Imagine stepping onto a red carpet where the energy is electric, and one standout look not only steals the show but hints at the future of fashion—welcome to the dazzling world of Olandria Carthen, who effortlessly ushered in a thrilling winter 2025 color trend at Glamour's Women of the Year Awards! If you've ever watched Love Island and felt that magnetic 'bombshell' vibe, you'll know exactly what we're talking about. But here's where it gets exciting: this wasn't just any glamorous evening; it was a sneak peek into a vibrant, berry-infused palette that's set to dominate our wardrobes come chilly days ahead.
Picture this: On November 4 at The Plaza in New York City, the 2025 Glamour Women of the Year event buzzed with unforgettable outfits, from elegant gowns to sparkling ensembles. Yet, amid all the Hollywood flair, reality TV star Olandria Carthen created a truly legendary moment that had everyone talking. She paid tribute to a classic bombshell—and a Glamour Woman of the Year from 2024—by rocking a sophisticated updo and smoky eye makeup inspired by the iconic Pamela Anderson. Paired with this was a stunning fuchsia silk taffeta dress, complete with a bustier top, a playful bustle, and intricate rose-shaped draping that echoed the glamour of Old Hollywood films. But the real kicker? The gown's almost magical, holographic sheen that blended seamlessly into a spectrum of rich, jewel-toned hues.
And this is the part most people miss: This look didn't just dazzle—it signaled the dawn of 'berry season' for winter fashion. For those new to the term, berry tones are those deep, luscious shades inspired by nature's most vibrant fruits, like the tartness of cranberries, the mystery of plums, the richness of pomegranates, and the allure of blackberries. Think of it as a festive twist on purple—warm yet sophisticated, perfect for holiday gatherings where you want to pop without going overboard. Carthen's dress epitomized this by capturing every imaginable berry shade, from the boldest crimsons to the subtlest lavenders, proving that these colors are more than just pretty; they're versatile for everything from evening events to cozy winter parties.
The trend didn't stop there. The night showcased a parade of berry-inspired elegance, including smooth lilac fabrics that flowed like liquid silk, moody red-wine lace that added a touch of intrigue, and floor-length lavender sequins that shimmered under the lights—reminding us how sequins can elevate even the simplest silhouette (and for beginners wondering, sequins are tiny, reflective disks sewn onto fabric for that extra sparkle, often seen in unexpected ways like on everyday tops). These Glamour attendees brought such a celebratory spirit that it's hard not to envision raiding your makeup drawer for berry lipsticks and nail polishes to match the holiday cheer. Who knew fashion could make winter feel this inviting?
But here's where it gets controversial: Is this 'berry boom' truly a groundbreaking new wave, or just a clever revival of past trends that designers have cycled through before? Some might argue it's a fresh take on timeless purples, while others could see it as another fleeting fad in an industry obsessed with 'the next big thing.' After all, with sustainability in fashion becoming a hot topic, is embracing these rich tones a nod to natural beauty, or does it overlook the environmental impact of synthetic dyes? We'd love to hear your thoughts—do you think berry shades will stick around beyond this season, or are they just a winter whim?
To wrap it up, let's spotlight the fabulous guests who embraced the berry trend and turned heads at the awards. Take Jasmin Savoy Brown, whose look radiated effortless charm in a hue that could inspire your next cocktail dress. Myha’la dazzled with her take on the palette, perhaps experimenting with plummy accents for a bolder statement. Mary Holland Nader brought sophistication, while Huma Abedin exuded grace in shades that whisper of pomegranate allure. Karen Pittman and Isabella Briggs added their unique flair, proving berry tones suit every style—from minimalist to maximalist. Olivia Ponton and Crystle Stewart opted for that festive lavender glow, and Meredith Duxbury rounded out the group with an ensemble that screamed holiday readiness. Each photo, captured by talented lensmen like Dimitrios Kambouris and Cindy Ord from Getty Images, tells a story of empowerment and style.
What do you think—will you be incorporating berry tones into your winter wardrobe? Agree that this is the start of something big, or disagree and tell us why in the comments! Let's spark a conversation about fashion's future.
