Audrey Nuna, a rising star known for her unique musical style and bold fashion choices, made a memorable appearance at the 2026 Oscars. After a season of diverse sartorial statements, she concluded with a striking gold ensemble by Thom Browne, a choice that resonated deeply with her personal history and artistic identity. This outfit not only marked a significant moment in her awards season journey but also underscored her philosophy of using fashion as a powerful tool for self-expression, culminating in a performance of her nominated song, "Golden."
Audrey Nuna Shines in Custom Thom Browne at the 98th Academy Awards
On March 15, 2026, at the illustrious Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, singer and actress Audrey Nuna graced the 98th Academy Awards red carpet with an unforgettable custom creation from renowned designer Thom Browne. Nuna, who lent her voice to the character Mira in the animated feature KPop Demon Hunters, chose a meticulously crafted outfit that defied her previous awards season looks, finally incorporating the "golden" theme hinted at in her song of the same name.
Collaborating with her stylist, Danyul Brown, Nuna opted for a sophisticated two-piece ensemble. The focal point was a form-fitting, high-necked black jacket adorned with intricate gold beadwork, symbolizing the "golden" aspiration she had reserved for this grand occasion. This was complemented by a voluminous black drop-waist skirt featuring a moiré overlay, creating a dynamic contrast between austerity and fluid femininity. Nuna expressed her profound connection to the design, stating it made her "feel so seen."
This particular collaboration with Thom Browne held significant personal resonance for Nuna, whose family has deep roots in the garment industry. She shared that Thom Browne was among the first clients her grandfather worked with, making this full-circle moment almost destined. Browne himself lauded Nuna's individuality and talent, emphasizing her authenticity as the driving force behind their design process.
The choice to debut the gold-themed attire at the Oscars was deliberate. Both Nuna and her stylist, along with her bandmates Rei Ami and Ejae, decided to save this symbolic color for the Academy Awards, where she was scheduled to perform "Golden," a nominee for Best Original Song. This strategic timing allowed the golden moment to serve as a powerful culmination of her artistic and fashion journey during the awards season.
A Golden Statement: Fashion as Identity and Legacy
Audrey Nuna's appearance at the 2026 Oscars transcends mere celebrity fashion; it's a poignant narrative about identity, legacy, and artistic integrity. Her deliberate decision to save the "golden" theme for the Academy Awards, paired with a designer deeply connected to her family's history, speaks volumes about her thoughtful approach to her public persona. In an industry often driven by fleeting trends, Nuna demonstrates how fashion can be a profound extension of one's story and values. Her bold, yet deeply personal, sartorial choice reminds us that true style is not just about what you wear, but the meaning it carries and the message it conveys.
