Allison Janney among stars sporting bold colours at the Oscars

The multi-coloured swathe of gowns at the awards ceremony marked a change from the Golden Globes and the Bafta Film Awards, which saw stars wearing black in solidarity with anti-sexual harassment campaigns #MeToo and Time’s Up.

Allison Janney, who is nominated for best supporting actress for her role in I, Tonya, caught the eye in a vivid scarlet Reem Acra gown with long sleeves that draped to the floor.

Get Out star Allison Williams opted for a more ethereal aesthetic in a pale blush gown with a full skirt and delicate beading and crystals on the bodice.

Williams’ dress was similar to that of actress Mira Sorvino, whose spring-like garment included a floral decoration across the large skirt.

Ashley Judd went for a vibrant shade of purple for her strapless gown, as did actress Chelsea Peretti, who joined her husband Jordan Peele on the red carpet.

Peele, who is nominated for best director for Get Out, rocked a crisp white suit and black bow tie.

Opting for classic black was Mudbound filmmaker Rachel Morrison – the first woman ever to be nominated for best cinematography at the Oscars in a low-cut, simple gown.

Actress Leslie Bibb, who arrived with her best supporting actor nominee partner Sam Rockwell, also went for a black style – a sheer, layered piece.

Although the majority of stars at the Oscars were not clad in black as at the previous ceremonies, some were sporting Time’s Up pins.

Sir Patrick Stewart and his wife Sunny Ozell were among those wearing the badges, mirroring the trend on the Baftas red carpet, as well as Rockwell and songwriting duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.

Jane Fonda, who went for a striking white figure-hugging gown with sharp shoulders and a geometric neckline, also showed her support with the Time’s Up pin.