by 
The 97th Academy Awards are happening on March 2, 2025, and while nominees are busy preparing their speeches (just in case), they might want to consider what they’re wearing. According to new research, certain colors and designers have historically been luckier than others—and if this year’s nominees are hoping to manifest a 2025 Oscar win, their wardrobe might just make a difference.
A study by Chummy Tees analyzed every Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress winner in Oscars history, revealing that black is the ultimate lucky charm—worn by a staggering 32% of winners. Gold and white tie for second place at 13%, with blue (10%) and green (9%) rounding out the top five. And when it comes to designers? If history is any indication, wearing Giorgio Armani or Valentino could be your golden ticket to the winner’s circle.
“As the most anticipated event in the Hollywood calendar nears, the Oscars are the perfect night for A-Listers to showcase their most fashionable red carpet looks,” says an expert at Chummy Tees. “This research highlights that almost a staggering third of all winners in a female acting category have dressed in black to accept their Academy Awards, since the Oscars first began in 1929.”
From extravagant ballgowns to little black dresses, wearing black is a fashion classic that has evidently stood the test of time. The study suggests that wearing a black Armani or Valentino dress is the perfect winning formula for hopeful nominees, which will not only increase their likelihood of winning an Academy Award but also offer a timeless and elegant look for the red carpet.
The Oscars’ Luckiest Colors: Black Is the Undisputed MVP
If you want to look like a winner, wear black. The study found that nearly one in three female Oscar winners have accepted their award in black, proving that the color is both timeless and, apparently, lucky.
Legendary examples? Frances McDormand’s striking black Valentino moment in 2021 and Cher’s 1988 sheer Bob Mackie gown – one of the most talked-about Oscars dresses of all time.
Coming in second place? Gold and white. Audrey Hepburn famously called her 1954 white Givenchy gown her “lucky dress”, while Emma Stone shined in a gilded Givenchy number in 2017 when she won for La La Land.
Other colors that have played a role in Oscars history? Blue (10%), green (9%), and pink (5%) have also been lucky picks—like Lupita Nyong’o’s unforgettable powder blue Prada gown in 2014 and Cate Blanchett’s ethereal pale green Valentino dress in 2005.
Oscar-worthy tip: Want to bring some red carpet energy into your beauty routine? Check out the best red carpet-inspired makeup tricks to steal the show—whether you’re on a Hollywood stage or just your Instagram feed.
The Designers Who Have Brought the Most Oscars Luck
If you’re really trying to stack the odds in your favor, history suggests dressing in Giorgio Armani or Valentino—both of which have been worn by 7% of female winners.
Recent examples? Renée Zellweger’s sleek white Armani Privé gown in 2020, and Frances McDormand collecting two Best Actress Oscars in Valentino.
Following closely behind, Christian Dior (5%) has dressed its fair share of winners—like Michelle Yeoh in a white Dior Haute Couture gown in 2023. Chanel, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent have also brought good fortune, but Armani and Valentino remain undefeated.
Oscar-worthy tip: Need an outfit that makes you feel as powerful as an Oscar winner? Try elevating your style with these expert-approved tips for looking effortlessly polished.
What This Means for the 2025 Academy Awards
With the Oscars right around the corner, the big question is: Will this year’s nominees follow the black + Armani/Valentino formula, or will a new lucky color emerge? One thing’s for sure—the red carpet isn’t just about fashion, it’s about strategy.
Oscar-worthy tip: And even if you’re not walking the Oscars red carpet, you can still channel your own A-list moment. From red carpet-worthy manicures to celebrity-approved hair trends, we’ve got all the beauty inspiration you need.
Who will take home the gold in 2025? We’ll be watching. But if history has taught us anything, betting on black never goes out of style.
