Naomi Campbell Proves Sustainable Style at Bambi Awards in Vintage John Galliano
In a moment that brilliantly blurred the boundaries between fashion history and contemporary glamour, supermodel Naomi Campbell proved once again why she remains an unassailable force in the industry. Attending the 2025 Bambi Awards in Munich on Thursday evening, Campbell delivered a sartorial statement that was equal parts nostalgic and audacious—rewearing the very John Galliano slip dress she originally modeled on the runway nearly three decades ago.
The Bambi Awards, Germany’s prestigious celebration of excellence in international television, media, and creative achievement, attracted a constellation of A-list talent including Cher and Cate Blanchett. Campbell graced the occasion to present an honor to fellow supermodel Heidi Klum, but it was her own appearance that truly captivated fashion cognoscenti.
The archival Galliano creation—a vision from the designer’s Spring 1996 collection—remains a testament to both the designer’s radical genius and Campbell’s enduring influence. Crafted from weightless white fabric punctuated with delicate eyelet detailing, the slip dress features an asymmetric neckline supported by contrasting straps: one fashioned from chain link hardware, the other from matching fabric. This juxtaposition of industrial and ethereal elements exemplifies Galliano’s signature deconstructionist approach that revolutionized ’90s fashion.
Campbell’s styling choices paid homage to the original runway presentation with remarkable fidelity. A pristine white flower adorned her hair—an exact replica of the ’90s styling—while stacks of bracelets and statement rings added contemporary edge. Her footwear selection was equally considered: classic white pumps featuring pointed toes and intricate lace overlay provided monochromatic continuity, creating a streamlined silhouette that felt both timeless and utterly modern.
The power of this fashion moment extends beyond mere nostalgia. In an era dominated by fast fashion and disposable trends, Campbell’s choice to resurrect a piece from her personal archives makes a compelling argument for sustainability and the enduring value of exceptional design. That she can slip into the same dress she wore at twenty-five and make it feel utterly relevant speaks volumes about both the quality of craftsmanship and her own legendary status.
While some might observe that the decades have left their mark on the delicate fabric—the dress bearing the subtle patina of time—this only enhances its authenticity. Fashion purists understand that true vintage pieces carry their history in every thread, every subtle imperfection telling a story of moments lived and memories made.
What truly elevates this appearance beyond a simple red carpet moment is Campbell’s unapologetic confidence. She transforms what might be considered a garment showing its age into a powerful statement about legacy, preservation, and the cyclical nature of style. Her commanding presence breathes new life into the archival piece, demonstrating that true fashion icons don’t simply follow trends—they create dialogues across decades.
In Campbell’s hands, this vintage Galliano becomes more than a dress; it’s a manifesto.
