The red carpet at the Oscars has always been a stage for stunning fashion, but few moments have challenged norms like Billy Porter’s tuxedo dress at the 2019 Academy Awards. His bold choice wasn’t just about style but he intended to redefine masculinity in mainstream fashion. While it received praise from fashion journalists, it did not sit well with conservative commentators.

Porter arrived at the 91st Academy Awards wearing a black velvet tuxedo gown designed by Christian Siriano. At the time, he was starring in his breakout role in the FX drama Pose. The hybrid design from Siriano beautifully combined the elegance of a tuxedo with the grace of a ball gown.

Billy Porter as Pray Tell in Pose | Credits: FX

Porter’s look quickly became a conversation starter and became one of the greatest red carpet moments at the Oscars. It wasn’t just the Oscars that saw Porter’s boundary-pushing fashion.