The Academy Awards stand as the most coveted honor for each involved in the film industry. Among everything that transpires at the hours-long ceremony of each edition of the Oscars, one standout and most looked for is the red carpet where some of the biggest stars of the art descend in a glitteringly studded show of fashion. The last of it happened on March 12, 2023, when Linsey Davis and Whit Johnson hosted the wave of arriving artists walking down a champagne-colored carpet as each of their looks etched distinction.

In the meantime, fashion experts, as well as fans, dissected and debated upon the wears, bringing along a list of hits and misses.

1. Nicole Kidman

Moulin Rouge! Actress Nicole Kidman presented an Oscar at the 95th Academy Awards, but not before walking down the red carpet premiere in style. Opting for a sleek black Armani Privé gown which featured silver floral brooches adorning the shoulder and hip, her look came across as a timeless hit. Additionally, the high slit, floor-length, one-shoulder design, added a touch of asymmetry and modern flair. Pairing it all with loose, tousled waves of her hairstyle choice and smokey gray eye shadow, she undeniably stood as a show-stopper.

2. Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson

Famed for his muscular stature and unwavering stamina in movies like Fast Five and San Andreas, Dwayne Johnson marked a significant style departure at the Oscars 2023 when he wore a Dolce & Gabbana single-breasted jacket with peak lapels and satin detailing in a color dubbed ‘ballet pink’. If the choice came across as a foreshadowing of the sweeping re-imagination of pink by Barbie, dropping a few months later, or a statement departure, the bold look complemented by a crisp white dress shirt and a black bow tie, won fashion appraisers over.

3. Kate Hudson

Donning a shimmering silver adorned with countless sequins, Kate Hudson marked a sparkling debut at the 2023 Academy Awards red carpet but could not hide the fact that her ensemble by Louis Vuitton came off as unfit. The choice of sleeves eventually became such an issue for her to keep up with that she ditched them completely while on-stage for presenting an award. Overall, while her mermaid silhouette and blonde tresses came close to perfection, she would have fared better without the sleeves in the eyes of fashion experts.

4. Andrea Riseborough

Nominated for Best Actress Oscars for To Leslie, Andrea Riseborough created a mild divide with her looks at the event. Wearing a blush pink lace gown, she spread around a whimsical and romantic feel as it fell to the floor and moved along gracefully as she moved. However, her simplicity had some critics label it as ‘oversimplification’, especially considering her choice for the bare minimum of jewelry. Yet countless others hailed it for being one of the unique outfits, considering how well it complemented her signature pixie cut hairstyle.

5. Michelle Yeoh

The Everything Everywhere All at Once nominated and Best Actress Oscars winner, Michelle Yeoh engulfed the event with her ethereal white Dior couture gown. Featuring an A-line silhouette, known for its flattering and elegant drape, the dress flowed gracefully from the bodice to the floor. Moreover, the layers of ivory silk organza lay adorned with delicate feathers, creating a soft and angelic look that cost over 450 hours of effort. Pairing it with drop earrings, a white watch, and a coordinating ring, her rhinestone headpiece further embellished her voluminous, bouncy curls.

6. Pedro Pascal

The Mandalorian actor spoke of bespoke finesse when he added a touch of individuality while pairing a high-necked, band-collar shirt with a black tuxedo but without a traditional bow or necktie. Designed by Zegna, the high-necked shirt added subtle elegance without being overly flashy as he sported neatly styled hair with a short back and sides, and slightly longer hair on top. Finally, he added his understated flair with a pair of polished black dress shoes, maintaining the overall formality.

7. Ana de Armas

The No Time To Die actress opted for a Louis Vuitton scalloped mermaid silhouette that hugged her figure and then flowed out dramatically at the knees into a trail. Incidentally, the style’s glamorous silhouette mirrored some of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic looks, adding a touch of vintage Hollywood flair. The pale silver shimmered under the red carpet lights as countless glittering glass beads and rhinestones created a subtle sparkle and a luxurious texture. Furthermore, the scooped neckline and the sleek, straight blowout hairstyle made way for a glamorous and youthful look.

8. Florence Pugh

Currently basking in fame as her famed Oppenheimer competes for high honors, Pugh opted for a Valentino voluminous, off-the-shoulder couture gown with an open-front instead of a traditional flowing gown. Pairing them with black hot pants peeking out from underneath the voluminous skirt, added another layer to the outfit, but many also pointed out that it appeared a bit dull. However, the actress did dazzle as she wore a statement diamond necklace and dramatic drop earrings from Tiffany & Co. The contrast did not sit very well among some admirers.

9. Jamie Lee Curtis

Receiving her first-ever Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for Everything Everywhere All at Once, Jamie Lee Curtis marked a show of elegance at the 2023 Oscars red carpet. Opting for a Dolce & Gabbana floor-length gown with long sleeves and an elegant silhouette, the light-tan color of it incredibly coordinated with the carpet color, complementing her looks. Making way for a structured and flattering fit, the high neckline and sparkly sequins perfectly sang along with the glamor of the night.

10. Eva Longoria

Wearing a floor-length Zuhair Murad gown with a plunging neckline, the John Wick actress’s preference for white and countless rhinestones and crystals created a dazzling and shimmering effect. Moreover, the intricate geometric lace design added a touch of Art déco flair and a unique visual texture, cementing her idea of a “disco-ball” dress. However, fashion enthusiasts also pointed out that the look appeared somewhat ‘heavy’ and oddly tapered, with unnecessary flairs at the feet even if many saw the same as an element of uniqueness.

With the 2024 Oscars red carpet lined up for March 10, 2024, fans can expect to see their favorites debut with new styles and colors. Regardless, what do you think of the fashion choices made by the 2023 Academy Awards red carpet attendees? Let us know in the comments below.