Oscars 2012 Red Carpet: Best Dressed, Biggest Trends of the Night [PHOTOS]

The Oscars red carpet surely never ceases to amaze. From the fantastical to the beautiful to the downright bold, actresses' gowns ran the gamut.

Some of the leading ladies of the night included Meryl Streep, Michelle Williams, Rooney Mara, Berenice Bejo, Angelina Jolie, Viola Davis and Jessica Chastain. All eyes were on the starlets as they strutted down the red carpet and accepted unending accolades from adoring fans.

Best Dressed

Some of the best dressed actresses at the 2012 Oscars included Jennifer Lopez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Michelle Williams, Rooney Mara, Stacy Keibler, Cameron Diaz and Natalie Portman.

Gwyneth Paltrow was show-stopping in a winter white Tom Ford gown with matching cape. It was a sure stunner that had E! News' Fashion Police drooling. I've always wanted to try the cape on the red carpet, said Kelly Osbourne. Paltrow pulled off the look with effortless class and ease.

Another best dressed actress was Rooney Mara, nominated for her role in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Mara, who is known for her noir style akin to character Lisbeth Sanders, surprised those on the red carpet by wearing a white Givenchy gown. It was a refreshing surprise for someone who typically opts for dark, moodier shades.

Finally, Michelle Williams wowed the crowd in a coral Louis Vuitton dress. The My Week with Marilyn actress has been a red carpet-favorite since the start of awards season. She ended her run on a high note at Sunday's Oscars.

Biggest Trends

There were many evident trends of the night, which give us a hint of what will be most popular for the upcoming season.

One trend was strapless. This was a bold move for the Oscars red carpet, noted Fashion Police correspondent Osbourne. Typically actresses steer clear of strapless at such highly-viewed events just in case a wardrobe malfunction is to occur. But on Sunday night the ladies were quick to bare their shoulders and necks.

In terms of palette, crimsons hues and soft, pale shades made appearances. Crimson hues could be seen on the dresses of Michelle Williams, Claire Danes and Natalie Portman. Those who opted for soft, pale hues included Cameron Diaz, Rooney Mara, Giuliana Rancic and Octavia Spencer.

Lastly, fishtail skirts and fitted bodices made the starlets extra sexy on the Oscars red carpet. Fishtails are decidedly glamorous, marrying a classic silhouette with modern sex appeal. The fitted bodices hugged leading ladies like Penelope Cruz, Jennifer Lopez and Jessica Chastain in all the right places.

Check out the photos of the best dressed actresses on the 2012 Oscars red carpet. Who do you think looked the best? Leave your feedback in the comments section below.