The top Grammys gowns of all time

Carrie Underwood looked flawless from all angles in a backless Gomez-Gracia long-sleeve gown. One-of-a-kind Johnathon Arndt diamond earrings and a Swarovski crystal-embellished Rene Caovilla clutch brought out the sparkle in the sequin-embroidered tulle dress.

Presenter Gwyneth Paltrow chose a stunning Stella McCartney column dress cinched at the waist with one of the night's big trends—a metal belt.

Adele played up her curves in a three-quarter sleeve black sequined Giorgio Armani gown, De Beers earrings and a 12.4 carat diamond ring by Harry Winston.

A swan song for Florence Welch of Florence + the Machine? Her avian-motif gown from Givenchy haute couture featured a dramatic bird appliqué with tangerine "feathers" accenting the open back.

A canary column from the minimalist Calvin Klein Collection line turned out to be a memorable choice for Fergie. "We saw a lovely face, not just a body," designer Francisco Costa told InStyle of the look. "She called this dress her glass slipper."

Nicole Kidman supported her Grammy-winning spouse Keith Urban in a delicately embellished floral Jean Paul Gaultier gown and Fred Leighton jewelry.

Selena Gomez chose a winning metallic J. Mendel slipdress: "It's gold and I feel like an award, so that's why I picked it!" She kept her accessories classic, choosing a cuff and earrings from Lorraine Schwartz.

Alicia Keys collaborated with Giorgio Armani on a custom Prive gown with a daring illusion bodice. "Armani's designs need no one's help, but he catered to my desires with this dress," she told InStyle. "We walked through every step together. It's like our baby!"

Beyoncé's architectural Stephane Rolland haute couture gown (and her 12-carat custom diamond earrings by Lorraine Schwartz and Ofira) recalled the golden pyramids of ancient Egypt. Adding to her regal appearance? A six-Grammy haul.

Heidi Klum looked statuesque in a gold sequined Julien Macdonald gown. Her secret accessory? A matching metallic pedicure.