Most of us would likely dream of donning the most stunning dress in our wardrobes if we received an invitation to a Vogue cocktail party—but Gigi Hadid is not one to follow the crowd. Ever the bold fashion maverick, Hadid chose instead to wear a trendy yet controversial "ugly" dress.
The model graces the cover of Vogue’s October issue alongside Kendall Jenner. On September 14, she attended the magazine’s launch party for the issue, accompanied by her doting boyfriend, actor Bradley Cooper. While Cooper opted for a subdued navy outfit by Louis Vuitton, Hadid made a statement with a far more attention-grabbing ensemble.
Embracing the polarizing "ugly" trend with gusto, Hadid sported a midi slipdress that bore an uncanny resemblance to a faded, threadbare patchwork quilt—one I’m fairly certain my grandmother owns. The dress featured a jumbled collage of frayed patchwork patterns, a squared scoop neckline, and a fitted waist. She accessorized the look with metallic silver strappy heels and a brown handbag adorned with a few whimsical charms. Her blonde lob was styled in a millennial-approved side part.
Hadid’s outfit aligns perfectly with a rising trend toward unconventional—and some might say, outright "ugly"—aesthetics. This movement was even dubbed "fashion’s ugly decade" by The Guardian last year.
Cooper and Hadid have been romantically linked since 2023. Earlier this year, they made their relationship Instagram-official in a heartfelt birthday post from Hadid. "They’re on the same wavelength about their long-term goals, and they’re letting things unfold naturally," a source recently told People, adding that the couple is "in a really good place right now."
In her Vogue cover interview, Hadid revealed that her relationship with Cooper has inspired her to explore more acting opportunities—she even auditioned for a role in Disney’s live-action remake of Tangled.
This sentiment echoes what Hadid shared with Vogue in an earlier interview this year. "I have so much respect for him as a creative," she said. "And I feel like he gives me so much: encouragement, and just... belief. When people you admire support you, it builds so much confidence. Like, what’s the worst that could happen if I audition? You just have to take the leap."
