Sydney Sweeney Shocks in Vintage Versace
Sydney Sweeney at Berlinale 2023. Photo courtesy of Elena Ternovaja under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Sydney Sweeney turned heads and stirred a wave of '90s nostalgia at the GQ Men of the Year 2025 party in Los Angeles. Draped in a vintage black velvet Versace gown from the Fall 1995 collection, the actress didn't just wear a dress — she embodied an era. With a choker necklace, heavy black eyeliner, and crimped, wet-look waves, Sweeney delivered a rock 'n' roll vibe that was both a tribute to '90s Hollywood divas and a bold statement of her own rising fashion power.
The event, held at the iconic Chateau Marmont, celebrated three decades of GQ's Men of the Year, with a dress code that called for '90s Hollywood red carpet glamour. Sweeney, honored as actress of the year and one of the seven stars featured on this year's GQ covers, embraced the theme with full commitment. Her look was a masterclass in archival couture, channeling the spirit of Gianni Versace's legendary designs just two years before his tragic death, when he was still the creative force behind the fashion house.
A Vintage Versace Moment
The black velvet dress Sweeney wore is no ordinary gown. It hails from Versace's Fall 1995 ready-to-wear collection, a line that has become iconic for its luxurious fabrics and bold silhouettes. The gown's sweetheart neckline and thick shoulder straps framed Sweeney's figure perfectly, while the crushed velvet fabric caught the light with a subtle shimmer. The dress also featured a slight train that kissed the floor, adding a touch of old-Hollywood drama to the ensemble.
Sweeney's look was more than just a dress. Her styling completed the '90s transformation. She wore a black choker adorned with a silver-and-black pendant, a staple accessory of the decade's grunge and glam scenes. Her makeup was unapologetically bold, with heavy black eyeliner that gave her a smoky, rock-star edge. Her blonde bob was styled in wet, crimped waves, evoking the rebellious spirit of '90s icons like Courtney Love.
The overall effect was a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernity. Sweeney didn't just replicate a look; she made it her own, signaling her evolution from a rising star to a bona fide fashion figure. The '90s revival is sweeping through Hollywood, but few have embraced it with such authenticity and flair.
A Night to Mark Her Rise
The GQ Men of the Year party is one of the most anticipated events in Hollywood, and Sweeney's role as both a co-host and honoree underscored her growing influence. Alongside other cover stars like Stephen Colbert, Seth Rogen, SZA, Oscar Isaac, Clipse, and Hailey Bieber, she helped set the tone for a night steeped in glamour and celebration.
Sweeney's recent press tour for the movie "Christy" has seen her pushing fashion boundaries, often showing skin and experimenting with daring styles. From a sheer silver Christian Cowan gown to a pale pink McQueen corset dress at the BFI London Film Festival, she has been tapping into '90s nostalgia regularly, making the GQ party look a natural extension of her style journey.
The Emotional Power of Nostalgia and Intrigue
There is something deeply satisfying about seeing archival couture come back to life on the red carpet. It's a reminder of fashion's cyclical nature and the enduring power of iconic designers like Gianni Versace. For fans of the '90s, Sweeney's look was a delightful trip down memory lane, evoking the glamour and grit of a decade that still captivates.
At the same time, the intrigue of vintage fashion lies in its rarity and story. Wearing a piece from 1995 is not just about style; it's about connecting with history, with the moments and personalities that shaped culture. Sweeney's choice sparked curiosity about the dress's origins and the legacy it carries, adding layers of meaning to her appearance.
A Bold Style Statement
Sydney Sweeney's vintage Versace gown was more than a fashion moment. It was a declaration. She is no longer just a talented actress on the rise; she is a style icon in her own right, capable of commanding attention and respect on the biggest stages. Her embrace of '90s diva glamour at the GQ Men of the Year party was a perfect showcase of her transformation.
References: Sydney Sweeney wears vintage velvet Versace dress at GQ Men of the Year 2025 party | Sydney Sweeney Wears Vintage Velvet Gown to Men of the Year Party | See All the Throwback '90s Looks on the GQ Men of the Year Red Carpet | GQ
