Kidman’s Versace Debut Signals New Era for Italian Luxury House

Key points

• Nicole Kidman wore an asymmetrical black lace gown by Pieter Mulier, the new creative director of Versace, at the Los Angeles premiere of 'Practical Magic 2' on August 31, 2026.
• This look served as the first public glimpse of Mulier’s vision for Versace, as he is skipping the Spring-Summer 2027 runway shows to debut his collection in early 2027.
• Sandra Bullock wore a custom black velvet Louis Vuitton gown with a dramatic white collar and plunging neckline, curated by stylist Leslie Fremar.
• The film’s press tour emphasized a 'witchy' aesthetic, with Maisie Williams wearing Maison Margiela and Joey King wearing Ilya Migmoon, while Kidman’s look was styled by Jason Bolden.
• The original 1998 'Practical Magic' film had poor critical reception and box office performance, but the sequel has benefited from a resurgence of nostalgia and the film's cult status.

Background

Pieter Mulier was appointed as Versace’s chief creative officer in February 2026, following the departure of Dario Vitale, whose single collection was criticized for being too saturated with 1980s references. Mulier had previously left Alaïa for Versace in January 2026. The 'Practical Magic 2' film, based on Alice Hoffman’s book, follows sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, played by Bullock and Kidman, as they break a generational curse. The original 1998 film was not a fashion success, but the sequel has leveraged the film's 'witchy' aesthetic to promote new designer looks, similar to how previous designers like Mathieu Blazy for Chanel used celebrity events to preview their visions.

How outlets are covering it

CNN emphasized the strategic timing of Kidman’s Versace debut, noting that it redirects attention from the viral success of Vitale’s predecessor’s designs and positions Mulier’s vision as a 'divine feminine' alternative. WWD focused on the specific design details, describing Kidman’s dress as a black hand-intarsia lace gown with botanical references and an asymmetric skirt, while Bullock’s Louis Vuitton look was noted for its bold white cuffs and statement collar. LaineyGossip highlighted the cultural impact, noting that Kidman and Bullock are being compared to Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo from 'Wicked' by social media users, and that Kidman’s status as a Chanel ambassador allows her to wear Versace without conflict. All sources agreed that the 'Practical Magic 2' press tour was a significant fashion moment, but differed in emphasis: CNN on the brand’s future, WWD on the garment details, and LaineyGossip on the cultural and celebrity dynamics.

Why it matters

The event demonstrates how luxury brands use celebrity red carpet appearances to preview new creative directions before official runway shows, a strategy that has become increasingly common in the industry. It also highlights the enduring cultural power of 'Practical Magic' as a fashion and lifestyle reference, despite its initial commercial failure, and shows how Versace is attempting to reposition itself under Mulier’s leadership by moving away from its previous 1980s-focused aesthetic.

What to watch

Pieter Mulier’s first full Versace collection is expected to be shown in early 2027, after skipping the Spring-Summer 2027 runway shows. 'Practical Magic 2' will be released in theaters on September 11, 2026, and the film’s press tour will continue with additional events, potentially including more designer debuts. The fashion industry will watch closely to see if Mulier’s vision for Versace resonates with consumers and critics, given the brand’s recent struggles under Vitale.