Janelle Monáe Dazzled on the Oscars Red Carpet in 168,000 Swarovski Crystals
Most of the time, when people say an actress sparkled at the Oscars, they don't mean it literally. That wasn't the case for Janelle Monáe tonight, who is wearing one of the most glittering, labor-intensive Oscar looks in recent memory. The singer and actress sported a custom Ralph Lauren cape dress with an open back and hood to the 92nd Annual Academy Awards. According to WWD executive editor Booth Moore, the gown features over 168,000 Swarovski crystals and took 600 hours of hand embroidery to complete.
As if this gown didn't have enough sparkle, Monáe finished off her look with Forevermark jewelry, including a diamond choker, diamond studs, and three noticeable diamond rings.
In addition to the immense effort required to create the dress, Monáe's hair preparation began two days in advance reports Vanity Fair. It is safe to say Monáe truly wanted to shine tonight. Vanity Fair also notes that the Ralph Lauren number is but one of three outfits Monáe has planned for tonight, so we'll see how she tops this jaw-dropping look.
We couldn't help but recall Grace Jones when we spotted this amazing outfit. Monáe's hood and the slicked back hair definitely were reminiscent of the famous model, though Monáe updated the look for 2020.
Tonight, Monáe is set to deliver a special performance, joining other singers lined up for this evening's program, including Billie Eilish, Elton John, Randy Newman, and Cynthia Erivo. The actress/singer double-threat also appeared in Harriet, whose star Cynthia Erivo is nominated for Best Actress this year.
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