The enchanting allure of Hollywood was on full display during the Los Angeles premiere of “Wicked,” a film adaptation of the much-loved musical. The event brought together a star-studded cast, most notably Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda the Good Witch. With an outfit that radiated both charm and intricacy, Grande effectively captured the essence of the fairy-tale narrative while nodding to classic literary roots.
A Nostalgic Tribute through Fashion
Ariana Grande made a sweeping statement on the red carpet with a breathtaking custom design by Thom Browne. The strapless white duchess satin dress, accompanied by a matching capelet, was both elegant and whimsical—styled to evoke the enchanting world of Oz and echo the timeless impacts of “The Wizard of Oz.” Grande’s gown sparkled with over 600,000 beads and 50,000 pink crystals, showcasing the dedication of a team of more than 50 artisans who invested over 6,000 hours to cultivate this masterpiece. This level of craftsmanship reflects not just a commitment to artistry but also pays homage to the iconic character she portrays.
In a deliberate nod to the literary roots of her character, Grande highlighted that Dorothy’s shoes in the original book were silver, not ruby. Her footwear, adorned with 4,000 Swarovski crystals, further reinforced her homage to both Glinda and Dorothy, bridging the gap between two iconic characters from distinct narratives. Grande’s subtle yet intentional references create a rich tapestry of cultural nods that excite fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Grande’s bold embrace of asymmetry in her gown was a conscious choice, representing her interpretation of the “Ozian” aesthetic. The high-low skirt lent movement and drama to her ensemble, enveloping her in a sense of whimsical elegance typically associated with the fantastical world of Oz. Her whimsical, yet sophisticated attire serves as a reminder that fashion is not merely for adornment but is also a form of storytelling. As she articulated in her interview with Vogue, the intricate beading was a personal highlight, and one can sense Grande’s genuine excitement for the artistry behind her attire.
Furthermore, the diva’s accessory choices contributed to her overall whimsical theme. Carrying a wicker bag shaped like Toto, the memorable dog from the story, she encapsulated the charming spirit of the narrative. Topping off her look with a bow-tied bun and embellished gloves created a visually cohesive image that transported fans to the magical realm of Oz—a testament to her keen sense of style and connection to the material.
The premiere was not merely a showcase for Grande, as her co-stars also contributed their own delightful nuances to the event. Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, embraced her character’s signature green motif with a striking green latex gown from Louis Vuitton, complete with a daring cutout and fringed accents. Complementing her attire with a magnificent diamond and emerald necklace not only highlighted her bold fashion choices but also resonated with her character’s drama.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Bailey, embodying Fiyero, added his flair with a sequined shirt and ruby loafers, creating a dynamic synergy among the trio. Their collective fashion choices celebrated their roles while building a visual narrative that enchanted the audience, furthering the enchanting theme of the evening.
Overall, Ariana Grande’s appearance at the “Wicked” premiere was a harmonious blend of nostalgia, artistry, and glamor that redefined red carpet fashion. She not only showcased her impressive collaboration with Thom Browne but also demonstrated how an outfit can transcend mere appearance to evoke emotions and memories. As fans eagerly await the release of “Wicked,” the premiere proved to be a captivating evening that celebrated the blend of modern and classic narratives in exquisite fashion. It will be a night remembered not only for its star power but for the artistry that each cast member brought to life through their enduring roles and vibrant style choices.