Angelina Jolie, embodying the spirit of legendary opera diva Maria Callas both on and off-screen, made a stunning appearance at the 81st Venice International Film Festival. The premiere of her latest biopic, “Maria,” saw Jolie channeling Callas’ timeless elegance with a modern twist.
The Hollywood icon graced the red carpet in a bespoke creation by designer Tamara Ralph – a sophisticated beige chiffon gown featuring intricate ruching and a strapless silhouette. Jolie complemented this ethereal ensemble with a faux fur stole that perfectly matched her honey blonde tresses, creating a harmonious blend of textures and hues.
Adding a bold pop of color to her otherwise neutral palette, Jolie opted for a striking fire engine red lip and coordinating acrylic nails. This daring choice injected a touch of drama and contemporary flair to her classic look.
The pièce de résistance of Jolie’s outfit, however, was a magnificent gold flower brooch adorning her stole. This exquisite piece, known as the 1972 “Rose Ouvrante,” once belonged to Callas herself. Encrusted with diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies, the brooch features an ingenious mechanism allowing its petals to open and close – a detail that Jolie found particularly charming. “I like to think it made her smile. The little secret in the piece,” she shared with Vogue, hinting at the personal connection she felt to Callas through this precious adornment.
Earlier in the day, Jolie had sported another piece from Callas’ impressive jewelry collection – a gold Cartier Panthère brooch. This time, she pinned it to the shoulder of a sleek, black column dress, creating a striking contrast. Reflecting on the experience, Jolie remarked, “You can imagine how special it was to wear a piece of jewelry that was hers.”
By incorporating these authentic pieces into her red carpet looks, Jolie not only paid homage to the opera legend she portrays but also bridged the gap between past and present, creating a visual narrative that extends beyond the silver screen.
