The Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, is one of the most prestigious events in the film industry. While the ceremony celebrates the best in cinema, the red carpet is where the most glamorous and breathtaking fashion moments unfold. Over the years, Hollywood’s brightest stars have graced the Oscars red carpet in stunning gowns that have become iconic.
From classic elegance to daring fashion statements, these dresses have left a lasting impression on fashion history. In this list, we revisit 20 of the most unforgettable Oscars red carpet dresses of all time.
Rihanna in Alaïa (2023)
Rihanna has never shied away from making a bold statement, and her 2023 Oscars gown was no exception. The singer and entrepreneur embraced maternity fashion with an edgy yet elegant Alaïa dress. The gown featured a form-fitting silhouette with sheer panels and leather accents, blending classic and modern elements seamlessly. Rihanna’s look proved that maternity style can be both daring and sophisticated.
Gemma Chan in Valentino (2019)
Gemma Chan’s fuchsia Valentino Couture gown was the epitome of comfort and elegance. The dramatic, voluminous silhouette made a bold statement, yet its airy fabric gave it an effortless grace. Plus, the dress had pockets, adding an unexpected yet practical touch that made this look even more memorable.
Mila Kunis in Elie Saab (2011)
Mila Kunis stunned in a delicate lavender Elie Saab gown at the 2011 Oscars. The intricate lace paneling and soft draping made the dress both romantic and sultry. The pastel shade perfectly complemented Kunis’s complexion, making this one of the most breathtaking looks of the evening.
Julia Roberts in Valentino (2001)
A true timeless beauty, Julia Roberts won her Oscar for Erin Brockovich in a vintage black-and-white Valentino gown. The velvet and satin combination exuded old Hollywood glamour, and its elegant train gave it a regal presence. To this day, this remains one of the most celebrated dresses in Oscars history.
Sharon Stone in Vera Wang and Gap (1998)
Sharon Stone proved that high fashion can be unconventional. She mixed a crisp white button-down shirt from Gap with a glamorous Vera Wang evening skirt, creating a sophisticated yet rebellious look. The casually rolled-up sleeves added an effortless coolness to an otherwise formal event.
Lauren Hutton in Halston (1975)
A vision of 1970s glamour, Lauren Hutton’s Halston gown was a perfect blend of elegance and effortless style. The silky fabric draped beautifully over her figure, and the oversized fur coat she wore on top added an extra touch of luxury.
Regina King in Louis Vuitton (2021)
Regina King’s powder blue Louis Vuitton gown was a work of art. The sculptural shoulders and structured silhouette were dramatic yet refined. The dress was adorned with 62,000 sequins and nearly 4,000 crystals, making it a true masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Natalie Portman in Dior (2020)
Natalie Portman made a powerful statement with her Dior cape embroidered with the names of female directors who were snubbed from the Oscars that year. The black and gold combination exuded sophistication, and her activism through fashion made this one of the most meaningful Oscars red carpet moments.
Grace Kelly in Edith Head (1955)
A true classic, Grace Kelly’s celadon satin gown by Edith Head remains one of the most elegant Oscars dresses of all time. The structured silhouette and luxurious fabric made her look like royalty as she accepted her award for The Country Girl.
Zendaya in Valentino Couture (2022)
Zendaya redefined red carpet fashion with her cropped white button-up and sequined silver skirt by Valentino. The unexpected combination of menswear-inspired elements with high glamour created a look that was both modern and timeless.
Uma Thurman in Bottega Veneta (2022)
Uma Thurman’s silk Bottega Veneta ensemble was effortlessly chic. The combination of a sleek white button-down and a long satin skirt gave off a refined yet relaxed vibe. This look was reminiscent of Sharon Stone’s famous Gap shirt moment, proving that sometimes simplicity makes the biggest impact.
Charlize Theron in Gucci (2004)
Charlize Theron’s glittering silver Gucci gown was pure Hollywood glamour. The dress hugged her figure perfectly, and the shimmering fabric made her shine as she accepted her Best Actress award for Monster.
Cher in Bob Mackie (1974)
Cher is no stranger to daring fashion choices, and her Bob Mackie watercolor-print two-piece set was one of her most underrated looks. The matching floral headpiece and pastel hues made this outfit a dreamy yet bold statement.
Marion Cotillard in Jean Paul Gaultier (2008)
Marion Cotillard’s mermaid-inspired Jean Paul Gaultier gown was a stunning mix of fantasy and sophistication. The scallop-like embellishments and body-hugging silhouette made it one of the most unique Oscar looks of all time.
Martha Plimpton in Vintage (1989)
Martha Plimpton exuded Old Hollywood elegance in a cream satin vintage gown. The simplicity of the bias-cut dress, combined with her effortless confidence, made her stand out in the best way.
Cate Blanchett in Givenchy Couture (2011)
Cate Blanchett’s lilac and chartreuse Givenchy Couture gown was a showstopper. The structured yet delicate detailing on the bodice, along with its soft flowing skirt, created a balance of power and grace.
Lupita Nyong’o in Prada (2014)
Lupita Nyong’o’s sky-blue Prada gown remains one of the most beloved Oscars dresses of all time. The ethereal pleats and deep V-neckline gave the dress a fairytale-like quality, while the color perfectly complemented her radiant skin.
Tessa Thompson in Chanel Couture (2019)
Tessa Thompson’s black Chanel Couture gown put a fresh twist on the classic little black dress. The subtle ruffles and sequin panels added texture and movement, making this a modern yet timeless red carpet look.
Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy (1975)
Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy gown with midriff cutouts was a daring departure from her usual classic style. The design was elegant yet playful, proving that Hepburn could pull off even the most unexpected fashion choices.
Jessica Alba in Versace (2006)
Jessica Alba’s golden Versace gown was the epitome of elegance. The structured bodice and flowing skirt created a stunning silhouette, while the warm gold color made her glow on the red carpet.
Final Thoughts
Over the years, the Oscars red carpet has been home to some of the most iconic, daring, and breathtaking fashion moments. These 20 unforgettable gowns prove that red carpet fashion is just as much a part of the Oscars legacy as the awards themselves. Whether through classic elegance, bold statements, or unexpected combinations, these looks have cemented their place in fashion history.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who has the most iconic Oscars dress of all time?
Julia Roberts’ vintage Valentino from 2001 and Lupita Nyong’o’s Prada gown from 2014 are often considered the most iconic.
2. Has anyone worn a suit to the Oscars?
Yes! Céline Dion famously wore a backward Christian Dior tuxedo in 1999, making it one of the most talked-about fashion moments.
3. What was the most expensive dress worn at the Oscars?
Jennifer Lawrence’s Dior couture gown in 2013 was reportedly worth $4 million.
4. Who is the best-dressed Oscars attendee of all time?
Cate Blanchett, Zendaya, and Charlize Theron consistently deliver some of the best red carpet moments.
5. What is the most daring Oscars dress?
Björk’s swan dress from 2001 is still one of the most talked-about and unconventional Oscars looks.
