Swing Vote's Paula Patton: Diggin' Her Style

Paula Patton in Versace for Swing Vote premier July 28, 2008

Swing Vote opens in theaters nationwide today starring newbie Paula Patton opposite the film's lead Kevin Costner. While the story focuses on the race to win Costner's character final vote for the presidential election, some will be delighted to check out newcomer Patton particularly since she's so selective about the film she chooses, we don't get to see her as often as we'd like to. On or offscreen, one thing is for sure- she certainly gets our vote when it comes to her beauty and personal style.

The 32 year-old Los Angeles native wowed the crowd earlier this week at the Swing Vote movie premier. With husband R&B crooner Robin Thicke in tow, she stood out among her cast members in a bright orange Versace strapless formfitting dress and gold heels. Her hair was pinned back with Marcelle waves which channeled a 1920's retro Hollywood vibe, she left many wondering if she'd cut her long tresses she's known for (she didn't.)

This isn't the first time Patton has impressed. Although her first onscreen role was as an extra in Hitch with Will Smith, her breakout role as Angel in the retro hip-hop musical Idlewild as Outkast member Andre Benjamin's character's lover is where she really turned heads. The winning combination of classic good looks with an infectious smile and serious costume changes made for an unforgettable role. Off-screen she has become 'one to watch' as well- Patton has consistently struck gold for her simple yet effortless style choices. Here we review some of her fashion hits.

Paula Patton Pictures

Paula Patton and Kevin Costner at the World Premiere of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" on July 24, 2008 at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA..World Premiere Of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" In Hollywood.El Capitan Theatre.Hollywood, CA United States.July 24, 2008.Photo by Eric Charbonneau/WireImage.com..To license this image (15929058), contact WireImage.com

WireImage.com

Robin Thicke and Paula Patton at the World Premiere of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" on July 24, 2008 at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA..World Premiere Of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" In Hollywood.El Capitan Theatre.Hollywood, CA United States.July 24, 2008.Photo by Eric Charbonneau/WireImage.com..To license this image (15929054), contact WireImage.com

WireImage.com

Robin Thicke, Paula Patton and Alan Thicke at the World Premiere of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" on July 24, 2008 at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA..World Premiere Of Touchstone Pictures' "Swing Vote" In Hollywood.El Capitan Theatre.Hollywood, CA United States.July 24, 2008.Photo by Eric Charbonneau/WireImage.com..To license this image (15929051), contact WireImage.com

WireImage.com

Paula Patton and Robin Thicke arrives at theWorld Premiere of "Swing Vote" at the El Capitan Theatre on July 24, 2008 in Hollywood, California.."Swing Vote" World Premiere In Hollywood - Arrivals.El Capitan Theatre.Hollywood, CA United States.July 24, 2008.Photo by Steve Granitz/WireImage.com..To license this image (15928873), contact WireImage.com

WireImage.com

Patton started out sporting pretty bright things in the beginning of her career (only 3 years ago): a strapless yellow dress at the Idlewild premier was Jessica Rabbit sexy, and she stood bright in a turquoise number at the Hitch premier as well. Since then she's paired down sticking to either black white (in polka dots for an Essence event, in floral for this year's CFDA Fashion Awards, in gingham at a fashion show) neutrals or prints (Dejavu premier.) Pattonnever disappoints.

With a slew of upcoming films to promote, I'll certainly get the popcorn ready as Miss Thing works those appearances.

Look out Halle Berry.