FASHION

For Ruth Negga, It’s Pretty Easy to Be Green

It helps when you’ve got Prada at your back.

by Katherine Cusumano

When AMC’s new comic book-adapted television series Preacher debuted in May, it made a near-instant cult icon of its star, Ruth Negga, who plays expert markswoman Tulip O’Hare. Negga was no stranger to screen or stage, having played in London theater, as well as film and television primarily in her native United Kingdom, for 15 years prior. Yet the role, and those that have succeeded it, exposed her to a far wider audience — and with them, she’s proved herself to have the style cred worthy of a movie star. She’s already receiving Oscar buzz for her role in Loving alongside Joel Edgerton; the two play an interracial couple in Virginia in the ’60s whose case went before the Supreme Court and ended up legalizing interracial marriage. So while People magazine named her ‘One To Watch’ at its annual event of the same name Thursday night, we’d argue that — both by fashion and film — she’s accelerated far past newcomer status.

Ruth Negga in Prada at People’s ‘Ones To Watch’ event in Hollywood, California, October 2016.

Getty Images for People

Who: Ruth Negga.

When: Thursday, October 13.

Where: People magazine’s ‘Ones To Watch’ event celebrating the next big names in music, television, and film in Hollywood, California.

What: A bright, emerald-green chiffon long-sleeved dress by Prada with a turquoise silk collar, pailettes, and crystal embellishments, paired with Prada pumps and a chainmail clutch, also by Prada.

Why: Since the whirlwind of the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, where red carpet stars are minted (and where her film received a standing ovation), Ruth Negga has consistently aced premiere and party style with her edgy, gothic inclinations punctuated by the occasional frothy, ultra-feminine look. For her appearance at People magazine’s ‘Ones To Watch’ party, she stepped out somewhere between these two camps, in a long-sleeved, high-necked silhouette of sparkles and vibrant color. Silver accessories — patent leather pumps and a chainmail clutch — add a tough edge to the bright look. Negga earns extra points for matching her eyeliner precisely to the turquoise accents on her dress at the waist and collar.