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The best Oscars dresses celebrated Indigenous artists, were vintage, and crafted from upcycled and sustainably sourced natural fabrics.
With swaths of satins, layers of sequins, and gorgeous silks sweeping across the red carpet, the Oscars are one of television’s most glamorous nights. It’s no wonder that nearly 18 million people tune in to not only play their hand at predicting who will win the golden statue but also partake in the sumptuous display of fashion. As an event with such a strong impact, in terms of people tuning in and environmentally from all of the festivities, it can also be a platform to spark conversations about how to change sustainably.
In recent years, efforts have been made to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into glamorous events such as the Oscars. In 2010, four of the ten films nominated in the Best Picture and Best Documentary category had an environmental focus. Since then, the Academy has committed to environmental responsibility through initiatives like serving menus with 50% plant-based options, composting flowers, and reusing hardware and plywood subflooring.
In terms of fashion, attendees are given a Sustainable Style Guide to educate and encourage them to make fashion choices that are better for the environment. In 2024, Samata Pattinson (former CEO of Red Carpet, Green Dress) and founder of the cultural sustainability organization BLACK PEARL, collaborated with the 96th Annual Academy Awards to create this guide. And, in our opinion, it’s the moments when fashion and sustainability converge that make the best Oscar dresses.
2024 Academy Awards Celebrate Environmental Leaders
Carey Mulligan is seen wearing a timeless Balenciaga gown. (C) Getty
According to Samata Pattinson, the founder of Black Pearl, “The new generations growing up… will be encouraged to also rethink their purchasing habits and opt for alternatives to fast fashion such as second-hand clothing and renting for special occasions.”
This year there were several examples of sustainability seen through upcycled materials, vintage, and designs championing indigenous artisans. Writer, activist, and motivational speaker Suleika Jaouad wore an Atelier Jolie dress crafted from recycled and sustainably sourced silk and vintage jewelry. Actresses Cary Mulligan and Laverne Cox graced the red carpet in vintage Balenciaga and Thierry Mugler dresses. Actress Lily Gladstone’s floor-sweeping gown was a custom Gucci gown featuring the artwork of the celebrated Mohawk, Cree, and Comanche artist Joe Big Mountain.
It is inspiring to witness individuals at a significant cultural event like the Oscars red carpet promoting the principles of sustainable fashion. It’s a showcase of how sustainability can truly elevate individual style and hold a deeper significance. And thanks to material innovations, collectives, and guides sharing knowledge about sustainability, it’s easier than ever to be sustainable. According to Samata, “Today finding, wearing and understanding the impact of a more conscious look to the red carpet is much easier than fourteen years ago.”
Lily Gladstone is seen wearing a dress adorned with porcupine quill-work edging, created by Joe Big Mountain of Ironhorse Quillwork, at the Oscars. (C) Getty
The Sustainable Style Guide of the Academy: What You Need to Know
The Sustainable Style Guide by The Academy is a fashion manual that provides suggestions for Academy members to incorporate environmentally friendly fashion options. Developed in collaboration with Black Pearl, it addresses the following main areas: