On a star-studded Saturday evening, the city of Los Angeles played host to the premiere of “Wicked,” a film adaptation of the beloved musical that has captivated audiences for years. Among the luminaries gracing the red carpet was Ariana Grande, who portrays Glinda, the Good Witch. Grande made a striking impression, not just through her performance promises but also through her sensational fashion choice that not only honored her character but also paid homage to the classic tale of “The Wizard of Oz.”
Dressed in a breathtaking, custom-designed gown by Thom Browne, Grande’s ensemble was a meticulously crafted masterpiece that captured the essence of her character while cleverly intertwining elements from the iconic story. The strapless white duchess satin dress, complemented by a chic capelet, was bedecked with pink gingham crystals and silk thread embroidery, symbolizing Dorothy’s famed blue checked dress, a significant reference that resonated with the audience. Grande’s gown wasn’t just visually pleasing; it had an impressive story behind it too, boasting 600,000 three-cut beads and 50,000 pink crystals, which came to life after an astonishing 6,000 hours of labor involving a team of 50 people.
Her shoes, a modern twist reminiscent of Dorothy’s original silver slippers from L. Frank Baum’s works, were adorned with 4,000 Swarovski crystals, further intensifying the sparkle of her overall look. Clearly, every detail was thoughtfully conceived, allowing Grande not only to shine but also to narrate a story through her fashion choices.
In what can be described as an adorable yet stylish nod to her character’s pet, Grande brought along a unique accessory—a wicker bag in the shape of Hector, a dog emblematic of the Thom Browne fashion brand, emblematic of her role as Glinda. This accessory was not merely a fashion statement; it also signified Grande’s playful approach to embodying the spirit of both her character and the whimsical world of Oz. Her hairstyle, neatly tied up in a high bun adorned with a matching bow, coupled with elegant gloves, completed her glamorous transformation.
Speaking to Vogue, Grande reflected on the creative collaboration with Thom Browne, illuminating the intricacies of her dress and its connection to the narrative of Oz. The asymmetrical high-to-low skirt design not only brought a contemporary twist to the look but also served to evoke the surreal quality of the magical land. Grande’s excitement about the “intricate beading of the gingham” showcased her understanding of fashion as a narrative art form that goes beyond mere aesthetics.
Grande’s glamorous appearance at the premiere is not an isolated incident in her fashion journey. Known for her penchant for vibrant and thematic outfits, she previously turned heads in Sydney, channeling celebrations of characters past with a poofy pink gown by Vivienne Westwood, embellished with stunning diamonds—a dazzling representation of her commitment to theatricality and style.
Moreover, she was not alone in making bold fashion statements at the premiere. Cynthia Erivo, portraying Elphaba, embraced the color green in a striking Louis Vuitton ensemble, and Jonathan Bailey added to the trio’s theme with his playful yet chic attire, showcasing the synergy among the stars—an acknowledgment of their roles and the shared narrative of this groundbreaking adaptation.
The “Wicked” premiere was more than a film launch; it was a celebration of artistry that blended the worlds of theatre, film, and fashion, creating a dialogue that pointed back to the cherished tales of childhood. Ariana Grande, through her thoughtful and dazzling fashion choices, has reinforced her position not only as a talented artist but also as a style icon capable of weaving stories into her sartorial decisions. This premiere highlighted the intersection of narrative and aesthetics, showcasing how entertainment can ignite inspiration beyond the screen, making it a memorable evening for everyone involved.
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