The actress showcases a unique gown by Elias Matso at the screening of 'Klara and the Sun'
Category: Arts & Culture
Jenna Ortega turned heads at the New York premiere of her upcoming film Klara and the Sun on October 19, 2026, donning a stunning gown crafted from steel rods and crystals. The custom-made dress, created by designer Elias Matso, epitomizes a blend of fashion and art, making a bold statement on the red carpet.
The event took place at the Crosby Street Hotel, where Ortega, 24, showcased a plunging, naked dress that featured a figure-hugging bodysuit and a sheer skirt adorned with fringe made from steel rods. This eye-catching ensemble was not only visually arresting but thematically aligned with her role in the film, where she plays Klara, a solar-powered robot.
Ortega expressed her admiration for Matso's work, stating, "He’s been holding onto this dress for me, and it’s perfect. It’s very fitting for the film." She emphasized the craftsmanship behind the gown, describing it as "handmade, human-made, a lot of effort." This sentiment echoed throughout the fashion community, which has increasingly embraced the intersection of technology and traditional craftsmanship.
The film Klara and the Sun, directed by Taika Waititi, is an adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s 2021 novel of the same name. The story revolves around Klara, an Artificial Friend, who is engineered to alleviate loneliness among humans. As she forms a bond with a young girl named Josie, portrayed by Mia Tharia, the narrative explores themes of companionship, loss, and the intricacies of human emotions.
Ortega's choice of attire for the premiere was particularly poignant, as her character's design aims to provide comfort and connection in a dystopian future. The dress itself, with its industrial materials, serves as a metaphor for the fusion of humanity and technology, a recurring theme in contemporary fashion. The gown’s structure, featuring corset boning made from steel rods and adorned with approximately 6,500 crystal beads, showcases Matso's skill in creating pieces that are both avant-garde and tactile.
Matso, a recent graduate of Italy’s Polimoda fashion school, has quickly made a name for himself in the fashion world. His designs often challenge conventional norms, utilizing unexpected materials to create garments that push the boundaries of fashion. His work has previously been worn by celebrities such as Julia Fox and Sarah Paulson, but the dress for Ortega marks a notable highlight in his burgeoning career.
Klara and the Sun is set to hit theaters on October 23, 2026, and has already generated considerable buzz among critics and audiences alike. The film's exploration of artificial intelligence and emotional depth aligns with current societal discussions about technology's role in our lives. As Ortega steps into the role of Klara, her performance is anticipated to resonate with viewers, particularly in light of her recent successes in the industry.
In addition to Ortega, the film features a stellar cast, including Amy Adams, Steve Buscemi, and Natasha Lyonne. Each actor brings their unique flair to the project, promising a rich cinematic experience that blends humor and heartache in a futuristic setting.
As the premiere approaches, Ortega's fashion choices will likely continue to capture public interest, especially as she embraces her role in promoting the film. Her daring steel rod dress highlights her commitment to innovative fashion and serves as a reflection of the film's themes, marrying the worlds of art and storytelling.
With her recent foray into unconventional fashion, Ortega is carving out a niche for herself as a style icon willing to take risks. As she continues to promote Klara and the Sun, audiences can expect more bold looks that challenge the status quo and inspire conversations about the future of fashion.