Sydney Sweeney lit up the red carpet — and turned every head — at Variety’s 2025 Power of Women event on Wednesday night, stepping out in her boldest look yet.
The Euphoria star arrived in a sparkling, completely sheer silver gown that left little to the imagination. Designed by Christian Cowan, the floor-length dress clung to her figure with a sharply cinched waist and a lace-up back that added to the drama. Sweeney, 28, paired the daring ensemble with diamond earrings and her new ice-blonde bob, which she debuted just weeks ago.
It was a look meant to make a statement — and she followed it up with one.
After posing for cameras, the White Lotus actress took the stage to deliver an emotional speech about being underestimated in Hollywood.
“I know what it feels like … to have people define you before you’ve had a chance to define yourself,” she told the crowd. “I know what it feels like to have to prove that you deserve to be here, to be seen, to be taken seriously.”
She reminded attendees that strength isn’t always loud, adding, “Every one of us has our own fight. Sometimes it’s just getting up again and again, no matter who is watching.”
Sweeney urged young women to take up space rather than shrink themselves. “Your power is already within,” she said.
The Emmy nominee later shared her remarks on Instagram, dedicating the speech to boxer Christy Martin — whom she portrays in the upcoming biopic Christy — and “all the women who inspire us in big and small ways.”
The actress also addressed ongoing speculation about her appearance in a recent interview with Variety, shutting down persistent plastic surgery rumors. “I’ve never gotten anything done,” she said. “I’m absolutely terrified of needles. No tattoos. Nothing.”
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Reflecting on “before and after” photos that circulate online, she added, “I’m like, ‘I was 12 in that photo. Of course I look different.’ I have makeup on now and I’m 15 years older.”
“I’m going to age gracefully,” she said — and on Wednesday night, she seemed fully in control of both her narrative and her spotlight.
Well-written and concise. Great job.