Penélope Cruz, 51, Reinvents the Little Black Dress With a Daring Cut
Penélope Cruz stepped out in London this week and reminded everyone why she remains one of the most talked-about stars on the red carpet. According to photos and coverage from fashion and entertainment outlets, the actress appeared at a photocall on February 25 to promote her upcoming film The Bride!. Her look quickly became the main topic of conversation.
For the event, Cruz chose a black dress straight from the Jacquemus Fall runway. The long-sleeved design featured a deep plunging neckline and a skirt made from loose, shredded ribbons. The unusual texture gave the classic black dress a modern and playful edge.
She kept the rest of her styling simple to let the dress shine. Cruz wore black pumps and pearl chandelier earrings, adding a touch of elegance without distracting from the outfit. Her styling choice showed confidence and control, something she is known for on and off the carpet.
Her hair also caught attention during the appearance. She wore a sleek bob that skimmed her shoulders, styled with soft side bangs. This hairstyle first appeared during Paris Haute Couture Week in January and has quickly become one of her signature looks this year.
Makeup stayed polished and familiar. Cruz leaned into dark eyeliner, bronze eyeshadow, and a soft pink lip. The overall look felt calm and timeless, even with the bold cut of the dress.
The first Jacquemus piece from the latest runway just hit the carpet! pic.twitter.com/lr3SoyqFZw
— Up Next (@upnextdesigner) February 25, 2026
Although the Jacquemus outfit made headlines, Cruz is still closely linked with Chanel. Fashion media has followed her long relationship with the brand since she became an ambassador in 2018. Just weeks earlier, she attended the Chanel Haute Couture show in Paris wearing a sheer bodycon look layered with a matching cardigan.
Beyond fashion, Cruz has been open about how she feels entering her fifties. In a recent interview with Elle, she reflected on how people have questioned her age for most of her career. Now, it makes more sense to discuss turning 50, she said.
She also shared a more personal view on aging. It’s a huge, beautiful thing, and I really want to celebrate that with all my friends, Cruz explained. It means I’m here and I’m healthy, and it’s a reason to have a party.
Professionally, she has plenty to celebrate as well. The Bride! is set to release in theaters and IMAX on March 6. The film is directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal and reimagines the Bride of Frankenstein story with a modern and rebellious tone.
In the film, Cruz plays Myrna Mallow, a detective drawn into a strange and dangerous world. She stars alongside Christian Bale and Jessie Buckley, with additional roles played by Peter Sarsgaard, Annette Bening, and Jake Gyllenhaal. Cruz has described the story as giving the Bride a voice of her own rather than portraying her as silent.
Looking ahead, Cruz has several projects lined up. Industry reports confirm she will appear in a new Nancy Meyers comedy with Jude Law and Owen Wilson, planned for a holiday release in 2027. She is also reuniting with her husband, Javier Bardem, in the thriller The Bunker, directed by Florian Zeller.
What do you think of Penélope Cruz’s latest red carpet look and upcoming projects? Share your thoughts in the comments.
