Hollywood has long held the reputation as a glittering beacon of entertainment, and the recent premiere of “Wicked” in Los Angeles was no exception. The event gathered an array of stars, but it was Ariana Grande who truly captured the limelight. As she walked the red carpet, her appearance was designed not just to dazzle, but to pay homage to the beloved characters of the classic “Wicked” storyline. Grande, who portrays Glinda—often referred to as the Good Witch—showcased an exquisite blend of elegance and whimsy that harkened back to the iconic “Wizard of Oz.”
Grande’s stunning outfit was custom-designed by Thom Browne, a designer known for his meticulous craftsmanship and innovative style. The dress featured a strapless white duchess satin silhouette crowned with a capelet, but it was the details that truly set it apart. The fabric was embedded with pink gingham crystals and intricate silk thread embroidery, invoking the famous blue checkered dress worn by Dorothy. This thoughtful design choice served as a charming nod to classic literature, reminding audiences of the enchanting origins of these beloved stories.
Notably, the creation involved a staggering amount of labor: 600,000 three-cut beads and 50,000 pink crystals came together thanks to the dedication of 50 artisans who labored over 6,000 hours. This meticulous attention to detail illustrates the movie’s commitment to honoring its theatrical roots while also embracing new cinematic techniques. Grande herself reflected on the significance of her gown, emphasizing the joy she felt collaborating with Thom Browne and expressing her admiration for the intricate work that defined the piece.
Completing her enchanting look, Grande donned shoes reminiscent of Dorothy’s original footwear—though fewer people know that the iconic shoes were, in fact, silver in L. Frank Baum’s original narrative, as opposed to the ruby-red of the famous film adaptation. Decorated with 4,000 Swarovski crystals, these shoes not only served as a beautiful accent but also carried profound meaning, bridging the past and present of cinematic history. Furthermore, Ariana added a whimsical touch by carrying a wicker bag in the shape of a Hector dog, reinforcing her character’s connection to the charming yet complex world of Oz.
Her hair, elegantly styled in a bun and secured with a matching bow, along with her dainty gloves, completed this magical ensemble. The infusion of various elements—a high-low skirt and extravagant beading—signified an essence of fantasy while simultaneously demonstrating modern fashion sensibilities.
Ariana Grande’s appearance at the “Wicked” premiere is not just a one-off showcase of style; it represents a broader trend among Hollywood celebrities who draw inspiration from classic films and literature at their premieres. Previously, Grande has put her own spin on beloved characters, as evidenced during the Sydney premiere where she channeled Billie Burke’s character, in a stunning pink Vivienne Westwood gown adorned with diamonds. This trend of reinterpreting classics through the lens of modern fashion reflects both a nostalgic reverence and a contemporary twist that audiences have come to expect from Grande.
Her co-stars also embraced the theme skillfully. Cynthia Erivo, portraying Elphaba, opted for a striking green latex gown by Louis Vuitton paired with an opulent emerald-and-diamond necklace, while Jonathan Bailey, in the role of Fiyero, added to the cohesive aesthetic with his sequined attire. This collaborative effort among the principal cast members illustrated not just the synergy of their performances but also a unified vision that extended to their appearance on the red carpet.
The “Wicked” premiere, highlighted by Ariana Grande’s artistic homage to both her character and the original literary inspirations, serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to connect with audiences. The glamour, thoughtfulness, and spirited creativity on display reflect a dedication to artistry that resonates beyond the screen. As audiences anticipate the film’s release, they are left with a sense of excitement and appreciation for the tradition of storytelling that continues to evolve in Hollywood—inspiring generations to come.
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