Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive

This is VERY glam, and it so could easily have gone all Vegas Showgirl Feathery Burlesque on us.

Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive

Heather said to me yesterday afternoon that certain parts of this could have easily recalled a cheap lei, and she's correct: this EASILY could have turned very Party City.

Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive

I almost think this dress is a bit of a Monet -- the artistry is amazing, and it's best viewed from a step back. It's not meant to be viewed this close. (Which is smart for an event where so many many many more people see photos than view the outfit in question in person.) I still love it, but I also think it's smart.

Cate Blanchett in Gucci

And this is BONKERS -- like the sort of wall-hanging you'd see in the dining room of a really groovy ceramics teacher circa 1976 -- and that's exactly what I like about it.

Cate Blanchett in Gucci

One of these days, this face is going to talk me into splashing out for SK-II.

Cate Blanchett

And everyone looks hotter in...well, you know.

Oscars Well Played, Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive

Cate was the person whose look I was most interested to see last night at the Oscars -- even when I don't like what she's wearing, it's never boring. That said, I loved this. WHAT A RELIEF. [Photos: Getty, Fame/Flynet]