The 97th Academy Awards not only celebrated cinematic brilliance but also showcased an array of stunning fashion statements on the red carpet. Among the luminaries, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Lupita Nyong’o, and Halle Berry captivated audiences with their impeccable style and elegance.
Ariana Grande: A Symphony in Sparkle
Ariana Grande graced the Oscars red carpet in a custom Schiaparelli gown that epitomised glamour and sophistication. The dress, adorned with over 190,000 crystals, shimmered with every step, reflecting Grande’s radiant presence. Styled by Mimi Cuttrell, the ensemble was a variation of Schiaparelli’s Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2025 ‘Icarus’ collection, tailored to enhance Grande’s signature style. Complementing her gown, Grande opted for makeup from her own brand, r.e.m. beauty, and accessorised with sparkling De Beers jewellery, completing a look that was both contemporary and timeless. 
Cynthia Erivo: An Ode to ‘Wicked’ Elegance
Nominated for her portrayal of Elphaba in ‘Wicked’, Cynthia Erivo paid homage to her character with a custom Louis Vuitton gown. The dark green velvet dress featured a dramatic bow-like bodice and high collar, reminiscent of the ‘Emerald City’ aesthetic. Erivo described her ensemble as a “proper ode to Oz,” drawing inspiration from the mythical land’s green and gold hues. Her look was further accentuated by intricate nail art, including a handcrafted clock design, adding a personal touch to her Oscar appearance. 
Lupita Nyong’o: A Vision in Blue
Lupita Nyong’o once again demonstrated her fashion prowess, reminiscent of her previous iconic appearances. While specific details of her 2025 Oscars gown were not highlighted in the available sources, Nyong’o’s past choices, such as the blue Prada dress, have set a high standard for red carpet elegance. Her consistent ability to merge classic silhouettes with vibrant colours continues to solidify her status as a style icon. 
Halle Berry: Mirrorball Magnificence
Halle Berry dazzled attendees in a mirrorball-like gown designed by Christian Siriano. The dress’s reflective surface created a mesmerising effect, capturing the essence of Hollywood glamour. Berry’s choice showcased her enduring elegance and willingness to embrace bold fashion statements, reaffirming her position as a red carpet favourite. 
A Glimpse at the Winners
While fashion took centre stage, the evening also honoured remarkable cinematic achievements. The film “Anora” emerged as a significant winner, securing awards for Best Picture, Best Director (Sean Baker), and Best Actress (Mikey Madison). Adrien Brody received the Best Actor accolade for his role in “The Brutalist,” and Zoe Saldaña was honoured as Best Supporting Actress for “Emilia Pérez.” 
The 2025 Oscars red carpet was a testament to the harmonious blend of fashion and film, with stars like Grande, Erivo, Nyong’o, and Berry leading the way in sartorial excellence.
