Designer Elie Saab had a blowout celebration in Saudi Arabia.
Way back in 2002, Halle Berry accepted the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in Monster’s Ball. Now, in 2024, she slipped back into the iconic burgundy Elie Saab gown—yes, the one with the sheer bodice embellished with floral appliqué—for 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab, a super-sized celebration of the designer’s work held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to a press release, the extravaganza included more than 300 models, with each one wearing a unique look celebrating the brand and Middle Eastern fashion—but the finale may have taken the cake. Berry walked the runway in the gown, which The Cut reports was previously being displayed at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Vogue Arabia shared a clip of the moment, which included Berry smiling from ear to ear as the iconic dress billowed behind her.
In addition to Berry's surprise cameo, the extravaganza included performances from Céline Dion and Jennifer Lopez. Camila Cabello, Nancy Ajram, Monica Bellucci, and Amr Diab also made appearances.
Berry’s Oscars gown is considered a watershed moment for Middle Eastern designers. In addition to making Saab a household name, the dress was forever connected to the history that was made when Berry accepted the statuette.
“Halle Berry made the name Elie Saab more popular… She managed to really put the name Elie Saab on the international market. [That time] was a better time for cinema in general," the designer told Vogue Australia. "[Halle Berry] was the first woman of color [to receive the Oscar award for Best Actress in 2002]… It was elegant and daring and chic. I think this moment was a very exceptional moment for cinema."