What is the Oscars dress code, exactly? And why do some celebrities totally ignore it?
The highly anticipated 97th Academy Awards is moments away.
While it's known as an event brimming with glitz and glamour, does it actually have a dress code? And must attendees adhere to it?
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A historic example of a white tie dress code at the Academy Awards. Getty
Technically, the dress code for the Oscars is white tie, which is the most formal type of attire: floor-length evening gowns for women and tailcoats, white bowties and wingtip collars for men.
This had been a longstanding code, though it is no longer as strict, included on invitations or enforced on guests.
If you have ever observed an Oscars red carpet, you may have noticed that many A-listers aren't in full-length gowns or tailcoats.
Instead, many opt for a black tie or a "Hollywood black tie" dress code, which the academy also accepts.
Whether you are a nominee or a personal assistant to a celebrity, there is an expectation of elevated fashion, resulting in some incredible red-carpet attire over the years.
Kristen Stewart attended the Oscars in a pair of shorts, which isn't included in the dress code. Getty
Florence Pugh 'broke' the age-old Oscars dress code in 2023 with this gown. Getty
In 2015, The Academy posted a formal guide on how to dress for the event that was written in 1968.
Edith Head was nominated for an Oscar 19 years in a row for the Costume Design category, she won eight awards between 1948-1966.
An institution at the awards, the academy invited her to serve as a fashion consultant for the ceremony.
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More than fifty years ago, she wrote some instructions to attendees, with pointers on how to dress for black and white television.
"We in the Academy are delighted to know that you will appear on our 40th Awards Presentation Telecast Monday, April 8th."
"However, so many questions have been asked about the style of dress expected on stage that I send you this information:
Edith Head posing with six of her Oscars for Costume Design. Getty
"Actresses are expected to wear formal evening gowns either maxi or floor length, preferably pastel shades since the setting is very formal and done entirely in white and gold."
"As you know, long dresses (no Mini or day length) are more graceful on stage and on camera in this type of background. The academy feels that the dignity of this traditional affair on our 40th Anniversary deserves more formal dress."
"Men are expected to wear white tie with conventional formal evening accessories."
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Head was committed to maintaining grace and style at the event, so much so that she listed her office phone number and her home phone number.
The upcoming show will undoubtedly be full of memorable fashion moments, with many sticking to the dress code, whilst others may veer to more avant-garde ensembles.
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