All eyes were on Ariana Grande as she graced the red carpet at the 2025 Academy Awards on Sunday evening. The Grammy-winning singer, known for her ethereal beauty and impeccable fashion sense, made a bold statement in a pale pink, strapless gown that instantly became the talk of the night. The dress, featuring a dramatic peplum that gave it a sculptural, almost avant-garde silhouette, divided opinions on social media, with some fans in awe of its unique design while others couldn’t help but compare it to a lampshade due to its structured and voluminous shape.
A Couture Moment That Defined the Night
Designed by Schiaparelli, the gown had a striking architectural feel, with an exaggerated sweetheart neckline that gracefully framed Ariana’s delicate shoulders. The bodice cinched at the waist before flaring out into stiff, scalloped layers over her hips, giving it a gravity-defying effect that stood out amidst the sea of classic Hollywood gowns. The lower half of the dress cascaded into a semi-sheer, gauzy skirt in a subtle champagne hue, flowing effortlessly to the floor, concealing her shoes and adding an element of mystery to her already enchanting presence.
To complement the extravagant dress, Ariana opted for a sleek and elegant hairstyle, pulling her signature brunette locks back into a polished updo, allowing the intricate details of the dress to take center stage. Her makeup was kept minimal yet luminous, featuring soft pink blush, a subtle shimmering highlight, and her signature winged eyeliner. As for accessories, she chose to keep it simple, wearing a pair of delicate diamond earrings that added just the right amount of sparkle without overshadowing the statement gown.
Fans React to Ariana’s Oscars Look
Ariana’s daring fashion choice quickly sparked a social media frenzy, with fans and fashion enthusiasts sharing their thoughts on various platforms. Many praised her for taking a risk and embracing a high-fashion moment that broke away from traditional red carpet looks.
One fan wrote, “Very interesting dress, not boring! I love how she always pushes the boundaries of fashion.” Another added, “Best dress of the night, hands down. This is what couture is all about.” A third admirer chimed in, “That dress is couture perfection. It looks like something straight out of a fairytale.”
However, not all reactions were positive. A significant number of online commenters couldn’t help but notice the resemblance between Ariana’s structured dress and an unusual household item—a lampshade.
One person quipped, “She is such a beautiful and talented young lady. She deserves better than a dress that looks like a lampshade.” Another added, “That dress reminds me of a lampshade in my great-grandmother’s house.” Some even raised practical concerns, with one user joking, “How is she going to sit in that thing?”
The Influence of Avant-Garde Fashion on the Red Carpet
The reaction to Ariana Grande’s Oscars gown highlights a broader conversation about the role of avant-garde fashion on the red carpet. Over the years, award shows have evolved from simple showcases of elegant evening wear to runways for artistic expression, with celebrities and designers using the platform to make bold, memorable statements.
Schiaparelli, known for its surrealist and sculptural designs, has dressed some of the biggest stars in the industry, often pushing the boundaries of what is considered red carpet-appropriate attire. Ariana’s look at the Oscars is a continuation of this trend, proving that fashion is an art form that can inspire conversation, whether people love it or question it.
It’s worth noting that red carpet fashion is no longer just about looking traditionally beautiful; it’s about making an impact, standing out, and leaving an impression. Just like Lady Gaga’s meat dress at the 2010 VMAs or Zendaya’s futuristic robotic gown at the Met Gala, Ariana’s 2025 Oscars look will likely be remembered as a defining moment in high fashion history.
A Night of Fashion Wins and Viral Moments
While Ariana Grande’s look was one of the most talked-about moments of the evening, she wasn’t the only star who stole the spotlight. The 2025 Oscars saw several show-stopping ensembles, each reflecting the evolving landscape of celebrity fashion.
One of the other major highlights of the night was Selena Gomez, who also made headlines for her stunning transformation. Fans couldn’t stop talking about her radiant new look, which showcased a refined and sophisticated silhouette. Many viewers were in awe of how she carried herself with grace and elegance, sparking endless discussions online.
Similarly, Zendaya, a red carpet favorite known for her impeccable style, turned heads in a custom Valentino creation that blended vintage Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. The structured bodice and flowing skirt embodied the perfect balance between timeless and contemporary, making her one of the best-dressed stars of the night.
Other notable looks included Florence Pugh’s edgy tulle masterpiece, Timothée Chalamet’s bold, shirtless tuxedo moment, and Rihanna’s pregnancy glow-up in a figure-hugging gown that accentuated her growing baby bump.
The Evolution of Red Carpet Fashion: Pushing Boundaries vs. Playing It Safe
Ariana Grande’s 2025 Oscars moment adds to the ongoing debate about whether celebrities should take risks or play it safe on the red carpet. Some argue that fashion should be about self-expression and creativity, while others prefer more classic, elegant styles that stand the test of time.
Over the past decade, social media has played a significant role in shaping public perception of celebrity fashion. With platforms like Instagram and Twitter allowing instant feedback, stars are now under more pressure than ever to deliver memorable fashion moments that will go viral. Whether the reactions are overwhelmingly positive or divided, one thing is clear—people love to talk about bold fashion choices.
Ariana’s choice to wear a Schiaparelli couture piece is a testament to her willingness to embrace fashion as an art form. It’s not just about looking pretty; it’s about making a statement, starting a conversation, and leaving a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts: A Bold Statement Worth Remembering
Love it or hate it, Ariana Grande’s Oscars look was unforgettable. Whether people saw high fashion brilliance or a lampshade-inspired design, the fact that it sparked a heated discussion is a sign that it was successful in capturing attention.
As award shows continue to evolve into cultural spectacles, we can expect even more daring fashion choices in the years to come. From experimental silhouettes to dramatic gowns that challenge traditional norms, the red carpet is becoming a space where celebrities can truly express themselves and redefine beauty standards.
Ariana Grande, known for her bold fashion risks and trendsetting style, has once again proven that she’s not afraid to stand out. Whether she’s channeling old Hollywood glamor or pushing the boundaries of avant-garde fashion, one thing is certain—she will always be a fashion icon worth watching.
And as the 2025 Oscars fade into memory, we’re left with one burning question: What will Ariana Grande wear next? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—it will be worth talking about.