Adam Sandler is no stranger to inducing laughter, but this time around, he did it without even trying. The comedy legend made headlines at the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, by showing up in his signature casual attire—a bright blue hoodie and basketball shorts. While Hollywood’s A-listers showed up at the Dolby Theatre in designer finery in the guise of evening gowns and tuxedos, Sandler’s casual attire stood out, reminding us that the actor makes his own rules.
His fashion choice quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night, sparking debates on celebrity culture, personal style, and the importance of authenticity in the entertainment industry.
The Oscars ceremony was ongoing when host Conan O’Brien stopped to acknowledge Sandler in the audience. It was unexpected since the actor was not a presenter or a nominee. The camera panned to Sandler, and the room burst into laughter as they saw him relaxing in a crowd of glammed-up celebrities in his big hoodie, long shorts, and sneakers.
O’Brien, renowned for his biting wit, teasingly taunted the comedian, remarking, “You’re looking sharp, Adam.” Unfazed, Sandler responded, “Conan, what’s up? My brother, what’s going on, man?”
The moment quickly turned into a comedic exchange, with O’Brien teasing that Sandler looked like “a guy playing video poker at 2 a.m.” Sandler, being Sandler, played along, pretending to take offense before jokingly pretending to walk out of the ceremony in mock outrage.
But before “storming out,” he left the audience with one last laugh: “You are all welcome to join me for a game of five-on-five basketball at Veteran Park tonight, midnight.”
The crowd loved it. And just like that, Sandler stole the spotlight at the Oscars without trying.
While most celebrities spend months planning their Oscar outfits and working with top designers and stylists, Sandler did what he always does—he kept it simple and stayed true to himself.
His blue Aviator Nation hoodie (retailing for around $175) was the centerpiece of his look, layered over a collared Hawaiian shirt for an extra touch of unexpected casual style. Paired with dark Adidas basketball shorts and colorful sneakers, Sandler’s outfit starkly contrasted the traditional black-tie dress code.
Fashion experts have often discussed Sandler’s unique approach to style, which has now been dubbed “Sandler-core.” This movement embraces oversized, comfortable clothing and a carefree attitude. Younger generations, in particular, have come to appreciate this unbothered approach, making his casual look a personal choice and a cultural statement.
The internet wasted no time reacting to Sandler’s laid-back appearance at Hollywood’s most glamorous night. Within hours, memes, tweets, and TikToks flooded social media, with fans celebrating his down-to-earth nature and refusal to conform.
One viral post on X (formerly Twitter) summed up the general sentiment:
“Adam Sandler is proof that you don’t need a tuxedo to be one of the coolest guys in Hollywood.”
Another fan joked, “Sandler showing up to the Oscars like he’s running errands at Target is the energy I need.”
Some even pointed out that his hoodie was sold out online shortly afterward, proving that his casual style had an unintended commercial influence. Fashion brands can spend millions on advertisements, but for Sandler, one Oscars red carpet walk in a hoodie was all it needed to begin a trend.
This isn’t the first time Sandler has thrown traditional celebrity-style rules out the window. Whether on a movie set, at a press junket, or grabbing coffee, he sticks to oversized t-shirts, baggy shorts, and sneakers—a look that’s become his signature.
Unlike many Hollywood stars who invest in high-end couture and personal stylists, Sandler’s casual style sends a different message: authenticity over appearances. With an estimated net worth of over $420 million, he could easily afford any designer brand. But he chooses comfort, proving that confidence isn’t about what you wear—it’s about being comfortable in your skin.
Hollywood has been fixated on image and perfection for decades, but Sandler’s Oscars attire was a reminder that being yourself is always in style.
While the 97th Academy Awards had their share of moving speeches and significant upsets, Adam Sandler’s unexpected style turn was one of the night’s most memorable moments. His playful feud with Conan O’Brien, social media viral sensation, and ongoing commitment to comfortable fashion all assisted in creating a conversation much bigger than a single look.
Sandler once again proved why he’s a Hollywood fan favorite by simply being himself. Whether in a hoodie or a tuxedo, one thing is certain: Adam Sandler will always be Adam Sandler—and that’s exactly why people love him.
