On opening night, Radio City Music Hall was transformed into a glittering catwalk of high drama, haute risk-taking, and unrepentant flair as the 2025 Tony Awards illuminated New York City like a marquee sign. The most fashionable transplants from Hollywood and Broadway walked the red carpet in costumes that were a tribute to the theater, ranging from classic to practically operatic.
This year's Tony Awards attire was anything but safe, ranging from glittering dresses that appeared to change color under the lights to sweeping capes that looked like they were torn from a Shakespearean tragedy. It had a theatrical quality. Emotional. Spellbinding. The stylists who dared to embrace the drama deserve a standing ovation.
The stars of the evening who not only walked the red carpet but also commanded it like a soliloquy are highlighted below.1. The Living Art of Ariana DeBose
The triple threat and Tony host shone in a crimson outfit that felt like a contemporary masterpiece and a Greek deity. Elegant, deliberate, and unforgettable, the dress moved like choreography with its dramatic pleating and daring neckline.
2. Jonathan Groff: Vintage Feelings and Velvet
In a rich emerald velvet suit that evoked the beauty of the old-fashioned stage, Groff, who was nominated for his heartbreaking performance in Merrily We Roll Along, went full Broadway romantic. It was a wink-inducing outfit that proclaimed "leading guy" when paired with a delicate silk tie and the perfect amount of shine on the lapel.
3. Architecturally Chic Sarah Paulson
Paulson, who won Best Actress for her eerie performance in Appropriate, wore a simple yet cutting-edge outfit that experimented with shadow and sharp lines. Her all-black ensemble virtually begged for a black-and-white photo, whispering, "understudy no more."
4. Theatrical Royalty: J. Harrison Ghee
Ghee, who never backs down from a fashion dare, showed up wearing a baroque-inspired outfit with gold embroidery, a floor-grazing train, and a crown-like headdress that was simultaneously hilarious and grave. Everyone knew that for a brief moment, the red carpet was theirs.
5. Celestial Glamour by Cynthia Erivo
Erivo, wearing a midnight blue gown covered in what appeared to be stardust, brought the stars to the city after a series of noteworthy undertakings. Like a night sky, she exuded elegance with a hint of edge thanks to her celestial earrings and plunging neckline.Fashion with an Opinion
The complete lack of uncertainty was what made the red carpet at the Tony Awards so exciting this year. Nobody was cautious. The most stylish people dared to be a little strange, a little fanciful, and wholly original. They donned suits that sang arias and dresses that told stories. Darling, this was theater, not simply a procession of lovely costumes.
And isn't that the main purpose of Broadway?
One thing was clear as the awards ceremony got underway and the lights went down: the attire created the mood for an evening that honored daring decisions both on the red carpet and on stage.
Because when else can you make a great impression at the Tony Awards?