The Golden Globes is a big deal as award's shows go, for a few reasons: it kicks off the season, hints at who will go home a winner at the Oscars, and is a chance for the stars to unleash their fashion prowess. Even if they aren't nominated, celebrities can still win the night with stunning outfits and memorable fashion choices (in fact, the right look can often outshine the actual winners). While you're getting ready to enjoy the winners, losers, and styles of the Golden Globes tonight, make sure to relive some of the fashion winners of red carpets past.

Angelina Jolie

The filmmaker and activist is usually seen turning heads in not-so-basic black, but when she opts for a color she goes all-out: In 2011, Angelina Jolie was breathtaking in an emerald green Versace dress that left critics raving about her fashion choice almost as much as they do about her performances.

Jessica Chastain

The breathtaking redhead has repeatedly earned accolades for her intense, raw performances in an array of award-winning films, so she's a red carpet regular. And with all those nominations and awards come the knowledge of how to make a truly unforgettable entrance. People are still talking about this subtle and sleek Versace number that accentuated the actress' natural beauty, and with good reason: it combined classic Hollywood glamour with a chic modern. The result? A sexy and elegant style (and perfect for accepting awards in).

Lupita Nyong'o

When she hit the red carpet to promote the devastating film 12 Years A Slave, Lupita Nyong'o knew a lot of attention would be focused on her as well as the movie she was promoting. The young actress handled the scrutiny with grace and style, wowing viewers (and causing quite a bit of fashion controversy) with this sleek and captivating Golden Globes dress. Some people weren't entirely sure that the cape was a good idea, but most believed she hit a fashion home run (not to mention going home with quite a few awards under her stylish belt).

Viola Davis

The star of the hit show How To Get Away With Murder made the red carpet look drab with this designer number by Donna Karan. Red's a rough look to wear when walking into an award's show; the wrong shade or look, and you can end up blending in with the background. But Davis can always stand out in a crowd, and the details and accents on this gown made it a winner in everyone's books.

Cate Blanchett

On top of being one of the finest actresses in Hollywood, Cate Blanchett is an edgy and original fashion fan. It's impossible to guess what she'll wear next or what her look will entail. This has led to a few misses throughout the years (hey, nobody's perfect), but the Armani black lace gown she donned when she accepted the award for her heartbreaking turn in Blue Jasmine was a winner on all counts. We can't wait to see what she'll wear this year.

Jennifer Lopez

She might have caused an uproar with that unforgettable Oscar dress (and left herself open for imitation by the South Park creators), but we think Jennifer Lopez should get credit where it's due: in this divine nearly nude dress with lace accents. It's sexy and playful at the same time, turning heads and leaving people talking -- exactly what Jennifer Lopez does best.

Tags
Golden globes, Best-Dressed