At the Oscars, Isha Ambani said yes to vintage Valentino

The Oscars red carpet tends to be a parade of custom gowns, fresh-off-the runway looks, and the occasional archival gem. This year, Isha Ambani chose the latter: a vintage Valentino gown embroidered with delicate pastel florals.

Her strapless gown—an archival piece from Valentino’s fall 2006 haute couture collection—was a study in soft drama. The simple column silhouette featured a structured black satin bodice that melted into a pale silk skirt dotted with intricate floral embroidery. The flowers—pastel pinks, lilacs, and blues—bloomed across the bodice before trailing asymmetrically down the skirt like a vine. The archival piece feels especially right this year. Valentino Garavani, who passed away in January, built the Italian couture house’s reputation on exactly this kind of romantic eveningwear—ornate without being overwhelming and glamour that still holds up decades later.

The styling, courtesy of Jamie Mizrahi, wisely leaned into restraint. Instead of piling on accessories, the look pivoted around one sharp, memorable piece: a black ribbon choker from Lorraine Schwartz set with a diamond pendant featuring an inverted pear stone and two cushion-cut diamonds that felt equal parts Victorian heirloom and modern red-carpet flex. Wuthering Heights press tour fans, you know the vibe. Diamond drop earrings echoed the sparkle without competing with the choker for attention.

Hairstylist Gonn Kinoshita pulled Ambani’s hair into a half-up, half-down style, ensuring the choker remained fully in sight, while makeup artist Ash K Holm—a favourite in the Kardashian orbit—kept the palette soft and luminous. Defined eyes, glowing skin, and a neutral lip complemented the look elegantly.