The influence of the film Black Panther will be felt around the globe in myriad ways, not the least of which is in the fashion world. We admit it: we’re pretty obsessed with this movie right now. So we went exploring online to see what impact the story of the first black superhero and his family, friends and adversaries is having on the red carpet this season. Admittedly, it’s a bit early, since the movie premiered only three weeks ago. And this is a pre-Oscar round-up. Still, it’s fun to see what the Wakandans are wearing as they promote their film and collect awards for their previous work.
The headline? Sometimes the looks are inspired by textiles or other influences from Africa. But just as often, they’re totally European in sensibility, worn with confidence and elan. The message? As long as you own it, you can rock any look you want. And there’s room for all kinds of diversity (and hair) on the red carpet.
We begin with the style icon Lupita Nyong’o, who has already established herself as a queen of the red carpet and a trend-setter par excellence. Have a look at what she’s been wearing in the past month, and how varied and striking the looks are. We love that she doesn’t play it safe, even when she’s wearing basic black. She makes her own rules, not just with the gowns, but with her hair styles. Imagine the impact that’s having on little girls the world over. #BoldLeadership.
Laetitia Wright is on everyone’s list of rising stars and people to watch, and on the red carpet she’s chosen looks that are fresh, optimistic and elegant. We wish we had her upper arms! Every time we see her, we smile.
Danai Gurira was a revelation to us when we saw her in Black Panther. We later learned about her incredible talent as a playwright (Broadway’s The Eclipsed) and as a screenwriter (she and Lupita Nyong’o are writing a TV miniseries based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel Americanah). On the red carpet, she has chosen looks that radiate modern feminine strength – we’re taking style notes about her confident use of color and texture.
Chadwick Boseman has the challenge of dressing like a superhero these days. As Black Panther, he’s the bearer of a lot of people’s dreams right now — no small task. We love that he’s chosen to go a softer route than the traditional big-shoulder, dark fabric, macho-man routine. He’s been rocking florals, animal prints and metallics on the red carpet recently. Nice.
Finally, kudos to Angela Bassett for proving once again that style has nothing to with age, and everything to do with spirit and confidence. She’s opted for statement jumpsuits and gowns in brilliant color all season long, and she makes us want to up our game (she also makes us want to hang out with her at the after-party). Michael B. Jordan seems to love basic black, which is the perfect look for a sexy super-villain. Daniel Kaluuya has opted for softer silhouettes for his star turns on the red carpet. There a lot of different ways to be a modern cool dude. Bravo.
We feel certain that the African-inspired, “Afrofuturistic” look of Black Panther will show up in unexpected places in the coming months. But we’re really happy that none of the movie’s stars has gotten locked into that look. Europe, Africa, Asia, America — it really doesn’t matter where the style inspiration comes from. We just love seeing these strong and talented black actors having their moment in the spotlight. And we can’t wait to see what this chic ensemble will wear on Sunday night to the Oscars. Start popping the popcorn!
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