Top 5 Gamechanging Oscar Looks That Defined the Red Carpet

From avant-garde to poignant statements, these Oscars looks went down in history for their boldness, beauty, and message.

1. Julia Roberts and the Tale of the Oscar Bracelet

At the 2001 Oscars, Julia Roberts not only grabbed the Best Actress award for “Erin Brockovich” but also flashed a bracelet that would later find a new home with Mariah Carey. It’s the kind of glitzy detail that adds a pop of celebrity connection to an already sparkling victory.

2. Joaquin Phoenix and the Sustainable Suit

Joaquin Phoenix made a statement throughout the 2020 awards season by wearing the same Stella McCartney suit to every event, Oscars included. His commitment to combat fast fashion and promote sustainability showcased how the red carpet could be a stage for meaningful environmental advocacy, blending style with substance in a memorable way.

3. Angelina Jolie’s Sartorial Simplicity

Angelina Jolie’s 2012 Oscars appearance in a black Versace gown, celebrated for its thigh-high slit, underscored the allure of simplicity. By opting for comfort and elegance, Jolie’s ensemble remains a standout for its effortless chic, demonstrating that sometimes less really is more.

4. Natalie Portman’s Dressed Statement

The 2020 Oscars saw Natalie Portman in a Dior cape, elegantly calling out the absence of female director nominees with their names stitched into the fabric. Portman’s attire went beyond fashion, serving as a platform for advocacy and shining a light on Hollywood’s gender disparities.

5. Björk’s Swan Dress Saga

Björk, in her 2001 Oscar appearance, chose not just to wear a dress but to embody a story. Her choice, a swan dress by Marjan Pejoski, complete with a performance of laying an egg on the red carpet, is etched in the annals of Oscar lore as a blend of whimsy and outright rebellion against the norm.