Ariana Grande captivated audiences in a vintage Bob Mackie gown during her performance for ‘Wicked: One Wonderful Night,’ a concert special promoting the upcoming ‘Wicked: For Good’ film. The archival piece, originally worn by Fran Drescher, underscored Grande’s commitment to method dressing and glamorous showmanship for the event.
The two-hour NBC special, set to air on November 6 and stream on Peacock, featured Grande alongside Cynthia Erivo and other cast members in a celebration of the musical’s legacy. Filmed at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, the event showcased Grande’s transformation into Glinda the Good Witch, with her airborne entrance adding a magical touch to the performance. This concert serves as a key promotional effort for ‘Wicked: For Good,’ which hits theaters on November 21, building anticipation among fans worldwide.
Grande’s standout look was a champagne-colored, strapless ball gown from Bob Mackie’s Fall/Winter 1997 collection, featuring intricate gold embroidery and crystal beadwork. The design boasted a fitted, bejeweled bodice with a sweetheart neckline that flared into a voluminous tulle skirt, creating a silhouette reminiscent of a classic showgirl. She accessorized with a diamond choker necklace and a sleek ballet bun, completing the elegant ensemble that highlighted her character’s ethereal qualities.
Stylist Law Roach sourced the gown through Tab Vintage, continuing Grande’s trend of method dressing throughout the ‘Wicked: For Good’ press tour. This approach involves selecting outfits that reflect the narrative and aesthetic of the project, enhancing the storytelling element. Roach’s curation of vintage pieces aligns with Grande’s fashion philosophy, which often blends historical references with contemporary flair, making each appearance a talking point in its own right.
The gown carries a rich Hollywood history, having been originally worn by Fran Drescher in the 1997 romantic comedy ‘The Beautician and the Beast.’ This connection adds a layer of nostalgia and continuity to Grande’s portrayal, linking her to a legacy of strong, charismatic female characters. Drescher’s association with the dress emphasizes its timeless appeal, while Grande’s modern interpretation brings it into the spotlight for a new generation of viewers.
Bob Mackie, renowned as the ‘Sultan of Sequins,’ is celebrated for his sparkling creations worn by icons like Cher, Whitney Houston, and Taylor Swift. His designs often embody confidence and glamour, with Mackie famously stating that ‘a woman who wears my clothes is not afraid to be noticed.’ Grande’s choice of this archival piece pays homage to Mackie’s influence in entertainment fashion, reinforcing her status as a style innovator in the industry.
In addition to the Mackie gown, Grande has embraced other historically inspired looks during the promotional circuit, including a sleek 1940s gown by Gilbert Adrian, the costume designer for the original ‘Wizard of Oz’ film. She also recently debuted a hair transformation, swapping her signature blond Glinda locks for glossy brunette waves, which she highlighted on Instagram with a quote from her character: ‘it’s good to see me, isn’t it?’ This shift signals a personal and professional evolution as she balances her music career with her acting role.
The ‘Wicked: One Wonderful Night’ special not only showcases Grande’s vocal and acting talents but also sets the stage for the film’s release, potentially influencing box office performance and fan engagement. As the entertainment industry watches, this event underscores the enduring appeal of ‘Wicked’ and its ability to merge fashion, music, and storytelling into a cohesive cultural moment.