At LACMA Film Gala, Emma Watson Reveals How Her Sculpted Ruby Gown Was Wore

A low-profile gala appearance

Watson was present at the Los Angeles gala but stayed out of the red-carpet photographs. She shared images of her outfit on Instagram Story, photographed by Rich Stapleton.

The event honored artist Vija Celmins and filmmaker Denis Villeneuve. Watson noted Celmins’s work with images of oceans, night skies and spiderwebs, and described Villeneuve’s films as building worlds while exploring human questions.

How the textile was made

The fabric was developed by Caroline Zimbalist, Watson explained. A biopolymer-based material is heated, combined and poured by hand onto silk. Plant-derived glycerin gives the material flexibility and softness, Watson said. After water evaporates, it sets onto the silk, forming the gown’s sculptural textile.

Fashion and material choices

Watson linked the gown’s materials to plastic pollution, noting that plastic can end up in the natural places that inspire people. She also said fashion and art can prompt discussion and shape culture.

She mentioned Cox Enterprises’ investment in companies such as Nexus Circular, which repurposes used plastic. Watson said this work helps conserve resources, reduce waste and limit reliance on fossil-based resources.

The team behind the look

Watson credited stylist and co-creator Jared Ellner, Stapleton and Zimbalist for their work on the look. She also named makeup artist Katie Mellinger and hairstylist Daniel Moon. The gala marked Watson’s first Los Angeles event since September. At that time, she attended the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art’s opening gala wearing a black minidress decorated with real flowers.