Bieber and Sweeney Light Up the Red Carpet in Retro Glam

The Night of Stars

On a star-studded Thursday evening, the iconic Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles hosted the much-anticipated 2025 GQ Men of the Year event. Among the dazzling array of celebrities in attendance, two names shone especially bright: Hailey Bieber and Sydney Sweeney.

With the event themed 'Party Like It's 1995,' both women perfectly encapsulated the era's bold fashion statements, captivating the audience with their striking ensembles.

Sydney Sweeney: A 90s Vision

Sweeney, crowned Actress of the Year, stepped into the limelight wearing a stunning crushed velvet gown from Versace's Fall 1995 collection. This cherished piece, originally worn by the legendary Naomi Campbell, showcased a fitted bodice with thick velvet straps and a delightful train that screamed iconic bombshell.

“I know who I am. I know what I value... I'm just excited to see what happens next,” Sweeney shared in her recent GQ interview.

The Details of Glamour

Her look was tied together with a chic black choker and a pendant that added a touch of elegance, perfectly complementing her dramatic makeup. The sleek, wet-look bob she wore elevated her vintage Hollywood glamour to astonishing levels.

Sydney Sweeney in a crushed velvet gown from Versace's Fall 1995 collection. (Maya Dehlin Spach/ Getty Images)

Hailey Bieber: Bold and Daring

On the other hand, Hailey needed no introduction as she embraced the sheer trend in spectacular fashion. Her black Gucci gown, inspired by the audacious Tom Ford era, featured a plunging neckline and delicate sheer fabric that left little to the imagination.

With a daringly low cut in the back, Bieber channeled an effortlessly chic vibe complemented by dangling earrings and an artistic updo. This fearless look showcased not just her bodily confidence, but also a deep understanding of high fashion's ever-evolving nature.

Defining Moments

“Having a child made me have so much less FOMO... I'm fulfilled with being cozy and being in my space,” Bieber reflected in her GQ cover story.

A Look Back

The 2025 gala not only marked major achievements for both stars but also served as a reminder of how fashion continues to evolve. Yet, the '90s aesthetic remains timeless, allowing newer generations to discover its magic.

The Power of Nostalgia

It's fascinating how nostalgia informs contemporary fashion. Much like past decades have inspired many artistic movements, the '90s continues to surface in today's current trends. Moments like the GQ gala resonate beyond ordinary celebrity culture, revealing how our past shapes our creative present.

In years to come, we'll likely see echoes of this evening when discussing influential moments in red carpet history. Perhaps these empowering looks will serve as inspiration for future stars navigating the complex interplay of fame and self-expression in an ever-demanding world.

The Bottom Line

As I reflect on the stunning visuals from this event, I can't help but be excited for the future of fashion. Neither Sweeney nor Bieber just wore a gown; they told stories—of transformation, nostalgia, and empowerment. Their choices ignite a spark that resonates not just within the walls of the Chateau Marmont, but across the broader realm of cultural expression.

What's Next?

This gala might just be the beginning of a fierce fashion renaissance. With new offshoots of the sheer trend and vintage explorations resurfacing, I think we're in for a cultural moment worth watching. If anything, the future looks bright, stylish, and undeniably vibrant.