At 53, Kelly Ripa’s black gown on Oscars red carpet ignites reactions from fans

This past Sunday’s 96th Academy Awards, which were held at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, was an evening filled with predictable events.

Among the most memorable were John Cena’s nude stroll across the stage to give the Best Costume Design award and Al Pacino’s choice to announce the winner of the Best Film category without first looking at the nominees.

The red carpet provided several talking points as well, not the least of which had to do with the abundance of striking ensembles on display. Actress Kelly Ripa and her husband Mark Consuelos reportedly stole the evening, with the former making waves on social media in particular.

It’s not unusual for celebrities to make the news for the clothes they choose to wear to an awards ceremony.

However, in the era of social media, where real-time red carpet photographs can be shared instantly with a global audience, discussing and debating costumes in real time has perhaps become more popular than before.

Because of this, it’s reasonable to assume that anyone lucky enough to attend an Oscar-sized event will always be the subject of intense scrutiny.

Kelly Ripa was one of the celebrities who had their wardrobe choices scrutinized online this year. She posted a picture of herself and her father storming the red carpet on Instagram, wearing a stunning black gown.

There, her horde of admirers greeted it with a wave of gratitude.

“You both look amazing. BUT that dress is stunning ,” one person wrote.

“Beautiful gown. Beautiful couple,” another added.

“Kelly, your hair, the dress… you look gorgeous,” a third said.

Of course, it wasn’t all compliments. There were those who questioned Ripa’s decision to don the dress.

“I love you Kelly but not this dress,” one detractor wrote.

Another added: “Unlike Mark not to have a perfectly tailored suit or tux on. His clothes are usually impeccable.“