In an enchanting display of fashion and character embodiment, Ariana Grande made waves at the premiere of the film adaptation of “Wicked” held in Sydney, Australia. Her appearance was nothing short of magical, as she portrayed her role as Glinda in a way that dazzled fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. The event showcased not only her immense talent but also the creativity and thought that went into her stunning ensemble.
A Dress to Remember
Grande graced the red carpet in a breathtaking bubblegum pink ballgown designed by Vivienne Westwood. This gown was more than just a pretty dress; it was an homage to the original Glinda, as seen in 1939’s classic “The Wizard of Oz,” which starred Billie Burke. The puffed sleeves and playful silhouette of Grande’s ensemble elicited a sense of nostalgia for fans of the iconic character. It became clear that this was not merely a fashion appearance but a vivid interpretation of her character’s essence. The nod to Glinda’s whimsical charm was executed beautifully, and Grande’s choice of attire instantly underscored her dedication to embodying the beloved role.
Accessorizing for Impact
While the gown served as a cornerstone of Grande’s look, it was her choice of accessories that truly completed the magical transformation. She adorned herself with over 100 carats of custom-designed jewelry by Lorraine Schwartz. The centerpiece was a butterfly-shaped necklace that not only matched the gown’s embellishments but also signified a look that was ethereal and enchanting, much like Glinda herself. In a spectacular showcase of craftsmanship, the choker featured a blend of round and oval diamonds, with the butterfly centerpiece crafted from both rose-cut and full-cut stones. The weight of the choker alone was an impressive 90 carats—a detail that speaks volumes about the effort and artistry involved.
Alongside the necklace, Grande’s choice of rings and earrings further enhanced the look, epitomizing the luxurious yet whimsical aesthetic characteristic of Glinda. Her delicate half-up hairstyle paired perfectly with her sparkling attire, demonstrating an attention to detail that made her seem like she just arrived from the Emerald City. Even her makeup—a pink-centric palette from her own R.E.M. Beauty line—reinforced the overall theme of her Glinda inspiration.
In an exclusive interview with Vogue Australia, Grande reflected on the joys of portraying Glinda, emphasizing her ongoing connection with the character during the press tour. She expressed, “I know I am here as myself, of course, but the fun of playing with the Ozian lore and bringing her to life in new ways through fashion is just such a lovely thing.” This sentiment highlights not just a passion for her craft, but also her desire to create a multidimensional experience for audiences who cherish the story of “Wicked.”
Discussing her custom dress, Grande mentioned the inspiration behind its design details, specifically the starburst motifs meant to represent Glinda’s wand. This level of thoughtfulness transcends mere clothing selection; it reflects an understanding of the character and the narrative that enhances the audience’s experience. Such artistic choices indicate Grande’s commitment, is underscored by her collaboration with stylist Mimi Cuttrell, demonstrating how fashion can elevate storytelling.
Co-starring alongside Grande is Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba. The dynamic between the two actresses brings depth to the film’s storyline, and their fashion choices during the premiere showcased this artistic contrast. Erivo donned a dramatic black gown by Louis Vuitton, adorned with Roberto Coin jewelry, perfectly balancing Grande’s softer aesthetic. This interplay between their outfits visually represented the dichotomy between their characters—Glinda and Elphaba—and set the stage for the vibrant chemistry audiences can expect in the film.
As anticipation for the film’s release on November 21 builds, the excitement surrounding Grande and Erivo’s portrayals persists. Their fashion statements at the premiere indicate a deep connection to the characters they’re portraying, promising an unforgettable cinematic experience for “Wicked” fans. As we await more enchanting looks from this talented pair, one thing is certain: they are bringing the magic of Oz to life, and it’s a journey worth following.