At the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, the young actress and model Kaia Gerber made headlines not only for her movie premiere of “Shell” but also for her striking fashion choice. In a captivating nod to her mother, the supermodel Cindy Crawford, Gerber resurrected a look originally worn by Crawford at the 1993 Oscars. This event encapsulated a poignant connection between generations, showcasing how fashion can serve as a bridge linking past and present.
The Classic Hervé Léger Reimagination
Gerber donned a pristine white Hervé Léger bandage dress that mirrored Crawford’s iconic ensemble from over three decades ago. The custom-made design featured built-in underwire cups and a sleek ankle-length cut, channeling the elegance synonymous with the era. The choice of this particular dress was not a mere coincidence; it was thoughtfully orchestrated by her stylist, Molly Dickson, who revealed that the concept originated from Gerber herself. “Kaia sent me a mood board for TIFF,” Dickson explained to Vogue, highlighting the personal nature of this homage. This move not only emphasizes Gerber’s appreciation for her mother’s legacy but also positions her as an emerging fashion icon in her own right.
The homage extended beyond the dress itself. Gerber embraced a fully coordinated aesthetic, opting for white Jimmy Choo pumps and exquisite jewelry, including her mother’s vintage Omega watch. This attention to detail illustrates a respect for craftsmanship and a deliberate effort to echo Crawford’s glamorous style. However, Gerber modernized her look with a voluminous ’90s blowout hairstyle, departing from Crawford’s classic half-updo while showcasing her individuality through bronzed makeup and a bold mauve lip. This blend of homage and personal flair captures the essence of evolving fashion while paying respect to its rich history.
Gerber’s tribute to her mother is not a solitary instance. The mother-daughter duo has often found themselves in synchronized fashion moments, notably twinning at the 2024 Paris Olympics in matching black dresses. On her 18th birthday, Gerber wore a strappy Versace dress reminiscent of Crawford’s attire at the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, further underlining her inclination to draw style inspiration from her mother. These instances reflect an ongoing dialogue between the two, where fashion acts as a canvas for their shared experiences and influences.
Despite Kaia Gerber’s seemingly innate sense of style, she expressed a newfound appreciation for her mother’s impact on the fashion industry after watching the AppleTV+ docuseries “The Super Models.” This candid revelation underscores the journey of understanding one’s heritage and recognizing the weight of legacy within the fashion realm: “I was like, ‘I didn’t realize. I knew you were iconic, but …’,” she remarked in an interview, revealing how this acknowledgment has reshaped her perception of Crawford’s historical significance.
With each public appearance and fashion statement, Gerber continues to honor her mother’s influential spirit while carving her own path in an ever-changing industry. Her latest venture at TIFF proves that fashion not only celebrates artistry but also narrates stories of legacy and admiration. As Kaia Gerber forges ahead, fans eagerly anticipate more of her thoughtful tributes to her mother, ensuring that the spirit of enduring style remains vibrant for generations to come.