Celebrating
On October 26, the annual Vogue World showcase returned to Los Angeles, this time titled Vogue World: Hollywood. The event took place on the iconic Paramount Pictures lot, blending live performances with runway presentations. This unique format celebrated the intersections of fashion, film, and music, drawing a star-studded crowd that included some of the biggest names in entertainment. Among the highlights was a segment dedicated to Afrofuturism, a cultural movement that reimagines the future through the lens of Black experiences and aesthetics.
Honoring Ruth E. Carter
A standout moment of the evening was the tribute to Ruth E. Carter, the Academy Award-winning costume designer renowned for her groundbreaking work in films like ‘Black Panther’, ‘Malcolm X’, and ‘School Daze’. Carter’s designs have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also become emblematic of the rich tapestry of Black culture on screen. In 2019, she made history as the first Black woman to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design, a milestone that underscores her significant impact on the film industry. The tribute at Vogue World 2025 served as a reminder of her legacy and the importance of representation in Hollywood.
Iconic Appearances
During the tribute, actors Danai Gurira and Teyana Taylor made surprise appearances, donning Carter’s original designs from ‘Black Panther’. Both wore the striking red and silver battle armor of the Dora Milaje, the elite all-female royal guard of Wakanda. Their presence not only celebrated Carter’s artistry but also reignited interest in the film’s cultural significance. Angela Bassett, who portrayed Queen Ramonda, also graced the stage in a stunning purple gown designed by Carter for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’. The moment raises questions about the future of these characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, leaving fans eager for more.
A Cultural Phenomenon
The ‘Black Panther’ franchise has made waves since its debut in 2018, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide and receiving seven Academy Award nominations, winning three. Its sequel, ‘Wakanda Forever’, premiered in 2022, continuing the narrative after the tragic passing of Chadwick Boseman. Both films, directed by Ryan Coogler, have not only entertained audiences but have also sparked conversations about representation and identity in cinema. The Vogue World event served as a fitting platform to celebrate this cultural phenomenon, showcasing how fashion and film can intersect to tell powerful stories.
A New Era
Gurira’s appearance marked her Vogue World debut, while Taylor is no stranger to the event, having previously wowed audiences in a metallic chainmail look at Vogue World: Paris in 2024. The blend of fashion and performance at Vogue World: Hollywood reflects a broader cultural trend in which the boundaries between artistic expressions continue to blur. As the event concluded, it became clear that celebrating Afrofuturism and recognizing Black artists like Ruth E. Carter are vital to shaping the future of both fashion and film. This year’s showcase not only honored the past but also paved the way for future innovations in storytelling and design.
In a world increasingly aware of the importance of representation, events like this can remind us of the power of creativity to inspire and uplift.
