The Venice International Film Festival is, for all intents and purposes, the true start of the global awards season. And while the evening gowns on the red carpet are a spectacle of their own, for a true fashion connoisseur, it’s the arrivals that tell the real story. On August 27, 2025, as a constant stream of talent arrived via water taxi, Alicia Silverstone offered a masterclass in modern jet-set glamour, proving that comfort and high-style are not, in fact, mutually exclusive.
The first observation—and the most important, to my mind—is the complete and utter ease of her ensemble. It’s an approach to celebrity style that feels deeply rooted in European sensibility: elegant, but never fussy. Her dress, a sleeveless, funnel-neck midi from Pleats Please Issey Miyake , is a testament to this philosophy. The fabric, with its signature micro-pleats, creates a dynamic, three-dimensional effect that moves with the body, rather than constraining it. A subtle sash at the waist, rendered in the same material, allows the garment to be cinched for a flattering, feminine silhouette. The abstract, vertical brushstrokes of cobalt, marine blue, and charcoal against an off-white base are pure wearable art, a graphic statement that feels both serene and compelling.
To a less discerning eye, an outfit so focused on fabric and form could appear simple. But it’s in the styling that the true narrative is revealed. Silverstone’s choice of footwear—a pair of crisp white pumps—provides a sharp, unexpected contrast to the dress’s graphic blues. It is a moment of polished juxtaposition that elevates the entire look from resort wear to arrival chic. Her accessories are equally deliberate: a handful of delicate silver bracelets stack beautifully on her wrist, while a pair of large, minimalist hoop earrings and oversized sunglasses provide the perfect touch of Hollywood cool. And that handbag? A silver, almost mirrored pouch, a sculptural element that catches the light and adds a futuristic gleam.
Unveiling her effortless arrival style, Sofia Carson touched down in Venice on August 28, 2025, with an impeccable look that speaks to classic glamour.
When one arrives in Venice, there is an expectation of romance, of old-world charm, of something cinematic. It’s a city that breathes drama and invites a certain theatricality in its visitors. On August 28, 2025, Sofia Carson landed in the floating city for the Venice Film Festival, not in a gown, but in a look that was every bit as polished and intentional as a red carpet masterpiece—a flawless lesson in sophisticated travel.
The look was a masterclass in quiet luxury, anchored by a classic, beige trench coat. The trench, a timeless piece of both Parisian chic and London practicality, was worn over what appears to be a simple, dark top, creating a streamlined, elegant silhouette. The fabric of the coat—a smooth, tightly woven cotton twill—has a crisp, structured quality that holds its shape beautifully despite the motion of the water taxi. The double-breasted cut, the wide lapels, and the belted waist all contribute to a silhouette that is both commanding and graceful.
The accessories were where the look truly sang. A quilted, black leather Chanel handbag with a signature gold chain strap added a touch of iconic Parisian heritage. The bag wasn’t flashy or oversized; it was a perfect, compact echo of elegance. What I found particularly brilliant were the shoes—not shown in full, but glimpsed at the dock—which were black, classic pumps, a choice that elevated the entire ensemble. The finishing touch? A pair of sleek, black cat-eye sunglasses that exuded an air of mystique and Old Hollywood cool, a subtle nod to the glamour of the occasion without trying too hard.
This is a look that reminds me of Audrey Hepburn’s off-duty style—simple, refined, and completely unforgettable. It proves that the most impactful fashion statements are not always the loudest. Sometimes, true style is about quiet confidence, impeccable tailoring, and a keen eye for details that tell a story without saying a word. Its the kind of celebrity style that feels attainable yet aspirational, a true goal.
The red carpet is a stage, and like any great performance, it demands a delicate balance between artistic vision and execution.
When Jessica Chastain unveiled her look at the Mexico City premiere of her new film, “Dreams,” on August 26, 2025, she did more than just arrive—she presented a sartorial paradox. Was this a bold statement on form, or simply a misstep in proportion? It’s a question that has kept a few of us in the industry talking… and a glance at the dress tells you exactly why.
The focal point of the ensemble, a black dress from Fendi’s Resort 2026 collection, is nothing if not ambitious. From the front, it appears as a classic strapless sheath, a sleek canvas of dark sophistication. But the silhouette is instantly, aggressively disrupted by a three-dimensional, architectural peplum that erupts from the waist. This sculptural detail, which resembles a deconstructed fan or perhaps an abstract petal, adds a volume right where one would least expect it. It’s a confident, almost brazen move—a choice that aligns with a certain Italian flair for drama, for the grand gesture. You can almost feel the rebellious spirit of a Roman couturier behind it.
However, the real puzzle came with the styling. While a Parisian might have paired such a challenging piece with a delicate, barely-there stiletto to let the dress breathe, Chastain’s choice of footwear felt… well, entirely different. The shoes are a pair of black, aggressively geometric sandals with a substantial block heel and multiple straps. They are a powerful design on their own, but here, they interrupt the entire visual narrative. They are not merely fighting the dress; they are engaged in a full-scale battle, drawing the eye down and away from the artistic intentions of the garment. It’s a shame, because a look this complex demands synergy, not conflict.
Her styling cohesion elsewhere, however, was impeccable. Her signature auburn hair was swept into an elegant, sleek updo—a classic choice that provided a clean backdrop for the dress’s complexity. The makeup was minimal, focusing on a clean complexion and a soft lip, which allowed her natural radiance to command the spotlight. It was a clear attempt to ground the avant-garde nature of the dress in her own timeless elegance, a move that showcased her poise and willingness to take a risk.
So, where do we land on this? Is it a brilliant moment of defiance in the face of safe celebrity style , a sign that the conversation around what is “flattering” is evolving? Or is it a valuable lesson in the subtle art of letting a masterpiece stand alone? In the end, a look that makes you stop and think is always worth discussing—and in that regard, Jessica Chastain has succeeded brilliantly.
