Imagine stepping onto a glamorous red carpet where the air buzzes with excitement and every outfit screams 'unforgettable' – that's the magic of the Glamour Women of the Year Awards. But here's where it gets intriguing: One standout star might just be kicking off a whole new fashion wave for winter 2025, turning heads and sparking trends that could redefine how we dress up for the holidays. Let's dive into the details of how Love Island alum Olandria Carthen stole the show at The Plaza in New York City on November 4, and why her look is more than just a pretty dress – it's a sneak peek into the future of festive fashion.
Olandria, known for her explosive charisma from reality TV (think of those intense Love Island moments and couples who are still going strong), brought that same fiery energy to the 2025 Glamour Women of the Year event. Amidst a parade of stunning ensembles, she delivered a truly legendary style statement that honored a classic bombshell icon – the 2024 Glamour Woman of the Year, Pamela Anderson – with a sleek updo and sultry smoky eye makeup. Pairing this with a vibrant fuchsia silk taffeta gown, Olandria's outfit exuded timeless Old Hollywood elegance, complete with a bustier top, a dramatic bustle, and intricate rose-inspired draping. Yet, it's the color that truly shone, hinting at an exciting shift in red-carpet vibes.
And this is the part most people miss – the gown wasn't just any shade; it shimmered with a holographic quality that encapsulated a range of berry-inspired hues, from deep cranberry to rich plum, juicy pomegranate, and velvety blackberry. These aren't your ordinary purples – they're the vibrant, mood-elevating tones that evoke winter celebrations, like cozy holiday gatherings or festive parties. In fact, if you've ever admired the way berries burst with color in nature, think of these shades as that same energetic pop, perfect for adding warmth to chilly evenings. Olandria's choice was like a bold announcement: Winter 2025 is all about embracing 'berry tones' – those lush, jewel-like purples that blend sophistication with fun.
The trend didn't stop there. The awards night showcased a variety of berry-infused looks that had everyone talking. Picture silky lilac dresses that flow like a gentle breeze, moody red-wine lace outfits with their deep, mysterious allure, and floor-length lavender sequins that catch the light in dazzling ways (and yes, sequins are making a surprising comeback in unexpected styles). These Glamour attendees weren't just dressed for the occasion; they were channeling the holiday spirit, making us eager to raid our closets or shops for berry shades to elevate our own festive events. Imagine draping yourself in a plum scarf for a winter walk or opting for pomegranate lipstick to brighten up a holiday dinner – these colors are versatile and approachable, even for beginners experimenting with makeup and fashion.
To give you a fuller picture, here's a snapshot of some of the 2025 Women of the Year guests who embraced this purple parade with style:
- Jasmin Savoy Brown: Radiating elegance in a look that captured the essence of berry chic.
- Myha’la: Bringing her signature poise to the red carpet.
- Mary Holland Nader: Standing out with festive flair.
- Huma Abedin: Exuding timeless sophistication amidst the color wave.
- Karen Pittman: A vision of purple perfection.
- Isabella Briggs: Adding her unique sparkle to the berry trend.
- Olivia Ponton: Embracing the mood with graceful berry tones.
- Crystle Stewart: Making a memorable entrance in the spirit of the season.
- Meredith Duxbury: Completing the lineup with her own take on the color story.
But here's where it gets controversial – is this berry trend a refreshing departure from the usual neutrals and blacks, or could it risk feeling too 'matchy-matchy' for those who prefer bolder contrasts? Some might argue that these shades, while beautiful, evoke a uniformity that takes away from individual expression, potentially turning red carpets into a sea of similar hues. On the flip side, others see it as an empowering nod to femininity and festivity, making fashion more inclusive and fun. What do you think – does the rise of berry tones signal a positive shift toward more playful dressing, or is it just a fleeting fad that might overwhelm the senses? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments: Do you agree this is the winter color to watch, or do you side with the skeptics who favor diversity over trends? Share your opinions and let's discuss!
