The 2024 Academy Museum Gala was not just a celebration of cinema, but also a showcase of couture mastery as the house of Chanel dressed four celebrities in looks that bridged the worlds of Haute Couture and ready-to-wear. Each look captured the essence of Chanel’s legacy—timeless elegance infused with modern twists.
Geometric Glamour
Marion Cotillard graced the red carpet in a look that epitomised high-octane glamour. Wearing a gown inspired by Chanel’s Fall 2022 Haute Couture collection, the French fashion house took the strapless design to the next level with a draped halter neck collar that added architectural intrigue. The optical geometric motifs were bold without overpowering the look, and the belted overskirt with its embroidered bow carries on from the original design. We all know how the French actress prefers to lean into her rebellious style choices (as seen at the César Awards), but on this occasion she surprised me by leaning into pure glamour this time, elevated further by Chanel Brins de Diamants earrings and sparkling Chanel jewels.
Balletcore Meets Sheer Elegance
Margaret Qualley’s Spring 2025 Chanel ensemble may feel like a déjà vu moment for some, but it’s the intricate details that set this look apart. The cage-style knit skirt gave us a rare sheer moment from the typically understated actress, while the top, shorts, and Chanel Etoile Filante head jewel played into the balletcore aesthetic she has been favouring in recent weeks. The softness of the ballet-inspired elements juxtaposed with the bold sheer skirt made this one of her most intriguing looks.
Very Quiet Elegance
As a Chanel ambassador, Phoebe Tonkin has worn the brand many times, but this black organza and silk tulle dress from the Spring 2023 Haute Couture collection is one of her more refined moments. The dress itself is saved by the exquisite embellishments, and the velvet waves cascading down the hem give it a unique flair that prevents it from feeling overly safe, but I’m sure some will still deem this to be underwhelming for the occasion. A Chanel Motif Russe bracelet and Ruban ring completed her look.
Simple Sophistication
After a series of misfires with Louis Vuitton, Jurnee Smollett went back to basics with a black velvet bustier dress from Chanel. Simplicity was her strength here, and it paid off. The minimalism of the dress allowed her jewelry to take center stage, especially the Chanel Summer Cruise necklace in 18k white and yellow gold adorned with sapphires, yellow diamonds, and diamonds. Jurnee’s look was a masterclass in how to do classic Chanel without being boring. This was a sleek, confident display of timeless beauty.
Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Academy Museum of Motion Pictures / Amy Sussman/Getty Images / Vogue.com
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