AWhimsical Tribute to Oz: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Dazzle at the Oscars
The 2023 Oscars red carpet was a magical sight to behold, thanks to the vibrant stylistic choices of Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Paying homage to their characters from the highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical, both actresses arrived in looks that mirrored the iconic hues of their roles—Grande in icy pink and Erivo in deep forest green. The result was a visual celebration of Wicked’s whimsical world, blending old Hollywood glamour with modern-day artistry.
Ariana Grande’s Icy Pink Showstopper
Ariana Grande, nominated for Best Supporting Actress, stunned in a custom Schiaparelli gown that was nothing short of breathtaking. Crafted from satin and tulle, the bustier-style dress shimmered under the lights, adorned with over 190,000 crystal sequins, rhinestones, and beads. The fitted, wiggly waistline added a touch of elegance, drawing inspiration from a lamp designed by the renowned artist Alberto Giacometti. The icy pink hue was a direct nod to her character, Glinda the Good Witch, and the intricate detailing highlighted the craftsmanship behind the look. Grande’s overall ensemble was a perfect blend of fairy-tale charm and red-carpet sophistication.
Cynthia Erivo’s Deep Forest Green Masterpiece
Cynthia Erivo, nominated for Best Actress, opted for a dramatic deep forest green gown by Louis Vuitton. At first glance, the rich, dark shade almost appeared black, but upon closer inspection, the subtle green undertones revealed themselves, paying a deliberate homage to her character, Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. The velvet fabric gave the gown a luxurious texture, while the architectural, almost vampiric collar added a striking, otherworldly touch. Erivo’s look was completed by her signature long fingernails, adorned with hand-sculpted gilded art, including a tiny watch and clock. Speaking to E! on the red carpet, Erivo described the outfit as a “nod to Oz, a nod to the green, and a nod to old Hollywood,” encapsulating the timeless essence of her character.
A Consistent Thematic Journey Throughout the Wicked Press Tour
Grande and Erivo’s Oscars looks were not isolated instances of thematic dressing; they were part of a larger narrative that unfolded throughout the Wicked press tour. At the film’s Los Angeles premiere, Grande wore a pink Thom Browne gingham dress, while Erivo donned a green vinyl Louis Vuitton outfit. The color choices were consistent and deliberate, reinforcing their connection to their characters. Even at events not directly tied to the film, such as their appearance at the Olympics in Paris, the duo stayed true to their pink and green aesthetic. This commitment to the bit showcased their dedication to embodying their roles and building excitement for the movie.
The Cultural Significance of Their Fashion Choices
The actresses’ decision to wear outfits inspired by their Wicked characters transcended mere fashion—it was a cultural statement. By embracing the iconic colors of Glinda and Elphaba, Grande and Erivo not only celebrated the legacy of the musical but also highlighted the duality of their characters. Glinda’s pink represents light, goodness, and purity, while Elphaba’s green embodies complexity, power, and depth. Their looks on the red carpet served as a reminder of the timeless appeal of Wicked and its exploration of nuanced female characters.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Wicked
As the second installment of Wicked prepares for release later this year, fans are eagerly awaiting the continuation of Glinda and Elphaba’s journey. The question on everyone’s mind? Will Grande and Erivo continue to embrace their pink and green color scheme as they promote the next chapter of the story? Given their consistent thematic choices so far, it seems likely that they will remain true to their characters’ signature hues. After all, as Glinda once said, “Pink goes good with green.”
In the end, Grande and Erivo’s Oscars appearances were more than just a fashion moment; they were a celebration of art, storytelling, and the enduring magic of Wicked. Their commitment to their characters’ aesthetics not only wowed audiences but also set the tone for the excitement surrounding the film’s upcoming release. As fans await the next chapter of this beloved story, one thing is certain: the legacy of Wicked is in good hands with these two talented stars.