Celebrating the Hautest in Costume Design

On Thursday, Feb. 25, 2010, the Costume Designers Guild of America threw a celebration of all things beautifully made for both the big and small screen with their annual award gala. Unlike the Oscars, there are only seven categories, which makes for a rather pleasant—and not particularly long and drawn out—evening.

The party is always the perfect blend of revered names in fashion, art, and Hollywood; it is a real cross section of individuals. These included:

Nadja Swarovski (whose company was also the presenting sponsor) Nicole Kidman, Parker Posey (Mistress of Ceremonies for the night), Cameron Silver, Oscar nominee Anna Kendrick, Alan Cumming, Emily Blunt, Max Ryan (from the upcoming Sex and the City 2), Anna Paquin, Eddie Izzard, Minka Kelly, Nancy Sinatra, and director Rob Marshall (Chicago, Nine).

Costume Designer Sandy Powell was presented with the Lacoste Career Achievement in Film Award and then subsequently made her way to the stage again where she won for excellence in a period film for The Young Victoria. Powell’s previous costume endeavors include films like Interview with a Vampire, Velvet Goldmine, Wings of the Dove, Shakespeare in Love and The Aviator (the last two films she won Oscars for Best Costume). Janie Bryant, master of the bullet bra and the woman who poured Christina Hendricks into more than one va va voom dress, won for her accomplishments in period garb for Mad Men.

Rob Marshall was presented with an award recognizing his incredible directorial achievements from one of the stars of his latest film, Nine, Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman (who skipped the red carpet and snuck into the party), and Emily Blunt was honored with the Swarovski Award for her outstanding talent.

The highlight though? Surprise guest Eddie Izzard in his presentation of costume designer Sandy Powell, whom he worked with on The Velvet Goldmine. As always, hilarious.