When Angela Bassett steps into a room, she doesn’t just arrive, she ascends. At Vogue World: Hollywood on October 26, the legendary actress reminded everyone why she remains Hollywood royalty.
Reprising her iconic role as Queen Ramonda from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Bassett transformed the runway into a regal celebration of Black legacy, artistry, and grace.
As she emerged in the original gown designed by Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter, the atmosphere shifted. The sculptural white ensemble, complete with regal draping, bold shoulders, and exquisite detailing, carried the same majesty that captivated audiences on screen. But this time, under the Los Angeles night sky, the look took on new meaning. Bassett wasn’t just portraying a queen; she was embodying the spirit of power, resilience, and beauty that defines generations of Black women.
Every step she took down the backlot runway told a story, one of legacy, luxury, and lineage. Her walk was poised yet powerful, commanding yet serene. It wasn’t merely a fashion moment; it was a cultural statement. By bringing Queen Ramonda back to life in this setting, Bassett bridged the gap between cinema and real life, between costume and couture. It was a reminder that Black storytelling, and the fashion that shapes it, deserves to be celebrated on the grandest stages.
Vogue World: Hollywood was filled with star power, but Bassett’s moment stood apart. Her presence carried both the weight of history and the light of timeless elegance. It paid homage to the Afrofuturistic brilliance of Wakanda Forever while highlighting the creative genius of Black women behind the scenes, like Carter, whose craftsmanship has redefined costume design as an art form.
Bassett’s return as Queen Ramonda was more than nostalgia, it was affirmation. It underscored that beauty, dignity, and excellence are not trends; they are traditions passed down through time. As cameras flashed and the crowd erupted, Angela Bassett didn’t just walk the runway, she ruled it.
Once again, she proved that true queens don’t need crowns to reign.
