Mia Khalifa
In the 90s, fashion was ruled by Kate, Naomi, and Winona. As the 2000s dawned, they gracefully made way for the likes of Paris and Lindsay, only to be succeeded by the rise of Alexa and Rihanna. Today, the pages of fashion magazines are awash with the style exploits of Zendaya, Kendall, Hailey, and Sofia. Amid the dazzling spotlight cast upon these celebrated fashion figures, could it be that we are inadvertently overlooking some modern style visionaries? While the enduring fashion legacies of these labelled icons are undeniable, within the fashion realm there exists some unsung heroes deserving of recognition.
Bella Ramsey
At just 20 years old, Bella Ramsey has firmly established themselves as a rising star not only on the silver screen, but also as a fashion force to be reckoned with.
Earlier this year, Ramsey made waves at the 81st Golden Globe Awards donning a head-turning Prada ensemble. Opting for a utilitarian blue jacket paired with fitted grey trousers and chunky black boots, they brought a refreshing departure to the red carpet typically dominated by gowns and suits.
There's an undeniable allure to effortless style, and Ramsey has perfected the art. Embracing monotonal, androgynous ensembles, their fashion sense exudes refinement and youthfulness. Brands like Thom Browne and Prada have become synonymous with Ramsey's event looks, reflecting their love for quality tailoring and clean designs.
Identifying as nonbinary and using any pronouns, Ramsey has introduced fashion enthusiasts to a fresh perspective on dressing that transcends traditional gender norms. With a penchant for oversized suits, military-inspired attire, and gender-neutral ensembles, Ramsey’s style offers an exciting glimpse into the future of fashion.
Nicola Coughlan
The meteoric rise of the Derry Girls supernova, Nicola Coughlan, has catapulted her onto our screens and into the hearts of fashion lovers as she adorns herself in avant-garde labels such as Harris Reed’s Nina Ricci, Molly Goddard, and Emilia Wickstead. Her fondness for extravagant silhouettes, vibrant hues, and intricate textiles adds an element of enchantment and whimsy to every red carpet appearance that otherwise can feel lacking.
Teaming up with stylist Aimee Croysdill, the Bridgerton luminary channels her deep cinematic knowledge to craft looks that resonate long after the flashbulbs fade. These red carpet ensembles not only captivate fans, but also command the attention of discerning fashion arbiters.
Perhaps what is most exciting about Coughlan’s approach to dressing is the fact that she is not the typical sample size fashion houses work with, so seeing their enthusiasm and approach to dressing her is a breath of fresh air. Her style exudes elegance and sophistication without a hint of rigidity; it's simultaneously contemporary and timeless, with a vintage allure that underscores her innate fashion prowess.
Mia Khalifa
Once the subject of crude jokes and misogynistic and racist remarks, today, her name commands respect within fashion circles. Mia Khalifa, once known for a controversial video and a brief foray into adult entertainment, has reinvented herself as a captivating presence in the world of style. She’s transitioned seamlessly into roles as a sports journalist, feminist advocate, and now, a jewellery designer with her own brand, Sheytan, defying her critics expectations.
Front row seats at global fashion shows have become her domain, where she champions emerging designers whose aesthetics align with her own. Recently, she styled herself for a Vogue India shoot, fearlessly blending brands like Schiaparelli, Maison Margiela, and Roberto Cavalli for an editorial that was both daring and dynamic.
On Instagram you’ll find her lounging in a GCDS Patrick Star bikini or draped in the latest collection of Belgian label Ester Manas. When she speaks at Oxford it is not in a dowdy pair of trousers, but a leg-bearing mini skirt, corset and fitted blazer from Dilara Findikoglu. She brings a long-forgotten sense of fun and rowdiness to fashion, and has firmly established herself as a fashion icon to be reckoned with.
Colman Domingo
Venturing away from the traditional well-tailored suit can be a daunting task for any man, but playwright, theatre director, and Oscar-nominee Colman Domingo has turned the standard on its head - a welcome change in the world of men’s fashion.
Domingo eschews the conventional suit for vibrant colours, rich textures, and daring silhouettes on the red carpet. Guided by the expert hands of styling team Wayman and Micah, who have worked with the likes of Jodie Turner-Smith and Keke Palmer, Domingo has solidified his position as the king of red carpet dressing.
From vintage 70s all-white suits to elegantly unbuttoned shirts and the iconic mustard-yellow Valentino Haute Couture suit topped with a gold coat, Domingo's fashion choices have inspired a new wave of sartorial confidence among male stars.
Not only are Domingo's looks fun and captivating, but they also boast impeccable execution. With clean lines, perfect fits, and an effortless sense of sophistication, Domingo's style sets him apart from the crowd. When it comes to exemplary red-carpet fashion, Colman Domingo sets the bar high.
As we navigate the ever-changing world of fashion, it's easy to get swept up in the spotlight of the faces we see across our TikTok FYP’s and splashed across major media outlets. Yet, amidst the SEO-driven headlines, let's not forget the unsung heroes quietly contributing to an exciting and innovative fashion future with their approach to style. And here’s to embracing a richer, more inclusive narrative throughout the world of fashion.
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