- Cynthia Erivo hosted the 2025 Tony Awards, wearing 10 unique and show-stopping outfits throughout the night.
- Her looks ranged from elegant gowns to bold tuxedos, showcasing her versatile style and commanding presence.
- Erivo’s dynamic hosting received widespread praise, blending fashion, emotion, and Broadway celebration seamlessly.
Cynthia Erivo Stuns in 10 Dramatic Outfits While Hosting the 2025 Tony Awards
On June 8, 2025, Radio City Music Hall transformed into a dazzling spectacle of glamour and talent, largely thanks to Cynthia Erivo. The 38-year-old actress and singer, known for her powerful Broadway performances and her role in Wicked, took center stage as the host of the Tony Awards — and she did so with an unprecedented flair. Over the course of the evening, Erivo changed costumes an astonishing ten times, each outfit more eye-catching than the last, leaving the audience and critics buzzing about her bold fashion choices as much as her hosting skills.
A Grand Return to the Tonys
Erivo’s return to the Tony Awards was a homecoming of sorts. She last graced the event in 2016 when she took home the coveted Best Leading Actress in a Musical award for her unforgettable portrayal of Celie in The Color Purple. Since then, she’s risen steadily as one of Broadway’s brightest stars, and this year, she stepped into the role of host with confidence and style.
From the very start, it was clear that this night would be special. Walking the red carpet, Erivo stunned in a custom blush Schiaparelli ensemble. The set featured a velvet off-the-shoulder bodice intricately adorned with beads and pearls, complemented by a matching floor-length column skirt. The back of the top boasted an exaggerated corset with elegant lacing that added a regal touch to her look. The ensemble perfectly combined classic sophistication with a modern twist, setting the tone for a night filled with bold fashion moments.






Opening Act and a Dazzling Start
The curtain rose with Erivo taking the stage in a fiery red gown that captured everyone’s attention. The dress was no ordinary evening wear—it was a custom creation from GapStudio, designed in collaboration with Zac Posen and Erivo’s stylist Jason Bolden. Embellished with red paillettes and crystals, the gown was accented by a white duchess satin collar and matching belt. As Erivo led a choir clad in white, the contrast created a striking visual that instantly energized the audience.
But Erivo wasn’t done making an impression. Her next outfit was a sharp departure from the fiery red: a tea-length black dress adorned with sequin roses. The bodice hugged her figure tightly, while the skirt’s feathery ruffles added movement and flair. The shorter hemline also revealed a peek of her bold platform boots, adding an edge to the classic silhouette. This transition from glamorous to playful showed her versatility—not only as a performer but as a fashion icon.
Fashion and Flair Across the Theater
As the evening continued, Erivo’s outfit changes became a highlight of the show itself. When introducing Jonathan Groff’s medley performance as Bobby Darin, she appeared in a vibrant pink Marc Jacobs balloon-skirt dress. Covered in oversized sequins from the designer’s 2025 runway collection, the dress was playful and fun, perfectly capturing Broadway’s spirit. Her black patent leather pointed-toe shoes completed the look, adding a sleek finish.
Then came one of the most unexpected transformations of the night: Erivo channelled classic Hollywood glamour with a sharp tuxedo inspired by George Clooney’s character in Good Night, and Good Luck. The slim-fit black pants paired with a white jacket and black lapels gave her an air of timeless sophistication, a nod to classic cinema that felt fresh and daring on the Tony stage.
Not long after, she welcomed the original cast of Hamilton for their 10th anniversary medley in a strapless black and baby pink dress. The dress featured a large pink sash that cascaded down, ending in a dramatic rosette near the hemline. The look was completed with elegant black opera gloves and dazzling diamond jewelry—showing Erivo’s ability to blend softness and boldness effortlessly.
Emotional Moments and Powerful Statements
The evening wasn’t just about fashion. During the In Memoriam segment, Erivo and Sara Bareilles delivered a moving tribute. For this, Erivo chose a black and gold gown that sparkled with sequins and peekaboo panels, creating an ethereal effect. The capelet and mock turtleneck added a layer of grace and dignity to the performance, underscoring the night’s emotional weight.
Later, Erivo playfully teased Oprah Winfrey on stage while wearing an oversized black coat dress covered in bedazzled details. The outfit, worn over pants and a tube top, was bold and theatrical, perfectly suited to the lighthearted moment. By the time she returned on screen, she had already switched into a new look—a black and gold snakeskin-print trench coat from Ashi Studio’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, complete with voluminous sleeves and a fitted corset.
Closing with a Showstopper
Erivo saved the best for last. Her final outfit of the night was a sparkling purple gown adorned with a feathery pink off-the-shoulder neckline and feathers sprinkled throughout the skirt. It was a statement of celebration, confidence, and joy—the perfect finale for a night that honored the best of Broadway.
Public and Critical Reaction: A Host Like No Other
The response to Erivo’s hosting was overwhelmingly positive. Fans took to social media to praise her charisma, wit, and the sheer spectacle of her outfit changes. Many applauded her ability to balance the demands of hosting with the intense costume rotation, noting how each look reflected different facets of her personality and talents.
Critics also highlighted how her presence elevated the evening. Beyond fashion, Erivo brought warmth, humor, and passion to the role, reminding viewers why she’s one of Broadway’s most beloved figures. Some noted that her energy and fashion sense set a new bar for future hosts of the Tony Awards.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Broadway and Beyond
Cynthia Erivo’s stellar night at the 2025 Tonys is more than a fashion statement; it signals a vibrant future for the theater community. Her hosting showed how Broadway can celebrate its history while embracing bold, modern creativity. For Erivo, the event marked a milestone in a career that seems poised for even greater heights.
As the curtain falls on another Tony Awards season, one thing is clear: Cynthia Erivo didn’t just host the night—she owned it. From her first step on the red carpet to her last sparkling gown, she captured the essence of Broadway’s magic. For fans and newcomers alike, this unforgettable performance will inspire many seasons to come.
Cynthia Erivo’s Own Words
When she was first announced as host back in February, Erivo shared her excitement: “I am so proud and excited to take on this glorious honor. I look forward to leading the theater community through a night that celebrates the wonderful performances we have witnessed throughout the year. I hope I can rise to the occasion.”
By all accounts, she didn’t just rise—she soared.