Slumdog’s Pinto. Leonard Oritz | Orange County Register

Credit: DKS Editors

This was fashion with a capital “F” for Fabulous, and despite tough times, no one was slumming it. Whether the actresses were vets like Meryl Streep or newbies to the red carpet like “Slumdog Millionaire’s” Freida Pinto, overall they brought it.

It started with red heat: Amy Adams in Carolina Herrera’s crimson satin bustier and a back of red silk chiffon with a thick necklace of gemstones – the statement necklace a hot item for many. Heidi Klum did an architectural Roland Mouret with origami folds, while “Mamma Mia!’s” Amanda Seyfried wore red spaghetti straps … oh, mama.

Others were drawn to white sizzle, many strapless. Best supporting actress winner Penelope Cruz chose a vintage Pierre Balmain with a massive embroidered ballskirt … a true winner. Anne Hathaway was regal in sparkling white Armani Prive, while Taraji P. Henson, hoping to dispel the image of the fat-suit she wore in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (she did), looked smashing in ivory Roberto Cavalli.

“Slumdog’s” Pinto stood alone in a sapphire blue John Galliano one-sleeved lacy frock and she looked like a million bucks accessorized with stunning antique jewels.