When two global fashion forces step out in the same haute couture masterpiece, it's bound to cause a stylish stir. And, that's exactly what happened when Indian fashion maven Natasha Poonawalla and Hollywood icon Cate Blanchett both slipped into 'AW25 Venus Armour', a shells and pearls-encrusted corset by Turkish designer Dilara Findikoglu.
Part mythological sea queen, part avant-garde couture, it's a piece that demands attention and individual styling power. And these two did not disappoint.
AW25 Venus Armour by Dilara Findikoglu
Before diving into who wore it how, let's talk about "the" corset. A standout from Findikoglu's Fall/Winter 2025 collection, the corset features a high-neck pattern with cap sleeves. AW25 Venus Armour pays a sculptural tribute to oceanic opulence with intricate yet dramatic shells and pearls encrusting.
Known for her theatrical designs and rebellious aesthetic, Dilara Findikoglu has become an "It" women designer with a loyal celebrity following, including Kylie Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Dua Lipa.
Cate Blanchett's understated siren glam
At London's 2025 Serpentine Gallery Summer Party, Cate Blanchett walked the red carpet in AW25 Venus Armour styled in a softer, more elegant way.
Rather than going with the edgy runway version (which paired the top with lace-up black pants), Cate paired it with a romantic lavender-grey mermaid skirt featuring a frayed hem. The minimal yet exquisite look was complemented with diamond studs and frayed-edge pumps.
Natasha Poonawalla's couture mermaid energy
Meanwhile, Natasha Poonawalla brought a whole different energy to Venice, and honestly, the canals never saw it coming. Her custom version of the corset was tailored into a strapless gown with the same intricate shell and crochet top but topped with a dramatic ruffled skirt.
What really sealed the drama was her choice of accessories. Shell nails, a vintage hand fan, statement bracelets, and undone beachy waves made the Indian entrepreneur look like an ocean goddess.
So, who nailed it?
Truth be told, both women aced the look in their own way. Blanchett brought minimalism to the opulent corset, letting the textures breathe within a dreamy palette. Poonawalla, on the other hand, went full couture queen, embracing her over-the-top nature and pushing the drama all the way.
