For years I have supported Balenciaga, especially since Pierpaolo Piccioli guided the brand back to a romantic and sculptural aesthetic worthy of its heritage. With that in mind, seeing Rihanna arrive at the 2025 Gotham Film Awards in a custom look influenced by the Spring 2026 collection should have felt like a triumph.
Rihanna has always embraced bold fashion choices, and that fearless spirit once made her red carpet moments unforgettable. Yet it has been some time since she delivered a look that truly felt striking. This appearance brought back memories of a period when she gravitated toward oversized silhouettes that concealed her figure and softened the signature edge that defines her style.
While the runway version of this design carried a distinctive sculptural appeal, the red carpet interpretation lacked clarity and structure. The gown gathered awkwardly, the gloves seemed unnecessary, and the feathered hat did not create allure but instead appeared to overshadow her presence.
The necklace, however, stood out with its elegance and confidence, echoing the glamour Rihanna has long embodied. What could have been a defining fashion moment instead left me missing the version of her who once transformed every red carpet into something unforgettable.
