Blanchett relies on a lot of pants. Whether skinny or wide legs, they’re almost always in a solid color, which are more easily mixed and matched than prints. Diane von Furstenberg wool pants, $298; 646-486-4800

Dressing for evening is tricky, especially when a short and strappy frock isn’t your thing. Skimpy may be de rigueur in Hollywood, but Blanchett bucks the trend and often opts for less skin when dressing up (imagine that). To get the look, control volume by wearing slim, simple silhouettes and always define the waist. To make a big statement, go for a bold color. Isabella Oliver jersey dress, $285; isabellaoliver.com Roberto Coin 18k gold necklace, $2,400; Saks Fifth Avenue, 800-853-5958 for stores

Blanchett loves clothing inspired by the guys’ closet-pantsuits, pinstripes, strong shoulders-but she keeps the look feminine with plunging necklines and curve-hugging silhouettes. And if all that menswear sometimes adds up to a certain toughness, she offsets it with a style arsenal that also includes lots of heels and delicate jewelry. Galliano wool blend blazer, $1,020; nordstrom.com for stores Ermanno Ermanno Scervino wool blend trousers, $380; Saks Fifth Avenue, 212-753-4000

Blanchett wears denim infrequently on the red carpet, but when she does, she often relies on embellished or ornate toppers to create an evening look. C’N‘C Costume National silk vest with paillettes, $495; zappos.com

A spectacular shoe never hurts a look. Betsey Johnson silk satin shoes, $140; nordstrom.com for stores