Oscars 2019: Selma Blair makes first red carpet appearance since MS diagnosis

The actor was diagnosed with the condition in August 2018

Selma Blair made her first red carpet appearance since being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) at the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty.

The actor, best known for her performances in Cruel Intentions, Legally Blonde and Hellboy, wore an ethereal, multi-coloured strapless dress by luxury fashion house Ralph and Russo.

She accessorised with a matching sheer cape attached to a choker necklace, and held a black cane as she posed for photographers.

Blair revealed in October 2018 that she'd been diagnosed with MS, explaining on Instagram that she'd experienced symptoms for years.

The condition can affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to problems with vision, muscle spasms and fatigue.

"I am disabled. I fall sometimes. I drop things. My memory is foggy. And my left side is asking for directions from a broken gps. But we are doing it," Blair wrote on Instagram in October.

The actor appeared visibly emotional on Sunday evening as she made her way across the red carpet at the annual Vanity Fair bash.

"It took a lot to come out here," she said, as the room of photographers cheered her on.

Selma Blair at the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty (REUTERS)

Blair's cane was customised by celebrity manicurist Tom Bachik, who adorned the handle with the actor's monogram and a pink diamond.

"How did I get so lucky? I wanted a special cane for [the] #VanityFair dinner," Blair wrote on Instagram.

"Hours of love put in," she added. "And then #tombachick made it especially magical. I burst into tears. These gifts to get me through."

During the festivities at the Vanity Fair afterparty, Blair had her portrait taken by photographer Mark Seliger, who made her billowing cape the focus.

"When my life flashes before my eyes, I want this portrait by @markseliger to be front and centre," the 46-year-old wrote in an Instagram caption accompanying the photo.

People have expressed their admiration for Blair's ensemble and for raising awareness of MS.

"What a powerful image! You did so much for so many, this evening... and you looked stunning!" one user wrote in the Instagram comments underneath the portrait.

"Breathtaking. Love it. You look flawless #warrior," another added.

For a full list of all the winners at the 2019 Academy Awards, click here.

Click here to take a look at all the best-dressed stars from the awards ceremony, and here to see the best-dressed celebrities who attended the Vanity Fair afterparty.