This year, there aren't as many Oscar night parties from the studios. Most designers now realize that they can't compete, so they are very happy with dressing Oscar attendees, partygoers and faces of note. There is a very famous story about that. For the 68th Annual Academy Awards, Sharon Stone wore a Gap turtleneck, making a very strong statement that she was not a walking billboard for designers. The question is probably best answered in its growing numbers and its legendary reputation.
Fashion does play a vital role in that.
The star may not do it, but everyone asks for one of a kind items by getting pieces made based upon the stars favorite color, favorite fabric, etc. That is another measure for them to have their own look. And I do think we will have special statements from Marsha Gay Harden and probably Juliet Binoche. Julia Roberts has many relationships with many different designers. She has been in the front row for fashion shows at names like Calvin Klein, Vivian Tam, Todd Oldham, and most recently has been seen in Giorgio Armani.