The news is in… black is back!
As the 95th annual Oscars awards took place last night in Los Angeles, a star-studded guest list swarmed the Dolby Theatre in a glamourous display of all things fashion – but there was one surprising theme that shocked the nation in an unexpected twist of events. All of the most popular stars - from Lady Gaga to Nicole Kidman – decided to wear a shade a little darker than we are used to seeing after last year’s sunset-toned affair. Yes, black is back.
So, how can you get inspired by this year’s Oscars top trending fashion moments? Swoon, the UK’s leading online design-led furniture brand, and its interior experts, are here to reveal all.
Lady Gaga
Everyone’s favourite pop star, Lady Gaga, had us taking notes on the red carpet with her fresh-off-the-runway Versace gown last night. Featuring an uber low waistline, an eye-catching crystal choker, and clean, structured lines throughout the bodice, the iconic singer’s attire turned heads (and also made a photographer fall over on the carpet). The defined lines on Gaga’s dress can be replicated in your own home easily, through choosing sculptural furnishings that are both visual and versatile – and black, of course.
A deco-style side table with sleek black spokes forming a base in the shape of a birdcage is a chic way to mirror Gaga’s Versace look into your home. Find a piece with a tabletop that co-ordinates with your interior – we love black marble or glossy dark wood.
To compliment your arty table evoked by the Art-Pop singer, opt for an extravagant lighting option reminiscent of her diamond choker. A glass encased, white-toned bulb replicates the glitzy appearance of crystals under camera flashes, without the precious stone pricing. Choose a ribbed, frosted glass lightshade to add texture, which will help to create gorgeous refracted light rays around your space – just as if they were bouncing off a diamond. Bonus points if you choose a piece with black hardware – we love to stay on theme.
Rihanna
Polished, powerful, and pregnant – three words to perfectly sum up singer and actress Rihanna’s Oscars red carpet look this year. Her black Alaïa dress featured a mesh bodice which unapologetically presented her growing bump, and an uber-cool leather bralette and floor length skirt piece. Without compromising her comfort, Rihanna skilfully remained stylish and secure in her trendy ensemble – which is exactly how you should replicate it in your own home.
If you loved Rihanna’s red carpet look, why not indulge in a comfy yet elegant Italian style sofa – in opulent black leather of course. Choose a piece with generous proportions and luxurious detailing – including chic black steel legs and low-rise arm rests to compose a stylish silhouette.
Nicole Kidman
As the famous saying goes – “follow the call of the disco ball” – and actress Nicole Kidman did exactly that at the 2023 Oscars. The Moulin Rouge and Batman star took to the spotlight in a custom Armani Privé gown, drenched in head-to-toe black sequins. This dazzling display also included large floral embellishments adorned with onyx and silver gemstones – creating an exhilarating exhibit for all eyes on the carpe
To glam it up, mimic Nicole’s floral details by topping your sideboard with a fabulous flower-patterned lampshade. Escape the norm and choose to display the botanical pattern on the inside of the shade for an unexpected twist.
Sam Greig, Senior Designer at Swoon, comments:
“After seeing the red carpet flooded with noir and onyx tones at the 95th Oscars, we are now certain that darker tones are going to stay on trend throughout the spring/summer season. Ebony, olive, charcoal and liquorice shades should be on your radar – with green-toned blacks set to be a big hit when it comes to interior accessories, statement furniture pieces, and paint colours.
“To avoid making your room too dark, be selective and minimal when it comes to implementing these gloomy shades. Select a single feature wall to paint, or choose one piece of furniture, such as a sofa, to showcase the shade - and keep the remainder of your room neutral for a sophisticated display.”
