Throwback Thursday: Amal Clooney's Gloves & Other Dated Accessories Make a Comeback

Awards season goes retro

By Diana Nguyen Jan 23, 2015 12:57 AMTags
Style Collective, Comeback Kids GraphicKailey Strachan for E! Online

Amal Clooney can officially add one more thing to her résumé.

George Clooney's better half can claim many titles, including lawyer, activist, author and now...style influencer? The Internet was rife with opinions when the brunette beauty paired long, white opera gloves with a black Dior gown to the 2015 Golden Globes, but the fashion set didn't seem to be mad at it. The old-school accessory brought a regal elegance to her look, befitting of the sophisticated Hollywood newcomer. Hate it or love it, she inspired us.

On this Throwback Thursday, we're not just bringing back Amal's gloves but eight other seemingly dated red carpet trends. From tiaras to boleros and brooches, these accessories ruled the red carpet at one point. With the right styling, they may (but probably not) see a resurgence. At the very least, it's plain, good, ol' nostalgia.

1. Furs
Old Hollywood stars used to swim in the stuff on an awards season red carpet. Nowadays, less is more.

2. Headpieces
Janelle Monáe is a champion of the wide-brim hat, and Lady Gaga's meat fascinator, along with her meat dress, from the 2010 Grammys made quite a statement. But what happened to toppers that literally turned heads? Think: Cher in Bob Mackie.

3. Pouch purses
Small structural clutches are so chic, but are they useful?

4. Big Brooches
These days, we often see dainty adornments on celebs like Michelle Williams, but big vintage stunners circa the 1920s would steal the red carpet pre-show.

5. Tiaras
OK, they scream "look at me," but that's the point of walking the red carpet.

Jason Merritt/Getty Images

6. Boleros
Jennifer Hudson got a lot of flak for her gold bolero from the 2007 Oscars, but in a soft, sheer fabric with intricate design details, the short covering could make a successful red carpet return.

7. Pearls
We're not talking about your mother's pearls, but multi-strands of glamourous goodness à la Audrey Hepburn are always a red carpet classic.

8. Shawls and wraps
Perhaps it's because most award shows are held in sunny, warm California, but the shoulder coverings of the 1990s are few and far between these days. The accessory may be too ladylike or conservative for the structural, sexy gowns of today, but remember how innocent Gwyneth Paltrow looked at the 1999 Oscars?

9. Gloves
Amal may be on to something. We'd be down for a comeback…as long as it doesn't interfere with E!'s Mani Cam.