Fashion

The Most Dated Oscars Dresses of the Early 2000s

There are certain fashion trends that recall a particular era in vivid detail, and Oscar gowns from the early 2000s are no exception. While there were certainly exquisite gowns that have stood the test of time, there are others which recall dubious trends we're glad to leave in the past. We found a few especially dated Oscars looks from the early 2000's that will transport you back to when Moulin Rouge was the must-see movie of the year, Pink was singing about partying, and shiny, pastel fabrics were acceptable for every article of clothing if you were a teenage girl.

by Tyler Atwood

Claire Forlani

We’re not sure exactly what the dress code for the Oscars entails, but Claire Forlani’s barely there, midriff-baring halter seems like a blatant violation. On the other hand, crop tops were unbelievably fashionable in 2001, so at least she was on-trend.

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Winona Ryder

This strapless gown and corresponding messy updo worn by Winona Ryder to the 2001 Oscars is one of the last remnants of her enviable, grungy ’90s style.

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Geri Halliwell

The fact that Geri Halliwell was even invited to the Oscars in 2002 dates this look, but the iridescent velvet halter gown definitely places this gown just after the millennium.

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Daryl Hannah

We doubt any stylist would let a celebrity client attend the Oscars wearing golden lace-up boots these days, and even less so with half of her dress missing, like Daryl Hannah in 2002.

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Janet Jackson

Technically Janet Jackson’s jeans and leather trench coat ensemble was worn to an Oscars after party, but we’re glad we left the look behind in 2002.

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Minnie Driver

The jumpsuit has come in and out of fashion since Minnie Driver wore one to the 2002 Oscars, but we’re quite sure the style has improved over the years.

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Cameron Diaz

Before Rachel Zoe began styling her in stunning Oscar de la Renta and Chanel creations for the Oscars, Cameron Diaz’s fashion sense was slightly off base. Her floral 2002 Oscars gown is a reminder that stylists do make a difference.

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Marisa Tomei

Marisa Tomei’s 2002 Oscars gown, complete with an odd bit of string thrown jauntily around her neck, is definitely a relic of the fashion past. Tomei’s current red carpet style is voluminous, statement-making gowns in neutral colors.

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Heather Mills

We’re not sure if we can accurately call Heather Mills’ 2002 Oscars ensemble a dress, considering that the entire midriff is missing. Despite the fact that Mills is basically rocking the look, we doubt we’d see anything quite like at at the 2014 awards.

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Trudie Styler

Sting and Trudie are not shy about their idiosyncratic lifestyle choices, but this fuchsia, tuxedo/kimono-inspired ensemble worn by Ms. Styler in 2002 is one outmoded choice we don’t agree with.

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Jennifer Connelly

While Jennifer Connelly’s tiered Balenciaga is certainly a deconstructed approach to couture that evokes the early 2000s, it’s really the mismatched scarf that brings us back to 2002.

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