While the main focus is obviously the films, the gowns worn by lady attendees at the Academy Awards ceremony grab a hefty share of column inches, too. Every year there are one or two standout affairs which stay in the memory long after the trophies have been carried home. A newcomer to Oscar night last year, Slumdog Millionaire's Freida Pinto was as breathtaking as any established star in midnight blue beaded John Galliano
All photos: © Getty Images, Rex