Beverly Hills, CA – – Ariana Grande took a decidedly different approach to the red carpet this year, trading in the vibrant pinks associated with her role as Glinda in Wicked for a striking, gothic-inspired black ballgown. The look, a vintage Vivienne Westwood Couture creation, signaled a thematic shift as Grande’s run with the beloved musical nears its conclusion in the awards season cycle.
The ensemble, styled by Law Roach, was described by many as an “anti-Glinda” statement. Throughout the extensive press tour for Wicked: For Good, Grande largely embraced the character’s signature color palette, appearing in a series of dazzling pink gowns. This latest appearance, however, felt like a deliberate departure, a nod to Glinda’s counterpart, Elphaba Thropp, played by Cynthia Erivo in the film.
“It’s a final anti-Glinda bow,” noted Marie Claire, capturing the sentiment surrounding the look. The choice of black, and the dramatic silhouette of the Westwood gown, offered a visual counterpoint to the sweetness and light typically associated with Glinda. It’s a subtle but powerful way for Grande to acknowledge the complexities of the characters and the story as the promotional period winds down.
Grande’s nomination for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for her portrayal of Glinda marked her second Golden Globes recognition for the role. She was nominated alongside Emily Blunt, Amy Madigan, Teyana Taylor, Elle Fanning, and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas. Prior to the ceremony, Grande expressed her gratitude for the nomination, sharing on Instagram that she was “moved and grateful” to be recognized for her work.
The shift in style also comes after a period of intense focus on the film and its characters. Grande previously explained that her earlier pink-focused wardrobe choices were directly inspired by Glinda. This latest look suggests a willingness to explore the darker, more nuanced aspects of the Wicked universe, and perhaps a personal desire to move beyond the singular association with the character’s aesthetic.
While Grande’s yellow Givenchy Haute Couture gown at the was a direct homage to the “yellow brick road” from The Wizard of Oz, and a nod to one of Glinda’s favorite colors, this year’s choice feels more introspective. It’s a visual representation of the duality inherent in the story of Wicked, and a recognition of the complexities of both Glinda, and Elphaba.
The choice of Vivienne Westwood is also significant. The late designer was known for her rebellious spirit and her ability to blend fashion with political and social commentary. Selecting a Westwood piece for this occasion adds another layer of meaning to Grande’s statement, suggesting a willingness to embrace a more unconventional and thought-provoking aesthetic.
Notably, Cynthia Erivo was absent from the ceremony due to rehearsals for her upcoming one-woman show, Dracula, in London’s West End, where she will portray 23 different characters. This absence further highlighted Grande’s solo appearance and the symbolic weight of her “anti-Glinda” look.
The 2026 Golden Globes may represent one of the final major red carpet appearances for Grande as Glinda. As the promotional cycle for Wicked: For Good draws to a close, her fashion choices are increasingly imbued with a sense of closure and reflection. The black Vivienne Westwood gown is not simply a stylish ensemble; it’s a statement about the end of an era, and a subtle acknowledgment of the complexities that lie beneath the surface of even the most seemingly perfect characters.
Grande’s performance in Wicked has already garnered significant critical acclaim and industry recognition. The film’s success, and her own captivating portrayal of Glinda, have solidified her position as a leading actress in Hollywood. As she moves forward with her career, it will be interesting to see how she continues to evolve her style and explore new creative avenues.
