Chase Infiniti’s Oscar braids quickly became a talking point online after an E! News reporter described the look as “almost undone,” sparking debate across social media during the Academy Awards red carpet.
Infiniti, who stars in One Battle After Another, arrived at the ceremony wearing a custom lilac gown by Louis Vuitton. The look featured cascading ruffles paired with a natural glam makeup style and boho knotless braids. The hairstyle, created by celebrity hairstylist Coree Moreno, incorporated loose curls woven into the braids, a style widely recognized by many Black women as a popular protective look.
As Infiniti walked the carpet, an on-air comment from reporter Zanna Roberts Rassi drew attention. While discussing the actress’s appearance, Rassi described the hairstyle as “almost like undone,” adding that it mirrored the texture and movement of the ruffles on the dress.
The remark quickly made its way to social media, where reactions began to build. Some viewers interpreted the description as a compliment tied to the overall styling, while others questioned the wording used to describe a hairstyle familiar within Black hair culture.
As the conversation unfolded, some users drew comparisons to a past Oscars moment involving Zendaya. During the 2015 ceremony, former E! News reporter Giuliana Rancic faced backlash after making comments about Zendaya’s faux locs on the red carpet. At the time, her remarks sparked widespread discussion about stereotypes and the way Black hair is described in mainstream media, with Zendaya later responding publicly.
The resurfacing of that moment added context to the current reactions, as viewers pointed to similarities in how Black hairstyles have been characterized during high-profile red carpet coverage.
Infiniti was among several figures embracing braided styles at this year’s ceremony. Ryan Coogler, director of Sinners, also appeared on the carpet wearing intricately designed cornrows. His hairstyle incorporated a musical theme, forming shapes that resembled a musical note and a guitar, reflecting elements tied to his film.
As the night celebrated achievements in film, the conversation surrounding Infiniti’s look continued to circulate online.
