After months on opposite sides of the globe promoting Wicked and navigating their Oscar campaigns, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande finally reunited at the 2025 AFI Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles on Thursday. But while their film celebrates fantasy, their fashion choices couldn’t have been more grounded in reality—one brought high glamour to a daytime event, while the other leaned into quiet luxury.
Luncheon or Luxe?
While a luncheon typically calls for understated elegance, Cynthia Erivo arrived in full red carpet mode wearing a Self-Portrait slate rhinestone mesh cut-out midi dress. It was dazzling, dramatic, and perhaps a touch overdressed for the occasion—but when has Cynthia ever played it safe?
The real scene-stealer? That black-and-white fun-fur coat, which added an unapologetic touch of Cruella de Vil meets Old Hollywood. Some will argue that it was unnecessary for a daytime affair, but honestly, I live for the drama. My only gripe? The Louis Vuitton monogram clutch, which felt slightly out of place amidst all this opulence.
Styled by Jason Bolden.
Minimalist or Meh?
While Cynthia was dripping in crystals, Ariana Grande took the opposite approach in a minimalist ivory silk dress from Loewe’s Spring 2025 collection. This was simplicity personified—clean lines, a relaxed fit, and zero fuss. After dipping her toes into oversized menswear, she’s now embracing the quiet luxury trend.
The question is—does it work? The dress itself is undeniably chic, but its shapelessness risks veering into “nightgown” territory. Paired with a black wool coat and classic black pumps, the styling was polished, if not particularly exciting.
Cynthia brought the drama, Ariana kept it refined—two very different takes, but both stayed true to their evolving fashion narratives. What appeals to you? Extra or effortless.
Styled by Mimi Cuttrell.
Credit: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for AFI / Self-Portrait
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