The 96th Academy Awards, held on March 10, 2024, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, captured cinematic triumphs. Movies including “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” dominated the nominations.
Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” film bagged best picture, after receiving 13 nominations for the night. The movie’s lead star Cillian Murphy went home with the best actor award, while his co-star, Robert Downey Jr. walked away with the best supporting actor honorary. Nolan won the best director award for the popular film.
Meanwhile, “Barbie” was nominated for eight awards but was snubbed by the Academy. Greta Gerwig was nominated for best director, America Ferrera received a nod for supporting actress while Ryan Gosling had a nomination for best supporting actor in the film. “Barbie” was also nominated twice for best song.
As the stars aligned to honor the finest 2023 films, the red carpet became a runway of impressive fashion moments that left fans and critics alike in awe.
Among the stunning outfits, three dresses stood out, sparking a frenzy of admiration and accolades online. Here are the evening’s best-dressed celebrities, whose fashion choices caused quite a stir.
The Spotlight Shines on Camila McConaughey
Camila Alves stole the spotlight on a night that celebrates cinematic achievements with her sophisticated and unique ensemble. Accompanying her husband, the acclaimed actor Matthew McConaughey, she exuded elegance in a custom-made gown by Atelier Versace.
The dress, a masterpiece of design, featured long black elegance adorned with a sparkling embellished bra and a statement chunky necklace, making Alves the center of attention on the red carpet.
The sleeves of her dress, crafted from a plastic-like material, shimmered under the flashlights, capturing the essence of modern luxury. They were custom-made by Atsuko Kudo Latex.
Styled with relaxed waves and bold makeup that includes bronze contouring and nude lips, the Brazilian model’s look was a harmonious blend of classic glamor and contemporary chic.
Her outfit, complemented by exquisite jewelry from Bulgari, was hailed as the pinnacle of red-carpet fashion, with online users proclaiming her the “best dressed elegant woman” of the evening.
“She outclassed all the entertainers!” commented a user.”She is the best dressed elegant woman there! [sic]” another agreed. Some fashion admirers paid respect to the dress and jewelry choice, with one user commenting, “Seems so unique as I’ve not seen that style before.” Another person added, “The necklace is to die for.”
Alves’ own appreciation for the dress was palpable as she thanked Donatella Versace for making her dream dress a reality, solidifying her status as a fashion icon. “@donatella_versace this dress designed special by YOU custom made for me by Atelier Versace @versace was a dream !!! Truly…Thank you!!!” wrote the designer.
Carey Mulligan’s Timeless Elegance
Carey Mulligan, nominated for her role in “Maestro,” made a striking appearance in a beautiful Balenciaga gown from 1951, specially recreated for the occasion.
The strapless figure hugging black gown, accentuated with a dramatic white pleated fishtail skirt, epitomized classic Hollywood style. Mulligan’s ensemble was a testament to timeless elegance, further enhanced by her choice of long black gloves and silver drop earrings.
The actress’s flawless attire left an indelible mark, with online admirers lauding her look as the epitome of sophistication. Mulligan, who styled her short blonde hair straight and applied natural makeup, echoed the sentiment of her fans, as she expressed her love for the dress, considering it her favorite ever worn.
The English native’s get-up not only paid homage to the legacy of Balenciaga it also showcased the blonde beauty’s impeccable taste and stature as a fashion-forward star.
Online users gushed about the movie star’s look for one of Hollywood’s biggest nights. “She looked the best, absolutely stunning,” one person remarked. “Very elegant like old Hollywood!” said another.
Someone commented, “An actual classy looking lady in a great dress. That’s what the Oscars should be about. Not talentless social media people who expose themselves to get more hits & followers. They should have a dress….”
Zendaya: A Modern-Day Style Icon
Zendaya, known for her sartorial prowess, continued to redefine red-carpet fashion with her appearance in an Armani Privé garment. The dress, a marvel of design featuring an exposed corset and an embroidered palm tree pattern, highlighted the two-time Emmy Award winner’s status as a contemporary style icon.
Accessorized with Bulgari jewelry, Zendaya’s look was a blend of elegance and innovation, earning praise for its beauty and originality. Styled by Law Roach, the former child star’s appearance was a tribute to the enduring allure of Hollywood style, with a modern twist that resonated with fans and fashion enthusiasts.
Online users were quick to commend her choice, placing her at the top of the best-dressed list alongside Hollywood’s leading ladies.“Zendaya looked elegant and beautiful,” wrote one online user. Another penned, “Zendaya looks lovely. Old world Hollywood comes to life. That dress is gorgeous!” said one person.
“Stunning dress and fits her like a glove; well done!” someone else lamented. More people commented on the best-dressed Hollywood star at the Academy Awards.
One individual said, “Zendaya has the best dress, followed by Anya, Eva Longoria, Margot Robbie and America Ferrera!” “Zendaya looks the best of the lot. Beautiful gown and with the figure to wear it,” wrote another.
One other online user also praised the former Disney star’s choice of outfit, writing, “Zendaya absolutely nailed it. Top class outfit.” The individual also took a jab at a pop star’s choice of attire for the prestigious event, penning, “No idea who put Ariana Grande into a pulled down curtain.”
Someone else echoed, “Yep, she looks classy and beautiful,” commenting on Zendaya’s look that turned heads at the Academy Awards earlier this month.
The Oscar Awards not only celebrated the achievements of the film industry but also showcased the unparalleled beauty and creativity of fashion. Alves, Mulligan, and Zendaya were the evening’s fashion icons.
