16 Times Emma Watson's Red Carpet Style Surprised Us (in the Best Way)

In the upcoming Beauty and the Beast film, Emma Watson plays the independent, headstrong, and thoughtful Belle. In real life, Emma is equally inspiring, championing women's rights through He for She, and promoting sustainable fashion through her new Instagram endeavor, @the_press_tour. Emma is taking the opportunity to share the details about her BATB tour outfits, noting how each piece is made and raising awareness about eco-friendly clothing.

And while we've all been following along on her latest tour, we must note that we've had a longstanding love for Emma's red carpet looks. With the help of stylist Sarah Slutsky, Emma has never shied away from the unexpected, swapping gowns for cool trousers, or picking a dress with heart-stopping details. 

She may be just 26, but Watson is already offering up major inspiration both on the red carpet and in life. Read on for a look at Emma Watson's best red carpet style moments!

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108398-1488856761

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Oscar de la Renta Strapless Jumpsuit ($2990); Anita Ko Diamond Huggies w/ Pear Diamond Drop ($3300); Catbird Three Step Diamond Ballon Earrings ($1848); Adir x LeletNY Metallic Quill Bobby ($158); Burberry pumps.

Emma makes the red carpet jumpsuit into a must.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108384-1488856769

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Christian Dior top and pants; Eva Fehren cuff; Rauwolf clutch.

Proof that a great pair of trousers are a red carpet win.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108395-1488856785

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Emilia Wickstead dress.

Emma had a princess moment on the red carpet for Beauty and the Beast.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108394-1488856796

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Louis Vuitton dress and boots; Repossi jewelry. 

An unexpected hemline and a surprising pop of red make this a major red carpet statement.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108386-1488856804

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Ralph Lauren dress; Jimmy Choo shoes; Monica Vinader rings; Anita Ko earrings; Jennifer Fisher bracelet.

A draped white dress was elegant with a modern twist.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108387-1488856812

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Christopher Kane dress; Paul Andrew pumps. 

This ultra-feminine look felt just right finished with a bow.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108388-1488856819

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Osman Studio dress and pants.

Ruffling details make this top-dress hybrid feel extra special.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108389-1488856829

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Calvin Klein dress.

Emma's Met Gala dress was made to stand out from the crowd.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108383-1488856847

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Dior jacket; Misha Nonoo jumpsuit; Christian Louboutin shoes; Anya Hindmarch clutch. 

Emma played with proportions while attending the British Fashion Awards in 2014.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108390-1488856855

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Valentino bralette and maxi skirt; BLK leather jacket; M2Malletier Fabrica Leather Clutch ($1290); Delfina Delletrez earrings.

Emma sat front row at Valentino wearing this edgy-cool ensemble.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108391-1488856862

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Dior dress.

A sheer Dior dress that's on every It girl's shopping list.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108392-1488856870

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Kitx dress; Forever 21 choker; Susi Hey Simone Sandals ($185).

Sometimes, a simple all-black ensemble is the way to go.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108393-1488856877

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Christian Dior dress.

There's something magical about Emma's illustration-covered gown.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108385-1488856891

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Dior dress and pants; Roger Vivier shoes. 

Emma's surprising pant and top combination turned heads at the 2014 Golden Globes. 

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108396-1488856900

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: 3.1 Phillip Lim top and pants; Burberry pumps; Pichulik earrings.

Emma added a punch to her all-black outfit with cool statement earrings.

emma-watson-best-red-carpet-looks-2108397-1488856909

(Image credit: Getty Images)

On Emma Watson: Elie Saab dress; Repossi earrings.

We're head over heels for this elegantly embellished dress.

Love Emma's style? See the Dior dress that she (and many other celebs) can't stop wearing!

Aemilia Madden
Contributor