Arts, Column

Vergura: The Most Memorable Red Carpet Moments of 2023

Though 2023 is not yet over, some of the best looks have already been seen on the red carpet. From the Oscars in February to the MTV Video Music Awards in September, check out some of the best looks that celebrities stepped out in this year. 

Cara Delevigne at the Oscars

At the Oscars, Cara Delevingne wowed in a bold red Elie Saab gown. While this look had a classic feel to it, amplified by her sophisticated diamond accessories and makeup, the exaggerated silhouette and asymmetrical cut drew attention to Delevingne’s features. The lengthy train contrasted with the high slit, drawing attention to her exposed leg, and the giant bow on her left shoulder pulled the eyes up to her face. This silhouette was a perfect enhancement of the traditional red carpet dress, and it brought a touch of Old Hollywood to modern fashion. 

Aja Naomi King at the Cannes Film Festival

Aja Naomi King wore Gaurav Gupta Couture to the Cannes Film Festival this May. Gupta is known for creating movement within his pieces, and this dress was no exception with its mermaid silhouette and short train. This dress in particular reached a level of timelessness that a lot of Gupta’s other pieces fall short of, due to its neutral color, which allowed for the dress’ unique shape to be the focal point. King clearly respected the artistry of the dress, as she wore simple accessories and her hair in an updo to allow the dress to shine in its own right. 

Anok Yai at The Met Gala

The Met Gala is commonly referred to as “fashion’s biggest night out,” and Anok Yai’s Atelier Prabal Gurung dress lived up to that hype. This dress struck the perfect balance of being futuristic and technically interesting while not feeling like a costume. The detailing on the bodice was exquisite, and by bringing the sparkles down to the train, Gurung created a sense of cohesion among the two main elements. Additionally, the enlarged waist coupled with the tight bodice created a regal shape reminiscent of the panniers of the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Bad Bunny at The Met Gala

The Met Gala is the time to experiment with fashion, and Bad Bunny certainly achieved the wow factor with this Jacquemus suit. On first glance, one can appreciate the clean, monochrome suit and the contrast it created between the structured, masculine style and the overtly feminine floral train he wore. But the back is what truly makes this piece. The open panel in the back coupled with the thin chain draped down the back created a feeling of delicateness and elegance that men’s fashion often struggles to achieve. 

Offset at VMAs

At the MTV Video Music Awards, Offset reinvented the black suit to create a new, more interesting look. Pairing a chunky belt with a cropped blazer allowed the silver accent to shine. His platform shoes added a modern element to the classic suit. The incorporation of silver jewelry throughout the look tied in the belt and created unity throughout the outfit. One has to appreciate his hair clips, which tied into his wife Cardi B’s dress. At every red carpet there is guaranteed to be a flock of black tuxedos, but by including unique accessories, Offset livened up his look and separated himself from the pack. 

Kate Beckinsale at the amfAR Gala 

When making a list of favorite looks from this season, I couldn’t help but think of Kate Beckinsale’s elegant dress for the amfAR Gala in Cannes. This deep purple gown was accentuated by the placement of emerald green sparkles throughout. This added depth to the color and pulled in the green belt detailing at her waistline. The dramatic cut fanned out toward her face and then again at her waist, beautifully accentuating her figure despite the dress’ unique shape. This floor-length dress perfectly struck a balance between elegance and eccentricity to create an unforgettable look.

November 19, 2023