In a gown that played with symmetry and shadow, Thomasin McKenzie brought architectural drama—and a whisper of vintage noir—to the red carpet in Venice.
There’s a certain kind of red carpet moment that doesn’t scream—it hums. At the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, Thomasin McKenzie arrived for the premiere of The Testament of Ann Lee in a look that felt less like a dress and more like a study in cinematic geometry.
McKenzie’s strapless black gown, punctuated by horizontal bands of white lace, was a masterclass in contrast and control. The fabric itself—likely a structured silk blend—held its voluminous shape with precision, flaring outward into a full skirt that recalled mid-century couture silhouettes. The lace, delicate yet deliberate, added rhythm to the composition, breaking up the darkness with a kind of visual breath. While the designer remains unconfirmed at press time, the craftsmanship suggests a house fluent in both drama and restraint—think Valentino or Simone Rocha.
Her silver necklace and matching earrings were minimal but strategic, catching the light without competing with the gown’s architectural intent. No bag, no gloves, no excess. Just the essentials, styled with the kind of editorial clarity that says: this is a look, not a costume.
For more moments like this, explore our curated archive of red carpet looks that continue to shape the language of celebrity fashion.
Amanda Seyfried commanded the Venice Film Festival red carpet on September 1, 2025, in a theatrical custom navy gown featuring dramatic red bow detailing that perfectly captured the festival’s artistic spirit.
There are moments on the red carpet when fashion transcends mere clothing and becomes pure theater—and Amanda Seyfried’s appearance at “The Testament of Ann Lee” premiere during the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, was precisely one of those moments. Standing against the backdrop of Venice’s timeless elegance, she delivered a masterclass in how to honor both tradition and innovation in a single, breathtaking look.
The custom gown she wore wasn’t just a dress; it was a statement piece that seemed to channel the very essence of Venetian drama. The deep navy fabric—that particular shade that hovers between midnight and the depths of the Adriatic—created a stunning foundation that immediately commanded attention on the festival’s iconic red carpet. But it was the styling details that transformed this from merely beautiful to utterly unforgettable.
What struck me most about Seyfried’s choice was how it perfectly embodied the intersection of classical European tailoring and contemporary American confidence. The strapless silhouette, with its structured bodice, demonstrated the kind of architectural precision I’ve come to associate with the finest Milanese ateliers—yet there was something distinctly modern about its execution.
The front-button detailing cascading down the bodice wasn’t merely decorative; it created a visual narrative that drew the eye from her décolletage to the gown’s dramatic train. Each button, covered in matching navy fabric, added textural interest while maintaining the look’s overall sophistication. This kind of attention to detail speaks to a designer who understands that true luxury lies in the nuances.
But the pièce de résistance? That crimson bow at the empire waistline. In lesser hands, such a bold accent could have veered into costume territory. Instead, it became the perfect punctuation mark—a slash of color that both complemented the navy base and created a striking focal point. The ribbon’s silk finish caught the Mediterranean light beautifully, creating depth and movement with every step.
Venetian Glamour, Reimagined
As someone who has witnessed countless red carpet moments from Venice to Cannes, I can say with authority that Seyfried’s styling team understood the assignment completely. Venice has always been about spectacle, about fashion that can hold its own against baroque palazzos and centuries of artistic legacy. This gown delivered that grandeur while feeling thoroughly contemporary.
The choker necklace—a sleek black band that echoed the gown’s primary color—was a stroke of genius. It created a visual bridge between her swept-back hairstyle and the dress’s neckline, while adding a touch of that modern edge that prevents period-inspired pieces from feeling overly nostalgic. Sometimes the smallest details make the largest impact.
Her Tiffany & Co. accessories deserves special mention here. The Bird on a Rock ring and matching brooch created a cohesive jewelry story that felt both whimsical and sophisticated. The diamond stud earrings provided just enough sparkle without competing with the gown’s dramatic silhouette, while her Jimmy Choo Max Platform Sandals—barely visible beneath the gown’s generous train—added the necessary height to carry such an architectural piece.
The Power of Confident Simplicity
What I find most compelling about this look is how Seyfried wore it. There’s a certain poise required to carry off such a theatrical piece without letting it wear you instead. Her hair, pulled back in a sleek, low bun, was the perfect complement—sophisticated enough for the occasion while allowing the gown’s neckline and that striking bow to remain the stars of the show.
The makeup, too, demonstrated restraint where it mattered most. Clean, classic lines that enhanced her natural features without competing for attention. This is the kind of harmonious styling that separates truly great red carpet moments from merely pretty ones.
Fashion critic Maria Castelli put it perfectly when she noted, “Seyfried’s Venice look proves that modern glamour isn’t about shock value—it’s about understanding the power of a perfectly executed concept.” And indeed, this wasn’t about following trends or making headlines through controversy. It was about respecting the venue, honoring the craft, and delivering pure, unadulterated elegance.
A Moment Worth Remembering
As I watched Seyfried navigate the Venice red carpet in this stunning creation, I was reminded of why certain fashion moments endure while others fade into obscurity. This wasn’t just about wearing a beautiful dress to a prestigious event—it was about understanding the intersection of personal style, venue appropriateness, and the kind of theatrical flair that makes celebrity fashion truly memorable.
The 82nd Venice International Film Festival has given us many beautiful looks this year, but Seyfried’s September 1st appearance stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful styling and confident execution. In a world where red carpet fashion can sometimes feel calculated or overly strategic, her choice felt both intentional and effortless—the mark of a true style maven.
Will we see more theatrical bow details on red carpets this season? Perhaps. But regardless of what trends may follow, this particular moment—Seyfried in navy and crimson against Venice’s golden backdrop—has already secured its place in fashion history.
5 Key Elements That Made Amanda Seyfried’s Venice Look Unforgettable
- The Color Story : Navy blue with crimson accent bow created a sophisticated yet dramatic palette perfect for evening glamour
- Architectural Silhouette : Strapless bodice with structured fit and flowing train demonstrated masterful tailoring
- Thoughtful Detailing : Front button embellishments added texture and visual interest without overwhelming the design
- Strategic Accessories : Tiffany & Co. jewelry and sleek black choker complemented rather than competed with the gown
- Confident Execution : Seyfried’s poised styling choices—from the sleek updo to classic makeup—let the dress shine
An emerald-embellished necklace, a perfectly cut tuxedo—Sadie Sink’s latest look (a timeless classic, really) at the Venice International Film Festival redefines modern elegance with a dark, romantic edge.
In an industry often consumed by theatrical gowns, Sadie Sink is making a compelling case for a different kind of red carpet power. Captured during the 82nd Venice International Film Festival , her look, shot by Davide Frandi for Armani Beauty, is a masterclass in understated authority. She eschews a flashy dress for a sharp, tailored tuxedo, creating a striking silhouette that feels both classic and distinctly modern. The fabric, a rich velvet, absorbs the light, giving the ensemble a deep, inky texture that’s infinitely more interesting than a flat matte. The high-waisted skirt flows seamlessly from the jacket, creating a clean, uninterrupted line. This isn’t just a suit; it’s an architectural statement.
The most arresting detail, however, is the jewelry. A multi-layered necklace, dripping with oversized emeralds and diamonds, sits against a crisp white shirt, which is left unbuttoned to a dramatic V. The emeralds provide a brilliant, jewel-toned flash against the dark fabric, a perfect counterpoint to the velvet’s deep black. The styling here is everything—the combination of the rigid tuxedo with the natural, flowing movement of her unbuttoned shirt and the raw sparkle of the necklace creates a tension that is both sexy and sophisticated.
Sink’s attitude perfectly complements the outfit. Her pose is calm and direct, her gaze meeting the camera with an almost serene confidence. Her hair, a cascade of soft, auburn curls, adds a touch of bohemian softness, preventing the look from feeling too severe. The makeup is subtle, focusing on a clean, glowing complexion that allows her natural features to shine. This isn’t a look that tries too hard; it’s a look that knows its own power. It solidifies her place among the most compelling celebrity style icons today, effortlessly fusing old-world glamour with a fresh, contemporary sensibility.
