Miuccia Prada knows how to make a red carpet moment, and in recent times, we’ve applauded the brand’s 10-out-of-10 custom looks. But for the 2025 Critics’ Choice Awards? Let’s just say… it was a bit of a journey.
A classic Prada silhouette with a fresh twist
Danielle Deadwyler’s custom Prada pink dress with a wide train might feel like a silhouette we’ve seen before, but the shimmering white overlay and the cut-out detail add just enough freshness. Without the overlay, I might have been more critical of the white satin gloves. But as it stands, this is a solid moment that doesn’t push boundaries but doesn’t fall flat either.
Styled by Wayman Bannerman and Micah McDonald.
deserved better lighting, Or A Non-black Step-and-Repeat
Naomi Watts was elegance personified in a custom Prada black satin dress. The geometric construction is stunning—if only we could see it more clearly against the dark background. This is easily the best Prada look of the night, but I wish the design had been showcased in a lighter shade to let those sharp details shine. A Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany Bird on a Rock earrings, Tiffany & Co. Archives bracelet, and ring added some much-needed sparkle.
Styled by Jeanann Williams.
Was this too low-key for the Critics’ Choice red carpet?
Monica Barbaro had an epic press tour for A Complete Unknown, but this Prada black fringed top with crystal embroidery and a black satin skirt is giving Film Independent Spirit Awards rather than Critics’ Choice. That’s not to say she doesn’t look fabulous—she does—but this feels a little too casual for the occasion.
Styled by Jeanann Williams.
Eyelets, leather belts, metal clasps? Yikes.
Caitríona Balfe’s Prada ice-coloured look has me lost for words—and not in a good way. The eyelet embellishments? Fine. Keeping things interesting. But the matching skirt with the leather belt and metal clasps? What in the BDSM is this? I don’t get it. What was the brief?
Styled by Karla Welch.
quietly beautiful
I was this close to calling Mona Fastvold’s Prada white dress pretty but forgettable, until I realized it was entirely made up of sequins. Suddenly, there’s an element of intrigue. The black bow detail seamlessly ties in her Prada black leather pumps, adding a touch of contrast. It may not be the most memorable look, but at least it’s polished.
So, while Prada has wowed us with their custom creations in the past, this lineup had its hits and head-scratchers. Naomi and Danielle carried the brand on their well-dressed shoulders, while Caitríona’s look remains an unsolved fashion mystery.
Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Critics Choice Association / JC Olivera/Variety via Getty Images / MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images / Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Critics Choice Association / Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
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