In 2002, Cameron Diaz stepped onto the Oscars red carpet in a ruffled, floral-printed Emanuel Ungaro dress that – let’s be honest – only she could get away with. But, did she, though?
In one of the most easy-breezy, boho-ish, made-for-her looks to walk the carpet that year, the actress made quite an impression draped in the floral Ungaro gown. With tousled hair, hoop earrings, and effortless charm, she looked less like she was attending Hollywood’s most formal night and more like she was redefining it. The look was soft but unstudied, laid-back but glamorous—California cool at its most elevated. It was a risk that …got trashed.
Yep, this gorgeous look landed on many critics’ worst-dressed lists, with some saying the dress, accessories, and hairstyle were way too casual and messy for the prestigious award show. The actress admitted years later that it slipped her mind she was attending, telling makeup artist Gucci Westman years later on her podcast, “Oh shit, I’m going to the Oscars, I forgot.” (And this is why we love her.)
Back in 2002, upon realizing her there’s-nothing-in-my-closet panic, she reached out to Westman, who was working with the actress at the time. Westman called in a favor and scored the gorgeous kimono-inspired Emanuel Ungaro Couture gown. She also wore a Fred Leighton necklace as a belt. (Again, love her.) Extra points for the floral clutch.
And, even though Diaz’s romantic, messy-elegant aesthetic was not a hit in 2002, it has since garnered praise for being ahead of its time. What a difference a decade makes! While many red-carpet looks from the era feel dated, this one doesn’t. This breezy-yet-bold energy worn then is one to want now.
Shop the Vibe
Wearing has partnered with like-minded affiliates to help promote sustainable shopping. We may receive compensation from these links.
