The Glamour of the 97th Academy Awards: A Night to Remember
The 97th Academy Awards, often hailed as Hollywood’s most anticipated event, took place on a Sunday that marked the culmination of an awards season overshadowed by tragic wildfires and controversies surrounding some nominated films. Despite these challenges, the Oscars once again delivered a spectacle of glamour and elegance, with the iconic red carpet serving as the ultimate showcase for Hollywood’s stars. The custom "Academy Red" carpet was a fitting backdrop for the evening’s festivities, where celebrities pulled out all the stops to make unforgettable fashion statements.
The red carpet was a tapestry of vibrant colors, metallic accents, and understated yet sophisticated looks. Celebrities opted for bold hues such as deep reds, electric blues, and soft pastels, while others chose shimmering metallic ensembles that caught the light with every step.Classic tuxedos and gowns were elevated by intricate jewelry, adding a touch of luxury to these timeless designs. Among the many stunning outfits, there were 21 ensembles that stood out, each with its unique charm and story to tell.
Michelle Yeoh’s pale Louis Vuitton gown, adorned with glassy sequins, evoked the delicate beauty of fine porcelain. In contrast, Zoe Saldana’s rich oxblood Saint Laurent gown, with its tiered folds and sheer opera gloves, transported onlookers to the grandeur of an opera house. Complementing these bold choices, Timothée Chalamet charmed in a creamy yellow Givenchy suit, embodying the smooth elegance of classic Kerrygold butter.
Halle Berry’s Christian Siriano gown, with its mirrored shards, risked seven years of bad luck for the sake of dazzling the audience. Doja Cat embraced her stage name with a leopard-print Balmain gown, exuding a fierce, cat-like confidence. Ariana Grande, in a crystal-laden Schiaparelli gown, seemed to float down the carpet, embodying the ethereal beauty of a fairy from "The Wizard of Oz." Colman Domingo’s red Valentino jacket, reminiscent of Hugh Hefner, and Demi Moore’s Armani Privé gown, glittering with silver sequins, added a touch of old-school Hollywood glamour.
The night also saw unique tributes and bold choices. Cynthia Erivo’s deep green Louis Vuitton gown, inspired by her role as Elphaba in "Wicked," paid homage to Hattie McDaniel, the first Black Oscar winner. Mikey Madison’s elegant Dior gown stood in stark contrast to her rebellious role in "Anora," while Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s Tamara Ralph ensemble, featuring a prominent rosette, offered a striking balance of sequins and silk. Andrew Garfield’s retro-inspired Gucci look and Lalisa Manobal’s unconventional tuxedo design by Mark Gong showcased the night’s experimental spirit.
The evening’s fashion was not just about the clothes but also about the stories they told. From Whoopi Goldberg’s iridescent Christian Siriano gown, reminiscent of water, to Meg Ryan’s ’90s-inspired minimalism and Lena Waithe’s effortless confidence, each look celebrated individuality and style. Jeremy Strong’s recurring green suits hinted at a deeper personal connection, while Miley Cyrus’s bold choice to go without eyebrows sparked curiosity. June Squibb’s floral caftan brought a vibrant, spring-like joy to the carpet.
In the end, the 97th Academy Awards was a testament to the enduring allure of Hollywood glamour and the power of fashion to tell stories. The night was filled with tributes to the past, bold statements, and unapologetic self-expression, proving once again why the Oscars remain a celebration of artistry, both on and off the screen.
