Anne Hathaway Debuts ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ Persona with Hidden Oscars Beauty Hack

The Devil Wears Prada 2 star Anne Hathaway shares the hidden braiding technique her stylist used at the 98th Academy Awards to create an instant awake look.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 5:39 AM EDT

Source: People

The Secret Behind the 'Instant Awake' Look

Collaborating with renowned hairstylist Orlando Pita, Hathaway demonstrated a technique involving two small, discreet braids located on either side of the temples. Pita explained that by tensioning these braids and securing them at the back of the head, the skin around the eyes and brow is gently pulled upward, creating a more alert and lifted facial structure. The braids were then hidden beneath the rest of her styled hair, making the "trick" entirely invisible to the cameras. Hathaway jokingly referred to the dramatic effect as a return to her "Grand High Witch" persona, referencing a potential continuation of her work in The Witches.

A High-Stakes Reunion on the Dolby Stage

The beauty revelation served as a prelude to a significant cultural moment during the telecast. Hathaway joined Vogue editorial director Anna Wintour to present the awards for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup & Hairstyling. The pairing was a deliberate nod to The Devil Wears Prada 2, leaning into the long-standing connection between Wintour and the character of Miranda Priestly. The duo engaged in a deadpan comedic bit where Wintour corrected Hathaway by calling her "Emily"—a callback to the running gag in the original film where Emily Blunt’s character name was applied to all assistants.

Archival Glamour and Sustainable Luxury

Hathaway’s ensemble further emphasized her status as a fashion powerhouse. She walked the red carpet in a strapless floral-print Valentino gown, a choice that critics noted proved "florals can be groundbreaking" when executed with such precision. The look was anchored by a rare Bulgari necklace featuring nearly 100 diamonds, emphasizing a blend of classic archival aesthetic and modern luxury. Her "glam squad" for the evening also included celebrity makeup artist Hun Vanngo and facialist Gavin McLeod-Valentine, who worked to ensure her skin prep complemented the mechanical lift provided by her hair.