Lessons learned from the winners in this category in the last decade: gothic is a no-no (just ask Colleen Atwood, who’s only won for Chicago and Memoirs of a Geisha); the frilliest attires almost always rule, regardless of whether the film that contains them is an abomination (Elizabeth: The Golden Age); and in the rare cases where the Pre-Frilly and Post-Frilly eras reign supreme, the films must be Best Picture honorees (Gladiator, The Aviator) and boast costumes that are at least as opulent as the Taj Mahal and Sharon Stone’s affections for Dev Patel. Weird that Slumdog Millionaire didn’t manage a nomination here, but that only makes this one of the easiest calls of the evening. Anyone who tells you otherwise doesn’t know Oscar or their Prada from their Pucci.
Will Win: The Duchess
Should Win: The Duchess
Since 2001, we've brought you uncompromising, candid takes on the world of film, music, television, video games, theater, and more. Independently owned and operated publications like Slant have been hit hard in recent years, but we’re committed to keeping our content free and accessible—meaning no paywalls or fees.
If you like what we do, please consider subscribing to our Patreon or making a donation.