If you were watching the livestream of the 2023 Oscars this morning like we were, you would probably have noticed a “makeover” on the red carpet. For the 95th Academy Awards arrivals, the icon red carpet had become a champagne carpet instead. (In the words of Oscar host, Jimmy Kimmel: “I think the decision to go with a champagne carpet rather than a red carpet shows how confident we are that no blood will be shed.”) In fact, this is the first time ever that the famous Oscars red carpet has not been red since a red carpet was introduced in 1961. Also, there was also a cover to protect the movie stars and camera equipment from the weather.

According to Associated Press, the change was a decision made by the creative team behind the biggest event celebrating films and cinema: Lisa Love, a longtime Vogue contributor, and Raúl Àvila, the creative director for the annual Met Gala. The intention was to turn a daytime event (the Oscars arrivals take place at 3pm in Hollywood) into an evening affair, and to break from tradition. 

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The champagne hue indeed gave the potential best-dressed guests a new chance to play with their choices in terms of the colours and silhouettes. To begin with, actress and supermodel Cara Delevingne’s flaming red Elie Saab gown stood out in a way it wouldn’t have on a red carpet. And Florence Pugh embraced the palette with a puffy Valentino off-the-shoulder couture top with a long train, paired with a pair of black mini shorts—definitely a fresh take on the black and tie event. 

From Chinese actress Fan Bingbing's Hollywood Glamour emerald couture gown, to Rihanna’s baby bump-hugging Alaia dress, here are Tatler’s picks of the boldest looks on the Oscars champagne carpet: