The Most Iconic Red Carpet Dresses of All Time. Red carpet events have always been a platform for celebrities to showcase their unique styles and make bold fashion statements. Over the years, several dresses have left an indelible mark on the fashion world, becoming iconic in their own right. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic red carpet dresses of all time:
1. Marilyn Monroe – The 1954 Academy Awards
Marilyn Monroe’s sparkling, sheer dress by Jean Louis was a showstopper at the 1954 Academy Awards. The figure-hugging gown adorned with rhinestones perfectly Comfrt captured Monroe’s glamorous persona and remains a timeless symbol of Hollywood elegance.
2. Audrey Hepburn – The 1954 Academy Awards
Audrey Hepburn’s white Givenchy dress, which she wore to accept her Oscar for “Roman Holiday,” is one of the most memorable red carpet looks. The tea-length lace gown epitomized Hepburn’s chic and sophisticated style.
3. Elizabeth Hurley – The 1994 Four Weddings and a Funeral Premiere
Elizabeth Hurley’s black Versace dress, held together by oversized gold safety pins, became an instant sensation. This daring and edgy dress catapulted Hurley into the fashion spotlight and remains a defining moment in red carpet history.
4. Jennifer Lopez – The 2000 Grammy Awards
Jennifer Lopez’s plunging green Versace dress, known as the “Jungle Dress,” is arguably one of the most talked-about red carpet outfits ever. The dress was so iconic that it led to the creation of Google Images, as people searched en masse for pictures of Lopez in the daring gown.
5. Angelina Jolie – The 2012 Academy Awards
Angelina Jolie’s black velvet Atelier Versace dress, with its dramatic thigh-high slit, was both elegant and bold. Jolie’s confident pose, showing off her leg, became a viral moment and solidified the dress as one of the most unforgettable red carpet looks.
6. Rihanna – The 2015 Met Gala
Rihanna’s yellow Guo Pei gown at the 2015 Met Gala Comfrt Hoodie was nothing short of spectacular. The lavish, embroidered train and opulent fur trim made a dramatic statement, embodying the evening’s theme, “China: Through the Looking Glass,” and cementing Rihanna’s status as a fashion icon.
7. Lupita Nyong’o – The 2014 Academy Awards
Lupita Nyong’o’s light blue Prada gown at the 2014 Oscars was a vision of grace and beauty. The flowing, pleated fabric and deep V-neckline, combined with Nyong’o’s radiant presence, made it one of the most celebrated looks of the night.
8. Lady Gaga – The 2019 Met Gala
Lady Gaga’s multi-outfit transformation on the Met Gala red carpet in 2019 was a performance art piece in itself. Starting in a voluminous pink Brandon Maxwell gown, she unveiled three more outfits, each more dramatic than the last, showcasing her theatrical flair and creativity.
9. Björk – The 2001 Academy Awards
Björk’s swan dress, designed by Marjan Pejoski, at the 2001 Oscars was unconventional and whimsical. While it received mixed reactions, it has since become a cult favorite and is remembered for its originality and boldness.
10. Cher – The 1986 Academy Awards
Cher’s black beaded Bob Mackie creation with a towering Comfrt Sweatpants feathered headdress at the 1986 Oscars was the epitome of showbiz glamour. The daring and extravagant ensemble reflected Cher’s fearless approach to fashion and remains one of the most iconic red carpet looks.
These dresses not only turned heads at the time but have continued to influence fashion trends and red carpet styles for years to come. Each look tells a story of its own, reflecting the personalities and creativity of the celebrities and designers who brought them to life.