
The Dress: A black Swarovski-accented full-skirted gown by Atelier Versace.
The Wearer: Angelina Jolie, who also went with Versace for her iconic “leg” dress of the 2012 Oscars.
The Event: The 2013 Governors Ball, where the actress, filmmaker and tireless philanthropist was the recipient of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for her work with the United Nations Refugee Agency. Diane Keaton, Amy Adams and Matthew McConaughey were on hand to watch as Jolie joined Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin and Italian costume designer Piero Tosi in receiving honorary Oscars from the Board of Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Why We Dig: Jolie never fails to stun in outfits that are strikingly simple yet completely memorable (a history owed in large part to stylist Jen Rade, who owns the Top 25 Most Powerful Hollywood Stylists list). And her latest red carpet choice — though softer than some of the understated siren styles for which she’s best known (we’re still following the woman’s right leg on Twitter) — is no different. Though the look has an old Hollywood feel evoking something Audrey Hepburn might have gravitated toward, it manages to stay modern with Jolie’s limited use of accessories, her loose, polished bun and her natural makeup. But the reason the elegant ensemble truly was able to drop jaws on Saturday night is because its classic, serious beauty didn’t detract from Jolie’s constant mission: trying to save the world. Her acceptance speech wouldn’t have made the same impact if she’d been wearing a gold sequin gown or even something showing more skin. This dress allowed Jolie’s looks — while always awe-inspiring — to somewhat blend with the background, allowing her soul to shine through. Her speech is excerpted below.
“I don’t understand why I have this life and a woman across the world who has the same work ethic, same desires, and would make better films is stuck in a refugee camp. She has no voice. She worries about what her children would eat, how to keep them safe and if they can return home. I don’t know why this is my life and that is hers. I don’t understand. But I will do my best to be in service to them. If my mother were alive, she would be proud.”
Follow the @pretareporter crew on Instagram and Twitter. While you’re at it, like us on Facebook, too.
Related Stories
THR Newsletters
Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day