Nicole Kidman, a veritable icon of Hollywood, has graced the big screen for decades, dazzling audiences with her exceptional talent and striking style. As she steps into the spotlight for W Magazine’s Best Performance Issue 2024, the 57-year-old actress delivers a candid reflection on her fashion journey, unearthing both triumphs and missteps. Kidman’s journey through the world of fashion is not merely about the glitz and glamour; it’s a story of growth, adaptability, and the unrelenting spirit of a true artist.
In her revealing interview, Kidman boldly admits to past fashion faux pas, sharing memories that paint a vivid picture of her evolving style. “My mama thought I had many bad red carpet looks,” Kidman recalled, a sentiment echoed by many who have navigated the often-tricky terrain of public appearances. One particular instance she refers to—a daring choice from the 2004 Golden Globes—serves as a testament to her own growing pains in the fashion world. Sporting a metallic paillette-covered Dior dress and a glimmering headdress, Kidman is now able to look back and chuckle at her youthful audacity, acknowledging that the road to fashion success is littered with “train wrecks.”
Yet, the actress’s fashion evolution has not gone unnoticed. With an impressive array of striking gowns that have captivated fans and critics alike, she confidently highlights her favorites. The chartreuse Dior gown designed by John Galliano from the 1997 Oscars stands out as a pinnacle moment, reminiscent of a vibrant era in style. Emphasizing the combination of floral embroidery and bold 90s makeup, Kidman is clearly proud of her choices, while also reflecting the influences of the time.
What sets Kidman apart is not just her ability to wear breathtaking gowns but also her affinity for menswear-inspired looks. She expresses a preference for more tailored pieces, asserting that her natural style trends towards “pants, tie, suit, and a jacket.” This blend of femininity and masculinity reveals a nuanced understanding of fashion—one that transcends traditional design boundaries. The anecdote about her first significant purchase, an Alaïa suit, underscores how deeply she values clothing as a form of personal expression.
However, it also serves as a reminder of the sometimes frivolous nature of high fashion; the pang of regret when recalling a costly investment gone awry speaks to the common experience of fashion enthusiasts everywhere. Kidman’s experiences illustrate the idea that fashion is as much about personal evolution as it is about tangible garments.
As the years have passed, Kidman has not only cultivated her style but has begun to curate it for her daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Urban. With her most iconic outfits stored away as “museum pieces,” she reflects the importance of legacy within the fashion industry. Clothing holds stories that can connect generations, and Kidman revels in passing these foundational pieces to her daughters, who are eager to explore this inheritance.
Kidman’s relationship with her children’s fashion choices emphasizes a reciprocal exchange, albeit with a playful twist—she offers access to her wardrobe, while she refrains from raiding theirs. Interestingly, Sunday Rose’s debut in the modeling world illustrates the enduring impact of fashion in their family dynamic, suggesting that the apple does not fall far from the tree.
Currently, as Kidman prepares for awards season—specifically for her celebrated performance in “Babygirl”—the anticipation is palpable. With a Golden Globe nomination already in her pocket, the actress is poised to continue making waves, both on-screen and on the red carpet. Each appearance presents an opportunity for her to showcase her evolved sense of style, a reflection of her inner journey through a world of fame, pressure, and the ever-evolving lexicon of fashion.
Nicole Kidman’s style journey is a powerful narrative of self-discovery, adaptability, and family. As she continues to reinvent herself, both as an actress and a fashion icon, her story serves as a reminder that while trends come and go, the power of personal style endures.