The Red Carpet Moments of 2025: A Year of Daring Fashion Statements
The red carpet spectacle in 2025 was nothing short of a visual feast, showcasing celebrities in an array of theme-driven attire, vintage treasures, and fresh designer collaborations. The fashion landscape saw icons like Cynthia Erivo taking bold steps in sustainable styles during the “Wicked: For Good” press tour, while her co-star, Ariana Grande, rummaged through history to find the oldest vintage dresses imaginable. Alexander Skarsgård led a small rebellion against the tuxedo norm, making waves with daring choices, while Teyana Taylor flaunted her fit figure in a variety of cut-out designs. Designers like Jonathan Anderson, Matthieu Blazy, and Sarah Burton debuted breathtaking creations, with Burton unveiling her first collection for Givenchy during the Oscars, creating ripples of excitement before hitting the official runway.
Amidst award shows, film premieres, and other star-studded events, there were 23 jaw-dropping looks that left spectators in awe—here’s a closer look at some unforgettable red carpet moments of the year that will resonate long into 2026.
Zendaya in Louis Vuitton
Zendaya kicked off 2025 at the Golden Globes in a remarkable burnt orange gown designed by Louis Vuitton. Inspired by the iconic American singer and activist Joyce Bryant, the look was beautifully styled by Law Roach, embodying old Hollywood glamor with a contemporary twist. The choice of color and form not only paid homage to a legendary figure but also secured Zendaya’s position as one of the year’s fashion leaders.
Charli XCX in Jean Paul Gaultier by Ludovic de Saint Sernin
2025 marked a fashion evolution for Charli XCX, crowned a true style icon after donning a striking Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture dress at the Grammy Awards. This piece, designed by Ludovic de Saint Sernin, had a striking resemblance to a white version previously seen on the runway just days prior, making it a hot topic in fashion circles and solidifying her place in haute couture.
Sabrina Carpenter in JW Anderson
Sabrina Carpenter embraced a modern fairy tale vibe at the Grammy Awards in a breathtaking pale blue JW Anderson gown. Sporting a knotted halter neck and elegant ostrich feather details, she exuded elegance, proving that contemporary design can easily channel the essence of classic fairy tales.
Demi Moore in McQueen
At the BAFTAs, Demi Moore turned heads in a breathtaking McQueen creation, a sophisticated work of art adorned with crystals depicting faces and body parts. The design was not only striking but also thematically relevant, nodding to Moore’s nomination for the body horror film, The Substance.
Selena Gomez in Celine
Keeping it elegant yet straightforward, Selena Gomez donned a deep blue Celine gown for the SAG Awards. The simple silhouette was elevated by its rich color and stunning craftsmanship, proving that minimalism can indeed captivate an audience on the red carpet.
Timothée Chalamet in Givenchy
Timothée Chalamet made waves at the Oscars in a striking butter yellow Givenchy suit, marking the debut of Sarah Burton’s much-anticipated collection. The cropped jacket and pooling trousers exuded a playful yet sophisticated charm, showcasing a fresh perspective on men’s red carpet wear.
Elle Fanning in Givenchy
Elle Fanning took the Oscar spotlight in the debut couture gown by Sarah Burton for Givenchy. The gown featured a delicate lace design with a captivating sweetheart neckline and a subtle nod to history with its Watteau back, channeling a retro vibe that resonated with fashion lovers everywhere.
Colman Domingo in Valentino
Eschewing the standard black tuxedo, Colman Domingo made a jubilant statement at the Oscars in a vibrant red Valentino jacket with black lapels. The bold choice, complete with a stylish tassel-adorned belt, showcased his flair for fashion and individuality.
Zoë Kravitz in Saint Laurent
Zoë Kravitz stirred up chatter at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party with her minimalist front and intricate back of her 1996 Saint Laurent dress. The lace and crystal-covered back cutout oozed boldness, leaving a striking impression as she elegantly moved through the venue.
Alexander Skarsgård in Saint Laurent
Skarsgård surprised attendees at Cannes in a memorable Saint Laurent suit, punctuated by thigh-high leather boots. Reflecting a more adventurous spirit in men’s fashion, the actor embraced his role with flamboyance, cleverly connecting his outfit to the film’s character he portrayed.
Rihanna in Alaïa
Rihanna stole the spotlight at the Cannes Film Festival in a stunning blue halterneck dress, boasting intricate knot details that beautifully highlighted her pregnancy. Drawing attention with both style and flair, Rihanna made a powerful statement of grace as she supported her partner A$AP Rocky at the premiere of Highest 2 Lowest.
Cate Blanchett in Dilara Findikoglu
In a year filled with bold fashion, Cate Blanchett’s shell-embellished corset top from Dilara Findikoglu stood out for its uniqueness. Worn at The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party, it perfectly encapsulated Blanchett’s ability to make daring fashion choices while exuding effortless elegance.
Jenna Ortega in Ashi Studio
Jenna Ortega dazzled during her Wednesday season two press tour, especially in an Ashi Studio latex gown that made her appear as though she had shed her skin on the carpet. This daring outfit resonated with the show’s gothic aesthetic, solidifying Ortega’s place as a burgeoning fashion icon.
Greta Lee in Dior
Greta Lee’s Venetian Film Festival red carpet moment showcased a stunning avant-garde mini dress by Jonathan Anderson for Dior. The dramatic plunge and playful bow detail captured the excitement of upcoming designs while positioning Lee at the forefront of fashion conversations.
Margot Robbie in Armani Privé
Margot Robbie took the sheer dress trend to new heights at the premiere of A Big Bold Beautiful Journey. Sporting a stunning crystal-embroidered Armani Privé gown, Robbie embodied the essence of haute couture and solidified her status as a front-runner in elegant attire.
Kim Kardashian in Maison Margiela
A captivating yet controversial fashion choice, Kim Kardashian captured attention with her Maison Margiela gown at the Academy Museum Gala, obscuring her face with a nude piece of fabric. The shocking display sparked discussions about art, identity, and the evolving boundaries of fashion expressions.
Teyana Taylor in Tom Ford
In a bold showcase of fitness, Teyana Taylor turned heads in a daring Tom Ford dress that elegantly highlighted her toned physique. This audacious outfit was a perfect blend of style and confidence, underlining Taylor’s status as a fashion trailblazer.
Cynthia Erivo in Schiaparelli
Cynthia Erivo showed versatility in her fashion narrative, breaking away from her signature green styles at the LACMA Gala in a Schiaparelli couture gown that was as breathtaking as it was eye-catching. This look was a stunning depiction of high-fashion drama that resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Jennifer Lawrence in Dior
Jennifer Lawrence’s choice of a white draped gown from Dior for the Governors Awards illustrated the balance between simplicity and intrigue. The unique draping and knotted details on the thigh added an unexpected twist that kept viewers guessing and engaged.
Ariana Grande in Schiaparelli
Ariana Grande savored the red carpet moment with a custom Schiaparelli gown at the Wicked: For Good premiere in New York that transcended the traditional. Her vintage-inspired ensemble made a powerful statement that turned heads while seamlessly tying into the inclusive theme of the beloved musical.
Each moment in 2025’s red carpet events reflected a dynamic interplay of creativity, individuality, and cultural significance, shaping a vibrant narrative in the world of fashion that will resonate for years to come.
