Cate Blanchett | Source: Getty Images
Cate Blanchett Sparks Heated Debate Over Her Look at The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party
Cate Blanchett's appearance at a London art event stirred an online storm, with her seashell-adorned outfit drawing cheers, jeers, and everything in between.
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On Tuesday evening, June 24, 2025, Cate Blanchett, who was co-hosting, made an appearance at The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party in London. The acclaimed actress stepped onto the red carpet in an outfit that immediately sparked a storm of reactions across social media platforms.
Blanchett wore a structured ensemble that featured a corset-like bodice adorned with intricate shell and beadwork, including large shell pieces at the hips and chest. The high-necked top was richly decorated with layered elements resembling sea creatures, giving the appearance of an armor-like sculpture.
The skirt portion, in a soft, neutral tone, extended just below the knees and featured vertical frayed seams and a subtle mermaid flair at the hem. She completed the look with pointed nude heels and minimal accessories, letting the elaborate detailing of the outfit stand on its own.
Netizens were quick to voice their opinions, and they didn't hold back. A Facebook fan simply asked, "What is that????" while another commented, "What a ridiculous outfit 🤭." Others were more enthusiastic, with one writing, "Stunning!"
The debate continued on Reddit, where one person criticized the ensemble, saying, "Why!!!!!??? She's a beautiful woman in what looks like something a kid glued together for Mother's Day." Another remarked, "She looks like a lamp that someone glued seashells too [sic]," and one added, "That just looks uncomfortable and unflattering and weird."
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A reel from the event shared on Facebook also received mixed feedback. Among the responses were, "Cate, what were you thinking?!" and "I love this look. I'm here for it." One viewer expressed admiration for Blanchett's demeanor, writing, "I love that Cate is having so much fun."
The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party is known for its bold and creative fashion moments, with many celebrities opting for unconventional looks. Blanchett, who has long been recognized for her daring fashion choices, appeared unfazed by the controversy. Despite the divided opinions, she maintained her signature poise throughout the event.
Cate Blanchett arrived at The Serpentine Gallery Summer Party on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, dressed in one of the night's most polarizing ensembles — a head-turning creation that immediately stirred reactions online.
The structured outfit featured a sculptural bodice adorned with meticulously arranged seashells, beads, and layered detailing that gave it the look of wearable marine armor.
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Two large spiral shells were placed prominently at the hips, while smaller shells and pearls lined the chest and collar, adding dimension and texture.
The high neckline and extended shoulders gave the top a structured appearance, with dense embellishments continuing down the front in a vertical formation.
Below the bodice, the skirt was made from a pale, linen-like fabric with exposed vertical seams running through it, ending just below the knees.
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The skirt flared subtly at the bottom with a small ruffle and frayed hemline, introducing a softer finish to the overall structured silhouette.
She wore pointed nude pumps with a satin finish, keeping the footwear neutral against the detailed textures of the dress.
Blanchett’s hair was loosely pinned back, with a few strands left free around her face, revealing her earrings and the neckline of the dress.
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Her makeup was natural, with a light base, minimal eye makeup, and a soft rose-toned lip, closely matching her skin tone and overall styling.
She did not wear any visible jewelry apart from small earrings, allowing the focus to remain on the intricate detailing of the garment.
![The look drew immediate attention online, with some calling it "Stunning!" while others offered criticism, including, "She looks like a lamp that someone glued seashells too [sic]."](https://imgproxy.ondoho.com/UPDELe8bfJF4aROa8w_zbd2y0au_wkuMAuHEwAn-9fw/rs:fill:1200:0:1/g:no/aHR0cHM6Ly9jZG4uYW1vbWFtYS5jb20vNjU1MmY3YTVhOTBjNzE5Y2MxNTRiNzgyYTZiNTA4NjMzMTBhNGUzYjBhZjYyZTllOGE5ODMyZWVmMTA4NDJjNS5qcGc_d2lkdGg9Mzc4OCZoZWlnaHQ9NTM0MA.jpg)
The look drew immediate attention online, with some calling it "Stunning!" while others offered criticism, including, "She looks like a lamp that someone glued seashells too [sic]."
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