At Vogue World: Hollywood 2025, Nicole Kidman delivered a truly cinematic moment, channeling Rita Hayworth’s legendary femme fatale, Gilda. Her stunning Chanel gown and performance of “Put the Blame on Mame” captivated audiences, proving her enduring star power and resilience amidst her recent separation from Keith Urban. This appearance was a profound nod to classic Hollywood and a powerful statement about her focus on work and family.
The spotlight shone brightly on Nicole Kidman as she opened Vogue World: Hollywood 2025, transforming the runway into a homage to one of cinema’s most iconic characters. On October 26, 2025, at Los Angeles’ Paramount Studios, Kidman, 58, captivated with a performance and ensemble that paid dazzling tribute to Rita Hayworth’s titular character in the 1946 film noir classic, Gilda.
This memorable moment arrives amidst a period of significant personal transition for Kidman, who recently filed for divorce from Keith Urban after 19 years of marriage. Her powerful presence at such a high-profile event underscored her unwavering dedication to her craft and her remarkable ability to navigate change with grace and strength.
A Deep Dive into the Gilda Homage
For fans of classic cinema, Kidman’s appearance was a meticulously crafted love letter to Gilda. She initiated the event with a backstage rendition of “Put the Blame on Mame,” the very song Rita Hayworth famously performed as Gilda. This musical prelude then seamlessly transitioned into Kidman’s runway walk, with the iconic tune serving as her soundtrack.
Her attire was equally evocative. Kidman graced the stage in a black, draped satin bustier dress by Chanel, intricately adorned with black satin camellias. This custom design was a subtle yet powerful allusion to the iconic black gown worn by Hayworth in the pivotal “Put the Blame on Mame” scene from Gilda. The original dress, designed by Columbia Pictures’ in-house costume designer Jean Louis, remains one of film history’s most recognizable designs, drawing inspiration from John Singer Sargent’s “Portrait of Madame X.”
Kidman’s styling further cemented the Old Hollywood aesthetic, featuring a bold red lip, a smoky eye, and her signature blonde curls parted to the side, echoing the timeless glamour that made Hayworth a legend.
Vogue World: A Cinematic Spectacle
Vogue World: Hollywood itself was conceived as a grand celebration of “Tinseltown past and present.” The event showcased a blend of original costumes from esteemed designers like Colleen Atwood and Ruth E. Carter, alongside contemporary interpretations of classic movie looks from fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu. The proceeds from the event were dedicated to the Entertainment Community Fund, supporting costume community professionals affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.
This year’s event built on the success of previous Vogue World spectacles, which debuted in New York in 2022, followed by London in 2023 and Paris in 2024. The Hollywood edition truly embraced its theme, featuring directors like Baz Luhrmann, who joined Kidman on the runway, adding to the theatricality of the evening.
Kidman’s Resilience: Focusing on Family and Work
Kidman’s radiant appearance at Vogue World is her third significant public outing since the news of her separation from Keith Urban broke. Earlier in October, she attended amFAR’s Dallas auction, presenting an award to her Lioness collaborator, Taylor Sheridan. Just two days later, she made headlines at Paris Fashion Week for the Chanel Spring/Summer 2026 show, where she was also announced as a new brand ambassador for the iconic French house, as reported by People.
A source close to Kidman shared with People that she is “surrounded by the two things that matter the most to her: her family and her work” during this period. She is also “keeping it positive” and believes “everything happens for a reason,” focusing on moving forward without regret.
The Power of Family and Purpose
Kidman’s dedication to her family was evident during Paris Fashion Week, where she was supported by her daughters, Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 14, both shared with Urban. Despite admitting she was “nervous” for the high-profile event, she appeared in good spirits, with Sunday sharing candid moments from their trip on Instagram.
In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar published in October, Kidman spoke candidly about the purpose her children bring to her life. She stated, “My children [give me the] purpose of being their protector and their guide, promising them that I’m here and that, no matter what, there’s always a safe place to grow up in.” Kidman also shares two children, Bella, 32, and Connor, 30, with ex-husband Tom Cruise.
A Busy Professional Horizon
Her professional life remains robust, with no less than six television series on the horizon. Fans eagerly anticipate her return to the A-list ensemble drama Big Little Lies and a role reprisal in the highly anticipated Practical Magic sequel. Kidman’s ability to balance a prolific career with personal life challenges showcases her enduring strength and iconic status in Hollywood.
Nicole Kidman’s appearance at Vogue World: Hollywood 2025 was more than just a fashion moment; it was a powerful affirmation of her resilience, her deep appreciation for classic Hollywood glamour, and her unwavering commitment to her family and work. As she continues to evolve, Kidman proves that true stars shine brightest, even amid their most transformative chapters.
