First things first. Lisa Ludwig rates a perpetual spot on any best-dressed list. After having to excuse herself from hosting duties at this year’s Artie Awards because of another commitment, “La Ludwig” pulled an Elizabeth Taylor-like surprise entrance to announce the final award of the evening in a stunning, steel-blue ball gown with jeweled bodice by Jimmy-Lee. Now that’s theater!

Even with Ludwig in attendance, there was plenty of haute couture to compete for best-dressed distinction. Here is my list of the 10 most extraordinarily well-dressed ladies at this year’s Artie Awards (in no particular order).

Lisa Ludwig

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Artie Winner Nicole Cimato stopped the show with her musical number from Theatre of Youth's "Junie B. Jones," and she stopped traffic in this form-hugging tangerine silk gown.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Stage manager to the stars Kim Chadwick was all fluff and meringue in this white vintage Betsy Johnson with pink sash and heels.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

You may be tired of seeing black gowns at awards shows, but not when they are worn with the style and beauty of Katie White, seen in this black chiffon gown with beaded waist band.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Kerrykate Abel was in full "leading lady" mode wearing a 1920s-inspired avocado taffeta gown with citrus chiffon wrap and antique jewelry.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

In another tribute to the '20s, actress Debbie Pappas dazzled in this heavily beaded ensemble with matching evening slippers.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

One-quarter of the Artie-winning ensemble of "Musical of Musicals," audience favorite Jenn Stafford defied fashion rules by wearing horizontal black and white stripes to stunning effect.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Second generation Buffalo actress Kelly Jakiel was the personification of youth and beauty in a strapless, gold flocked lace over aqua balloon skirt.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Musical director for two of the Artie-naminated musicals, Theresa Quinn was my personal favorite in a flamenco-inspired Brett Runyon original in layers of bronze and copper taffeta.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Gentlemen, take note! Gender-bending Kate Elliott has her own marvelous style, never more vividly demonstrated than on Artie night. She is seen here in a white dinner jacket and herringbone slacks.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)

Beautiful Sarielys Matos had heads turning from across the room with this short and flirty black chiffon cocktail dress with white waist band.

(photo: Rose Mattrey)