It was an awards show fashion frenzy this past week. Our headmistress of haute couture Jeanmarie Tan grades the best- and worst-dressed actresses at the Golden Horse Awards in Taipei and the American Music Awards in Los Angeles
DISTINCTION
Maggie Cheung
Gown: Elie Saab
The Hong Kong actress hasn't looked this stunning since her In The Mood For Love days. (That's the year 2000, if you're wondering.) Yep, THAT long ago.
Of late, she's been looking bedraggled, emaciated and generally style-challenged at public events, with her alarming weight loss sparking health fears.
But here's the Cheung we all remember and love, regal and resplendent in this glam embellished midnight blue gown with lacy long sleeves and bodice yoke that cleverly conceal her gaunt arms and chest.
It's a perfect sartorial choice, which is why she deserves to be rewarded.
Kesha
Gown: Michael Costello
Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti
The apocalypse must be upon us because Kesha is right up there among the best-dressed this week in this black billowing one-shoulder strapless gown with sculptural hip ruffles.
Who knew this woman could do subtle, right?
I'm still in partial shock that the US singer can clean up so well - to the point she's almost unrecognisable (if not for the fun and fabulous cotton candy hair).
I hope this means her days of face paint, leotards and body glitter are well and truly behind her.
Rihanna
Gown: Jean Paul Gaultier
Another typically questionably-dressed pop star who scored top marks for once is RiRi.
The Barbadian's hot bod was made for this sexy black two-piece comprising sparkly structured bra top and floor-sweeping see-through lace skirt with girdle-like construction.
I'm not sure why international fashion critics are objecting to her "doobie wrap" hairstyle when she's sported uglier coifs in the past. Chill, people, and just enjoy the moment while it lasts.
PASS
Katy Perry
Gown: Oscar de la Renta
Clutch: Olympia Le-Tan
Perry makes my head spin with her hit-and-miss style, but this whimsical strapless black dotted and floral frock and adorable "pocket dictionary" arm candy totally nail the balance between grown-up elegance and girly fun.
The US singer should be aiming for this vibe every single time. And you can always count on an Olympia Le-Tan creation to add instant attitude to any look.
Shu Qi
Gown: Valentino
The maroon velvet deep-V bodice with twisted straps is extremely flattering on the willowy, graceful Taiwanese actress and I love the vintage feel of the opulent gold printed full skirt.
A rare winner for the usually inconsistent Shu Qi.
PASS.. BARELY
Kelly Osbourne
Gown: Rami Al Ali
Clutch: Edie Parker
Shoes: Aldo
This pretty ballerina-esque metallic silver frock itself is A-grade, especially the houndstooth effect of the sequined bodice and dreamy flouncy tulle skirt.
Which is why it deserves a superior (and more waifish) wearer than Osbourne, as well as delicate silver strappy sandals instead of chunky nude platform pumps.
This is just more proof that the British TV host has no business being on E!'s Fashion Police expert panel.
Christina Aguilera
Gown: Maria Lucia Hohan
Clutch: Jimmy Choo
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Rave all you want about the slimmed-down Aguilera, but fat or thin, she just can't get rid of her inner drag queen.
The fabric of this white clingy long-sleeved gown already looks cheap, but the plunging neckline, side cut-outs, thigh-high slit and blinged-out accessories take it even further to Tackyville.
Her make-up's too heavy-handed, her hair's too fake and her skin's too orange.
The US singer may be trying to channel Marilyn Monroe, but all I'm seeing is Courtney Stodden.
FAIL
Jaimie Alexander
Jumpsuit: Giorgio Armani
Yes, this is the same, same woman who floored the world with THAT sexy black sheer peekaboo Azzaro gown at the Thor: The Dark World premiere earlier this month.
But ouch, that hair.
I'm so turned off by the US actress' dated pageant updo and amateurish bangs, I can't even begin to focus on her unremarkable black strappy halter-neck jumpsuit that's sadly a size too small.
Girl, don't even think of showing your face on the red carpet again until you get that mess on top of your head fixed.