Transformation

With her translucent complexion and boldly defined features, Cate Blanchett was made to be a chameleon. "She looks incredible with long hair, short hair, a dark wig," hairstylist Danilo has said. Makeup artist Jeanine Lobell agrees: "It's fun to do her makeup, because you can really play with her." On the red carpet, the mother of three is just as likely to wear wash-and-wear hair as an elaborate updo. "She always wants to do the opposite," says stylist Mark Townsend. "If someone's wearing a couture gown with her hair up, she wants to wear hers down." Doubtless, this spirit of adventure has served the actress well in roles as diverse as Elizabeth I, Bob Dylan and, in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, an elfin princess.

After graduating from Australia's National Institute of Dramatic Art and winning the Newcomer Award from the Sydney Theatre Critics Circle, the redheaded Blanchett began doing TV work.