In the glorious world of fashion, Oscar de la Renta is a name synonymous with grandiose and elegance. The designer, born in the Dominican Republic, was known for his feminine, romantic evening wear that was nothing short of breathtaking. Today, his brand is one of the most celebrated, with women waiting eagerly to wear the label’s gorgeous gowns and dreamy dresses to special occasions.
Spotting A Genius
A celebrity favorite, de la Renta first entered the fashion industry when his illustrations were spotted by Cristóbal Balenciaga. After working at Balenciaga’s Madrid couture house for a while, he moved to Paris and then New York. The designer was also called to design a couture collection for Elizabeth Arden. In 1967, he opened his own company, which produced ready-to-wear pieces. The clothes initially reflected the influence of his time working at Balenciaga, specifically structural shapes that were made to stand away from the body. Having also worked at Lanvin previously, de la Renta began nurturing his talent for feminine, sophisticated evening wear — a category that has remained his trademark to this day.
Turning Inspiration Into Art
During the 80s in America, the designer noticed a sartorial change taking place in high society. Black-tie dinners and charity balls were inspiring women to dress up in spectacular ball gowns and their best formal dresses. Mr de la Renta was quick to cater to this new appetite for luxurious garments and left no stone unturned in designing the most wonderful, artistically lavish dresses.

New York, NY – December 8, 2021: Sarah Jessica Parker wearing dress by Fernando Garcia for Oscar de la Renta attends premiere of And Just Like That by HBO MAX at MoMA
Illuminating The Red Carpet
Oscar de la Renta dresses are full of glamour, both understated and bold. A fitted bodice, full skirt, big sleeves, and belted waist are some of the notable features that one can immediately spot. Some of the label’s favorite fabrics to create with are chiffon, silk, brocade, and paper taffeta. Countless female celebrities have been spotted donning Oscar de la Renta evening gowns on red carpets, most of which are adorned with ruffles — another signature of the house. Whether it was Sarah Jessica Parker’s white and black gown at the 2014 Met Gala, Taylor Swift’s floral embroidered dress at the 2021 Grammys (complete with a matching mask), or Selena Gomez in a custom-made velvet dress at the SAG Awards earlier this year, the brand has been behind some of the most iconic fashion moments.
Incorporating Signature Elements
When it comes to the colors, well, one cannot help but stare in admiration at the choice of beautiful hues ranging from red, monochromes, citrus green, soft pastels, and electric blue. The super-flattering silhouettes, the use of single colors, and the intricate beading and embroidery on the pieces are truly admirable. The Luxury Closet has an amazing collection of authentic Oscar de la Renta dresses that are bound to become your favorites in no time. To help you shop, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the best ones.
Oscar de la Renta Black Silk Tiered Dress
Oscar de la Renta Floral Lace Fluted Hem Dress
Oscar de la Renta Orange Silk Midi Dress
Oscar de la Renta Brown Silk Embellished Dress
Oscar de la Renta Silk Basket Weave Dress
Oscar de la Renta Silk Floral Jacquard Dress
Oscar de la Renta Red Silk Strapless Gown
Oscar de la Renta Embellished Tulle Dress
Oscar de la Renta Brushstroke Print Midi Dress
Oscar de la Renta Teal Silk Pleated Dress
Oscar de la Renta Green Silk Trumpet Gown
Oscar de la Renta Lace Overlay Dress
With these stunning Oscar de la Renta dresses accessible at the touch of a button, we are sure you’ll be able to put together your own couture, high-fashion look worthy of adulation.