Contrary to early reports, the 2025 Oscars telecast witnessed a remarkable comeback. The revised Nielsen figures, incorporating digital platforms, showed a 1% increase in viewership, reaching an impressive 19.69 million audience members. This uptick signifies a broader embrace of the event across various devices, reflecting the evolving media landscape. Viewers were not just watching on traditional TV; they were engaging through PCs, tablets, and smartphones, proving that the Oscars remain a cultural touchstone.
The surge in viewership also highlighted the growing importance of multichannel engagement. As audiences increasingly turn to social media for real-time updates and discussions, the Oscars have adapted by leveraging these platforms to enhance viewer interaction. This shift underscores the need for entertainment events to integrate seamlessly across multiple screens, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience for fans.
The red carpet's allure has never been more evident, with fashion brands reaping unprecedented rewards. The Top 10 Fashion Brands seen at the 2025 Academy Awards garnered $101 million in earned engagement, a significant leap from the previous year’s $87.5 million. This spike in engagement can be attributed to several factors, including standout designs, celebrity endorsements, and viral moments that captivated social media.
Chanel led the charge, dressing luminaries like Lupita Nyong’o, whose pearl-embellished gown became an instant sensation. The gown, inspired by Karl Lagerfeld’s 1991 haute couture collection, featured intricate embroidery that took 660 hours to complete. Such meticulous craftsmanship resonated deeply with viewers, sparking widespread admiration and discussion. Other brands like Schiaparelli and Armani followed closely, each contributing to the night’s sartorial triumphs and driving online conversations.
Jewelry brands capitalized on the Oscars' star power, with Cartier, Bulgari, and Tiffany & Co. dominating the spotlight. Saldaña, Chalamet, and Fanning all adorned themselves with Cartier pieces, notably the Panthère Versatiles necklace, which made its debut at the event. Selena Gomez paired her Ralph Lauren gown with a striking Bulgari necklace, while Isabelli Rossellini paid tribute to David Lynch with a Dolce & Gabbana ensemble and Bulgari jewels once worn by her mother, Ingrid Bergman.
Mikey Madison’s pink satin Dior gown was elegantly complemented by Tiffany & Co. jewels, including a historic statement necklace from the house’s archives. These iconic accessories not only elevated the stars’ looks but also added layers of meaning and history, making each appearance memorable and emotionally resonant. The synergy between fashion and jewelry created a powerful narrative that kept audiences engaged throughout the evening.
Christian Louboutin’s signature red-soled shoes were ubiquitous on the red carpet, gracing the feet of Demi Moore, Elle Fanning, and Yvonne Orji. The designer’s popularity extended beyond the awards show, as many celebrities wore his creations to subsequent events like the Vanity Fair party. Aquazzura and Jimmy Choo also made strong showings, with stars such as Ariana Grande and Emma Stone opting for their stylish footwear.
Under Armour’s unexpected appearance in fifth place was driven by Adam Sandler’s comedic segment with Conan O’Brien. The actor’s choice of a bright blue Aviator Nation hoodie and Under Armour sneakers sparked intense online chatter, leading to a limited rerelease of the shoes. This unexpected twist demonstrated how even non-traditional brands can capture the zeitgeist and become part of the red carpet conversation.
Ariana Grande’s dual appearances in custom Schiaparelli gowns propelled her to the top of the women’s category. Her pink satin and tulle gown, along with the deep crimson dress she wore during her performance, generated nearly five million likes on Instagram. Grande’s style choices, coupled with her massive following, ensured that she remained a focal point of the night’s discussions.
Demi Moore’s Armani Privé gown was another highlight, earning her second place in the rankings. Despite not winning the best actress award, Moore’s presence was undeniably impactful, with social media users praising her elegance and poise. Mikey Madison’s win for Anora further underscored the dominance of women in driving red carpet engagement, totaling $35.76 million in earned media value compared to the men’s $10.9 million.
Timothée Chalamet’s unconventional Givenchy suit in butter yellow stirred both curiosity and debate. While some questioned the choice, others appreciated the boldness, recognizing it as a nod to Bob Dylan’s influence on Chalamet’s career. His Cartier jewels, including a vintage necklace and watch, added a touch of sophistication to his look, solidifying his status as a fashion icon.
Though men’s fashion is gaining traction, the numbers reveal that women still command more attention and social media engagement. The disparity highlights the ongoing evolution of red carpet culture, where innovation meets tradition, and every outfit tells a story. As Hollywood prepares for the next major event—the Met Gala—expect even more groundbreaking looks and narratives to unfold.