Red carpets have always been more than just a stretch of fabric leading to an award show — they’re a stage where fashion dreams come alive… or sometimes go hilariously wrong. From jaw-dropping couture gowns to head-scratching style choices, 2025 has already given us plenty of unforgettable red carpet moments.
Let’s break down the top 5 red carpet fashion hits and misses that had everyone talking — for better or worse.
1. HIT: Deepika Padukone – Cannes Film Festival 2025
Deepika Padukone has been a red carpet darling for years, and this year’s Cannes Film Festival only reaffirmed her status. Wearing a custom ivory satin sari-inspired gown with intricate pearl embroidery and a dramatic trail, Deepika embodied old-Hollywood glamour with a strong Indian essence.
What stood out was her minimalist approach — no heavy jewelry, just her signature confidence and a pair of emerald earrings. Her sleek bun and bold winged eyeliner tied the look together flawlessly. The fashion world couldn’t stop gushing, with critics calling her “the epitome of elegance.” Definitely one of the biggest fashion hits of the year.
Why It Worked:
- Blending Indian heritage with global couture.
- Effortless grace and confidence.
- Flawless hair and makeup styling.
2. MISS: Jared Leto – Met Gala 2025
The Met Gala theme this year was “Digital Renaissance,” and while many celebrities found creative ways to interpret the brief, Jared Leto’s outfit was more confusing than cutting-edge. He arrived in a bizarre LED-covered metallic armor suit with a giant blinking eye in the center — which he claimed was “watching the soul of fashion.”
While Leto is known for his eccentric fashion statements, this one missed the mark. The outfit felt more like a sci-fi movie costume than couture. Social media exploded with memes and jokes, turning what could’ve been a bold statement into a red carpet miss.
Why It Failed:
- Over-the-top theatrics without a clear narrative.
- Confusing concept and poor execution.
- Memes overshadowed any fashion appreciation.
3. HIT: Zendaya – Oscars 2025
Trust Zendaya to never disappoint on a red carpet. At the Oscars 2025, she stunned in a sculptural red Valentino gown with a high slit and asymmetric neckline that paid tribute to 1950s Hollywood, yet felt fresh and modern. The fitted silhouette highlighted her statuesque frame, while her glossy waves and diamond necklace screamed old-school luxury.
What made the look unforgettable was how she owned it — the pose, the poise, the power. Her stylist Law Roach once again proved that Zendaya isn’t just wearing fashion; she’s making fashion history.
Why It Worked:
- Timeless glamour with a modern edge.
- Perfect styling from head to toe.
- Confidence that lit up the entire red carpet.
4. MISS: Doja Cat – Grammy Awards 2025
Doja Cat is known for her daring style choices, but her outfit at the 2025 Grammys had fans and critics raising eyebrows. She arrived in a latex bubble dress that looked more like a balloon animal than high fashion. The exaggerated puff sleeves and plastic texture clashed with her glam makeup and hair, creating a jarring look that lacked cohesion.
While fashion risks are always appreciated, this one didn’t land. It felt too forced, as if the outfit was trying to scream “avant-garde” without understanding the assignment. Sadly, it ended up on several worst-dressed lists.
Why It Failed:
- Inconsistent aesthetic.
- Over-exaggeration that distracted from her natural beauty.
- Lack of harmony between hair, makeup, and outfit.
5. HIT: Timothée Chalamet – BAFTA Awards 2025
Men’s fashion is often overlooked on the red carpet, but Timothée Chalamet continues to challenge that norm — and at the BAFTA Awards 2025, he did it again. Wearing a custom Alexander McQueen suit with subtle embroidery and a sheer black shirt underneath, he brought drama, elegance, and masculinity into one look.
He accessorized with layered chains, rings, and slightly tousled hair — giving off “rockstar meets royal” energy. It was refreshing to see a male celeb play with textures and silhouettes while still keeping things effortlessly chic. A definite fashion hit.
Why It Worked:
- A unique twist on traditional menswear.
- Balance of sophistication and edge.
- Confident styling without gimmicks.
Red Carpet Trends That Emerged in 2025
Beyond individual looks, several strong fashion trends have emerged from red carpets this year:
- Sheer Layers: Celebrities are embracing transparency with tulle, mesh, and chiffon overlays that offer elegance with a hint of sensuality.
- Monochrome Power: Whether it’s all-red, all-gold, or all-black, head-to-toe single-color outfits are dominating for their bold impact.
- Gender Fluid Fashion: More stars are rejecting traditional norms, choosing pieces that blend masculine and feminine aesthetics.
- Sustainability Focus: Recycled materials and upcycled couture have become statement choices for many eco-conscious celebrities.
- Statement Accessories: From oversized chokers to sculptural clutches, accessories this year are as eye-catching as the outfits themselves.
In 2025, the red carpet continues to be a playground of personality, expression, and high fashion. The hits were memorable not just because they were beautiful, but because they told a story. Whether it was Zendaya’s tribute to old Hollywood or Deepika’s nod to her roots, great fashion on the red carpet isn’t just about appearance — it’s about presence.
On the flip side, the misses reminded us that fashion is subjective, and bold risks can sometimes result in confusing messages. Still, these moments spark conversations, drive trends, and keep the spirit of experimentation alive.
So whether you’re here for the gowns, the drama, or the memes, one thing’s for sure: red carpet fashion will always be one of the most exciting parts of celebrity culture.
