Fashion and Film: Brandon Sklenar and Justin Baldoni’s Stylish Coincidence

Brandon Sklenar and Justin Baldoni, co-stars from the highly anticipated film It Ends With Us, have once again made waves—not just for their acting prowess, but for their strikingly similar sense of style. At the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, Sklenar, 34, turned heads in an all-black tuxedo, accessorized with a gold ring, a watch, and a delicate pink flower-shaped brooch that added a subtle yet elegant pop of color to his ensemble. The brooch, a loan from the luxury brand David Yurman, caught the attention of fans and fashion enthusiasts alike, as it appeared to be the same one Baldoni, 41, had worn to the New York City premiere of It Ends With Us in August 2024.

Baldoni had paired the brooch with a light pink suit, white top, and cream-colored shoes, creating a look that was both dapper and memorable. The coincidence of Sklenar wearing the same accessory has sparked conversation about the actors’ mutual appreciation for intricate details and their ability to pull off bold yet understated fashion choices. Sklenar even playfully referenced the brooch in an Instagram post, captioning his photos with, “Vanity Fair X long live the (brooch).” The post not only highlighted his stylish outfit but also drew attention to the subtle connection between the two actors’ sartorial decisions.

Legal Drama Overshadows the Film’s Message

While Sklenar’s fashion moment has been a topic of celebration, it comes amid a backdrop of legal turmoil involving his co-star Justin Baldoni and the film’s leading lady, Blake Lively. Based on Colleen Hoover’s 2016 novel of the same name, It Ends With Us tells the story of Lily Bloom (Lively), who finds herself in an abusive relationship with Ryle (Baldoni), while reconnecting with her first love, Atlas (Sklenar). The film tackles themes of domestic violence, healing, and the power of love, resonating deeply with audiences.

However, the movie’s release has been overshadowed by allegations of misconduct and creative discord. In December 2024, Lively filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Baldoni, accusing him of inappropriate behavior on set and alleging that he orchestrated a smear campaign to damage her reputation. Baldoni has denied these allegations, filing his own lawsuits against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and her publicist, Leslie Sloane, claiming defamation and accusing Lively of attempting to take creative control of the film and exclude him from its premiere.

Sklenar has been vocal in his support for Lively, sharing a link to The New York Times coverage of her lawsuit on his Instagram Story, accompanied by the comment, “For the Love of God Read This.” His public stance has drawn attention to the broader themes of accountability and support for survivors, which align with the film’s core message. Meanwhile, Baldoni has refuted all allegations, painting Lively as attempting to undermine his contributions to the project. Both sides have denied any wrongdoing, and a trial date has been set for March 9, 2026.

Brandon Sklenar’s Focus on the Film’s Purpose

Amid the ongoing legal drama, Brandon Sklenar has repeatedly emphasized the importance of keeping the film’s message at the forefront of public discourse. When asked during a CBS Mornings appearance whether he sided with either “Team Justin” or “Team Blake,” Sklenar diplomatically avoided taking sides, stating, “I’m Team It Ends With Us.” He explained, “I just want people to remember why we made the movie in the first place and what it stands for, just keeping the focus on that. That movie meant so much to me.”

Sklenar’s comments reflect his commitment to the film’s themes of domestic violence awareness and empowerment. During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party, he acknowledged the “tough situation” involving his co-stars but reiterated his hope that audiences would remember the film’s purpose. “It’s about love and it’s about supporting women in general and helping people through tough times,” he said. “That movie has helped so many people, and I just want people to remember what it’s about and why we made it.”

The Impact of It Ends With Us

Despite the legal battles and off-screen tension, It Ends With Us has left an indelible mark on its audience. The film’s exploration of abusive relationships and the journey toward healing has resonated with viewers worldwide, sparking important conversations about domestic violence and the importance of support systems. Fans have shared personal stories of how the film has helped them process their own experiences, underscoring the power of storytelling to validate and uplift.

Sklenar’s portrayal of Atlas, a character who embodies kindness and resilience, has been particularly praised for offering a refreshing contrast to the toxicity of Ryle’s character. His performance, coupled with Lively’s nuanced depiction of Lily’s struggle and growth, has made the film a meaningful watch for many. Even as the legal drama unfolds, the movie’s message of hope and resilience continues to inspire, reminding audiences of the importance of unity and support in the face of adversity.

A Reflection on Hollywood’s High Stakes

The legal battle between Baldoni and Lively serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes and intense scrutiny that often accompany Hollywood productions. While the film industry has the power to create art that transcends boundaries and changes lives, it also operates in a world where egos, creative visions, and personal dynamics can clash. The situation involving It Ends With Us highlights the challenges of navigating such conflicts while maintaining the integrity of a project’s core message.

For Sklenar, the experience seems to have reinforced his belief in the importance of staying grounded and focused on the bigger picture. By consistently advocating for the film’s message, he has become a symbol of unity and purpose in the midst of chaos. His approach serves as a reminder that, even when personal and professional challenges arise, the impact of art can endure.

Looking Ahead

As the legal drama continues to unfold, fans of It Ends With Us are left hoping that the film’s legacy will not be overshadowed by the conflicts of its cast and crew. The movie’s exploration of love, abuse, and healing is a testament to the transformative power of storytelling, and its ability to resonate with audiences is a reminder of why such stories need to be told.

Brandon Sklenar’s thoughtful approach to navigating this difficult situation offers a lesson in grace and resilience. By keeping the focus on the film’s message, he has shown that even in the face of controversy, the art itself can prevail. As the trial approaches and the world waits for resolution, one thing is clear: It Ends With Us has already made its mark, and its impact will continue to be felt long after the legal battles subside.