Hollywood once again became the epicenter of entertainment as Ariana Grande made a glamorous appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of the much-anticipated film adaptation of “Wicked.” Grande, who takes on the iconic role of Glinda, dazzled attendees with a spectacular custom outfit that encapsulated the essence of the classic narrative. As she graced the red carpet, it became clear that her look was more than just a fashion statement; it was a beautifully crafted homage that intertwined elements of both “Wicked” and the timeless “The Wizard of Oz.”
Grande’s ensemble was brilliantly executed by renowned designer Thom Browne, showcasing intricate details that paid tribute to Dorothy’s signature attire. The stunning strapless white duchess satin gown, accentuated by a matching capelet, transformed the actress into a living embodiment of elegance and nostalgia. The design’s coverage in pink gingham crystals, alongside delicate silk thread embroidery, resonated with audiences familiar with Dorothy’s blue checkered frock, generating an instant connection to the cinematic lore. This thoughtful interpretation demonstrates how fashion can serve as a medium to bridge the worlds of film, musical theatre, and classic literature.
According to a representative from Thom Browne, this opulent gown was far from ordinary; it featured an extraordinary 600,000 three-cut beads and 50,000 pink crystals, revealing the labor-intensive journey that brought it to life — 50 artisans working tirelessly for over 6,000 hours. Such dedication to craftsmanship emphasizes the importance of high fashion in storytelling, where each bead and crystal tells a story of its own.
True to her tribute, Grande paired her fairy-tale gown with shoes reminiscent of Dorothy’s original slippers — a striking nod to literary fidelity. Unlike the ruby-red slippers of the famed 1939 film, Grande’s footwear, adorned with 4,000 Swarovski crystals, was a refreshingly accurate interpretation of L. Frank Baum’s original vision. “We wanted to nod to Glinda, of course, as well as Dorothy,” Grande shared during an interview, reminding us that her homage extended beyond mere aesthetics and delved deep into the source material.
Adding further charm to her appearance, Grande carried a wicker bag shaped like the iconic Hector dog, Toto, and sported a chic bun accented with a matching bow. The gloves completed her whimsical look, making her a vision of the enchanting world of Oz. Her attention to detail in every accessory conveyed an artful narrative, inviting attendees and fans alike to experience a glimpse of the characters they adore.
Not one to shine alone, Grande was flanked by her co-stars who also embraced the red carpet’s thematic color palette. Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba, radiated in a bold green latex Louis Vuitton gown, elegantly complemented by a striking diamond-and-emerald necklace. The synergy exhibited by the cast continued with Jonathan Bailey, who sported a silver sequined shirt and ruby loafers, orchestrating a vibrant richness alongside the two leading ladies.
What stood out throughout the premiere was not just the individual styles but how each character’s essence resonated harmoniously through the cast’s cohesive styling choices. This collective commitment to character representation echoed the heart of “Wicked,” which itself is built on themes of friendship, rivalry, and the complexities of identity.
Grande’s reflections on her collaboration with Thom Browne succinctly encapsulate her excitement: “Working with Thom Browne on this has been such a dream come true, as always.” Her enthusiasm not only highlights the personal joy that comes from wearing exquisite fashion but also emphasizes how performers draw inspiration from the characters they portray.
The premiere showcased more than just a lavish celebration of a beloved story; it was a testament to the power of storytelling through fashion, the synergy of cast dynamics, and the enchanting allure of Hollywood itself. As fans eagerly await the film’s release, this unforgettable premiere has certainly set the stage for what promises to be a magical cinematic experience.