Great Outfits in Fashion History: Naomi Campbell's 1996 Oscars Gown
Photo: Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images
There are perfectly good celebrity style moments, and then there are the looks that really stick with you, the ones you try desperately to recreate at home. In 'Great Outfits in Fashion History,' Fashionista editors are revisiting their all-time favorite lewks.
When considering the long list of fashion greats, Naomi Campbell is undoubtedly one of the most influential and stylish among them. She's reminded us of that time and time again — like back at the 1996 Academy Awards, when she demonstrated her supermodel status to fellow attendees in a striking yellow gown and sparkling accessories.
Maybe it's my obsession with Audrey Hepburn's style, but a boatneck dress will always do it for me. Campbell's gown features the classic high neckline, as well as precise tailoring in the bodice that melts into a draped silhouette around her legs — a masterclass in sophisticated simplicity.
Next, let's admire the high ponytail with the sparkling hair clip. It's the perfect complement to the neckline, and emphasizes the silver choker that pops against the yellow. We also see some matching silver heels pointing out from under the dress, continuing the glittering accessories theme.
That night, Campbell presented the award for Best Costume Design alongside Pierce Brosnan and Claudia Schiffer, and turned the stage into a runway for the nominees. (Seriously, let's bring that back.) For the ceremony, she switched out this bright canary ensemble for another high-neck silhouette in blue. Still, her red-carpet look deserved its own prize.
Channel Campbell's timeless high-neckline moment with our picks below.
Ralph Lauren Collection Arella Boat-Neck Satin Long Dress, $3,490, available here (sizes 0-10)
Dissh Ivy Off White Sleeveless Midi Dress, $150, available here (sizes XS-XXL)
Fanm Mon Flirt dress, $249, available here (sizes XXS-XL)
Reformation Belmont Knit Dress, $148, available here (sizes XS-XL)
J.Crew Maxine High-Neck Shift Dress in Linen, $98 $78, available here (sizes 3XS-3XL)
Paris Georgia White Raina Maxi Dress, $690, available here (sizes XS-XL)
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