Helen Mirren confesses hilarious Oscars fashion faux-pas after misunderstanding dress code – ‘I don’t know what possessed me’

The British actor admitted that she regrets her outfit to the 1995 Academy Awards in a candid new interview

Helen Mirren
(Image credit: Getty)

Helen Mirren has revealed her outfit regret at the 1995 Oscars, after admittedly failing to understand the dress code of the prestigious awards ceremony. 

The British actor may be regarded as one of the world's most stylish celebrities,  but that doesn't mean she stands by every one of her wardrobe choices. 

Speaking to the Telegraph, Helen expressed her regret over wearing a hat - yes, a hat - to the 1995 Academy Awards. 

The 76-year-old made the hilarious confession during a reflection on her appreciation of head accessories on the red carpet - so long as they don't completely cover her hair. It comes shortly after Helen Mirren wowed in neon pink cape and clashing yellow dress at Cannes, proving you're never too old to try out the fashion color trends of 2022

"I don’t know what possessed me!" she admitted. "I thought it was like going to an English wedding, or even Royal Ascot. I’ve never worn one on the red carpet since." 

The accessory in question was a white fascinator which, as Helen implied, wouldn't have been out of place at one of the Queen's garden parties or a Royal Family wedding. 

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(Image credit: Getty)

The legendary movie star, whose performance in The Madness of King George landed her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1995, paired the fancy headgear with a shoulder-padded white jacket and a matching long skirt. 

She completed the ivory ensemble with a touch of red lipstick, black eyeliner, and a gold clutch purse. Despite appearing pleased at the time, she has never recreated the look - and it looks like she has no plans to do so any time soon. 

"I haven't worn one [a hat] on the red carpet since," she admitted. 

While hats appear to be forever off-limits, Helen hasn't ruled out all head pieces. She went on to reveal her newfound passion for headbands, having "only recently discovered" the popular accessory. 

"I always worried they looked a bit Sloane Ranger so had a resistance to them, but now I think they add a lot to an outfit. I also love a scarf tied around my hair, or a turban." 

Emma Dooney
Lifestyle News Writer

Hailing from the lovely city of Dublin, Emma mainly covers the Royal Family and the entertainment world, as well as the occasional health and wellness feature. Always up for a good conversation, she has a passion for interviewing everyone from A-list celebrities to the local GP - or just about anyone who will chat to her, really.


Emma holds an MA in International Journalism from City, University of London, and a BA in English Literature from Trinity College Dublin.