Jamie Lee Curtis may have worked in Hollywood for over 45 years, but last night’s Academy Awards certainly was the greatest night of her life.
It was the first time the 64-year-old had been nominated for an Oscar for her supporting role in All At Once. Knowing the spotlight would be firmly on her, did the star opt for a dress that shouted, “Look at me, I’m gorgeous”?
Not quite. She liked to adapt. Her crystal-embellished Dolce & Gabbana dress was a soothing champagne hue and fitted perfectly. . . the carpet! It’s the first time the Oscars have opted for a “soft” shade of champagne rather than the usual red.
Sparkling Glitz: Jamie Lee Curtis in Dolce & GabbanaModern Twist: Florence Pugh in Valentino Haute Couture Naomi Campbell in SchiaparelliCara Delevingne in Del Core at the Vanity Fair After-Party
The temptation for stars to stand out in bright, garish colors against such a muted background must have been intense. Luckily, the biggest stars of the night didn’t do that (at least most of them did). Surprisingly, Jamie Lee was far from alone. From Florence Pugh in Valentino to Naomi Watts in Givenchy, the stage has been awash in this hue.
Though it may look effortless, has anyone dressed simpler or more stylish than actress Rooney Mara in vintage Alexander McQueen? –Champagne as a color requires a lot of maintenance. Consider it a humble boast, as champagne color literally calls for a champagne lifestyle—one free from dirt, toddlers, and alcohol stains.
It also draws attention to the figure of the wearer. But by adding texture, embellishments like Schiaparelli’s metallic sequins worn by Naomi Campbell, or clouds of fabric like those seen on Helena Christensen, there’s always a way out.
Champagne allows the wearer to be sexy without falling into trash, providing a gentle backdrop for form-fitting attire, with Zoe Saldana and Cara Delevingne proving this point beautifully.
Olivia Wilde in Gabriela HearstEmily Ratajkowski in FebenCara Delevingne arrives at the ceremony in Elie SaabLady Gaga in Versace
Of course, it’s not a color that’s going to dazzle an observing photographer, so there’s a risk that those sporting this calm hue will go unnoticed – which could explain why it was the choice for the Oscars’ biggest stars. These were women who understood the power of less is more; who can make their talent sparkle.
This shade also lets the wearer speak. As Best Actress winner Michelle Yeoh said, “Ladies, never let anyone tell you you’re past your prime.”
Now there’s something we could all raise our glasses to.