The glitz and glamour of Hollywood were on full display as Ariana Grande graced the red carpet for the premiere of “Wicked,” a film adaptation that has long been anticipated by fans of the beloved musical. Grande’s portrayal of Glinda in this cinematic exploration of the classic tale was highlighted by a striking and meticulously crafted outfit that seamlessly intertwined themes from both “Wicked” and “The Wizard of Oz,” drawing praise from fashion critics and fans alike.
Opting for a custom design by celebrated fashion designer Thom Browne, Ariana Grande wore a stunning strapless white duchess satin dress adorned with a matching capelet. The gown’s intricate design featured delicate pink gingham crystals and embroidered silk thread, paying homage to Dorothy’s famous blue-checkered dress. The fashion house shared that the ensemble was no small feat; it took an impressive team of 50 artisans over 6,000 hours to complete. Grande’s dress sparkled with approximately 600,000 three-cut beads and 50,000 pink crystals, turning heads as she walked the red carpet.
In an interesting twist, Grande’s shoes drew inspiration from the original literary representation of Dorothy’s footwear, which was silver in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel, rather than the ruby slippers popularized by the 1939 film. These shoes were embellished with 4,000 Swarovski crystals, further accentuating her ethereal appearance. Grande expressed her joy in collaborating with Browne, stating that the design process was a “dream come true.”
Ariana Grande’s ensemble did not simply stop at exquisite fabrics and craftsmanship; it also encompassed deeply resonant cultural references that light up the world of “Wicked.” She carried a whimsical wicker bag shaped like the beloved canine character, Toto, showcasing her attention to detail. Her hair was elegantly styled in a bun, adorned with a bow that echoed the overall aesthetic of her outfit.
The actress-and-singer’s affinity for thematic fashion isn’t new. Her past premieres have often included nods to iconic characters, such as her pink Vivienne Westwood gown at a premiere in Sydney, which reminded audiences of Billie Burke’s Good Witch from the 1939 film. Grande perfectly balances her love for fashion and reverence for the characters she portrays, creating moments that resonate with audiences both visually and emotionally.
The premiere was not only a showcase of Grande’s sartorial choices; her co-stars also brought their fashion A-game, creating a tapestry of style that celebrated the stories they represent. Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, was a vision in a striking green latex gown by Louis Vuitton, complimented by a fringed cape and an extravagant diamond-and-emerald necklace from Roberto Coin. Meanwhile, Jonathan Bailey, embodying Fiyero, infused his appearance with a playful touch, donning a sequined shirt along with ruby loafers that completed the group’s vibrant synergy.
What this spectacle showcased was a collective embrace of the characters’ inherent magic through fashion. The traditional narrative of “Wicked” was not only carried through dialogue and performance but was additionally expressed in ways that enhanced the audience’s anticipation for the film. Each outfit served as a reminder of the joyful and complex messages woven into the story.
As the lights dimmed on the red carpet, it became evident that Ariana Grande’s dazzling debut as Glinda set the stage for what promises to be a captivating rendition of “Wicked.” The meticulous attention to detail in her attire, along with the collective style effort from her fellow cast members, encapsulated the charm and wonder fans expect from both the musical and the film adaptation. The premiere resonated not just as a promotional event but as a celebration of creativity, magic, and the enduring legacy of storytelling that continues to enchant audiences around the globe.