Written by Anthony O’Baner
At “the Super Bowl of red carpets,” millions of cinephiles and fashion admirers tune in to glamorize, immortalize and scrutinize celebrities for who and what they are wearing. Although a few of the nominees and presenters delivered stunning head-to-toe looks, others may want to consider changing their stylist.
Taraji P. Henson stole the Oscars red carpet in a custom, off-shoulder Alberta Ferretti dress in navy velvet. Accessorizing with an elegant Nirav Modi necklace and a high-slit to show a hint of leg, Henson balances tasteful sensuality with a little edge courtesy of the stylish do. The Jimmy Choo sandal, however, does make her appear shorter. Nonetheless, brava Taraji.
Emma Stone switched her astrological Valentino gown worn at the Golden Globes for a Givenchy Haute Couture dress at this year’s Oscars — it was a hit. It is safe to say that Stone knows what she is doing when it comes to style; her golden red-hair contrasting the ombre white-to-yellow gold color in the dress is something only Stone can pull off. The Baroque influence in the dress is shown through the subtle paisley pattern and netting stitch technique, yet somehow it gave an Art Deco feel. Beautiful, right?
Janelle Monae, wearing couture Elie Saab from Fall 2016, gets the honor of distinction for her audacious, embroidered gown. Depending on the day, it could be a hit or miss.
Others who deserve an honorable mention for a job well done: Viola Davis in custom Armani (love!), Olivia Culpo in Marchesa, Chrissy Teigen in Zuhair Murad Couture, Riz Ahmed in Ermenegildo Zegna, and Brie Larson in Oscar de la Renta.
One question for Scarlett Johansson: why? Wearing a sheer, pink-printed Azzedine Alaïa gown was not the most flattering choice. The v-neck bodice cinched by the peculiar printed belt did not compliment Johansson’s amazing physique that we all know she has. Scarlett, either fire your stylist or please hire a new one because we all know you can do better.
What would a red carpet be without Ryan Seacrest simultaneously promoting his line of suits that are sold at Macy’s? With a line being mass-produced at one of the largest department stores, one should not expect the tailoring to be at a luxury level. Still, that does not excuse the fact that Seacrest did not tailor his pants properly. It is unacceptable, Ryan.
Honorable mentions for attempts: Nina Garcia, Creative Director of Marie Claire, stating ”This is how sexy and sophisticated is done” when talking about Charlize Theron’s golden Christian Dior Couture gown (it actually isn’t how sexy and sophisticated is done). Also, Priyanka Chopra in Ralph & Russo, Halle Berry in Atelier Versace Couture, and Dakota Johnson in Gucci.
The Oscars 2017 red carpet was good at best. Thankfully, the Oscar goes to those who create and do great work in film versus who wears the best suit or gown.
Anthony, a Fashion major, is the Editor-in-Chief of SCAD’s thriving fashion blog, The Manor.
