Julia Roberts' Black and White Valentino Gown (2001)

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Julia Roberts' black and white Valentino gown, worn at the 2001 Oscars, is a timeless and elegant piece of fashion history. The floor-length dress features a black body with a single white stripe running down the front, splitting into a Y-shape at the bust to form straps. In the back, the dress fans out into a black tulle train adorned with additional white stripes. This vintage design from Valentino's 1992 couture collection was originally modeled by Christy Turlington and became iconic when Roberts wore it to accept her Best Actress award for Erin Brockovich. The gown's impact was significant, influencing fashion trends and becoming a sought-after design for prom dresses that year. Valentino himself cited the moment as a highlight of his career, expressing his joy at seeing Roberts in the dress. The gown's enduring appeal lies in its classic Hollywood style, reminiscent of icons like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. Roberts has preserved the dress, storing it alongside other cherished items, with hopes that her daughter might one day wear it. Its legacy as a cultural symbol of elegance continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide.