The power of the second appearance: why a dress deserves more attention

The Venice Film Festival 2025 saw the premiere of Paolo Sorrentino's new film, La Grazia, and among the many celebrities attending the red carpet was Oscar-winning actress Cate Blanchett. The star appeared in a long black Armani Privé dress with a plunging neckline adorned with jewels. And if this timeless dress looks familiar to you, that's normal: Cate Blanchett had already worn this remarkable dress in 2022 during the SAG Awards.

Déjà vu with a cause
This is far from the first time the actress has appeared on the red carpet wearing a dress she has worn before. Over the years, she and her stylist Elizabeth Stewart have built a reputation as staunch supporters of reusing outfits, turning personal style into a message of sustainability in Hollywood. Dresses from the Oscars, shown again at the BAFTAs, looks from the Golden Globes, brought back to life in Cannes – she has proven time and again that a well-tailored dress outlives the moment and remains timeless.


2025


2022

And ultimately, when an item of clothing from her wardrobe is custom-made and so striking, why keep it for just one occasion? One question remains: will Cate Blanchett bring out other iconic designs during the week? Given her red carpet history, everything points to yes. Which archive pieces will she decide to bring back into the spotlight? Some are already hoping to see her 1999 Oscars dress by John Galliano again, which deserves to be back in the spotlight.