Lawrence’s sheer gown showcases the enduring allure of transparent fabrics.

Jennifer Lawrence made quite the statement at the Oscars After Party circuit by donning a sheer gown, which has become a prevailing trend among celebrities. However, Lawrence’s choice wasn’t just about following the current fashion wave. Her white gown holds historical significance, dating back to the 1990s haute couture era and even further to the late 1700s.The gown she wore is a piece from Givenchy’s fall 1996 couture collection, crafted in sheer silk organza and adorned with delicate white clovers. This particular creation was showcased on the runway by Kate Moss, a figure often associated with pioneering trends like the sheer dress craze.

John Galliano, the designer behind Givenchy’s 1996 collection, drew inspiration from the incroyables and merveilleuses, a subculture of French aristocrats post-revolution who were notorious for their extravagant parties and daring fashion choices. These women, referred to as the merveilleuses, scandalized society with their penchant for semi-transparent fabrics, earning their gowns the moniker “woven air.” Galliano’s fascination with this historical period spanned his career, evident not only in this collection but also in his earlier work and subsequent designs.

Galliano’s tenure at Givenchy was brief but impactful. Shortly after his final couture collection for the house, he was appointed as the head of Dior, succeeding in bringing his avant-garde vision to a broader audience. Alexander McQueen took over the reins at Givenchy following Galliano’s departure, a transition that highlights the interconnectedness of fashion history.

Despite her longstanding affiliation with Dior, Lawrence’s association with the brand began after Galliano’s departure in 2011. Interestingly, her choice of attire at the Oscars ceremony further demonstrates her appreciation for fashion history. She wore a Dior Couture gown from the spring 2024 collection, directly inspired by Christian Dior’s designs from the 1950s.

In essence, Lawrence’s sheer gown at the Oscars After Party not only reflects contemporary trends but also pays homage to fashion’s rich historical tapestry, spanning centuries of creativity and innovation.