Margaret Qualley Stuns in Open-Back Chanel Gown at ‘Love of Your Life’ New York Screening

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Margaret Qualley has had a remarkably busy year on screen. After ‘How to Make a Killing’ and Ridley Scott’s ‘The Dog Stars’, the 31-year-old actress is now leading her third film of 2026, and early reviews suggest it may be her most impressive work yet.

That film is ‘Love of Your Life’, a romantic drama from director Rachel Morrison. Qualley plays Maya, a hardworking nurse whose life changes after a fateful encounter with Charlie, played by Gabriel Basso, before grief forces her to question who she is, what she wants, and how to love again.

On October 7, Qualley celebrated the film’s release at a special New York screening at the IFC Center. Stepping onto the blue Prime Video carpet, she wore a long-sleeved black Chanel gown that looked simple from the front but revealed a dramatic surprise from behind.

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From the front, the gown kept things clean and minimalist. But the back plunged into a striking open design that instantly set it apart. A handmade black silk-petal camellia by Maison d’art Lemarié rested across her upper back, suspended by 2 slender metal chains.

The delicate chains created the dress’s signature string-like effect, giving a classic silhouette a modern edge. The Chanel “Long Dress” in black mixed fibers retails for $13,750. Qualley paired it with Chanel Coco Crush hoop earrings in 18K white gold, strappy black heels, and a sleek, voluminous updo.

The choice reflects Qualley’s long-running relationship with the French fashion house. She has become known for turning understated Chanel pieces into memorable red carpet moments. The camellia, one of Chanel’s most recognizable symbols, made the look feel unmistakably on-brand.

Fans quickly flooded social media with praise, with many simply calling the look stunning. Qualley was joined at the screening by Morrison and co-star Aaron Pierre. The 32-year-old actor kept things relaxed in a brown suede jacket over a white T-shirt with khakis.

Beyond Basso and Pierre, the film’s cast also includes Patrick Schwarzenegger as Maya’s best friend Jason, along with Catherine Keener, Tamara Lawrance and Corey Johnson. ‘Love of Your Life’ debuted at TIFF and has earned praise for Qualley’s performance. The AV Club described it as a refreshingly grown-up romance and highlighted her luminous screen presence.

The Daily Beast went further, calling it her finest performance to date and suggesting it could catch the attention of Oscar voters. Critics have noted how the film explores grief as something that can fundamentally change a person, with much of the story unfolding as COVID arrives.

Amazon MGM Studios gave the film a short theatrical run, opening in select theaters on October 7. It will begin streaming globally on Prime Video on October 14. That release strategy mirrors other Amazon awards contenders this year.

With strong reviews behind it, the studio appears to be positioning Qualley for a serious awards push. The screening caps a standout stretch for the actress, who has also been earning attention for her recent fashion editorials.

Between her Chanel moments and critical acclaim, she is having one of the strongest years of her career. If the early buzz holds, ‘Love of Your Life’ could mark a turning point. For now, fans are celebrating both her latest red carpet triumph and a performance many believe is her best yet.

What do you think of Margaret Qualley’s open-back Chanel gown at the ‘Love of Your Life’ screening?

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