Canadian actress and director Taylor Russell, a member of the international jury for the ‘Luigi De Laurentiis’ Venice Award (‘Lion of the Future’) for a Debut Film, made a breathtaking entrance at the photocall this morning.
The moment she stepped out, I swooned. Witnessing such elegance before noon is a rare treat, especially when it comes from someone who knows how to serve up glamour like Taylor.
Today, she graced us with a vintage John Galliano ensemble, and there is so much to love about this houndstooth checked wool suit from Galliano’s iconic Spring 1995 ‘Pin-up/Misia Sert’ collection. From the halter-neck style lapels to the exaggerated hourglass silhouette emphasized by padded hips, every detail of this look speaks to Galliano’s genius for creating drama and intrigue through fashion. And then there’s the unique touch of the corded cut-out accented with buttons—a masterstroke that adds both texture and a hint of playful seduction.
What’s particularly striking about this ensemble is how it manages to feel both timeless and fresh. The suit is undeniably vintage, yet it doesn’t feel dated. This is Galliano at his best: taking classic elements and twisting them into something that feels avant-garde and modern, even decades after it first debuted. The halter-neck style lapels are not something you see every day, and the exaggerated hourglass shape is a testament to Galliano’s understanding of the female form and his ability to celebrate it in all its curves and angles.
I’m particularly glad that no modifications were made to the skirt length. The calf-length hem is crucial to the look, instilling it with the old Hollywood glamour and sophistication that John Galliano is known for. Shortening the skirt may have compromised the integrity of the design and taken away from the powerful, statuesque silhouette that Taylor embodied so flawlessly.
As for the sheer ankle wrap pumps, opinions might be divided. Some might argue they were the right choice to complement the vintage look with a touch of modernity, and I do appreciate that one element of her outfit feels contemporary. However, I have a personal pet peeve about wrap ankle straps. While they didn’t ruin the look by any means, I think a classic pump without the straps would have been preferred. Still, this is a minor quibble in what is otherwise a fashion triumph.
Overall, Taylor’s appearance at the Venice Film Festival photocall is a reminder of why vintage fashion continues to captivate. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about bringing the past into the present with confidence and style. Taylor’s choice to wear a piece from John Galliano’s archive is a testament to her impeccable taste and her understanding of fashion as an art form. She could have chosen a more predictable designer from the labels she is closely affiliated with (Loewe and McQueen), but instead, she opted for something daring, something with a story—and that makes all the difference.
I, for one, am eager to see what else Taylor has in store for us this festival season. If today’s look is any indication, we can expect a series of unforgettable fashion moments.
Credit: Daniele Venturelli/WireImage
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