At 45 years old, Australian actress Cate Blanchett has seen her fair share of red carpets, and she’s conquered nearly all of them. When award season ramps up there are few things we look forward to more than the marvel Blanchett will don for her highly anticipated appearances. Much like her penchant for selecting challenging roles that defy the status quo, Blanchett embraces the riskier side of red carpet style, preferring avant-garde design and structural silhouettes to the more traditional sequined gown. With tastes that veer to the unpredictable, we’re always pleasantly surprised by Blanchett’s choices – from liquid metal pantsuits to voluminously sculpted layered works of art.
Follow along with 22 of Cate Blanchett’s most memorable red carpet looks to date by clicking through the gallery.
An Edwardian silhouette and feminine floral details add Old World elegance to Blanchett’s sheath-like Givenchy Couture gown.
Blanchett isn’t shy of gender-bending roles (having once played a very convincing Bob Dylan), and cuts a very convincing androgynous figure in this liquid silver suit.
Birds of a feather flocked together and then stared in envy at Blanchett’s gorgeous and expressive Alexander McQueen gown.
Blanchett plays the role of an alien tribal leader in a galactically-printed glitter gown by Givenchy.
Even in a subdued shade of ivory Blanchett stands out, due in part to Armani Privé’s absolutely stunning lace overlay.
Blanchett has always balanced a sense of calm strength with an untamed sort of beauty, which is reflected beautifully in this strong but feminine dress by Armani Privé.
Here she reveals her wild side, one we suspect is quite fun, in a dazzling gold gown by Balenciaga and a teased faux hawk.
Even a gown trimmed in a voluminous skirt of marabou feathers can be rendered classic by Blanchett’s extreme confidence and winning smile.
Critics regard Blanchett as a true artist and one of the most important actors of her day, and her artistic side reigns supreme in this sculptured Balenciaga dress.
Blanchett is nothing if not a changeling, able to disappear completely into her roles. Her unpredictable style is fun to watch, especially when she goes all witchy and wonderful in Givenchy.
A revealing neckline and a close-cut silhouette reveal Blanchett’s stunning figure, a rare sight on the red carpet.
In a Valentino gown with attached cape, Blanchett sweeps down the red carpet all elegance and poise.
Blanchett prefers oversized silhouettes on the red carpet, but none have been as cozy and inviting as this embroidered dress by Dior Haute Couture.
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In a romantic Spanish lace gown with an off-shoulder neckline, Blanchett looks like a radiant European queen.
Peter Pilotto and Cate Blanchett belong together, as both are rare talents in their respective fields. Here she makes a peplum Pilotto top look like it was made with her in mind.
A padded, quilted, two-piece look with major shoulders and asymmetrical hemlines sounds exactly like something we’d expect to see Blanchett in on the red carpet.
A waterfall of bows and peachy ruffles take feminine beauty to the next level, and underneath the frills and frippery is the quietly confident Blanchett making it all look amazing.
Blanchett can be relied upon to bring futuristic fashion to the red carpet, as is demonstrated by this liquid leather dress by Armani Privé.
In a diaphanous ivory halter-neck gown with a frill of sequined ruffles, Blanchett looks effortlessly cool and relaxed.
Though Blanchett’s star shines bright, she’s been known to embrace darker roles, and dark looks good on her. Her pale skin and hair are enhanced immensely by a stunning sequined pewter gown by Vivienne Westwood.
Blanchett has always carried herself with the confidence of a warrior, which is why McQueen silhouettes are especially befitting of this bold star.
Blanchett embraces California dreaming in a brightly printed Prabal Gurung gown.
