Awards season fashion always delivers a few standout moments—the kind that make you pause mid-scroll. Between classic silhouettes, a little sparkle, and designers who know exactly how to craft a red-carpet statement, some looks just hit differently. This year, a few gowns from Middle Eastern couture heavyweights stole the spotlight, worn by actresses who know exactly how to make an entrance. Let’s take a closer look.
Dakota Fanning in Zuhair Murad (Oscars After-Party)
American actress Dakota Fanning—who first rose to fame as a child star in films like I Am Sam and has since built a versatile career across film and television—opted for understated drama at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a sleek black gown by Zuhair Murad.
The dress keeps a classic column silhouette but elevates it with intricate silver embellishment across the bodice, forming delicate floral patterns that shimmer against the black fabric. With its clean lines, subtle sparkle, and minimal styling, the look feels refined and timeless, proof that sometimes the simplest silhouettes make the strongest statement.
Raya Abirached in Tony Ward (Oscars)
Raya Abirached, the Lebanese presenter, made a fiery statement in Tony Ward. She rocked a deep red gown that’s basically the lovechild of elegance and drama. Think plunging neckline, thigh-high slit, and a flowing train. The sheer matching cape draped over her shoulders gave her that extra wow-factor, while her delicate jewelry and metallic heels kept the focus on the gown.
Dove Cameron in Georges Hobeika (Oscars After-Party)
Dove Cameron—the singer and actress known for her Disney breakout role in Liv and Maddie and the hit franchise Descendants—brought high drama to the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in a sweeping red gown by Georges Hobeika.
The strapless design featured a structured bodice and a beautifully pleated skirt that flowed into an extended train, creating movement and elegance with every step. The deep crimson hue paired perfectly with her sleek, dark hair and bold red lip, while delicate diamond jewelry added a refined sparkle. The look felt like a modern take on classic Hollywood glamour.
Saja Kilani in Ziyad Buainain (Oscars)
Saja Kilani, Palestinian actress acclaimed for The Voice of Hind Rajab stepped onto the Oscars red carpet serving effortless elegance in a sleek black look by Ziyad Buainain. The draped silhouette hugged her body beautifully while the flowing sheer detail added just the right amount of drama as she moved. She finished the look off with a proud red pin “Artists4Ceasefire”.
Isla Fisher in Yara Shoemaker (Oscars After-Party)
Isla Fisher—the actress beloved for films like Confessions of a Shopaholic and Wedding Crashers—embraced timeless elegance in an ivory gown by Yara Shoemaker at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. The strapless design featured a clean, sculpted bodice that flowed into a textured skirt made of layered, delicate ruffles, adding depth and movement to the silhouette.
Her signature red hair, soft glam makeup, and understated jewelry complemented the light tone of the dress beautifully. The overall look felt polished, feminine, and effortlessly graceful.
Mindy Kaling in Elie Saab (Oscars After-Party)
Mindy Kaling—the actress and writer best known for The Office and The Mindy Project—went for understated glamour in a champagne gown by Elie Saab. The crystal-embellished bodice adds sparkle, while the dramatic draped sleeves and high slit bring a little extra flair. With sleek hair and glittering heels, the whole look feels elegant, confident, and very Mindy.
Alba Baptista in Elie Saab (Oscars After-Party)
Later at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, Alba Baptista switched gears into something far more dramatic: a deep red archival couture gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab from his 2005 collection. The dress is all about detail—intricate beading radiates across the bodice and down the skirt, creating a sculpted, almost architectural effect.
The fitted shape hugs the body before opening into a softly layered hem with a subtle train. It’s bold, glamorous, and a little bit cinematic, exactly the kind of vintage couture moment that makes the after-party carpet just as exciting as the main event.
Alison Brie in Yara Shoemaker (Oscars After-Party)
Alison Brie—best known for her role in Mad Men—opted for a sophisticated black ensemble by Yara Shoemaker at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. Her strapless gown featured a structured corset-style bodice with delicate lace detailing along the neckline.
The design then opened into a dramatic overskirt, revealing a sheer embellished column skirt underneath decorated with subtle polka-dot textures and intricate patterns. Styled with a simple diamond necklace and soft waves, the look balanced elegance with a touch of fashion-forward drama.
Karol G in Ashi Studio (Oscars After-Party)
Karol G, the Colombian singer brought the drama in a sculptural gown from Ashi Studio. The strapless metallic design features a corset-style bodice and a voluminous skirt that flows into a long train, giving the look a striking, almost wind-swept feel. With soft, tousled hair and minimal accessories, she lets the statement dress do all the talking.
Alba Baptista in Zuhair Murad (Oscars)
Portuguese actress Alba Baptista—best known internationally for her role in the Netflix series Warrior Nun—kept things effortlessly elegant at the Academy Awards in a soft champagne gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad.
The off-shoulder silhouette drapes beautifully across the bodice with delicate ruching that cinches at the waist before flowing into a sleek, floor-length skirt. The satin fabric catches the light just enough. Paired with minimal jewelry and loose waves, the vibe is very old-Hollywood glamour with a modern softness.
The Takeaway
From the main ceremony to the after-parties, these red carpet moments prove just how much a great gown can transform an entrance into a statement. Whether it’s a softly draped silhouette, archival couture making a comeback, or intricate embellishment catching the light with every step, these looks capture the kind of fashion magic awards season is known for. And if anything, they’re a reminder that sometimes the most memorable red carpet moments are the ones that balance timeless elegance with just the right amount of drama.
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