What an actor wears on the red carpet can send a powerful message to fans, casting directors, and the media. The right gown can elevate someone from starlet to A-lister, or from party girl to polished fashionista. Johnny Depp, for example, has solidified his reputation as Hollywood’s resident tortured artist and bad boy in part by showing up at red carpet events with tousled hair and no tie.

At the Oscars, even outfits considered missteps have a way of making it into the red carpet hall of fame. In a year when the films are not as compelling as they have been in the past, the spotlight will shine even brighter on red carpet choices. Here are our predictions for how each nominated actor and actress will make this work for them

Keira Knightley

Nominated for her supporting role in The Imitation Game, she will be dressed in Chanel, and seeing that the celebrity ambassador for the brand doesn’t always go for the expected — she wore a surprising butterfly-bedecked frock to the Golden Globes

Reese Witherspoon

She will likely stick with her classic Old Hollywood glam aesthetic and opt for a body-hugging strapless gown in a saturated color.

Rosamund Pike

The star has been perhaps the most consistent with her red carpet style this season. With a penchant for neutrals, particularly all black or all white, the star has nailed the neutral look while still exuding sexiness with plunging necklines and cutouts. I don’t imagine she’ll stray too far off course this time.

Laura Dern

With a penchant for warm colors, the actress tends to wear corals, oranges, reds, and taupes. And she always infuses a little sparkle.