Fashion & Style

Chloé Zhao’s Oscars Outfit Was Pure Relaxed Elegance

Photography by Getty Images

Hermès sneakers on the red carpet? You love to see it.

It cannot be denied: Chloé Zhao’s Oscars outfit will be one to remember.

Photography by Matt Petit/A.M.P.A.S. via Getty Images

The acclaimed filmmaker (and now Academy Award winner!) hit the 2021 Oscars red carpet in a look that was unabashedly her: understated and comfortable, but still appropriately glam. Zhao opted for a nude, smocked dress from the Hermès Fall/Winter 2021 collection that featured intricately embroidered pearls, long flowing sleeves and a skirt, which were both pleated.

Hermes fw21 runway
Photography courtesy of Hermès / Filippo Fior

The pièce de résistance, however? The gown hit just above Zhao’s ankles to show off her crisp white shoes, also by Hermès. The timeless leather sneakers go with just about everything, and are listed on the fashion house’s site for $810 (USD).

The director even added a cross-body shoulder bag while off-camera, pretty much guaranteeing we’ll be looking to this outfit for real-life style inspo for years to come.

In the beauty department, Zhao kept things decidedly low-key with clean skin and sleek pigtail braids, a refreshing choice in a sea of crimson lips and slicked-back updos.

Aside from impressing on the red carpet with her relaxed yet polished look, Zhao had a big night. The Nomadland filmmaker picked up the Best Director Oscar for her work on the critically loved movie, making her the first Asian woman — and first woman of colour — and only second woman to ever win in the category. The film also won Best Picture, while star/fellow producer Frances McDormand won Best Actress. All in all, not bad for a night out.