Hollywood, often regarded as the epicenter of the entertainment industry, served as the backdrop for the Los Angeles premiere of the much-anticipated film adaptation of the beloved musical “Wicked.” Among the dazzling assembly of stars was Ariana Grande, whose role as Glinda has generated considerable excitement. Grande’s appearance on the red carpet was not just a display of star power but a masterclass in theme alignment and fashion acumen.
Dressed in a striking custom design by Thom Browne, Grande’s outfit seamlessly married sophistication with nostalgic charm. The actress wore a strapless white duchess satin dress adorned with an eye-catching capelet, echoing both the whimsical essence of her character and a subtle homage to “The Wizard of Oz.” The pink gingham pattern featured on her ensemble was a clever nod to Dorothy’s iconic dress, yet reinterpreted for a modern audience.
The sheer craftsmanship behind the dress was staggering. According to a representative from Thom Browne, it took a team of 50 artisans over 6,000 hours to create this masterpiece, which featured an astonishing 600,000 three-cut beads and 50,000 pink crystals. Such meticulous attention to detail demonstrates not only a commitment to artistry but also a desire to make a lasting impression during a key moment in Grande’s career.
Grande’s choice of footwear also played into the thematic elements of her look. She donned shoes inspired by the original silver slippers from L. Frank Baum’s literary works, adorned with 4,000 Swarovski crystals. This decision not only aligned her aesthetic with the timeless tale but showcased Grande’s intention to respect the original source material while infusing it with her unique flair. “We wanted to nod to Glinda, of course, as well as Dorothy,” Grande remarked in an interview with Vogue, highlighting her dedication to capturing the essence of both characters.
In a whimsical twist, the pop sensation carried a wicker bag designed to resemble Toto, reflecting her playful spirit while bonding with her character. The attention to detail continued in her hairstyle, tied into an elegant bun with the same pink gingham bow accent that adorned her dress. Completing her look with finely tailored gloves, Grande encapsulated what it means to embrace and celebrate a character with complete authenticity.
This premiere wasn’t an isolated event in Grande’s artistic journey. Instead, it represents a continuing tradition of paying tribute to iconic characters associated with her projects. For instance, during her time in Sydney, she personified Billie Burke’s Good Witch with a stunning pink Vivienne Westwood gown and adorned herself with over 100 carats of Lorraine Schwartz diamonds. Grande has consistently embraced vibrant aesthetics, as evidenced by her appearances across various platforms leading up to the film’s release.
Her co-stars also showcased visually stunning outfits that tied into the broader “Wicked” theme. Cynthia Erivo, who takes on the role of Elphaba, opted for a striking green ensemble by Louis Vuitton, including a latex cutout gown that materialized alongside accessories featuring exquisite diamonds and emeralds. Jonathan Bailey, portraying Fiyero, rounded out the trio with a flamboyant silver sequined shirt and ruby loafers, underscoring the cohesive nature of their style choices.
The red carpet event encapsulated not only the film’s anticipation but also the sheer artistry that underlines theatrical productions. Grande’s fashion choices highlighted a vibrant crossover between film and stage, articulating a reverence for the material that has captivated audiences for decades. As “Wicked” prepares to enchant viewers worldwide, Grande’s entrance serves as a compelling reminder of how fashion and character can intertwine, propelling narratives into the realm of visual art.
The premiere of “Wicked” became a compelling narrative not just for its content but for how its stars chose to represent their roles. Ariana Grande’s elaborate costume served as both an homage to literary tradition and a bold fashion statement, solidifying her stature as a formidable presence in contemporary Hollywood.