: At the Venice Film Festival, the star wears this Valentino number with straight hair and a leather cuff.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Alice + Olivia, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Unafraid to try out new trends, Paltrow combines two cool ones in an Alice + Olivia metallic trench and Christian Louboutin cage heels.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein, 1996
WHY WE LOVE IT
In this Calvin Klein gown at the Oscars, she shows a "love for sensual simplicity" that "makes this woman a classic," says Klein.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Balenciaga, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
Her choice of Balenciaga's long military coat, ruffled top, and cropped pants is just the right mix of masculine and feminine.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Elie Saab, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
With minimal jewelry and her hair pulled back, the mom of two lets this crystal-embroidered Elie Saab take center stage.
Julia Roberts in Valentino, 2001
"Instead of using a stylist to pick a gown for her Oscar-winning night, Roberts turned to her niece, Emma. This Valentino number gave a huge boost to vintage," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Julia Roberts in Giorgio Armani, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
The mom-to-be glowed at the Oscars in a simple yet stunning Giorgio Armani satin gown and Cathy Waterman earrings.
Julia Roberts in Lanvin, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Cartier jewels gave a luxe touch to her Lanvin gown, but she kept it casually chic with her loose, wavy hairstyle.
Julia Roberts in Vivienne Tam, 1999
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the London première of Notting Hill, the Georgia native set off a vibrant Vivienne Tam sheath with black accessories.
Julia Roberts in Calvin Klein, 1999
WHY WE LOVE IT
Roberts showed that understated doesn't have to mean boring in this sleek Calvin Klein dress. A pink shawl adds punch.
Julia Roberts in Isaac Mizrahi, 1998
WHY WE LOVE IT
The actress wore Isaac Mizrahi to accept her sixth People's Choice Award, finishing the look with a ladylike updo.
Julia Roberts in Georgio Armani Privé, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
For the Costume Institute Gala, the co-host opted for full-on glamour in a Giorgio Armani Privé gown. Love the brooch!
Julia Roberts in Giorgio Armani, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
Her black Giorgio Armani Oscar gown was anything but basic thanks to an up-to-there slit and two well-placed cutouts.
Diane Kruger in Vivienne Westwood, 2012
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Kruger was dripping in (rose) gold as she walked the red carpet at the Cannes premiere of Amour in a Vivienne Westwood draped gown, matching clutch and diamond drop earrings.
Julia Roberts in Todd Oldham, 1998
WHY WE LOVE IT
Though she once said "I'll never be a risk taker in fashion," Roberts sparkled in this look-at-me Todd Oldham creation.
Julia Roberts in Yves Saint Laurent and Esther Chen, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
The secret newlywed hid her ring at a film première with the help of a bell-sleeve YSL blouse and Esther Chen pants.
Kate Moss in Dior, 2005
"On the one hand this Dior couture dress is lingerie-inspired and sexy, yet the shape is quite simple. Finishing off the look with tousled bed-head proves that Moss's instincts are always right," InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein says.
Kate Moss in Kate Moss for Topshop, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The budding designer works the crowd in a shift with glittering fringe from her Kate Moss Topshop Collection.
Kate Moss, 1998
WHY WE LOVE IT
Smitten by Julie Christie's dress in Shampoo, Moss dons a striking replica for the CFDA Awards in New York City.
Kate Moss in Chanel, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Never a fashion victim and the ultimate modern girl," says Karl Lagerfeld of the model, here in his Chanel Haute Couture gown.
Kate Moss in Siwy and Alexander McQueen, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Siwy jeans and a feathered Alexander McQueen vest with a Renee Lewis pendant are casual cool personified.
Kate Moss in Fendi, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the Fendi O' party for singer Beth Ditto, the trendsetter is a silver stroke of genius in a Fendi dress, fur and shoes.
Kate Moss in Chanel and Marc Jacobs, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
In a Chanel blouse, Marc Jacobs trousers and her own Topshop belt, she embodies a key commandment: Thou shalt mix high and low.
Kate Moss in Cerruti, 1997
WHY WE LOVE IT
In stark contrast to the Cannes Film Festival's red-carpet glitz, Moss turns heads in a minimalist gray Cerruti sheath.
Kate Moss in Kate Moss for Topshop, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Moss dazzles in a beaded peach Kate Moss Topshop Collection dress to fête Topshop's Manhattan arrival.
Kate Moss in Burberry Prorsum, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
"We wanted something understated but elegant," says Christopher Bailey of the Burberry Prorsum tux he created for the Costume Institute ball.
Jennifer Aniston in Burberry Prorsum, 2009
"I love the idea of androgyny," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "And if you're going to do menswear, you have to sex it up. Aniston really played against type in this Burberry Prorsum pantsuit."
Jennifer Aniston in Christian Dior, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
After winning her Emmy in vintage Christian Dior, the actress donated her gown to a charity auction, fetching $50,000 for Unicef.
Jennifer Aniston in Chanel, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The star accepted the Vanguard Award in this seductive Chanel Haute Couture mini at a GLAAD event.
Jennifer Aniston in Calvin Klein, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She makes this dress look effortless and sexy," says Francisco Costa, creative director for women's Calvin Klein Collection.
Jennifer Aniston in Rochas, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Our favorite accessory for the Rochas gown Aniston donned at the Oscars? Those well-toned arms, of course.
Jennifer Aniston in Valentino, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Aniston sparkled at the Academy Awards in Valentino Haute Couture, topping it off with a playful French braid.
Jennifer Aniston in Balenciaga, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
When asked why she chose this gray Balenciaga minidress, Aniston said, "I just love it! I have it in black too!"
Jennifer Aniston in Valentino, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
She's got spot-on timing and red-hot style. The proof: a ruby Valentino dress worn to the Along Came Polly première.
Jennifer Aniston in Moschino, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
The actress wore a sexy Moschino wrap dress to a dinner in Los Angeles, showing off her shapely legs.
Jennifer Aniston, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
Combine a figure-hugging button-down shirt and jeans with a Bottega Veneta hobo bag and you've got Aniston's N.Y.C. look.
Beyoncé in Elie Saab, 2009
"This Elie Saab dress is perfect for her—it celebrates everything and hides nothing. She understands what works for her body," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Beyoncé in Balmain, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Put a Balmain jacket with Anlo skinny jeans and strappy heels, and you've mastered Beyoncé's cool fashion formula.
Beyoncé in Armani Privé, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the Met Costume Institute Gala, the star made a statement in an Armani Privé gown with a dramatic side ruffle.
Beyonce in Elie Saab, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
For an appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman, Mrs. Jay-Z looked demure in a soft Elie Saab dress.
Beyoncé in Oscar de la Renta, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
The Houston native exuded casual charm in an Oscar de la Renta skirt at the designer's runway show.
Beyoncé in Atelier Versace, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
Before performing onstage at the Oscars, the artist made an entrance on the red carpet in vintage Atelier Versace.
Beyoncé in Roberto Cavalli, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She knows what works for her and always looks put together," says Roberto Cavalli of Beyoncé in his charmeuse gown.
Beyoncé in House of Deréon, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
A little black dress from her House of Deréon line has a sexy appeal with bold diamond drop earrings.
Beyonce in Emporio Armani, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
Beyoncé understands the power of a bright palette. Witness this turn in a cotton-candy-colored Emporio Armani mini.
Beyoncé in Roberto Cavalli, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Even rainwear looks chic when she wears it—like this Jillian Lewis trench thrown over a dress by Roberto Cavalli.
In Christian Dior, 2010
At the Golden Globe Awards, the high slit in Cotillard's teal gown revealed a panel of lace detailing.
Marion Cotillard in Nina Ricci, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Her long diamond necklace by Chopard contrasts with the soft ruffles and asymmetrical hem of a Nina Ricci dress.
Marion Cotillard in Jean Paul Gaultier, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
She mastered (musical) scales in La Vie en Rose and perfects them in Gaultier Paris's mermaid gown at the Oscars.
Marion Cotillard in Chanel, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
This Chanel Haute Couture number is captivating, but it's the Oscar winner's eyes, enhanced with smoky shadow, that truly draw us in.
Marion Cotillard in Dior, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
No jewelry required: The face of the Lady Dior line shines in a sequin-covered haute couture stunner with a built-in necklace.
Marion Cotillard in Elie Saab, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She looks very retro in this print," says Elie Saab of Cotillard in his design. "But the belt gives it a modern feel."
Marion Cotillard in Lanvin, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Mademoiselle Cotillard tweaks an elegant draped Lanvin dress with strappy sandals for a party in Paris.
Marion Cotillard in Lefranc Ferrant, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
The actress is as daring with fashion as she is with her film roles: Witness this metallic Lefranc Ferrant jumpsuit and twisted do in Cannes.
Marion Cotillard in Dior, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
She toes the line between ladylike and hip in a pink Dior shirtwaist dress with John Galliano velvet and crystal platforms.
Marion Cotillard in Giorgio Armani Privé, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
A diaphanous Giorgio Armani Privé gown and loose tendrils push the star into romantic territory at an event in Berlin.
Penelope Cruz in Atelier Versace, 2007
"The beautiful pink color of this Atelier Versace gown perfectly accents Cruz's skin, while the silhouette manages to be both sleek and romantic at the same time," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Penelope Cruz in L'Wren Scott, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Proving a penchant for detail, Cruz matched the burgundy velvet heels perfectly with her L'Wren Scott dress.
Penelope Cruz in Chanel, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
A fan of Chanel Haute Couture, the best supporting actress winner chose the iconic label for a trip down the Oscar red carpet.
Penelope Cruz in Dolce & Gabbana, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Dolce & Gabbana made this custom dress for a Cannes event. "It shows off her natural beauty," says Stefano Gabbana.
Penelope Cruz in Marchesa, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Cruz donned a Marchesa confection for the premiere of Broken Embraces, her fifth film with director Pedro Almodovar.
Penelope Cruz in Yves Saint Laurent, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Only a renaissance woman who speaks four languages can make an Yves Saint Laurent menswear look feel as sexy as any dress.
Penelope Cruz in Dior, 2003
WHY WE LOVE IT
Already a star in Spain, Cruz was on the verge of international acclaim. She presented herself to the world in Dior Haute Couture.
Penelope Cruz in Michael Kors, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
In a sunny Michael Kors mini, the Madrid-born beauty reveals style choices that show as much range as her acting skills.
Penelope Cruz in Oscar de la Renta, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Poised and confident," says Oscar de la Renta of Cruz in his creation. "You don't just see the dress, you see her."
Penelope Cruz in Giorgio Armani, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The Vicky Cristina Barcelona star was drawn to this fiery Armani number for the designer's fashion show in L.A.
Natalie Portman in Givenchy
"Portman doesn't look like most young stars," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "She likes to play with volume and proportion. Here, she takes a wild Haute Couture look by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy and pairs it with perfectly polished hair and makeup."
Natalie Portman in Lanvin, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Lanvin, she hit the Cannes Film Festival and made it her runway-one we want to see her on again and again.
Natalie Portman in Christian Lacroix, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She looks like modern royalty," Christian Lacroix says of Portman, here in his design. "She's special and timeless."
Natalie Portman in Prada, 2003
WHY WE LOVE IT
Always the risk taker, the actress is as comfortable in a Prada flapper dress as she is in a T-shirt and jeans.
Natalie Portman in Rodarte, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Ben Stiller's Joaquin Phoenix Oscar send-up got the laughs, but all eyes were on his co-presenter's Rodarte stunner.
Natalie Portman in Chanel, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Long locks, begone! Her short hair looked fresh with vintage Chanel Haute Couture at the Golden Globes.
Natalie Portman in Lanvin, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
Lanvin's pleated gown was part of a big moment for the then 23-year-old-her nod at the Oscars for Closer.
Natalie Portman in Elizabeth and James, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
Proving she can have fun with her look, she was pretty and playful in an Elizabeth and James mini at a New York premiere.
Natalie Portman in Lanvin, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Portman is close with Alber Elbaz, often wearing his Lanvin creations to events, like this origami dress.
Natalie Portman in Yves Saint Laurent, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
What else would the star wear to the premiere of her indie French film, Paris, je t'aime? Yves Saint Laurent, mais oui!
Nicole Kidman in Yves Saint Laurent, 2003
"Kidman has a fearless approach to fashion. The lavender color of this YSL gown offsets her red hair, while the silhouette is a nice play on proportion," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Nicole Kidman in Gucci, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
For the Golden Globes, the star personalized her teal Gucci gown by adding a peacock feather to the bodice.
Nicole Kidman in L'Wren Scott, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Nicole always knows what works on her body," says L'Wren Scott, whose second-skin lamé dress caught Kidman's fancy.
Nicole Kidman in Jean Paul Gaultier, 2003
WHY WE LOVE IT
She won an Oscar for playing Virginia Woolf in The Hours and accepted the award in a silk jersey Gaultier and strappy heels.
Nicole Kidman in Yves Saint Laurent, 2008
In a fluttery YSL, the actress put the spotlight on her baby bump and kept the rest of her look simple with sleek hair and pretty makeup.
Nicole Kidman in Dior, 1997
WHY WE LOVE IT
"I felt honored to wear it," Kidman has said of the much discussed chartreuse slit-to-there Dior dress that wowed at the Oscars.
Nicole Kidman in Balenciaga, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She asked for something bold," says designer Nicholas Ghesquiere, who delivered just that in a strapless Balenciaga for the Golden Globes.
Nicole Kidman in Azarro, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the Tribeca Film Festival, her velvet Azarro LBD got major play thanks to the jeweled straps that dangled down a low-cut back.
Nicole Kidman in Chanel, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
For the Oscars, "I wanted something light and airy," the star has said of her chiffon Chanel gown. "I felt like I was going to the prom."
Nicole Kidman in Dolce & Gabbana, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
Kidman toyed with red-carpet expectations at the MTV Movie Awards, donning a velvet three-piece Dolce & Gabbana suit.
Anne Hathaway in Giorgio Armani Privé, 2009
"This Armani Prive dress has huge wow factor, says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "What's cool is that the iridescent pailettes lengthen her body and accent her curves. It's one thing to have a good body, another to be proud of it!"
Anne Hathaway in Marc Jacobs, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Sporting a strapless Marc Jacobs mini in New York, she reveals a little leg-and a taste for the colorful '80s revival.
Anne Hathaway in Valentino, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Not one to shy away from tricky nude hues, Hathaway enhanced her natural glow in a beaded and sequined Valentino tulle gown.
Anne Hathaway in Dolce & Gabbana, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
A bit of black lace peeking out of this flirty Dolce & Gabbana dress, along with a simple updo, says party-ready.
Anne Hathaway in Zac Posen, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
The bold lines on this body-hugging Zac Posen design are perfect for a daring actress not afraid to show off her curves.
Anne Hathaway in Chloé, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
The classic tailoring in Chloe's cream-colored suit shows Hathaway ready for business at an Academy Awards event.
Anne Hathaway in Giorgio Armani Privé, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Even Miranda Priestly would've been wowed by how this Giorgio Armani Prive confection compliments the star's alabaster skin.
Anne Hathaway in Valentino, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
At a party to fete Valentino, the actress pays homage to the house in a floral silk dress and regal red coat.
Anne Hathaway in Chanel, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
The pearlized glass-stone neckline on this chic Chanel number draws the eye upward to her radiant smile.
Anne Hathaway in Marchesa, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
In this column gown "she's the epitome of Hollywood glamour," say Marchesa's Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig.
Cate Blanchette in Valentino, 2005
"When Valentino approached her to wear one of his dresses to the Oscars the year she was nominated for The Aviator, Blanchett said yes, as long as she was the only one to wear Valentino. She doesn't dress like anyone else," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Cate Blanchett in Balenciaga, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
For her hometown premiere of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, the Aussie shone in a Balenciaga sheath.
Cate Blanchett in Dries Van Noten, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Pregnancy didn't stop this mom-to-be from flaunting her unique style in a breath-taking amethyst Dries Van Noten gown.
Cate Blanchett in Dior, 2003
WHY WE LOVE IT
Not just for the boys! The acclaimed actress looked dapper in a Dior Homme suit at the Directors Guild of America awards.
Cate Blanchett in Giorgio Armani Privé, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Cate's luminescent talent shimmers even brighter than this Armani Privé dress," says Giorgio Armani of the Oscars gown.
Cate Blanchett in Donna Karan, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
"I loved the drama of deep red against Cate's perfect pale skin," said Donna Karan of the star's Golden Globes gown.
Cate Blanchett in Prada, 2000
WHY WE LOVE IT
Not one to shy away from tricky metallics, the actress enhanced her natural glow in a gold and silver paillette Prada dress.
Cate Blanchett in Alexander McQueen, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
She turned heads at the Golden Globes wearing Alexander McQueen's lace-laden gown complete with casual pockets.
Cate Blanchett in Rodarte, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
The style icon revealed her more romantic side in a ruffled Rodarte dress and matching Christian Louboutin pumps.
Cate Blanchett in John Galliano, 1999
WHY WE LOVE IT
Her John Galliano gown with a cut-down-to-there panel was seductive in an oh-so-beautiful way for the Oscars.
Jessica Alba in Marchesa, 2008
"Six months pregnant at the time, Alba looks radiant in this Marchesa stunner. The jewel tone allows her to positively glow," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Jessica Alba in Chanel, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
She grounded this blush chiffon Chanel with black tights and heels at the designer's cruise collection show.
Jessica Alba in Versace, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The star kept her hair simple and sleek in a curve-enhancing draped jersey Versace dress with bold chain trim.
Jessica Alba in Dolce & Gabbana, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
Who else could mix a 1920s flapper cut with 1970s disco-ball glitter and make this Dolce amp Gabbana feel totally current?
Jessica Alba in Prada, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Alba gave a punch-red Prada party dress an extra touch of refinement with a Tom Binns sparkling choker made of Swarovski crystals.
Jessica Alba in Gucci, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
Repeat offender! (But in a good way.) Alba sticks to what works: golden gowns (this one, Gucci) that make her honey skin glow.
Jessica Alba in Proenza Schouler, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Her super-high Marc Jacobs platforms fit the flirty vibe and deep hues of this embellished Proenza Schouler mini.
Jessica Alba in Calvin Klein, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the Met Costume Institute Gala, the actress's soft, wavy hair warmly complemented her steel gray Calvin Klein.
Jessica Alba in Miu Miu, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
She can do edgy: One part Morticia Addams, all parts sophisticated, the star stepped out in a cool Miu Miu ensemble.
Jessica Alba in Versace, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
For her first Academy Awards appearance, Alba showed off her knockout figure in a formfitting Versace number.
Leighton Meester in Bottega Veneta, 2009
"Meester is anything but conventional. She is having a blast with fashion, and this Bottega Veneta dress is no exception," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "The fluidity of this goddess gown is pure glamour. "
Leighton Meester in Louis Vuitton, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"I've become way more expressive with fashion," says the actress, here in head-to-toe Louis Vuitton at an event in Paris.
Leighton Meester in Nina Ricci, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
With her pulled-back hair and soft makeup, Meester lets this strapless Nina Ricci dress take the spotlight.
Leighton Meester in Proenza Schouler, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
A less daring woman would shy away from so much shine, but she aces a Proenza Schouler outfit, muting it with dark hose.
Leighton Meester in Valentino, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
A floor-length, off-the-shoulder Valentino in chocolate brown is a warm complement to Meester's rosy complexion.
Leighton Meester in Lanvin, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Appearing on The Late Show with David Letterman, the star looks elegant in Lanvin and an Azzedine Alaïa belt.
Leighton Meester in Marc Jacobs, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
She sings, she acts, she's whimsical-especially in a Marc Jacobs gown and gold-leaf crown by Cathy Waterman.
Leighton Meester in Proenza Schouler, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"As for shoes, the edgier the better!" says her stylist Logan Horne, here in Proenza Schouler with studded Brian Atwood pumps.
Leighton Meester in Marios Schwab, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Yes, this is a strong piece," says London designer Marios Schwab. "But Leighton has the attitude to pull off a graphic print."
Leighton Meester in Jil Sander, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
It's hard to imagine the 24-year-old going conservative in a suit, but one with shorts by Jil Sander keeps the outlook fresh.
Eva Mendes in Dior, 2009
"In the midst of an economic crisis, this fearless Dior dress brought everyone's spirits up. Mendes knows how to dress for her body and simply has fun with fashion," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Eva Mendes in Calvin Klein, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Whenever I wear Calvin Klein Collection I feel effortlessly beautiful," she says. "I can't ask for more than that!"
Eva Mendes in D&G, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
On anyone else, D&G's dainty dress would be overly girlie, yet with Mendes's confidence it's all grown-up.
Eva Mendes, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
At a Calvin Klein Collection show, the face (and body) of the lingerie and denim lines chose a reserved sheath.
Eva Mendes in Donna Karan, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"This look is timeless and modern, but Eva makes it her own," says Donna Karan of Mendes in her classic separates.
Eva Mendes in Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
Up or down, her hair is always glossy and styled—like this soft updo with a Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti column.
Eva Mendes in Lancetti, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Paris she put the exclamation point—rouge Christian Louboutin heels!—on a vintage Lancetti dress.
Eva Mendes, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
"The bold color worked well against Eva's complexion," says designer Francisco Costa of the star in Calvin Klein Collection. "She truly glowed."
Eva Mendes in Giorgio Armani, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
Dressed in a Giorgio Armani pantsuit at an L.A. film premiere, the actress took a menswear look into sexy new territory.
Eva Mendes in Gucci, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
Mendes—who enjoys experimenting with fashion—shimmered in this Gucci gown, with just a bit of blush and a soft red lip.
Rachel McAdams in Emanuel Ungaro, 2009
"There's something very old Hollywood glamour about her look," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "This Emanuel Ungaro mini brings her back to that romantic place, while still looking modern."
Rachel McAdams in Phillip Lim, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Designer Phillip Lim deems McAdams "fresh and unexpected" in his plum silk ruffled creation.
Rachel McAdams in L'Wren Scott, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
A Brian Reyes trench, L'Wren Scott dress, and oversize Bally bag all added up to a polished everyday look.
Rachel McAdams in Miu Miu, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
For an Oscar ceremony, the actress chose an unconventional color-canary yellow-in a Miu Miu gown.
Rachel McAdams in Yigal Azrouë, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Her look captures casual elegance," says Yigal Azrouël of the star in his hand-embroidered silk-cotton design.
Rachel McAdams in Gucci, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The actress donned Gucci for a Toronto premiere, accentuating her svelte figure with a pop of crimson.
Rachel McAdams in Derek Lam, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Not one to shy away from a bright hue (or a new hair color), she cinched a cobalt sheath by Derek Lam with a turquoise belt.
Rachel McAdams in Abaeté, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
The 31-year-old loves pattern and prints. This one-shoulder Abaeté dress showed how artfully she pulls them off.
Rachel McAdams in Emilio Pucci, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
How low can she go? The fashion lover was daring in Emilio Pucci. Strong eyes, cheeks and lips give her a sexy confidence.
Rachel McAdams in Stella McCartney, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
In France, McAdams revealed how Stella McCartney lace can be both sophisticated and un peu provocateur.
Megan Fox in Roberto Cavalli, 2009
"After Fox wore this barely-there number to a premiere, every last red Cavalli dress sold out in three days. Everyone was talking about the way she looked," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Megan Fox in Valentino, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
With voluminous barrel curls and mile-long lashes, Fox is pinup perfect vamping in a Valentino lace mini.
Megan Fox in Ralph Lauren, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
For her debut at the Golden Globes, Fox chose a curve-enhancing Ralph Lauren Collection stunner under a super-sleek bun.
Megan Fox in Stella McCartney, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
In a Stella McCartney leopard-print T and biker jacket, the actress proves that casual can turn heads too.
Megan Fox in Giorgio Armani Privé, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Though she's inked with tattoos (check out Marilyn Monroe), her vibe is elegant in this fuchsia Giorgio Armani Privé.
Megan Fox in Kaufmanfranco
WHY WE LOVE IT
Screen queen or Grecian princess? Fox rules in a Kaufmanfranco toga dress draped over her bronze skin.
Megan Fox in Calvin Klein, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
At an awards show, she sparks serious heat in a Calvin Klein Collection sheath. Animal-print YSLs lift the 5-foot-6 star above the fray.
Megan Fox in Donna Karan, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
Fox may be swathed in layer upon layer of Donna Karan Couture satin, yet she still manages to show a little leg.
Megan Fox, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Megan doesn't need help standing out," says Giorgio Armani of his current lingerie model. "She's provocative and beautiful."
Megan Fox in Gucci, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Gucci's metallic blazer, Fox easily combines classic tailoring with rock and roll flash at Comic-Con in San Diego.
Keira Knightley in Vera Wang, 2006
"The rich burgundy color of this Vera Wang gown is unbelievable," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein. "Knightley has a great sense for color, and always chooses tones that get her noticed. She dresses with a French sensibility even though she's British."
Keira Knightley in Valentino, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Nominated for Pride and Prejudice, the British star donned a Valentino gown and Cartier jewels at the Golden Globes.
Keira Knightley in Chanel, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
A chic creature of habit, she chose Chanel again for a screening in New York and paired it with Gina shoes, another favorite.
Keira Knightley in Chanel, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
At an event in Scotland, the 24-year-old channeled the 1930s in a jumpsuit and sequined blazer, both from Chanel.
Keira Knightley in Rodarte, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
It took 100 hours to create this Rodarte number, but "all you see is how beautiful she is," say designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy.
Keira Knightley in Gucci, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Gucci's metallic jersey dress was liquid gold at the London premiere of Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest.
Keira Knightley in Roland Mouret, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
She's totally in check: Knightley showed a love for classic tailoring in Roland Mouret at the Toronto Film Festival.
Keira Knightley in 3.1 Phillip Lim, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Effortless and cool," says Phillip Lim of the star in his 3.1 Phillip Lim dress with a Wren jacket and Gina shoes.
Keira Knightley in Calvin Klein, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the N.Y.C. debut of Pride and Prejudice, the actress chose another bold hue, in a stunner by Calvin Klein Collection.
Keira Knightley in Matthew Williamson, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Like Keira, this is young and playful," says Matthew Williamson of his design. She wore it with bangles for a London premiere.
Jennifer Connelly in Balenciaga, 2007
"The metallic shine of this Balenciaga dress works well with her pale skin tone. The short silhouette and hair worn down keep the look young and modern," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Jennifer Connelly in Balenciaga, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
At the Costume Institute gala, "everyone was horrified," says designer Nicholas Ghesquière of this short Balenciaga. "But after she did it, short was cool."
Jennifer Connelly in Alexander McQueen, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
The roses on these Roger Vivier stilettos sweetly offset the plunging neckline of Alexander McQueen's LBD.
Jennifer Connelly in Oscar de la Renta, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
The mother of two radiated in red, courtesy of de la Renta. "Her style reflects her individuality and spirited nature," he says.
Jennifer Connelly in Versace, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
Connelly complemented her floral-motif Versace by matching it to her cream Christian Louboutin heels.
Jennifer Connelly in Roberto Cavalli, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
"Black accents her eyes and pale skin," says stylist Leslie Fremar, who dressed Connelly in this suit by Roberto Cavalli.
Jennifer Connelly in Balenciaga, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She always goes for something very architectural," says designer Nicholas Ghesquière of Connelly's clean-lined Balenciaga tunic.
Jennifer Connelly in Narciso Rodriguez, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
The Golden Globe winner dispensed a lesson in chic, punctuating her slinky Narciso Rodriguez gown with a fresh camellia.
Jennifer Connelly in Oscar de la Renta, 2005
WHY WE LOVE IT
"She always carries herself with such grace and poise," Oscar de la Renta says of the actress, elegant in his eyelet dress.
Jennifer Connelly in Oscar de la Renta, 2007
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Oscar de la Renta at the Tokyo premiere of Blood Diamond, Connelly's main accessory was a giant, asymmetrical collar.
Carey Mulligan in Vionnet, 2010
InStyle
fashion director Hal Rubenstein says, "Mulligan doesn't run to the safety of a solid for the red carpet. The print of this Vionnet gown is romantic, while the shape is modern. She's got a level of awareness and quirkiness that sets her apart from other actresses."
Carey Mulligan in Lanvin, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
The newcomer gives a cherry red Lanvin gown an extra bite of cool by pinning a brooch by the French label on her hip.
Carey Mulligan in Prada, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Picture-perfect! The 25-year-old dons a Prada dress made from a vintage-inspired print of an Italian cityscape.
Carey Mulligan in Nina Ricci, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Creative on and offscreen, she enlivens a Nina Ricci stunner by turning a Fred Leighton necklace into a headband.
Carey Mulligan in The Row, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
Showing a penchant for hip designers, Mulligan is all wrapped up in a belted python jacket by The Row.
Carey Mulligan in RM by Roland Mouret, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
To accessorize her sleek RM by Roland Mouret dress, she chooses strappy black heels (her go-to) from Fendi.
Carey Mulligan in Miu Miu, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
In a Miu Miu mini with oversize pockets, the ingénue gives the Met's Costume Institute Gala a fun, youthful vibe.
Carey Mulligan in Bottega Veneta, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
The actress channels her Swinging '60s character from An Education in a marigold full-skirted dress by Bottega Veneta.
Carey Mulligan in Lanvin, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
At an event in L.A., the star's glossy lips and flush cheeks perfectly complement a rosy one-shoulder Lanvin.
Carey Mulligan in Prada, 2010
WHY WE LOVE IT
The charms on this Prada bustier (tiny forks and knives!) prove Mulligan's cutting edge credentials on the red carpet.
Kate Beckinsale in Calvin Klein, 2009
"The bias cut of this J. Mendel gown shows off Beckinsale's curves. She always incorporates one element to make the look a standout, and far from minimal," says InStyle fashion director Hal Rubenstein.
Kate Beckinsale in Calvin Klein, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
The English rose revealed her edgier side (and new bangs!) in leather Calvin Klein Collection during N.Y.C.'s Fall Fashion Week.
Kate Beckinsale in Gucci, 2002
WHY WE LOVE IT
In Tom Ford for Gucci, the stunner chose romance over va-va-va-voom with fresh, dewy makeup and a pile of curls.
Kate Beckinsale in Hervé Léger, 2008
WHY WE LOVE IT
Beckinsale showed us how to be both sexy and ladylike in a below-the-knee Hervé Léger by Max Azria bandage dress.
Kate Beckinsale in Nina Ricci, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
Egyptian-inspired accessories and a sleek pony were perfect complements to her violet Nina Ricci gown.
Kate Beckinsale in Oscar de la Renta, 2006
WHY WE LOVE IT
"This dress brings out her strength and confidence," says designer Oscar de la Renta. "The look is absolute glamour."
Kate Beckinsale in Balenciaga, 2009
WHY WE LOVE IT
The star mom of 11 year-old Lily was crowned the sexiest woman alive by Esquire, but kept things demure in this Balenciaga sheath.
Kate Beckinsale in Donna Karan, 2004
WHY WE LOVE IT
"I love Kate in nude," says Donna Karan, creator of this gown for a premiere of The Aviator. "Her spirit helps enhance the dress."
Kate Beckinsale in Givenchy, 2001
WHY WE LOVE IT
At a London premiere, Beckinsale pulled off casual yet flirty separates from Givenchy by Alexander McQueen.