Imagine stepping onto the red carpet with a blend of classic sophistication and modern flair that captivates everyone in sight – that's the unforgettable vibe Elle Fanning exuded at the Los Angeles premiere of 'Predator: Badlands' on Monday evening. Dressed in a striking black gown by Zuhair Murad, she embodied an effortless timeless charm that had everyone talking. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this level of elegance a nod to enduring style, or does it sometimes overshadow the star's own personality in the spotlight? Let's dive into the details and see what made her look so impeccable.
Styled by the talented Samantha McMillen, Fanning drew inspiration from Zuhair Murad's spring 2026 ready-to-wear collection for her appearance at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. The gown itself was a masterpiece of design: a deep black hue with a rigid corset bodice – think of it as a structured, fitted top that cinches the waist for a flattering silhouette – complemented by flowing draped fabric over one shoulder and a daring thigh-high slit that added just the right touch of drama.
Delving deeper into the gown's features, the plunging neckline featured a sweetheart shape, creating a soft, feminine outline that hugged her form perfectly. This formfitting frame ensured she looked both powerful and graceful, a perfect match for a high-profile event. To complete the ensemble, Fanning paired the dress with sleek pointed-toe black heels from Stuart Weitzman, which elongated her legs and provided that extra polish.
Accessories played a starring role too, with Fanning opting for exquisite pieces from Cartier. She wore the Faune et Flore de Cartier necklace, crafted in 18-karat white gold and adorned with vibrant emeralds and sparkling diamonds; the Panthère jewelry watch, also in 18-karat white gold with emeralds and diamonds for a touch of luxury; and the Faune et Flore de Cartier ring, again featuring 18-karat white gold, emeralds, and diamonds. It's worth noting that Fanning was appointed as the global ambassador for Cartier's Grain de Café collection back in May 2023, making this choice feel like a seamless extension of her brand partnerships.
Turning to her overall glam, Fanning stuck to that theme of timeless beauty. Her makeup, expertly applied by artist Erin Ayanian Monroe, highlighted strong eyebrows, defined eyes, and a shiny lip for a fresh, composed appearance – think of it as a clean canvas that lets her natural glow shine through. For her hair, styled by Jenda Alcorn, she went for a slicked-back bun, which is one of the trending hairstyles for fall 2025. This allowed her to blend vintage glamour with current fashion waves, proving that classic looks can evolve without losing their essence. And this is the part most people miss: How do celebrities balance personal style with industry trends without seeming forced?
Samantha McMillen wasn't flying solo on this styling project; she had support from Melanie Bauer and Ruby Solina. Interestingly, McMillen also handles wardrobe duties for other Hollywood names like Dakota Fanning and Kirsten Dunst, showcasing her expertise in crafting red-carpet magic.
Finally, tying it all back to the reason for the premiere, 'Predator: Badlands' stars Elle Fanning as a young, outsider Predator alien who joins forces with an unexpected partner to take down a formidable foe. The movie hits cinemas this Friday, promising action and intrigue for fans of the franchise.
What do you think – does Elle's outfit perfectly capture the balance between elegance and edge, or is there a risk of fashion overshadowing the film itself? Do you agree that mixing vintage and modern styles is the way to go, or should celebrities lean more into one or the other? Share your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear differing opinions and spark a lively discussion!
