At the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, Colman Domingo made quite the impression, not only for his nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor for his role in ‘Sing Sing’ but also for his captivating fashion choices. Taking place on February 23, 2025, at the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall in Los Angeles, the SAG Awards are often seen as indicative of what might transpire at the Oscars, making Domingo’s appearance particularly noteworthy.
Domingo has emerged as one of the most talked-about stars on the red carpet, achieving this status largely by showcasing daring and stylish menswear. This year, he turned heads by wearing custom Valentino designs, which included standout ballet flats rather than traditional leather shoes. The use of ballet flats is viewed as part of the trend where men are experimenting more with fashion, opting for more varied and expressive styles. According to Variety, the shoes offer "a slightly different silhouette than most men’s shoes," contributing to both his comfort and fashion statement.
These ballet flats have been making waves on runways and red carpets alike, with Domingo choosing to accentuate his elegant white tuxedo with the unique shoe style, which features visible socks between the vamp and the bow. The shoe is reportedly part of Valentino's latest offerings for men, priced at $1,150. This refreshing choice when compared to the conventional oxfords typically seen on men at such events showcases Domingo's flair for blending classic menswear with modern trends.
Domingo wasn’t alone at the SAG Awards, which boasted of various high-profile presenters like Pamela Anderson, Quinta Brunson, Zoe Saldaña, and Ralph Fiennes, all contributing to the glamour of the evening. The ceremony featured other nominees and winners, making it one of the most celebrated nights for the film and television industry.
During the event, Keke Palmer and Domingo created lighthearted moments by playfully encouraging stars to drink if they had ever appeared on the long-running legal drama ‘Law & Order’. The spontaneous activity drew laughter across the room, showcasing the camaraderie among Hollywood’s elite. Given the show’s extensive history of featuring numerous actors throughout its seasons, it was no surprise when most attendees raised their glasses. This humorous interaction not only illuminated the close-knit nature of the acting community but also sparked lively discussions on social media, wherein users quipped about the show's long-lasting impact on actors’ careers. One netizen humorously remarked, "There’d be like five people still sober," perfectly encapsulating the extensive reach of the franchise.
Aside from comedic exchanges, the SAG Awards allowed viewers to gaze at the stunning array of celebrity fashion. Domingo, with his fashion-forward approach, has positioned himself as not just a nominee for his talent but also as an influencer on men’s fashion. His appearance came just days before the Oscars, setting the stage for high expectations as awards season progresses. Other fashionable choices at the event came from stars expressing themselves with both traditional and contemporary attire, including watches and accessories, which added another layer of glamour to the proceedings.
The buzz surrounding Colman Domingo's fashion choices is indicative of broader trends in the industry, where male actors are stepping out of their comfort zones and embracing styles traditionally reserved for women. This trend has been gaining traction over the past couple of years, with increasingly more designers creating genderless attire and accessories. Domingo's embrace of the ballet flat is evidence of this cultural shift, and his confidence to sport such nuanced fashion choices paints both him and the fashion scene as progressive and forward-thinking.
The SAG Awards not only celebrated outstanding achievements within the industry but also highlighted fashion as integral to red carpet events. The occasion illuminated how actors like Domingo are redefining the visual language of masculinity and individuality. His fashion risks, paired with undeniable talent, make him one of this awards season's standout stars.
Following the SAG Awards, all eyes will now shift to the Oscars, where Domingo is anticipated to make yet another bold statement. The fashion world will undoubtedly keep track of his sartorial choices, which are increasingly shaping discussions about what men may wear on red carpets moving forward. Indeed, as the awards season continues, the blend of fashion and performance sets the tone for future red carpet events.