Cate Blanchett Soars in a Maison Margiela Masterpiece at the Venice Film Festival • CelebMafia

Cate Blanchett commanded the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival in an avant-garde Maison Margiela look, proving her fearless approach to celebrity fashion.

The first time I saw Glenn Martens’ vision for Maison Margiela, there was a hushed reverence in the air—a collective acknowledgment that this wasn’t just fashion; it was a movement. His debut Artisanal collection for Fall 2025 was a defiant, beautiful chaos, and it’s no surprise that it was Cate Blanchett who brought its most daring piece to life.

For the world premiere of Jim Jarmusch’s Father Mother Sister Brother at the 82nd International Venice Film Festival, Blanchett didn’t just walk the red carpet—she glided. She chose a look that few could wear with such confidence, a testament to her position as an unrivaled style icon. This wasn’t a choice for mere photographers; it was an act of pure, unadulterated artistry.

Anatomy of a Modern Icon

What makes this look so captivating is its inherent duality. From the waist up, we have a study in minimalist elegance: a fitted, black sleeveless top with raw, frayed edges that give it a beautifully undone quality. This simple silhouette provides a stark, almost rebellious counterpoint to the skirt’s complex drama. The top, which sits over a skin-colored duchess satin corset, is the anchor for the visual narrative that unfolds below.

And oh, the skirt. It’s a marvel of textile innovation. Printed with a collage of nature morte paintings, it’s adorned with an appliqué of wings in the same material. It’s an ensemble that feels alive, almost unsettlingly so, as if it were a fantastical creature taking form. As the actress moved, the layered wings created a dynamic, fluttering effect—like a bird preparing for flight. It’s a look that’s both gothic fairytale and a sharp, modern statement on recycled design. The entire ensemble was grounded by a pair of black leather Tabi Claw boots, a signature Margiela element, set on Perspex wedges. It’s a subtle, industrial touch that reinforces the avant-garde spirit of the piece, preventing it from veering into costume.

When I was backstage at the show in Paris, a close friend and renowned fashion critic turned to me and whispered, “This is not about glamour. This is about power. It is about a woman who is not a muse, but a masterpiece herself.” And watching Cate Blanchett on the Lido, that sentiment has never felt more true. This is not just a gown; it is a declaration.

The Afterlife of an Artistic Gown

So, what do we take away from this? The trend isn’t a literal feathered skirt, no. The message is about embracing fashion as art, as a form of powerful self-expression. It’s a call to look beyond what’s merely “pretty” and appreciate the craft, the story, and the quiet subversion that makes a piece truly unforgettable.

Here are a few ways to channel this unapologetically artistic spirit:

Embrace Textural Contrast: Don’t be afraid to pair a sleek, minimal top with a skirt or trousers that feature a bold, unconventional texture. Think woven raffia, distressed silk, or even intricate beading.
The Power of the Unexpected Shoe: Much like the Tabi Claw boots, the right footwear can transform a look. Swap out your classic stilettos for something architectural or unconventional. A sculptural heel, a wedge with a unique material, or a boot with an unexpected detail can change the entire mood of an outfit.
Art-Inspired Prints: Look for prints that tell a story—collages, abstract paintings, or even a bold, singular graphic. Let your clothing be the canvas.

To see more stunning looks and uncover the stories behind them, be sure to follow all our latest updates on celebrity style.