‘Only Murders in the Building’ Star Selena Gomez Dazzles in Red Prada Dress at Benefit

Tena Milakovic
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Selena Gomez has transformed Rare Beauty into a significant force, exemplified by the Selena Gomez Rare Impact Fund Benefit. This annual event combines red-carpet elegance with a vital mission, marking a highlight on her calendar.

Launched in 2020 alongside the brand, the Rare Impact Fund allocates 1% of all Rare Beauty sales to support its mission. The aim is to raise $100 million for organizations that enhance access to youth mental health services and education globally. To date, it has successfully raised over $30 million, aiding 30 nonprofit partners across five continents and impacting approximately 3.5 million young individuals each year.

This year’s benefit, named ‘A Night of Radiance & Reflection,’ occurred on October 14 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. Gomez hosted the event, with Emmy-winning actor and comedian Sean Hayes serving as emcee. Performances included Leon Bridges and Bella Kay.

Gomez made a stunning entrance on the vibrant pink carpet, donning a custom Prada strapless red gown adorned with sequins, beads, and crystal-like accents. She completed her look with matching red satin heels, silver jewelry, and a sleek hairstyle that highlighted the dress’s striking color and sculptural design. The backdrop featured sponsors such as Ulta Beauty, lululemon, Pacsun, Batch & Box, and Afterpay.

Fashion critics quickly praised her dress, labeling it one of Rare Beauty’s most significant fashion statements of the year. Katy Perry also attended, drawing attention for her own look on the same carpet. However, for Gomez, the evening was primarily about the cause.

In a conversation with People, Gomez shared that the most rewarding aspect of her work is witnessing the fund’s impact on communities and organizations. She expressed that the over $30 million raised surpasses her expectations. She also mentioned how her husband, Benny Blanco, supports her, just weeks after they celebrated their first wedding anniversary on September 27.

Gomez stated in the benefit’s announcement that The Rare Impact Fund means so much to me, a sentiment echoed by the evening’s attendees. Rare Beauty’s chief impact officer, Elyse Cohen, noted that the event helps connect people with the work and enables the fund to invest in organizations for the long haul.

While the benefit is just one part of the strategy, it serves as a highly visible one. Attendees and the public could also contribute online or participate in an auction featuring items like a signed LeBron James basketball and a luxury getaway to the Civana Wellness Resort and Spa. An inaugural host committee brought together notable figures from entertainment, business, healthcare, and philanthropy.

The event has steadily grown since its inception. The 2024 benefit, hosted by Billy Crudup with performances from Karol G and Teddy Swims, raised over $2 million. Last year’s event, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and featuring The Marías, also surpassed the $2 million mark.

This momentum aligns with the recognition Gomez has received for her philanthropic efforts. Earlier this year, she was honored with the Excellence in Beauty Philanthropy Award at the Social Impact Summit X NYC at the Fashion Institute of Technology. The fund collaborates with partners like The JED Foundation, The Trevor Project, and Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services.

Gomez has long emphasized how mental health resources have personally impacted her life, making the fund’s mission resonate deeply with her public persona. She has expressed a desire for the brand to foster real change from the outset. Fans often respond positively to this authenticity, which helps keep the event in the spotlight each year.

Each year also brings a fresh fashion moment. Last year’s benefit saw her in a deep red minidress with a high cowl neckline, followed by a second outfit. This time, the red Prada gown took it up a notch, maintaining the same color but featuring a more dramatic silhouette.

The result is a night where style and substance coexist. While Gomez’s red dress captured headlines, the fund’s expanding impact is what truly makes the benefit significant. If the current trend continues, the path to $100 million appears increasingly attainable.

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