Rooney Mara, known for her unconventional and striking sense of style, recently made a memorable appearance at the Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles. Accompanied by her husband, actor Joaquin Phoenix, the 39-year-old actress turned heads with a vintage-inspired look that quickly sparked conversations online. The couple, who wed recently, shared a series of affectionate moments for the cameras, with Mara’s outfit drawing a mix of admiration and intrigue from fans and fashion critics alike.
Rooney’s chosen ensemble for the evening was a rare and elegant piece from Givenchy’s haute couture fall-winter collection of 1996–97. The dress, with its empire cut and exquisite detailing, showcased an intricate floral embroidery design across the chest and down the flowing train, lending a timeless, ethereal quality to her look. Its unique structure, crafted from a sheer muslin fabric, captured a delicate balance between refinement and boldness — a blend that has become something of a signature for Mara’s style. However, what truly caught the attention of fans and attendees was the visible lace lingerie beneath the sheer fabric, which became a focal point of conversation on social media.
Mara’s fashion choices have always demonstrated a willingness to push boundaries, and this event was no exception. Her choice of this bold, vintage piece highlighted her artistic approach to fashion, but the outfit quickly divided opinions. While some admirers praised her striking sense of style, others were less impressed by the unexpected visibility of her undergarments. One Instagram user bluntly described the dress as “a disaster,” while another added a humorous critique, likening the visible lace to “an adult nappy.” Comments ranged from bemused to critical, with another user jokingly questioning, “Why is she wearing granny pants over her nightwear?”
Among the more lighthearted reactions, some followers pointed out the historical aesthetic of the dress, with one fan calling it “Victorian postpartum underwear.” Another fan, attempting to balance their praise for the couple’s appearance with a light criticism, remarked, “Joaquin looks so handsome and debonair. Mara is beautiful, and her dress is beautiful. Sadly, the panties peeking through distract from all of the above.” These varied comments highlight how Mara’s daring style continues to evoke strong reactions, making her an enduring topic of discussion in the fashion world.
Amid this lively discourse, Joaquin Phoenix stood by his wife with visible pride, offering quiet support as he gently adjusted the train of her dress, ensuring it looked flawless for their photos together. This small gesture added a heartwarming touch to the evening, underscoring the couple’s close bond and Phoenix’s admiration for Mara’s bold style choices. As she posed for photographers, Mara’s radiant smile and poised demeanor reflected a confidence that complemented the elegance of her gown, making it clear that she remains unfazed by both admiration and criticism.
The Academy Museum Gala, a highlight on Hollywood’s social calendar, saw a roster of A-list celebrities in attendance, each showcasing their personal take on high fashion. Among the notable names were supermodel Kendall Jenner and actress Selena Gomez, who recently joined the ranks of billionaires. This gathering of influential figures offered a plethora of memorable fashion moments, with Mara’s distinctive ensemble standing out as one of the evening’s most talked-about looks.
Rooney Mara’s daring choice at the Gala has once again reminded fans of her unique place in Hollywood fashion. Embracing a vintage haute couture piece with a modern twist, she brought her personal flair to an event renowned for showcasing iconic looks. While opinions on her ensemble remain divided, Mara’s fearless approach continues to capture attention, sparking ongoing conversations about individuality, style, and the evolving boundaries of fashion.