Keke Palmer Puts a Dramatic Spin on the Shirtdress in Deconstructed Balmain Look for American Black Film Festival Honors

Keke Palmer put her own unique spin on the shirtdress style at the 7th Annual American Black Film Festival Honors on Monday in Los Angeles. The “One of Them Days” star received the Renaissance Award at the star-studded event.

For the red carpet occasion, Palmer styled a shirtdress look courtesy of Balmain. The crisp white dress took inspiration from a white button-down shirt, complete with long sleeves, a sharp collar and more elements.

The construction of the dress featured Palmer’s bare shoulders, with the collar of what would be the dress shirt acting as the bodice for the actress’ look. The dress included bold cuffs at the end of the sleeves with gold cufflinks.

The structured dress included a slightly cinched waist and a skirt with a thigh-high slit. The skirt also flowed behind Palmer to create a slight effect of a small train. On the collar of the dress was a glittering gold brooch, adding a touch of sparkle to Palmer’s attire.

When it came to her glam, the “Nope” actress’ auburn hair was styled with a side part. Her makeup included bold brows, a dark smoky eye and a glossing lip with a hint of rosy cheeks. She further accessorized the look with statement earrings.

Palmer’s Balmain shirtdress is wholly evocative of a similar deconstructed style worn by Anne Hathaway at the Bulgari Hotel in Rome back in May 2024. Hathaway’s shirtdress moment was curated by Zac Posen, who was named the creative director of Gap and chief creative officer of Old Navy last year.

The recipient of the Renaissance Award at the American Black Film Festival Honors, Palmer spoke with WWD recently about this new phase in her career and the power of her platform. “It is an evolution of my joy and love for the entertainment industry,” Palmer said in reference to her recent work as a producer.

“Now it doesn’t mean you can’t be a mom and also a talent, but as your desires grow in life, you need different places in different ways. I think producing allows me to still stay in it, but also be an observer a little bit more. Being able to create something that doesn’t stand solely on my shoulders, but [where I] can support other people’s dreams and other people’s desires.”