McKenna Grace has been making waves on the press tour for ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ with a series of noteworthy fashion choices that pay homage to the beloved franchise. The actress, who portrays twin sisters Maysilee and Merrilee Donner in the upcoming film, has seamlessly blended her style with references from the cinematic universe created by Suzanne Collins.
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Throughout the promotional events leading up to the film’s release on 20 November 2026, Grace has confirmed that her fashion selections are intentional nods to significant characters and moments from the series. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, she stated, “Everything is a reference,” emphasising her desire to honour those who contributed to the franchise before her entry into the picture. Grace expressed her excitement and gratitude for being part of such a significant cultural phenomenon.
Grace has come a long way in her personal style journey, which has transformed from a source of anxiety into a form of empowerment. In an interview with PEOPLE, she revealed that her confidence has surged following spinal surgery in 2022, which helped address her struggles with severe scoliosis. “It is so exciting to be in a place now where fashion has turned into something fun and exciting,” she stated, adding that she frequently draws inspiration from the films she admires.
The actress began her press tour with a striking vintage Monique Lhuillier gown reminiscent of Katniss Everdeen’s wedding dress from ‘Catching Fire’. This particular garment featured an intricately crafted metal bodice and layers of ruffles, echoing Katniss’ stunning look in the film. Grace shared her enthusiasm on Instagram, noting, “I wanted to pay homage to Katniss, and this dress is so iconic.” The transformation of Katniss’ gown into a black Mockingjay attire during a pivotal interview in the film serves as a testament to her rebellion against the Capitol.
Grace has also embraced one of the franchise’s most recognisable hairstyles, donning Katniss’ signature side braid. In conversations with PEOPLE, she revealed her intention to honour her character with this hairstyle, a tradition established by Jennifer Lawrence’s portrayal of Katniss. Glen “Coco” Oropeza, Grace’s hairstylist, confirmed that they have intentionally incorporated a braid into her looks as a tribute to the character.
The actress made a striking impression at the 27th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival, where she wore a strapless black gown by Nicole + Felicia adorned with 3D butterflies. This design is not only an homage to the character of Effie Trinket, who famously accessorised with similar elements in ‘Catching Fire’, but also subtly hints at the “butterfly mutts” featured in the upcoming film.
Grace has full appreciation for the nuances of her character development. At the press tour for ‘Sunrise on the Reaping’, she sported an archival Chloé black dress with red shoulders, reminiscent of Katniss’ look during a significant scene in ‘Catching Fire’. This careful curation reflects not only her respect for the source material, but also her keen sense of fashion.
Additionally, Grace drew inspiration from Rue, another fan-favourite character from the series. At a recent appearance on the “Today” show, she wore an aquamarine Betsey Johnson babydoll-style dress that mirrored Rue’s outfit from her emotional interview in the original film. The thoughtful nods to these iconic characters underscore Grace’s dedication to bringing authenticity to her dual roles.
In a charming twist, Grace was also fortunate enough to wear the same colour-block dress that Jena Malone donned at the ‘Catching Fire’ premiere back in 2013. Sharing both her look and Malone’s on social media, Grace’s excitement for this fashion moment provided a delightful connection to Germaine’s legacy within the series.
As a certified fan of Jennifer Lawrence, Grace’s admiration extends beyond the confines of Panem. She made a noteworthy appearance at the 6th Annual Academy Museum Gala in a custom red Mônot gown that echoed the iconic Calvin Klein dress worn by Lawrence during the 2011 Oscars. This further illustrates Grace’s appreciation for the actress, showcasing her style evolution while paying tribute to an inspiration in her career.
As ‘The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping’ nears its release, McKenna Grace’s fashion journey on the press tour has undoubtedly captured the essence of the franchise, demonstrating both her reverence for its characters and her own personal growth. It is clear that her choices resonate deeply with fans, infusing nostalgia with the excitement of a fresh narrative, all while embracing her newfound confidence and style.