LIFESTYLES
of red carpets ALEXANDRIA HUNT
20 | THE PROSPECTOR
lifestyles editor
Award shows such as the Oscars and Golden Globes are meant to praise and recognize movie directors, musicians, actors, and more who excel in their field. These shows are also complemented by red carpets, where attendees of the events — who are typically wealthy — can display their style and status. The cost to fund these events is often extremely high, and the money spent by actors, movie directors, and other influential figures on their “self-presentation” — such as clothing and accessories — is oftentimes excessive as well. Let’s consider the cost required to host these events, such as the Oscars. According to The Fiscal Times, the red carpet costs approximately $25,000 to rent, and the “swag bags” given out often total up to over $100,000; they include personal getaways, skincare, diamond jewelry, and more. Additionally, the stage itself is decorated by over 45 million Swarovski crystals. Forbes states that the cost of a typical actress’s Oscar attire is $75,000. Accounting for the prices above, as well as many others, the total cost to hold the Oscars is 44 million dollars. However, this price merely accounts for one of the many red carpet award ceremonies that are held each year, depicting the high cost that is spent to organize and attend these events. At the same time, the world faces a multitude of problems that are rarely addressed, despite being ones