When Blake Lively steps onto the red carpet, she’s not just promoting a film—she’s telling a story with her style. At a recent screening of “Wicked” in New York City, Lively made a striking entrance that paid homage to one of cinema’s most iconic films, “The Wizard of Oz.” Her chic representation of Dorothy was vividly realized through her choice of ruby red slippers, reimagined in a high-fashion context with dazzling platform heels designed by Marc Jacobs.
At the event, the actress, known for her standout roles and vibrant fashion sense, sported a striking pair of rhinestone-covered platform shoes from Jacobs’ exclusive “Wizard of Oz” capsule collection. This $450 footwear not only paid tribute to the iconic ruby slippers but also positioned Lively in the realm of high fashion. Her outfit was completed with a sleek white blazer and classic light-wash jeans, doing a remarkable job of allowing the statement shoes to steal the show. The use of a minimalist wardrobe underlined her intention to keep the focus on the sparkling footwear, demonstrating her understanding of fashion as a visual narrative.
Lively’s ensemble wasn’t just about the shoes, though. She incorporated floral accents that hinted at her recent styles during the “It Ends With Us Tour,” noting her knack for blending thematic elements into her looks. An embroidered button-down, bold statement earrings, and a luxurious Chanel purse rounded out the outfit, which, while referencing the film’s poppies, also showcased her signature style.
Not one to walk the carpet alone, Lively was joined by her husband, Ryan Reynolds, who opted for a charmingly understated khaki ensemble. Perhaps echoing the spirit of the Scarecrow from “The Wizard of Oz,” Reynolds’ look provided a perfect contrast to Lively’s eye-catching attire. The couple shared the spotlight with an array of stars from the “Wicked” cast, including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who took on the iconic roles of Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. This gathering of talent further solidified Lively’s status not just as an actress but as an integral part of a broader cinematic conversation.
Interestingly, while Lively’s heels were inspired by a classic film, the original version of the slippers deviated from the vibrant ruby hue that audiences have come to love. As Paul Tazewell, the costume designer for “Wicked,” noted, L. Frank Baum’s source material described the shoes as silver boots. This change to a red design was driven by the creative decisions made during the film’s production in technicolor. The shift highlights how adaptations can reshape the context of beloved stories, bridging the gap between the original text and modern interpretations.
Blake Lively continues to defy expectations in both her film choices and her fashion statements. Her upcoming role in “Wicked: Part 2” stirs excitement among fans who can’t help but wonder how she will incorporate these bold stylistic choices into her character’s narrative. Given her track record of method dressing, Lively might just surprise us all with her next theatrical appearance. It seems clear that whether she is portraying iconic characters or redefining fashion trends, Lively remains at the forefront of both film and style, effortlessly blending the two worlds into a captivating spectacle.