Blake Lively captivated audiences at a recent screening of “Wicked” in New York City, stunning onlookers with her thoughtful homage to the iconic character Dorothy from the classic 1939 film, “The Wizard of Oz.” With an eye-catching pair of ruby red slippers—a signature element closely associated with the story—Lively transformed this nostalgic reference into a high-fashion moment. The shoes, designed by renowned fashion house Marc Jacobs as part of a special capsule collection celebrating “The Wizard of Oz,” were not your average footwear. Priced at $450, these rhinestone-covered platform shoes drew attention immediately, allowing the actress to effortlessly merge pop culture with haute couture.
In keeping with the glamorous vibe of the evening, Lively’s outfit featured a sleek white blazer paired with classic light-wash jeans, offering a chic contrast that ensured her statement shoes remained the focal point of her ensemble. This fashion-forward choice showcased her ability to blend luxury with a sense of casual elegance. Additionally, Lively incorporated floral design elements that not only connected her look to her recent “It Ends With Us Tour” but also served as a nod to the vibrant poppies central to the “Wicked” narrative. Statement earrings and an embroidered button-down enriched her outfit, while a Chanel purse added a touch of sophistication, illustrating Lively’s keen eye for detail.
Making the event even more special, Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, joined her, striking a playful contrast in a head-to-toe khaki outfit that playfully mirrored the character of the Scarecrow. The couple posed alongside stars like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who portrayed Glinda and Elphaba, respectively, alongside other cast members. Their coordinated appearance truly highlighted the couple’s charisma and ability to effortlessly generate buzz in any social scene.
As Lively donned her red slippers, it’s essential to note the original inspiration and variations of this legendary footwear. Costume designer Paul Tazewell addressed the artistic liberties taken with the iconic shoes, clarifying that L. Frank Baum’s original text imagined the footwear not as ruby red, but rather as a peculiar pair of silver boots. This artistic choice in the film was influenced by the technicolor film industry, which sought to enrich the visual experience through vibrant colors. For the musical adaptation “Wicked,” Tazewell created a silver iteration adorned with swirls and jewels, ensuring that the legacy of these shoes continues to evolve.
Blake Lively’s method of dressing extends beyond mere personal style; it’s a narrative device through which she connects with the characters she embodies and celebrates. Her choice to pay homage to “Wicked” aligns with her past red carpet appearances, like coordinating superhero outfits with Gigi Hadid for the premiere of Reynolds’ “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Lively’s fashion statements not only captivate audiences but manifest the power of clothing as a storytelling medium. As anticipation grows for “Wicked: Part 2,” one can only hope Lively’s flair extends to future roles, perhaps even embracing the character of Elphaba with vibrant green face paint.