Celebrity style took a roller coaster ride this year, filled with surprising twists and turns. Hemlines climbed high, while waistbands dropped precipitously low. Sheer nothings seduced stars who should know better, while matronly dresses trapped young victims dazzled by designer names. Colors and patterns made a comeback—although without any instructions—and basic black returned too, but those who played it safe ended up being sorry. To sort it all out a panel of PEOPLE staffers, including West Coast style editor Steven Cojocaru, analyzed dozens of pictures. Come with us through Hollywood's fashion fun house.

The PEOPLE panel believe that HEATHER LOCKLEAR was born in a mini. Almost 40 years later (rocking the My VH1 Music Awards last fall in L.A.) she looks none the worse for wearing one still. "She has the most amazing body," says her stylist Cary Fetman. "And she really tries to have fun with fashion."

Onetime Bond girl DENISE RICHARDS was a bare-devil at the World Stunt Awards in L.A. in May, taking gilty pleasure in her bronze paillette skirt from Celine by Michael Kors.