Kelsea Ballerini wore a crimson Christian Siriano horsehair ruffle dress and Christian Louboutin pumps at the 59th CMA Awards in 2025.
On November 19, 2025, Kelsea Ballerini arrived to the 59th Country Music Association Awards at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Her monochromatic style struck a mix between structural drama and simple lightness. The architectural bodice of the fiery red Christian Siriano midi dress she chose was characterized by layers of fabric strengthened with horsehair braid swirling around the torso like a suspended ribbon. The dress has a strapless neckline and a sheer tulle skirt that reaches past the opaque mini underlay, exposing the leg while preserving the volume of the silhouette. She chose Christian Louboutin Sporty Kate leather-trimmed mesh heels with crystal embellishments in a matching red hue to finish the one-hue look. She wore little jewelry to highlight the garment’s craftsmanship.
Excessive adornment, such as bridal lace, fringe, and rhinestones, has traditionally been popular on Nashville red carpets; but, this style represents a shift toward high-fashion sculpturalism. Ballerini transitions from the “country princess” stereotype into the world of contemporary editorial fashion by selecting Siriano, a designer renowned for inclusive sizing and dramatic designs. The decision implies that she is confident in her crossover appeal and uses clothes as art rather than merely a costume.
This group is a controlled chaotic study. The fabric defies gravity thanks to Christian Siriano’s use of horsehair trim, producing a visually striking but lightweight illusion of frozen motion. The trend of sheer skirts is very popular among celebrities. The meticulous styling highlights the outfit’s sharp, graphic quality with a sleek high ponytail and matching red lip. Even though the “naked dress” cliché is getting old, this specific version is elevated from derivative to architectural by the sculptural integrity of the bodice. The monochrome style is executed in a stylish, albeit somewhat safe, way.
