Fashion Firestorm: The Most Stylishly Dressed Celebrities at the 2025 Governors Awards
Celebrity Style
November 16, 2025
Photo: Getty Images
Oh, the glamour! Awards season has erupted with its usual dazzle, and it all started with a bang at the 2025 Governors Awards, where stars lit up the red carpet honoring icons like Debbie Allen, Tom Cruise, Wynn Thomas, and Dolly Parton in Los Angeles, California. If you're new to this world, the Governors Awards are a prestigious event put on by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognizing lifetime achievements in film—think of it as a warm-up to the big Oscars showdown. But here's where it gets controversial: some fans argue these smaller ceremonies steal the spotlight from the main event, while others say they offer fresher, bolder fashion risks. What do you think—does the underdog event deserve more hype?
With the Academy Gala and the LACMA Art + Film Gala fresh in our minds (check out the best-dressed looks from those here: 2025 Academy Museum Gala and 2025 LACMA Art + Film Gala), we're diving headfirst into a whirlwind of elegant red carpet moments that will build up to the Oscars on March 15. And this is the part most people miss: smaller events like this often showcase the most adventurous styles, away from the intense scrutiny of the big leagues. Last year's Governors Awards were a prime example (see the highlights here), with Angelina Jolie choosing a timeless, label-free vintage ensemble (read more about her choice here), and Tilda Swinton turning heads in a striking tomato-red ruched gown from the lesser-known brand Standing Ground (explore their designs here). It sparked debates: was Jolie's subtle nod to sustainability a smart move, or did Swinton's bold hue steal the show?
This edition was equally thrilling. Jessie Buckley radiated sophistication in a sleek black turtleneck paired with a flowing black skirt, proving that simplicity can pack a punch. For the gentlemen, Jacob Elordi and Joe Alwyn embraced their roles by drawing inspiration from period dramas in their tailored suits—think classic cuts that whisper of historical elegance, perhaps nodding to their latest film projects to keep things authentic.
Speaking of drawing from characters: Ariana Grande channeled her inner Glinda with a bubblegum pink asymmetrical dress from Dior's fall 2007 collection, sourced from Timeless Vixen—a move that's like reliving a fairy tale on the carpet. Her co-star from Wicked, Cynthia Erivo, complemented this with an artistic pistachio-colored Givenchy coat by Sarah Burton, adorned with colorful florals that screamed impressionist masterpiece. They weren't alone in the coordinated chaos: Chase Infiniti and Teyana Taylor from One Battle After Another arrived in unison, their outfits harmonizing like a stylish duet. But here's the twist that might ruffle feathers: is this "method dressing"—where stars mirror their on-screen personas—genius marketing or a tired trend? Fans are divided; some love the immersive vibe, while others call it overkill. What side are you on?
Dive in and feast your eyes on the top looks from the 2025 Governors Awards.
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Hannah Jackson is a seasoned fashion writer at Vogue, specializing in celebrity style, emerging trends, and 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's passionate about decoding the stories behind the stitches. ... Read More
Fashion fans, what's your take? Did any of these outfits surprise you, or do you think method dressing is the future of red carpets? Share your thoughts and debates in the comments below—we'd love to hear if you're team simplicity or team spectacle!
