It’s a big night for Chanel fans—first Kristen Stewart and her micro-shorts, now Penelope Cruz and her ode to ’90s glam on the 2022 Oscars red carpet. In a look that paid homage to the history and legacy of the French house, the Spanish actor and best actress contender wore a stunning halter gown. With a ruched bodice and delicate buttons, along with a bow created from the label’s signature historic tweed, it was fit for Hollywood’s most glamorous night.
While some stars decided to take fashion risks for the film world’s biggest event, Cruz stayed herself: classic and timeless. Her deep navy gown felt true to past looks from the star, who often veers on the side of elegance and regal rather than trendy. This is the Oscars, after all—and we’re not exactly sure low-rise denim jeans fit the bill for Hollywood’s version of the Met Gala.
The star and her husband, Javier Bardem, were both nominated for some the night’s biggest awards, best actress and best actor, respectively. Cruz’s leading role in Pedro Almodóvar’s latest hit, Parallel Mothers, marks a success in the longtime collaboration between Cruz and Almodóvar. Her first Oscar best-actress nomination was for Almodóvar’s 2006 film, Volver. She went on to win in 2008, saying in her acceptance speech: “I grew up in a place called Alcobendas, where this was not a very realistic dream. And I, always the night of the Academy Awards, I stay up to watch the show. And I always felt that this ceremony was a moment of unity for the world, because art, in any form, is and has been and will always be our universal language and we should do everything we can to protect its survival.”
This year Cruz is a strong contender (and fan favorite!) for the prize, despite not being nominated at other awards. If she doesn’t win best actress, at least she was one of the best dressed. Below, see photos of Penelope Cruz’s stunning Chanel look.
