Oscar Gold.

With the Oscars coming up tomorrow, I thought it fitting to focus on the black-tie gowns that us mortals wear on only a few occasions in our lives. (Count em, prom and weddings are all we have.) Yet, the fashion world and the commercial red carpet have long been at odds with one another. Most high fashion critics find the gowns to be too safe, bland and pageant like while the tabloids will rip a celebrity to shreds over one that is too "avant-garde."

But today I'd like to propose a cease fire between the two, if not for just a few hours tomorrow. Let me introduce Marchesa, a name synonymous with the red carpet and all-out Hollywood glamour. Georgina Chapman and Karen Craig have been creating outstanding gowns that defy gravity and challenge the tired strapless princess gown for the past few seasons while in the meantime outfitting some very lucky celebs. And with Harvey Weinstein (the mega-producer) as Chapman's husband, there is no doubt that Marchesa will be able to produce some pure Oscar gold for the ladies who wear it.

• Top Row (left to right): Fall 2011 Looks #6, 24, 22
• Bottom Row (left to right): Spring 2011 Looks # 3, 17, 7

[Images Via: Style.com]