Katie Holmes has a habit of going viral in the style department. Her way of mixing her signature bohemian flair with unexpected statement pieces always makes headlines, but one look caught some flak and became one of Holmes’ most divisive style moments to date – and I’m not talking about her Khaite cashmere bralette moment.
Last December, the Dawson’s Creek alum attended iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball in Madison Square Garden, wearing what looked like the dress over jeans combo (one of the most polarizing trends of the early 2000s). Holmes was actually wearing a navy blue Tove bustier (not a minidress), Reformation wide-legged light-wash jeans and Maison Margiela black sneakers.
People started worrying the trend (which may be better left in the aughts) was coming back and many outlets covered the look’s return. Holmes’ personal stylist Brie Welch even appeared in The New York Times to explain the inspiration behind the viral look. “We decided the rich color and subtle bustier effect detailing of the top was elegant and would be fun if paired with jeans, creating a more youthful feel for Jingle Ball and the atmosphere there,” Welch told the publication.
In a new interview, Holmes offered her take on the discussion-worthy ensemble. “I mean…wow. That’s powerful language,” Holmes said of the rampant tweets and headlines surrounding the outfit.
Holmes explained that women in her neighborhood dressed similarly on a regular basis and that the bustier only covered, “half her behind,” so she had to wear it with bottoms. In the end, Holmes wants to move past this all together. “Come one, women, let’s hold each other up here. Let’s look a little bit past what we’re wearing. That’s our duty amongst each other. I feel like the woman’s journey is deeper.”
When it comes to Holmes’ sense of personal style, the Rare Objects star said, “I enjoy [fashion]. I mean, I enjoy the craftsmanship. I enjoy putting things together. And I work with [stylist] Brie Welch, and she’s very detail oriented, and that inspires me. I think it is very creative. I love vintage shopping. I love the art of design.”
The star had another viral moment that broke the internet when she wore her Khaite cashmere bra and cardigan set hailing a cab in 2019 — she also didn’t know why it caused so much fascination. Holmes is a constant source of inspiration for her street style looks, and always makes laid-back, cozy sweats and tailored blazers look high-fashion.
“I think we all want our sweats,” she said. “It’s a funny world because the culture of celebrity and the access that exists now could be quite a distraction from who the person is. I’m an actor, so people say, ‘Oh, do you think about what you wear before you go to the grocery store?’ No, because it’s not my job. You know what I mean? But yesterday, going and doing a talk show is part of my job. So yes, that’s put together.”
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