Rooney Mara, 39, recently graced the red carpet at the star-studded Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles, where she attended with her husband, Joaquin Phoenix, 49. The couple, who have recently tied the knot, were the picture of elegance and affection, capturing the crowd’s attention with their shared glances and sweet, candid moments. While their appearance as a couple charmed onlookers, it was Mara’s choice of outfit that truly set social media abuzz, with fans eagerly weighing in on her daring fashion statement.
At first glance, Rooney’s gown appeared to be an effortlessly stylish and contemporary piece, yet it was actually a carefully selected vintage dress by Givenchy, originally from the esteemed fashion house’s fall-winter 1996–97 haute couture collection. The empire-line dress featured delicate floral embroidery across the bodice, trailing gracefully down the back in an intricate design. Its sheer muslin fabric brought a delicate and ethereal quality to the look, yet also revealed one unexpected detail that became the outfit’s most-discussed feature: a pair of visible lace panties. For many, this bold styling choice added a daring twist to the vintage look, but it also sparked a lively online debate.
As social media caught wind of Mara’s outfit, reactions began pouring in, ranging from admiration to bewilderment. Some fans were quick to express their distaste, with one commenter bluntly calling the ensemble “a disaster.” Another user took a humorous approach, remarking, “It looks like she’s wearing an adult nappy.” Another added a hint of sarcasm, suggesting, “Is she wearing granny pants over her nightwear?” The light-hearted critique continued, with one viewer dubbing the look “Victorian postpartum underwear,” while another expressed disappointment over the revealing feature, noting, “Joaquin looks so handsome, debonair. Mara is beautiful, and her dress is beautiful. Sadly, the panties peeking through distract from all of the above.”
Despite the range of opinions, Mara’s confidence on the red carpet was unmistakable. Standing beside her husband, she radiated poise and grace, embracing her fashion choice with a radiant smile. Joaquin, for his part, seemed fully supportive of his wife’s statement outfit, even taking a moment to adjust the train of her dress so it would lay perfectly for the cameras, showcasing his pride in her look. Mara’s demeanor only added to the outfit’s impact, making it clear that she was entirely unbothered by potential controversy and instead choosing to enjoy the evening with elegance.
The night was a glamorous gathering of Hollywood’s elite, drawing the likes of supermodel Kendall Jenner and actress and entrepreneur Selena Gomez, who recently achieved billionaire status. Mara’s dress, bold and unconventional, stood out among the stylish looks of the evening, proving her unique approach to red carpet fashion. With her characteristic blend of mystery and sophistication, she made a statement that could only be described as entirely her own—classic, daring, and undeniably memorable.
The spirited online discussion about Mara’s choice reflects the broader impact of her distinct sense of style, one that has consistently set her apart in the world of Hollywood fashion. Her willingness to embrace a look that flouts convention, opting for a piece that highlights her individuality rather than conforms to expectations, only strengthens her reputation as a fashion risk-taker. For Rooney Mara, this dress was not merely a throwback to high couture but a bold expression of personal style, one that has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.