“Every season, I am inspired by women,” fashion powerhouse Oscar de la Renta once said. Having a penchant for strong women, the Dominican designer went on to dress notables, from first ladies to couture first-timers.
During his over 40-year-long career, he emerged to the fore as one of the most celebrated designers the fashion world has seen. We, at The Express Tribune, pay homage to the late master couturier by taking a look at some of his recent designs.
Sarah Jessica Parker at Met Ball 2014
What she wore: The Sex and the City actor stunned in this black-and-white customised gown with the legend’s signature on its tail. The gown features a black bodice and voluminous white skirt with intricate detailing.
Why we love it: de La Renta had a knack for folds and pattern mixing and this dress just recreated a moment in history. The designer’s name flashing across the back immaculately in scarlet embroidery adds to the gown’s grandeur. “I wanted Mr de la Renta to build a dress. I forced him to put his hand in scarlet embroidery on the back – his signature,” Parker once told the USA Today.
Zooey Deschanel at Golden Globes 2013
What she wore: The New Girl star donned this beautiful bright red strapless number, reassuring that the designer can elevate the classiest of designs. Exuding sophistication, the gown leads the pack of simple yet elegant silhouettes and designs that de la Renta is known for.
Why we love it: The clustered pleats de La Renta adorned the dress with make it look regal. Its flawless fitting and crisp capacious skirt enhance its 1950s costume party vibe.
Amal Clooney at her wedding in 2014
What she wore: We can’t think of a better choice than de la Renta for Amal’s fairy-tale wedding to George Clooney. What was the designer’s last wedding gown featured French lace, pearls and diamante accents with a full circular train. Amal wore the gown with a cathedral-length lace-edged veil.
Why we love it: The dress has a dreamy feel to it. The ivory beaded-tulle dress, which featured 14 yard of Chantilly-lace appliqué, had a bodice hand-embroidered with beads and crystals. Need we say more?
Cameron Diaz at Academy Awards 2010
What she wore: The actor was the epitome of Hollywood glamour in a flowing de la Renta bejewelled gown. Letting her dress do the talking, she kept her accessories to a bare minimum.
Why we love it: Ranking as one of the best dressed at the Oscars, Cameron gleamed in this champagne tulle gown. The metallic ribbon and gold paillette embroidery gave the glittering dress class bar none.
Taylor Swift at Met Ball 2014
What she wore: The 24-year-old singer rocked the red carpet in this gorgeous blush satin-faced organza gown with matte gold sequins, pearl beads, rose gold metallic thread work leaves and organza petal embroidery.
Why we love it: The dress epitomises de la Renta’s signature precision. He incorporated a sense of modern elegance into it. The silver-lined threading and waves of beadwork make it a dress that would make any girl cry with joy.
Compiled By: Umnia Shahid
Published in The Express Tribune, October 22nd, 2014.
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