Fashion sparked like fireworks at the 2025 Governors Awards, setting the tone for a season of glittering glamour! If you're a fan of celebrity style, get ready to dive into the red carpet magic that kicked off awards season on November 16, 2025. Held in Los Angeles, California, this prestigious event honored trailblazing talents like Debbie Allen, Tom Cruise, Wynn Thomas, and Dolly Parton. But here's where it gets controversial—while the bigger galas like the Academy Gala and LACMA Art + Film Gala have dazzled us recently, the Governors Awards often steal the show with their intimate vibe and bold fashion choices. And this is the part most people miss: these smaller ceremonies inspire the most inventive outfits, far outshining the predictable elegance of larger events, leading us straight into the Oscars on March 15. For beginners in fashion watching, think of it as the appetizer before the main course—exciting, fresh, and full of surprises that hint at trends to come.
Last year's edition (check out our slideshow on the 2024 Governors Awards) showcased stars like Angelina Jolie in a timeless, label-free vintage ensemble that screamed effortless chic, or Tilda Swinton in a striking tomato-red ruched gown from the emerging brand Standing Ground—a perfect example of how lesser-known designers can make a massive impact. This year was no different, proving that innovation on the red carpet isn't just about big names but about smart, personal style choices. Take Jessie Buckley, for instance, who epitomized cool sophistication in a sleek black turtleneck paired with a flowing black skirt—simple yet striking, showing how minimalism can command attention. On the menswear side, Jacob Elordi and Joe Alwyn channeled their roles in period pieces through tailored suits that blended historical flair with modern cuts, illustrating how actors often draw from their characters for inspired looks.
And speaking of subtle nods to their work: Ariana Grande revisited her iconic Glinda the Good Witch persona with a whimsical asymmetrical Dior dress from fall 2007, sourced from Timeless Vixen. It was a nostalgic twist that had fans reminiscing about her Wicked days. Her co-star Cynthia Erivo opted for a dreamy, impressionistic pistachio Givenchy coat by Sarah Burton, adorned with vibrant multicolored florals— a bold statement piece that blurred the lines between art and fashion. They weren't alone in their coordinated arrivals; Chase Infiniti and Teyana Taylor from One Battle After Another stepped out in complementary styles that underscored their shared project, proving that group looks can add an extra layer of storytelling to the night.
Here, explore the standout stars who captured our imaginations at the 2025 Governors Awards.
Hannah Jackson is a dedicated fashion writer at Vogue, specializing in celebrity style, emerging trends, and occasional cultural insights. Her articles have graced the pages of Elle, The Cut, Architectural Digest, Harper’s Bazaar, Rolling Stone, W, and more. Based in New York, she brings a fresh perspective to the world of fashion. ... Read More
What do you think—does reviving vintage pieces like Ariana Grande's show creative genius, or is it a missed opportunity for fresh innovation? And controversial take: In an era of sustainable fashion, should stars lean into high-end labels like Givenchy, or prioritize emerging designers like Standing Ground to support the industry? Share your opinions in the comments—do these looks redefine elegance, or do they just play it safe? We'd love to hear your takes and spark a lively discussion!
