The singer behind “Obsessed” recreated a famous subway-grate moment from The Seven Year Itch while posing on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards on February 1. Getty Images
Red carpet fashion often brings bold statements, but sometimes the most memorable moments slip by unnoticed. At the 2026 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, Addison Rae delivered a subtle tribute that many fans only realized later.
A White Dress With a Story
Addison Rae arrived at the awards ceremony at the Crypto.com Arena wearing a striking white dress. The look featured a deep neckline and a short bustle-style skirt that dipped lower at the back than the front. At first glance, the outfit appeared daring but modern.
As she posed for photographers, Addison smiled and placed her hands over the front of her dress. That small gesture revealed the inspiration behind the look and connected her appearance to a moment from classic Hollywood.
A Nod to a Film Icon
The pose echoed a famous scene from 1954, when Marilyn Monroe stood over a subway grate in New York City during the filming of The Seven Year Itch. In that scene, Marilyn held down her white dress as it lifted in the air, creating one of the most well-known images in film history.
Ilaria Urbinati explained how much time, planning, and behind-the-scenes work goes into putting together a red carpet outfit like the one Addison wore. Getty Images
While Marilyn wore a halter-style dress with a pleated skirt, the shared colour, movement, and playful pose made the comparison clear. Addison’s moment offered a modern take on that timeless image.
Red Carpet Confidence
Addison has grown comfortable in the spotlight and has made several red carpet appearances in recent weeks. Just days before the Grammys, she attended a major music industry party wearing another white outfit. That look featured a very short bustle skirt, a matching hat, and detailed boots.
Marilyn Monroe appears in her iconic role from the classic film The Seven Year Itch. Bettman Archive
She completed the outfit with bright accessories, including a pink feather boa, and confidently performed for the audience. Other guests at the event included Paris Jackson in a black cut-out mini dress and Olivia Dean in a soft purple gown.
Behind the Scenes of Red Carpet Fashion
Though red carpet moments last only minutes, designers and stylists spend months preparing each look. Celebrity stylist Ilaria Urbinati recently shared insight into the work behind major fashion moments.
“I think people think my job is just putting clothes on people. I don’t think they realise the amount of work that goes into getting your hands on clothes, for loan, for all these red carpets,” she said.
Addison Rae poses for photos as she walks the red carpet at the 68th Grammy Awards. Getty Images
She also explained that styling involves constant travel, fittings, tailoring, and last-minute changes. Urbinati added that she prefers classic fashion over short-lived trends.
“I don’t care much for trends. I look for a more timeless style,” she said. “Lately I find myself craving a little bit of traditional style, as long as it’s done really impeccably.”
A Quiet Standout
While many bold outfits filled the Grammys red carpet, Addison Rae’s look stood out for a different reason. Her understated tribute blended modern fashion with Hollywood history, proving that sometimes the quietest moments leave the strongest impression.
