It’s said that Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel created the little black dress because she needed a garment she could mourn in while still working. She’d lost one of the loves of her life (and the first financier of the house of Chanel), but work still had to be done.
It’s the same in Hollywood, where discrimination and assault can be just as painful and tragic, but work still has to be done. So, as in the days of Chanel herself, and every season since, black ruled the red carpet once again at this year’s 75th annual Golden Globe Awards– and it came accessorised with its own hashtag, #TimesUp.
Created in Tinseltown itself, ‘Time’s Up’ is an initiative designed to bring awareness to sexual assault and harassment in the workplace. Powered by Hollywood A-listers like Rose McGowan and Ashley Judd, the movement is growing in popularity thanks to grand public statements– some of which were made on last night’s red carpet. In true designer fashion, the all-black trend took the red carpet by storm, boldly proclaiming that just as black can be worn by anyone and everyone, assault and discrimination is an issue that affects us all. Take a look at the actresses who wore their black best:
Mary J. Blige in custom Alberta Ferretti
MJB proved why she’s royalty in any room and in any crowd. Her custom Ferretti gown blends glamour and edge harmoniously – the perfect combination of hip hop and soul.
Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace
This black Atelier Versace pays homage to old Hollywood – gorgeous on Angelina, and a welcome surprise for a brand known mostly for its sexy, contemporary silhouettes.
Jessica Chastain in Giorgio Armani
Jessica’s black gown is all about pops of embellishment and understated elegance, tailored to perfection by the best tailors in the business.
Margot Robbie in Gucci
Margot made herself the new red carpet darling with a stunning 70s silhouette from Gucci, one that just begs to be taken for a night on the town!
Zoe Kravitz in Yves Saint Laurent
One of the most effortlessly cool actresses in Hollywood, Zoe’s Yves St Laurent look is the epitome of chic, and just makes us love her even more.
Jessica Biel in Christian Dior
No-one rocks Christian Dior like Jessica– easily one of the fashion frontrunners in sheer layered taffeta with velvet swirl.
Dakota Johnson in Gucci
Simplistic Gucci? Dakota showed everyone how it’s done.
Tracee Ellis Ross in Marc Jacobs
Tracee gave us fierce draped queen in Marc Jacobs, with a matching headpiece.
Viola Davis in Brandon Maxwell
A red carpet favourite, Viola was flawless from head to toe in Brandon Maxwell, complete with coiffed afro.
Caitriona Balfe in Chanel Haute Couture
No-one does the LBD like the house of Chanel – and they proved it once again with this look from Lagerfeld’s Haute Couture collection, transforming Caitriona Balfe into the epitome of French sensibility.
James R. Sanders is a fashion editor and celebrity stylist. Follow him on Instagram.
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