Natalie Portman's Oscars Cape Is Embroidered With the Names of Snubbed Woman Directors

Natalie Portman is sending a strong message at the Oscars without having to say a word. The Lucy in the Sky actress – who’s presenting during tonight’s show – walked the red carpet wearing a statement Dior cape, which at first glance might give you flashbacks to her Star Wars days. However, given a closer look, it’s clear Natalie is standing in solidarity with the snubbed woman directors who didn’t receive nominations this year.

“I wanted to recognize the women who were not recognized for their incredible work this year, in my subtle way,” Natalie told reporter Amy Kaufman.

Natalie’s cape is embroidered with the surnames of directors Lorene Scafaria, Lulu Wang, Greta Gerwig, Mati Diop, Marielle Heller, Melina Matsoukas, and Alma Har’el. Her outfit is a symbol of hope after the Academy faced much scrutiny and criticism for shutting these women out of the best director category. Natalie is not one to stay silent on this issue of representation and made waves across the internet two years ago for her pointed comment about the lack of female directors at the 2018 Golden Globes. Whether through fashion or fierce words, Natalie will not let her fellow artists go ignored. Get a closer look at her cape ahead.