Anne Hathaway made a notable return to the Oscars on March 16, 2026, attending the prestigious event for the first time since 2014. Her appearance was marked by a stunning embellished Valentino gown, which featured a floor-length train, a waist-cinching belt, and elegant elbow-length gloves.
The gown was not only a fashion statement but also a heartfelt tribute to her late friend, renowned fashion designer Valentino Garavani. Hathaway’s ensemble was crafted from silk and showcased a mermaid silhouette adorned with cherry blossom florals against a jet black fabric base, complemented by exquisite Bulgari diamonds.
During the ceremony held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Hathaway presented the Oscar for Best Costume Design alongside Vogue’s Anna Wintour. In a light-hearted moment, Wintour humorously referred to Hathaway as ‘Emily’, a nod to her iconic role in the film The Devil Wears Prada.
Hathaway’s return to the Oscars has sparked discussions on social media, with fans speculating about changes in her facial appearance. One fan on X questioned, “What did Anne Hathaway do to her face and why?” Another commented, “The new face of Anne Hathaway is the mixture of the face of the young Renee Zellweger and Katherine Heigl.”
In response to the scrutiny, Hathaway remarked, “Does it make one appear elegant and attractive on, say, the most important night in Hollywood when, say, the most important people in fashion will be judging how one looks?” This comment reflects the pressures faced by celebrities in the public eye.
Hathaway’s appearance at the Oscars coincides with her promotional activities for The Devil Wears Prada 2, which is set to be released on May 1, 2026. The sequel has generated significant anticipation, given the original film’s lasting impact on fashion and pop culture.
Hathaway previously won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Les Miserables, further solidifying her status as a prominent figure in Hollywood.
As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and glamour, showcasing the intersection of fashion and film. The event served as a reminder of Hathaway’s enduring influence in both industries.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the reactions to Hathaway’s appearance, but it is clear that her return to the Oscars has reignited interest in her career and upcoming projects.
