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The Creative Journey of Stylist Brad Goreski with Demi Moore
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Stylist Brad Goreski has experienced an eventful year working with actress Demi Moore, crafting an array of stunning outfits as she promoted her film The Substance. Acknowledging his thriving career, Goreski reflects on how his early experiences shaped his passion for fashion. “I expressed my gratitude to my mom after the Golden Globes for encouraging my creativity with Barbies as a child. That early playtime sparked my journey into fashion,” he shared.
Goreski and Moore share a deep professional bond, having collaborated on numerous memorable appearances, including the notable Balmain swan dress at the premiere of the FX series Feud: Capote vs. The Swans. However, their collaboration on The Substance offered a fresh canvas. “As the film gained momentum, Demi and I discussed how to move forward with her looks. My goal was to ensure she felt fabulous; her happiness was my priority,” Goreski explained.
In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Goreski joins Who What Wear co-founder Hillary Kerr to delve into the creative process behind Moore’s standout red-carpet appearances, his styling philosophy, and more.
For excerpts from the episode, scroll below.
The Substance had its premiere at Cannes last spring, and it’s noted that you hadn’t seen the film prior to styling. How did you channel the themes and nuances of the film into your designs?
Demi shared behind-the-scenes photos and insights into her character’s essence with me. She expressed her desire to embody that in her wardrobe. While curating looks for her, I contemplated which gowns would resonate. I had always dreamt of dressing her in Armani Privé because of its impeccable craftsmanship and elegance. Additionally, I was thrilled when Schiaparelli presented a dress with a blade, knowing it connected with motifs from the film.
The striking Balenciaga gown that featured a unique hip design captured my attention immediately when I saw it on the runway. I knew it was a showstopper that I needed to showcase on her.
Throughout the journey from Cannes to the Oscars, our collaboration was continuous, filled with discussions and FaceTimes. Demi was deeply involved in the process, making her an incredible collaborator.
The custom Armani Privé gown for the Golden Globes was significant, marking her return since 1997 and her first lead actress award. What was the vision for that look?
I was captivated by the unique fabric of the gown, a luxurious blend of metal and silk—an Armani staple. The way it moved and shimmered was mesmerizing, and I envisioned it in a rich gold hue.
What inspired the choice of that golden color?
The color reflected my vision of Demi as radiant and golden. We performed a swatch test, and with the help of Malin, who crafted both gowns, we managed to finalize the dress even through the Christmas holiday. When it came together, I knew it was perfect.
This gown also mirrored the narrative of being visually off-balance, akin to the storyline of The Substance. It represented the characters with the middle flowing from Elisabeth Sparkle, while the sides were symbolic of Sue and Elisabeth.
Jessica Paster, who styled for the Oscars, suggested choosing a dress that Demi would cherish looking back on in a decade, which was my thought process for the Golden Globes as well.
Let’s discuss the Critics Choice Awards, where the navy Schiaparelli gown sparked major conversations. How did that ensemble come to life?
I arranged a visit to Schiaparelli to explore potential gowns. Initially, one silhouette didn’t work, but when I suggested the navy ribbon dress, it was love at first sight. The intricate design was tailored beautifully for her, and it allowed us to juxtapose against the more traditional look from the Golden Globes.
The gown’s back design referenced imagery from The Substance, aligning with a powerful character moment—this choice was pivotal in shaping public perception about our narrative through fashion.
The finale at the Oscars featured another stunning Armani Privé creation. Could you elaborate on the development process behind that stunning silver crystal gown?
After the success of the Globes gown, I returned to Armani for the Oscars. Following their couture show, I shared my design ideas and we drafted initial sketches. We aimed for a glamorous yet sexy silhouette, avoiding the traditional strapless style.
We envisioned a shimmering silver that encapsulated the essence of Elisabeth’s final moments. We finalized the design just a few days prior to the Oscars, including multiple fittings. When I finally saw Demi grace the carpet in that gown, illuminated perfectly, it felt surreal. My stylist friend, who works with Beyoncé, commended the look—affirming our vision had been realized.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
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