Nicole Kidman is no stranger to the spotlight, both for her accomplished acting career and her evolving sense of style. From her breakout role in “Days of Thunder” to her recent work in the psychological thriller “Babygirl,” the Australian actress has mesmerized audiences worldwide for over three decades. Yet, she candidly admits that not every fashion choice she made along the way has aged gracefully. In a recent interview with W Magazine for their Best Performance Issue 2024, Kidman took a critical look back at her fashion history and revealed some of her most notable missteps.
Reflecting on her earlier red carpet appearances, Kidman revealed that her mother was less than impressed with some of her fashion choices. “My mama thought I had many bad red carpet looks,” she stated, recalling an infamous Golden Globes appearance where she sported a striking yet questionable headdress. Kidman humorously noted, “Got to have a few train wrecks!” This candid acknowledgment speaks volumes about her growth, not just as a fashion icon but also as an individual comfortable with her imperfections.
Among the most memorable of her earlier fashion misadventures is the 2004 Golden Globes, where she donned a dazzling Dior midi dress adorned with metallic paillettes. Coupled with a glittering gold headband arranged atop her flapper-style curls, the overall effect was striking but, in retrospect, perhaps not her best choice. Yet, despite any past blunders, Kidman’s fashion evolution over the years has undeniably solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s style mavens.
While reflecting on her past, Kidman also shared some of her most beloved looks, illuminating how her style has matured over the years. Among her favorites is the enchanting chartreuse Dior gown designed by John Galliano, which she wore to the 1997 Oscars alongside then-husband Tom Cruise. The stunning floral embroidery paired with a bold dark lipstick exemplified the unique, daring fashion risks that would come to define her style.
The versatility of Kidman’s wardrobe is further illustrated by her fondness for menswear-inspired attire. “My natural way of dressing would be far more pants, tie, suit, and a jacket,” she expressed. This preference illustrates her ability to blend femininity with masculine elements, creating a signature style that is distinctly her own. Her memories of purchasing an Alaïa suit with her hard-earned per diem highlight her understanding of fashion’s value—both sentimental and material. “I wish I kept it. It’s nauseating that I did that,” she humorously admitted, showing the delicate relationship many have with their wardrobe choices.
Over the years, as Kidman’s career has blossomed, so too have her roles as a mother. She is determined to share her love of fashion with her daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Urban. Kidman has meticulously preserved her most cherished outfits, stating, “I have them all beautifully boxed. They’re museum pieces.” This foresightedness is not just about nostalgia; it’s an investment in her daughters’ future, allowing them to draw inspiration from their mother’s glamorous past.
Interestingly, the youth and energy of her daughters are already reshaping the family dynamic. “They raid my wardrobe all the time,” Kidman revealed, emphasizing the fluidity with which style can transition across generations. While her daughters seem to relish the opportunity to borrow from her impressive collection, Kidman quips about her own jealousy towards their stylish choices—highlighting the humorous yet relatable exchanges that often happen between mothers and daughters.
As Kidman delves into her latest role and gears up for the upcoming awards season, all eyes are on her once again. With nominations for prestigious awards such as the Golden Globe, viewers eagerly anticipate what memorable red carpet looks she’ll bring this time. Each appearance not only serves as a reflection of her stylistic journey but also as a testament to the lessons learned along the way. As she prepares to grace the red carpet once more, Nicole Kidman continues to prove that the evolution of style is not just about triumphs, but also about embracing every twist and turn.