Imagine stepping onto the red carpet at a blockbuster premiere, where every outfit choice can spark a thousand conversations and set trends for the season ahead. Elle Fanning did just that, embodying effortless sophistication in a striking black gown from Zuhair Murad at the 'Predator: Badlands' premiere in Los Angeles on Monday evening. And this is the part most people miss: how her style seamlessly blended classic Hollywood allure with modern edge, making her the undeniable star of the night. But here's where it gets controversial—does this kind of daring fashion choice redefine what 'timeless elegance' means in today's fast-paced style world, or is it just a clever nod to the past that risks feeling outdated? Let's dive in and explore every detail of her look, plus some insights into why it matters.
Fanning, who recently collaborated with Charles Melton on the Coach Holiday Campaign for 2025, chose Zuhair Murad's spring 2026 ready-to-wear collection for her ensemble at the TCL Chinese Theatre. Her stylist, Samantha McMillen, curated the outfit to perfection. Picture a sleek black dress featuring a tailored corset-style bodice that cinches the waist for a flattering fit, along with flowing drapes cascading over one shoulder and a daring slit that climbs up to the thigh. For beginners in fashion, think of it as a corset like something from historical dramas, but updated for comfort and movement—it's structured yet forgiving, allowing the wearer to feel confident and powerful.
The gown's deep plunge neckline, shaped like a sweetheart curve, adds a touch of romance, while the overall silhouette hugs the body in a feminine, body-conscious way. To complete the ensemble, Fanning paired it with sharp black pointed-toe heels from Stuart Weitzman, which elongated her legs and added that extra strut-worthy height without sacrificing comfort—a smart choice for a long night of premieres.
Now, onto the accessories that truly elevated her appearance. Fanning adorned herself with exquisite pieces from Cartier, showcasing her role as the global ambassador for their Grain de Café collection since May 2023. Among her selections were the Faune et Flore de Cartier necklace, crafted in 18-karat white gold and adorned with vibrant emeralds and sparkling diamonds; a matching Panthère jewelry watch in the same luxurious materials; and a Faune et Flore de Cartier ring, also featuring 18-karat white gold, emeralds, and diamonds. For those new to high jewelry, these aren't just shiny baubles—they represent intricate craftsmanship where each gem is set to catch the light just right, symbolizing nature's beauty in a wearable art form. It's a perfect example of how celebrities use accessories to tell a story, blending opulence with personal style.
When it came to her beauty routine, Fanning kept the theme of eternal chic alive. Her makeup, expertly applied by artist Erin Ayanian Monroe, highlighted strong, defined brows, precisely lined eyes, and a luminous, glossy lip that gave her a polished, tranquil glow—ideal for a serene yet striking presence. For her hair, styled by Jenda Alcorn, she opted for a sleek, pulled-back bun, which is popping up in several fall 2025 hair trends. This allowed her to channel that vintage glamour vibe, reminiscent of old-school Hollywood stars, while sneaking in a contemporary twist that feels fresh and relevant. It's a great illustration of how trends evolve: what started as a retro hairstyle now appeals to modern audiences seeking low-maintenance elegance.
Behind the scenes, stylist Samantha McMillen had support from Melanie Bauer and Ruby Solina, ensuring every detail was flawless. Interestingly, McMillen also handles styling for other A-listers like Dakota Fanning and Kirsten Dunst, showing her knack for creating cohesive, star-worthy looks across different personalities.
As for the movie itself, 'Predator: Badlands' stars Fanning in a thrilling tale of a young, outsider Predator alien who forms an unexpected partnership with a human ally to take down a formidable foe. The film arrives in theaters this Friday, promising action-packed excitement that blends sci-fi adventure with character-driven drama.
But here's where the real debate kicks in: Is Fanning's choice to mix a high-slit dress with such ornate, nature-inspired jewelry a bold statement on empowering femininity, or does it risk being seen as too provocative for a premiere event? And what about that slicked-back bun—does it signal a return to simpler, more classic hairstyles, or is it just a fleeting trend? We love hearing your opinions! Do you agree that timeless elegance like this deserves more spotlight, or do you think modern fashion should lean more toward bold experimentation? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let's discuss!
