Angela Bassett Revives the Red Carpet Mermaid Dress Trend for Honorary Oscar at Governors Awards 2024

Angela Bassett sparkled in a gold sequin mermaid gown at the Governors Awards 2024 in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The glamorous ensemble featured sheer fabric, a silver sparkling belt and a tulle hem.

Dressed by stylist Jennifer Austin, Bassett’s look hints at a potential revival for the mermaid silhouette, which was once a go-to for Hollywood’s biggest stars. On Sunday, Dua Lipa also donned a black mermaid-style Schiaparelli gown at the Golden Globes.

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Mermaids were already trending, with mermaidcore (mermaid-inspired dressing) taking off in 2023. “Spring 2023 collections from Blumarine and David Koma were prime examples of this, where body-skimming gowns were complemented with fishtail hems and shell accessories,” WWD reported in May.

Mermaid silhouette’s slowly made their return on red carpets in 2023 during “The Little Mermaid” press tour and from Savannah James‘ viral white Sergio Hudson dress at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar Party.

Presented by actress Regina King, Bassett’s attendance at the awards included her receiving an honorary Oscar. Her career spans over two decades, with her most notable roles including those in “Black Panther,” “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” and “Waiting to Exhale.”

Joining the actress at the awards was her husband Courtney B. Vance, who went sharp in a black tuxedo with a matching fedora.

Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Governors Awards recognizes the legendary talent in film industry. This year’s event, hosted by John Mulaney, included honorary Oscars handed out to film editor Carol Littleton and comedic star Mel Brooks.

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Launch Gallery: Governors Awards Red Carpet 2024 Arrivals: All the Looks

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