Stars Make Fashion Statements by Recycling Red Carpet Outfits
As we dive into the world of celebrity fashion, it becomes evident that many stars choose to wear their favorite outfits more than once, making a stylish statement that defies the norms of fast fashion. Recently, a trend has emerged where celebrities confidently recycle their red carpet looks, stunning audiences at multiple events.
Take Viola Davis, for example. At the 2025 Golden Globe Awards, she graced the red carpet in a breathtaking Gucci gown that she had worn previously at the 2024 LACMA Gala. Her love for the dress was palpable, with Viola expressing that she’d gladly wear it “a thousand times.” For the Golden Globes, the gown was customized with a striking rainbow cape, a meaningful detail that resonated with Viola during a challenging time, as shared by her stylist Elizabeth Stewart.
Cate Blanchett also joined the recycling movement at the same Golden Globe event. The actress donned a stunning gold Louis Vuitton gown that originally stole the spotlight at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. Elizabeth Stewart, who styles both Viola and Cate, highlighted the dress as simple yet iconic, always a feast for the eyes.
Billie Eilish made a splash by re-wearing a Gucci ensemble from the 2020 Billboard Awards at the 2022 Environmental Media Association Awards. Interestingly, she opted to forgo the matching bucket hat for a more streamlined look, showcasing how subtle changes can refresh a well-loved outfit.
Kate Middleton has also embraced this trend. She reappeared in a striking Alexander McQueen gown at the National Portrait Gala in 2019 that she had first showcased at the British Academy Film Awards in 2017. Her ability to redefine such an iconic look speaks volumes about her style.
Jane Fonda, a true fashion icon, dazzled everyone at the 2020 Academy Awards by wearing the same gown she had flaunted at the Cannes Film Festival back in 2014. Alongside the gown, she held onto a red coat, humorously declaring it to be her last clothing purchase ever.
Keira Knightley displayed her penchant for consistency by sporting the same Chanel dress on multiple occasions, including the Finch & Partners Pre-BAFTA party in 2008, Serious Fun’s London Gala in 2013, and her own wedding that same year.
Kirsten Dunst took a nostalgic approach with a Christian LaCroix dress that she first wore at the Vanity Fair Oscar party in 2004, only to charm everyone again 13 years later at a Garden of Kalahari event.
Rita Moreno made headlines by showcasing the same Pitoy Moreno gown at the 2018 Academy Awards that she had worn when she won her first Oscar in 1962. This move not only spoke to her love for the dress but also served as a powerful throwback moment.
Tiffany Haddish is often associated with her iconic white Alexander McQueen gown. Initially worn to the 2017 Girls Trip premiere, the $4,000 dress has been seen on her multiple times, including during her hosted segment on Saturday Night Live and at the 2018 Academy Awards. She humorously noted the importance of getting her money’s worth.
Laura Dern demonstrated her commitment to sustainable fashion by wearing an exquisite Armani Privé dress three times—from the Sheba Humanitarian Awards Gala in 1995 to two separate Vanity Fair Oscars Parties in 2013 and 2020.
Elizabeth Banks recycled a Badgley Mischka gown she wore at the 2004 Vanity Fair Oscars Party, wearing it again at the same event 16 years later in 2020, proving that classic styles endure.
Marion Cotillard captured hearts at the 2023 Met Gala, donning a Chanel gown she had first worn at the 2008 BAFTAs when she won an award for La Vie en Rose. Her sentiment toward the dress emphasizes the connection one can have to cherished fashion moments.
Other celebrities have also embraced this recycling phenomenon. Glenn Close wore the same Ralph Lauren suit to the 2019 Screen Actors Guild Awards and later to a Ralph Lauren fashion show in 2024. Helen Mirren has been known to wear a Dolce & Gabbana dress on several occasions, showcasing her timeless fashion sense at numerous prestigious events.
Lastly, Meryl Streep made waves at the 2016 Democratic Convention by wearing an American flag-inspired Catherine Malandrino outfit that she first donned during the Doubt photo call in 2009. This choice not only displayed her patriotism but also echoed her commitment to revisiting meaningful pieces in her wardrobe.
These celebrities remind us that fashion doesn’t have to be disposable. Instead, it can be about a timeless relationship with our cherished garments, proving that recycling can be just as fabulous as debuting something new.