Jenna Ortega has surprised fans with one of her most daring red-carpet appearances yet! The Wednesday star stepped out in New York City wearing a sparkling, nearly transparent gown that was a dramatic departure from her signature gothic-inspired fashion.
The actress was photographed leaving The Bowery Hotel on October 19 before attending a special screening of her film Klara and the Sun at the Crosby Street Hotel. And her dazzling outfit immediately brought to mind another Hollywood legend: Cher.
Jenna wore a figure-hugging, nude-toned gown featuring a plunging halter neckline, intricate crystal embellishments and shimmering fringe. Hundreds of sparkling details covered the sheer fabric, while delicate silver strands and colorful accents created a striking effect with every movement.
The cascading fringe added an especially dramatic touch, revealing glimpses of her legs as she walked. She completed the ensemble with nude pointed-toe Christian Louboutin heels, keeping the attention firmly on her extraordinary dress.
The look closely resembled the glamorous creations Cher famously wore during the 1970s, particularly her unforgettable collaborations with designer Bob Mackie. Although Jenna hasn’t confirmed that she intended to pay tribute to the singer, the similarities were difficult to overlook.
Her hairstyle strengthened the comparison. Instead of an elaborate updo, Jenna wore her dark brunette hair long, perfectly straight and parted down the middle — a look closely associated with Cher’s iconic fashion era.
She paired the hairstyle with softly defined eyes, fluttery lashes, luminous skin and glossy rose-nude lips, creating an elegant beauty look that complemented the dramatic gown.
But there was an unexpected secret behind the revealing outfit.
The one-of-a-kind dress was actually constructed using steel rods and crystal beads by emerging designer Elias Matso. The unusual materials gave the creation a sculptural, almost futuristic appearance.
Originally part of Matso’s Melt With Me graduate collection, the handmade piece was selected for Jenna by stylist Enrique Melendez.
Speaking to People, the actress revealed that the designer had been saving the special creation for her. She also explained that the unusual design felt particularly appropriate for her latest film.
Directed by Taika Waititi and based on Kazuo Ishiguro’s bestselling novel, Klara and the Sun follows an artificial companion, played by Ortega, navigating a world shaped by technology and complicated human relationships.
The dress’s metallic construction and shimmering, liquid-like details subtly reflected the futuristic themes of the story while simultaneously recalling the glamorous fashion of the 1970s.
For an actress best known for her dark, edgy wardrobe, the appearance demonstrated another side of her evolving personal style.
And whether or not Cher was the intended inspiration, Jenna’s spectacular gown ensured that all eyes were on her as she arrived for the screening.
