Could the color of a gown influence an actress’s chances of taking home an Academy Award? While talent is always the most important factor, a review of Oscars history reveals that certain dress colors have consistently appeared on Best Actress winners. From bold greens to classic whites, these shades have become synonymous with red carpet elegance and memorable award moments. Here are the top five lucky Oscars dress colors that have dazzled audiences over the years.
At number five is green, a shade associated with elegance and vibrancy. Olivia Colman won Best Actress in 2019 wearing a regal emerald Prada gown with bedazzled tulle sleeves, while Emma Stone collected her second Oscar in 2024 in a mint green Louis Vuitton peplum gown. These designs highlight the versatility of green, from deep jewel tones to softer pastel hues, each creating a commanding presence on the red carpet.
Gold takes the number four spot, exuding glamour and sophistication. Emma Stone shone in a dazzling Givenchy gown adorned with intricate beadwork and shimmering fringe when she won in 2017. Similarly, Meryl Streep chose a standout draped design with a belted waist and plunging neckline for her 2012 victory, demonstrating how gold can convey timeless elegance while catching the light for maximum impact.
Blue claims the third position, a classic color that communicates confidence and poise. Brie Larson accepted her 2016 Academy Award in a flowing deep blue Gucci gown, and Hilary Swank wore a navy Guy Laroche dress in 2005 featuring a high-neck front and open back, combining modesty with bold sophistication. Blue’s versatility has made it a favorite among actresses seeking a balance of tradition and standout style.
Black, often seen as a classic early in Oscars history, now occupies the number two spot. Julia Roberts won in a black Valentino gown with white vertical details in 2001, Nicole Kidman wore a strappy Jean-Paul Gaultier creation in 2003, and Frances McDormand collected hers during the 2021 ceremony in understated Valentino. Black remains a symbol of elegance and authority while offering a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Finally, white reigns supreme as the luckiest Oscars dress color. Jennifer Lawrence took home her 2013 Oscar in a Dior gown, reportedly the most expensive in history. Julianne Moore dazzled in 2015 with a custom Chanel creation featuring emerald accents, Renee Zellweger wore a one-shoulder sequined Armani Privé design in 2020, and Michelle Yeoh achieved her historic 2023 win in a feathered and fringed Dior gown. White symbolizes purity, sophistication, and timeless beauty, solidifying its place at the top of the Oscars’ red carpet hall of fame.
