An elite fashion designer responsible for creating some of Hollywood's most memorable red carpet moments has shared a surprisingly accessible secret that he believes can transform anyone's outfit.
The Foundation of Flawless Fashion
Marc Bouwer, the 66-year-old designer behind iconic looks for Beyoncé, Angelina Jolie, and Whitney Houston, has revealed that the key to mastering any ensemble lies beneath the surface. During his exclusive conversation with the Daily Mail, the industry veteran explained that many people overlook what goes on underneath their clothing, despite it significantly impacting how designs appear on the body.
"I always say, it starts with the undergarments," Bouwer emphasised. "Make sure you're wearing the right size bra for you and the straps are equal before you put a dress on." He further advised ensuring underwear remains invisible beneath clothing and using shapewear if concerned about visible bulges. "Then whatever you put on top of that will look a whole lot better," he concluded.
Beyond the Front View: A Designer's Perspective
Bouwer, whose career spans decades, also stressed the importance of evaluating an outfit from every conceivable angle. He recommended that when looking in a mirror, people should "always look at yourself from the side" and from the back, rather than focusing solely on the front view. "Not everyone sees you from the front all the time," he added pragmatically. "Look at yourself from the side and back and make sure what you're wearing looks good from as many angles as possible."
The acclaimed designer, who originally hails from South Africa, encouraged fashion experimentation, noting that "Style is very, very personal and there's certain things people find very beautiful but others find it horrible."
From Halston to Hollywood Icon
Bouwer's esteemed career began under the tutelage of legendary designer Halston. His big break arrived when Whitney Houston noticed his creations and hired him to craft ensembles for her. This partnership led to him designing some of Houston's most iconic early career looks.
However, the true turning point came in 2004 when Angelina Jolie wore his ivory satin haltered gown to the Oscars. This particular dress, recently re-worn by Sydney Sweeney, became an instant classic. Bouwer reflected on its impact, stating, "It was a total image-changing look for her. She had been known as the wild child of Hollywood... And all of a sudden she was perceived as a humanitarian. She was this angelic, beautiful woman on this red carpet."
He believes the gown's power came from being "the perfect dress on the perfect person at the perfect moment," a combination that many fashion editors have since hailed as one of the best Oscar dresses of all time.
