Lupita Nyong’o didn’t take home an Oscar on Sunday like last year, but she did win the award for most intricate, unusual and — likely most –uncomfortable dress.
The “12 Years a Slave” actress wore a stunning embellished halter dress from the Calvin Klein Collection by Francisco Costa that literally dripped in 6,000 pearls.
With pearls flowing from the neckline to the train, Nyong’o floated onto the stage and was even forgiven for flubbing her words while presenting the first major award to J.K. Simmons for “Whiplash,” saying: “actor” instead of “Oscar.”
Following in the footsteps of 2014’s pale blue Prada gown, the shimmering extravaganza was painstakingly created by Costa. “From the onset, I wanted the dress to be graphic, yet warm and luxurious,” said the designer, according to Vogue, which he achieved by “creating a series of textures with intricate placements of a variety of different-sized pearls.”
6,000 pearls, many fittings, one incredible dress—the story of @Lupita_Nyongo‘s #Oscars dress: http://t.co/YUnwymUJ6m pic.twitter.com/ohriYJUl7r
— Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine) February 23, 2015
The creation didn’t come easy, however, and required several fittings both in New York and Los Angeles. “The most important aspect of a red carpet gown is that it stays true to the woman’s spirit and complements her natural essence and personality,” explained Costa. “The most successful collaborations bring out the best of both the woman and the house.”
Blown away by the result, Nyong’o said, “I definitely let the experts take the lead … Then I consult my gut to make sure that it’s an expression of myself.”
Before she debuted the look on the red carpet walking into the Dolby Theatre, Lupita gave fans a sneak peek on Instagram.
Channeling my inner Prince(ss) today. Happy #Oscars Day, people! @theacademy A photo posted by Lupita Nyong’o (@lupitanyongo) on
The next morning the 2014 Best Supporting Actress winner revealed that her Nicholas Kirkwood shoes were also laden with pearls, while her Chopard jewelry sparkled with diamonds.