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Forget Best Dressed—This Color Was the Real Star of the Oscars

Let's just say it's fire

Gal Gadot Oscars
Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images

Every awards ceremony, like clockwork, a certain color or style emerges as the trend of the night. Whether intentional or just fashion fate, Hollywood’s biggest stars always seem to be on the same wavelength. And at the 2025 Oscars, history repeated itself once again. Among the sea of designer gowns and sharp tuxedos, one color dominated the red carpet: red.

Sure, red is a timeless classic—it’s bold, powerful and universally flattering. But seeing it take center stage at the 97th Academy Awards gave it a fresh, modern edge. And the best part? It looked absolutely stunning on everyone who wore it.

Let’s start with Queen Latifah, who returned to the Oscars as part of a special tribute performance honoring the late Quincy Jones. She stunned in a full-length, off-the-shoulder gown that fit like a dream.

Queen Latifah
ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images

Then there was Raye, the British singer-songwriter who wowed in a draped, off-the-shoulder red gown before taking the stage. (Bonus: she also rocked that millennial-approved detail in her hair.)

Raye 85d808
ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images

Colman Domingo, who landed a Best Actor nomination for Sing Sing, brought the heat in a red blazer with black lapels, paired with sleek black pants and matching red-tinted glasses.

Coleman Domingo
Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images

Gal Gadot, one of this year’s presenters, looked effortlessly regal in a strapless red gown with pockets (yes, pockets!) and a sleek low bun.

Gal Gadot
Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images

Meanwhile, Euphoria star Storm Reid turned heads in a chic high-low red dress, cinched with a thin black belt and paired with black open-toe pumps.

Stormi Reid
JC Olivera/WWD via Getty Images

And last but certainly not least, Marissa Bode of Wicked fame dazzled in a sequined red gown, complete with matching pumps and a chic updo.

Marissa Bode 1
Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images

So, there you have it—red wasn’t just a trend at the Oscars. It was the moment.

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LongHeadshot

Assistant Editor, News and Entertainment

  • Writes breaking news and entertainment content
  • Covers award show red carpets and movie premieres
  • Has earned two Edward R. Murrow Awards