Cate Blanchett turned heads at the 2025 Venice Film Festival by re-wearing a black, floor-length Armani Privé gown with a bejewelled, plunging neckline. The Oscar-winning actress first donned the dress at the 2022 Screen Actors Guild Awards, making a statement about sustainable fashion on the red carpet.
Blanchett and her stylist, Elizabeth Stewart, have repeatedly championed outfit repeating. Stewart previously posted on Instagram, 'It's chic to repeat,' and highlighted the environmental benefits, noting that sourcing new looks often involves international travel and a significant carbon footprint. 'If we can avoid most of that by simply re-wearing an incredibly great look…we are going to do it dammit!' she wrote.
Megan Watkins, Head Stylist at online fashion destination SilkFred, told HELLO! magazine that Blanchett exemplifies the power of a capsule wardrobe. 'It shows that great style isn't about constantly chasing something new or keeping up with fleeting trends, but about finding pieces that feel timeless and wearing them in a fresh way,' Watkins said.
Blanchett is not alone in embracing repeat dressing. Billie Eilish, Kate Middleton, Jane Fonda and Emma Stone have all recycled outfits for high-profile events. Watkins noted that repeating looks adds to the story of a garment and that stylists often refresh pieces with updated accessories, hair and makeup.
With the fashion industry under scrutiny for its environmental impact, experts believe more stars will follow Blanchett's lead. 'Ultimately, re-wearing isn't about playing it safe,' Watkins explained. 'It's about showing confidence in your choices and proving that true style stands the test of time.'
