Zoe Saldana was honoured with the Spotlight Award at the 2025 Costume Designers Guild Awards, a tribute to actors who not only excel in their craft but also understand the transformative power of costume design. Given her career, it’s easy to assume this honour nods more to Avatar than Emilia Pérez, but the Guild made it clear: Zoe has a unique ability to inhabit a costume—no matter how elaborate or otherworldly—and bring a character to life.
For the occasion, she continued her Maison Margiela Artisanal streak, wearing her second Haute Couture look from the label in a row. This time, she opted for a black silk aquarelled tulle dress, layered over a boudoir-coloured illusion skirt with black handkerchief appliqué. The foundation of the look? A silk satin cincher that kept things structured yet sultry.
If you followed this collection when it debuted, you’ll know it broke the internet. Think avant-garde chaos, sheer madness (literally), and plenty of “OMG” moments. But Zoe? She wasn’t here to play the reveal game. Instead, she chose a piece that—while still artistic—felt far more in line with her natural style.
Given the night’s theme, some may have expected her to lean fully into the Margiela madness, but I, for one, appreciate that she stayed true to herself.
Anita Ko jewels and Christian Louboutin for Maison Margiela Tabi neoprene ankle-strap pumps completed her look, reinforcing that while Zoe respects avant-garde fashion, she’s not about to lose herself in it.
Stylist: Petra Flannery.
Credit: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for CDGA / Vogue.com
FTC Disclaimer: Keep in mind that I may receive commissions when you click links and make purchases. However, this does not impact my reviews.
