In the gala that is beginning to rival the iconic Met Gala, this incredibly exclusive, and private, event sees A-Listers take to the red carpet in a celebration of fashion and film alike. Taking Wilshire Boulevard, L.A. by storm, the Academy Museum Gala celebrated Paul Mescal, Rita Moreno, and Quentin Tarantino for their service to film and creativity while celebs banded together in a sea of style that saw designers including Louis Vuitton, Mugler, and Alaia showcase their talent.
Selena Gomez
In a custom suede gown by Alaia, Selena flaunted her gorgeous curves in the figure-hugging silhouette, cinched at the waist. A black bodice peeks through the deep scooped neckline in a sexy addition to the look that complements the sapphire gown and black accessories.
Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo
The Wicked duo stood in solidarity in gowns emulating their respective characters, defying gravity, and expectations alike. Cynthia Erivo was giving Brat in her emerald Louis Vuitton gown adorned with jewels and beading that glistened in the spotlight. Ariana Grande, host of the evening, juxtaposed Cynthia’s modern gown in a custom Balmain dress based on an archival Balmain gown. This timeless monochromatic look oozed class and elegance with perfect polka dots and bows in traditional Glinda fashion.
Kim Kardashian
Unofficial leader of the Kardashian-Jenner clan, Kim stunned in vintage Mugler corset with drapes of ivory fabric cascading down her back and arms from her head. With diamonds adorning her neck, Kim has an effortlessly timeless, and almost Marylin, look that is the epitome of sophistication
Kendall & Kylie Jenner
The Jenner sisters showed their love in complementary looks that harmonised cut outs in a balanced composition of designs. The focal point on Kendall’s Schiaparelli gown drew the eyes to the top of the dress while Kylie’s vintage Mugler dress had a point of interest around her hips. These designs together expertly balanced the looks, allowing them to stand together as strongly as they stand alone, neither taking away from the other.
Davine Joy Randolph
Stunning Davine really was divine in gorgeous Louis Vuitton gown that emulated the contemporary and timeless in an expert marriage of past and present. The classic ballgown silhouette was tailored to the 21st century with the addition of scoping where the skirt meets the bodice, creating a soft movement instead of more traditional pleats. The think, structured bandeau design also roots the look in 2024, upgrading a classic off-the-shoulder look into a more visually complex cut. In the sea of daring celebs at the gala, we know Davine really was the belle of the ball in this look.
Laura Harrier
In gorgeous Ludovic De Saint Sernin design, Laura Harrier took on an almost dom look in black, studded dress. The cut outs along the skirt spiral downwards in an innovative look that other celebs at the gala didn’t risk, and for that reason we’re loving this design more and more. Worn without jewellery and natural glam to let the dress speak for itself, we’re seeing first-hand how the winter months really do inspire deep and bold looks.
POSTER GIRL – LACE DRESS
Addison Rae
TikTok star turned actress and it-girl, Addison Rae, embraced her inner siren in stunning Alberta Ferretti gown that screams sexy. This cool-toned palette emulates gorgeous blue lagoons and casts the image of Addison being washed upon the shore in an effortlessly Aphrodite manner. The intricate lace and sheer detailing is almost lingerie-esque and the elegant blowout and simple makeup adds to the natural beauty and really shows us how exquisite natural beauty is.
Anna Sawai
Actress Anna Sawai also showcased Louis Vuitton in showstopping two piece. The ruched fabric in deep matte black took on a sheer quality due to the sewing technique, creating a complex characteristic to the shade as it reflects light and casts shadows. The one sleeve nods to a more traditional ballgown while the asymmetrical design creates a more modern intrigue, dragging Cinderella into
2024. The additional seam along the hip line creates a dropped waist look despite the midrise skirt placement, adding further detail to an oxymoronic, simple and complex look.
Winston Duke
Actor and producer Winston Duke really showed us how to upgrade a suit in a beautiful Etro design. The flowers add a pop of colour to the all-black look while the textured coat added further visual complexity without seeming garish or overbearing. Complemented with David Yurman jewellery, this look is classic, bold, and has a touch of the feminine; demonstrating that adding a few pattered elements can upgrade any tuxedo.
Jaden Smith
In another Louis Vuitton design, Jaden Smith has stayed true to his edgy, non- conforming roots in a crystal studded suit and statement shirt. The white undershirt has a high, ruched neckline in an almost old-fashioned, traditional look. The jacket sleeves, while hanging to the wrist, allow the arms to exit at the elbow in an innovative design that shows us what we can do with traditional look to upgrade them instead of sticking to the norm, embracing possibility. Paired with heeled boots and an array of rings, Jaden, like Winston, has embraced a touch of femininity in his look as he continues to challenge gender norms.
Words by Isobel O’Connor
