Elle Fanning has become a fixture on the red carpet circuit, often favoring ethereal, romantic gowns that play up her blonde, ingenue persona. However, for the premiere of Sentimental Value at the 63rd New York Film Festival on September 30, 2025, the actress (https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1102577/) presented a compelling departure, embracing the assertive structure of power dressing channeled through a modern, minimal lens. Her choice—a meticulously tailored, all-black pantsuit—was a masterclass in controlled elegance and subtle rebellion, perfectly suited for the urban sophistication of New York City’s prestigious film event.
The foundation of the look is the pantsuit, a silhouette Fanning expertly subverts. The blazer features sharp lapels, likely peaked or a very neat notch, worn open to display the undergarment. This intentional tailoring creates a geometric, formidable line across the shoulders and chest. Crucially, the trousers are wide-legged and full-length, giving the outfit a flowing, almost dramatic drape that counters the stiffness of the jacket and elongates her frame. This is a deliberate move away from the often-seen skinny or cropped trousers, favoring a proportion that recalls early 2000s haute couture tailoring.
The focal point that elevates the suit from merely classic to current is the garment worn underneath: a black, boned bustier or corset top. The contrast between the rigid, masculine structure of the suit and the sensual, form-fitting nature of the undergarment is the fashion thesis of the entire look. The use of a single-color, all-black palette ensures this juxtaposition remains chic, rather than jarring. The only accessories visible include a thick, simple black choker—a nod to the enduring 90s aesthetic—and what appears to be a sophisticated ring, possibly the Cartier Panthère de Cartier ring she is known to wear, adding a touch of classic luxury.
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