Runway or red carpet? Look out for couture looks at this year’s Oscars

Breathtaking as they are, couture designs are often the top choice of celebrities for an awards ceremony like the Oscars. Photo composite (from left): Giorgio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Fendi

There is probably nothing more impressive in fashion than couture dresses. Each one is intricately handmade – which can take up to thousands of hours.

Such creations also make use of luxurious fabrics, and are decorated with fine detailing like embroidery and appliques.

So, it is only fitting that couture designs often become the number one choice on the red carpet of an awards show such as the Oscars.

Traditionally, it is the Spring/Summer collections from Paris Couture Week (held in January or February) that stylists have their eye on.

Chanel, Fendi, Dior, Armani, Valentino and Zuhair Murad are all major players in the celebrity dressing game.

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Couture designs from these fashion houses are timelessly beautiful. Just imagine the most timeless gowns with clean, classy silhouettes.

Then you have more adventurous creations from the likes of Schiaparelli and Jean Paul Gaultier.

Bordering on the avant-garde, they play with unconventional forms. With such whimsical (or rather, quirky) designs, they challenge opinions and create buzz.

Even if a Hollywood star does not end up wearing the exact dress seen on the runway, designers will sometimes come up with creations based on something from their couture show.

The key trends spotted at the Spring/Summer 2024 couture shows early this month are lighter fabrics like tulle and chiffon, sheer materials for an airy feel, and 1950s old-school evening wear vibes – so watch out for them at the upcoming Oscars in March, as well.