The wildfires that ravaged the Los Angeles area dampened the mood of the 2025 awards season, which was concluded with a commemoration for Hollywood’s biggest night of the year – the Oscars. Stars went all out for the 97th Academy Awards ceremony, turning heads in brilliant hues, glittering gowns and silk garments on the red carpet. In an event where menswear usually conforms to black and white suits, many male actors brought their A-game, deviating from tradition in favor of more creative attire.
Sparkly outfits and accessories were a common theme among A-listers, many of whom wore gowns embroidered with thousands of rhinestones, sequins and pearls. Every look represents the culmination of hours upon hours of work from talented Hollywood stylists and fashion teams. The event was full of celebrities donning creative getups, ranging from questionable to unforgettable.
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande crowned a season of shimmery, Glinda-pink looks with an effervescent, gravity defying gown that seemed to float as she glided down the carpet. The combination of the satin bodice, voluminous tulle and over 190,000 tiny crystals made for a look that was bold yet tasteful, structured yet soft.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo also donned her character’s signature hue in a bewitching, forest-green velvet gown with a pointed collar and giant bow-like sleeves. The dress was theatrical, striking and maybe a bit too villainous, but eye catching nonetheless.
Timothee Chalamet
Perhaps the best dressed man of the night, Chalamet sported an eccentric, butter yellow leather suit that made him stand out from the crowd. With a history of fun, daring and somewhat irreverent fashion looks, the star clearly has no interest in playing it safe, even at a ceremony as grand as the Oscars.
Adam Sandler
Speaking of irreverence, the infamous Adam Sandler showed up in his trademark baggy basketball shorts and a bright teal hoodie. In a hilarious skit where Conan O’brien poked fun at his egregiously casual attire, Sandler shouted “I like the way I look!” His sporty ensemble may not have been considered posh by any means, but it was certainly creative and it generated plenty of laughs in the audience.
Mikey Madison
Breakout star and Oscar winner Mikey Madison channeled the retro glam of old Hollywood in a 1960s Dior design. The pink and black gown, adorned with a large bow and train, seems to be a hit or miss among various news outlets and has received both praise and criticism.
Zoe Saldana
The “Emilia Perez” actress Zoe Saldana wore a wine colored, three tiered bubble gown with a sheer bodice. It was accessorized with matching opera gloves and a diamond statement necklace. The look was sumptuous, eccentric and captivating.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez also brought back vintage glitz with an alluring, sparkly gown–made of 16,000 drops of glass! Although old Hollywood is a tried and true red carpet style, the chic beaded dress and Mariyln Monroe bob emulated movie star magic. While a few other actresses wore nude bedazzled gowns of a similar style, Gomez shined the brightest.
Andrew Gardfield
Andrew Garfield rocked a monochromatic groovy chocolate tux, though many fans felt iffy about the chunky 1970s-esque glasses he paired it with. Aside from eyewear, the slick brown suit was received extremely well by the press. Somebody give his stylist a raise!
Lily Rose Depp
As a longtime ambassador of Chanel, Lily Rose Depp sparkled in a dark lacy halter dress, intricately embroidered with black sequins and crystals. The gorgeous yet moody look was accentuated with a Chanel necklace and bracelet crafted from 18k white diamonds and gold.
The Oscars is a stage for individuals to express themselves, make a statement or set new trends. Artists pushed the boundaries at this years ceremony with a mix of sophisticated, timeless designs and brazen apparel. Which look was your personal favorite?