The “Wicked” star took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 2, 2025 to perform an emotional rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
Ariana Grande didn’t just captivate with her powerhouse vocals during her 2025 Oscars performance, she turned heads with a stunning red gown that featured an unexpected, show-stopping detail on her back.
A fan comments on the appearance of Ariana Grande during her Oscars performance, from a post dated March 3, 2025 | Source: X/JackParkr
Grande’s dazzling Oscars look was as breathtaking as her performance. Designed by Schiaparelli, her striking red gown featured a fitted ruby strapless crystal bodice, a voluminous tulle skirt, and an astonishing 150,000 Siam sequins. The standout detail, however, was the ruby slipper placed delicately on the back of the gown just below her neck.
Ariana Grande performs onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Grande completed the look with matching pumps adorned with delicate bow details, perfectly tying together the enchanting ensemble. Her general appearance amazed fans, but it is the unexpected detail on her back that left them in awe.
Ariana Grande performs onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
One admirer gushed, “Best dressed. Ariana Grande.” Another fan couldn’t contain their excitement, raving, “This look is absolutely INSANE AND BRILLIANT!!!” One person was confused by the dress’s design, asking, “Why was there a shoe stuck to her back?”
Fans who understood the unique addition, enthused, “Omg I never noticed the ruby red slipper, this dress is absolutely gorgeous ♥️🫧” Another commenter was completely taken with the whimsical touch, admitting, “The red ruby slipper on the back of the dress! i’m [sic] obsessed.”
Ariana Grande seen backstage at the 97th Annual Oscars, on March 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
The ruby slipper at the back of Grande’s gown is a tribute to Dorothy’s iconic shoes from 1939’s “The Wizard of Oz,” which is the prequel to “Wicked.”
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande at the 97th Oscars held in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
The singer kicked off the 2025 Oscars with a spellbinding performance of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from “The Wizard of Oz.” She enchanted the audience with her soaring vocals and undeniable stage presence.
Grande also joined Cynthia Erivo to dazzle the audience with a powerful duet of “Defying Gravity” from their Oscar-nominated film.
As they concluded their performance, the two held hands, with Erivo glowing in a white gown adorned with floral embellishments.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo on March 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
Both Erivo and Grande earned Oscar nominations for their performances in “Wicked.” Erivo was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role but lost to Mikey Madison, who won for “Anora.” The category also included Karla Sofía Gascón for “Emilia Pérez,” Demi Moore for “The Substance” and Fernanda Torres for “I’m Still Here.”
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
Grande competed for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, with the award going to Zoe Saldaña for “Emilia Pérez.” Other nominees in the category were Monica Barbaro for “A Complete Unknown,” Felicity Jones for “The Brutalist,” and Isabella Rossellini for “Conclave.”
