Blake Lively’s recent appearance at the New York City screening of “Wicked” serves as a stunning reminder of the powerful intersection between fashion and film. Paying homage to the classic film “The Wizard of Oz,” Lively took a modern approach to the iconic ruby red slippers, opting for a pair of rhinestone-covered platform shoes designed by Marc Jacobs, which are part of a limited-edition capsule collection themed around the beloved fantasy. Priced at $450, these shoes are an audacious fashion statement that encapsulates Lively’s flair for drama and sophistication.
Merging Style with Subtle References
While the towering heels drew immediate attention, Lively maintained an air of elegance through her choice of attire. Sporting a sleek white blazer paired with classic light-wash jeans, she successfully balanced her high-fashion footwear with a more relaxed ensemble. The added floral accents in her accessories—an embroidered button-down shirt, eye-catching earrings, and a Chanel purse—hinted at a whimsical nod to the film’s poppy scenes. This deliberate mixture of high-fashion with subtle thematic references showcases Lively’s skill in curating a look that is both stylish and meaningful.
Accompanied by her husband Ryan Reynolds, who sported an amusingly understated khaki outfit that humorously echoed the Scarecrow’s attire, the couple stood out as a high-profile duo at the event. Their presence alongside the lead stars of “Wicked,” Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, along with other notable cast members, underscored the significance of the event. Lively’s fashion choices were not just a solo reflection of her style but a cohesive dialogue with the film’s characters and themes, demonstrating her ability to adapt to varied contexts while still retaining an unmistakable flair.
Fashion Choices Rooted in History
Interestingly, Lively’s choice to channel the legendary ruby slippers brings attention to the discrepancies between literary and cinematic interpretations. Costume designer Paul Tazewell noted that in L. Frank Baum’s novels, Dorothy’s shoes were initially described as silver rather than the fiery red made famous by the 1939 film. This historical tidbit adds depth to the fashion conversation, reminding us that the visual storytelling of cinema often demands alterations that captivate audiences in imaginative ways. Tazewell’s own creation for “Wicked” further explores this duality with a silver pair adorned with swirls, signifying that contemporary fashion dialogues often involve rediscovering and reinterpreting classic narratives.
In light of her increasingly celebrated wardrobe selections, Lively’s method of dressing extends beyond mere aesthetics. Recently, she coordinated her look with that of her friend Gigi Hadid during the promotion of Reynolds’ own film, showcasing a superhero theme. This capacity to connect her personal style with broader cultural moments, like her styling for a film event, speaks to her evolving role in both the fashion and entertainment arenas. As we anticipate “Wicked: Part 2,” one can’t help but wonder how Lively will continue to enchant us with her stylish tributes and interpretative artistry.