Oscars 2024: Where Does The Red Carpet Come From And Why Is It Red?

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The red carpet is more than just a pathway; it's a global symbol of glamour, luxury, and distinction. Its roots reach back to ancient Greece, where it was unrolled for a king's victorious return. The color scarlet, long associated with wealth, power, and the elite, marked this path.

By the early 20th century, the term "red carpet treatment" emerged, linked initially to the railroads' practice of greeting passengers with a red carpet. This tradition found its place in Hollywood in the 1920s, especially at the Oscars, where it became a stage for stars to make a stunning entrance and display their unique styles.

Why Is Red Carpet...Red? Know The History Behind This
Showmanship plays a crucial role on the red carpet, with the most unforgettable moments often coming from bold and distinctive fashion choices. For many celebrities, the right outfit can become a career highlight, forever linked with their image.

The red carpet's allure lies in its mix of historical significance and contemporary relevance. From its ancient origins to its current status as the epitome of glamour, it continues to be a platform for fashion, creativity, and individual expression. Despite the scrutiny and the high stakes involved, the red carpet offers a unique space for celebrities to assert their personalities and for designers to showcase their talent. As it continues to evolve, the red carpet reaffirms its place as an essential aspect of cultural and fashion history.

The allure of the red carpet, a symbol of glamour and prestige in Hollywood, may soon sparkle again as the industry anticipates the end of the SAG-AFTRA strike. This tradition, dating back to ancient Greece, has long been associated with power and wealth. Initially, red carpets welcomed European aristocracy and wealthy train passengers before making their mark in Hollywood. The first Hollywood red carpet was rolled out by theater magnate Sid Grauman in 1922, and by 1961, it became a staple at the Oscars.

The Golden Era Of Red Carpet And Its Decline
The golden era of red carpet fashion emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with icons like Nicole Kidman and Halle Berry setting high standards. Fashion brands quickly recognized its advertising potential, with events like the Cannes Film Festival generating significant media impact. Yet, the red carpet has faced challenges, including a noticeable decline in viewership. The number of Academy Awards viewers in 2022 was half that of 2017, reflecting changing public interests and critiques of the events' focus on marketing and branding.

An American Actress and television host Melissa Rivers and author of Fashion on the Red Carpet (EUP) Fashion and Media historian, Dr. Elizabeth Castaldo Lundén have voiced concerns over the evolving nature of red carpets. Rivers criticizes the emphasis on fashion branding, while Lundén points out the dull and repetitive nature of these events. They also highlight the impact of social media, noting that the immediate online exposure and fear of controversy have contributed to the red carpet's decline.

Despite these challenges, the red carpet season is poised for a return, with several major events on the horizon, including the Creative Arts Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Critics Choice Awards, Grammy Awards, BAFTA Film Awards, SAG Awards, Film Independent Spirit Awards, and the 96th annual Academy Awards. These events offer a chance for the red carpet to reclaim its former glory, amid evolving industry dynamics and audience expectations.

Today, the red carpet continues to evolve, with designers crafting exclusive lines for these events and stars often opting for styles that highlight their best features. Yet, there's still room for innovation and surprise, as seen in the choices of Tilda Swinton and initiatives like the "Ask Her More" campaign on Twitter.

In essence, the red carpet tradition in Hollywood is at a crossroads, facing critiques over its emphasis on fashion branding and the impact of social media. However, the upcoming season presents an opportunity for rejuvenation. The enduring appeal of these glamorous events, despite a decline in viewership, suggests that the red carpet still holds a special place in the heart of the entertainment world.