The Odyssey is 2026's answer to a thematic press-tour aesthetic. Think Grecian-inspired gowns, sunlit jewelry, and glowing skin. (We're still not over Zendaya's Athena-esque inner-corner highlight.) Lupita Nyong'o is no exception. Her character, Helen of Troy, is the crux of the ancient epic, so it's no surprise she's been showing up and showing out on the red carpet.

The Oscar-winning actress and our July cover star attended the London, Paris, and New York premieres with unforgettable hair and makeup looks, courtesy of her long-time hairstylist Vernon François and makeup artist Nick Barose. Ahead, we're breaking down all three of the timeless premiere looks with Barose's help. Allow us to take you inside the press tour with expert info and an exclusive behind-the-scenes photo diary.

Skin Prep

"This kind of press tour for a gigantic blockbuster film like this can be quite a beast, [with] traveling international, time differences, etc.," Barose says, which is why skin prep is paramount. He relies on a few essentials to prep Nyong'o's complexion before applying makeup.

"I always start by misting her face with the [Skwálwen Botanicals] Kalkáy (Wild Rose) Refreshing Toner ($65), an Indigenous brand that Lily Gladstone turned me on to during her Oscars season," he says. "It's now my and my clients' favorite. Its gentle, refreshing wild rose scent is so relaxing, and [it's] the best way to wake up all the senses before I start makeup."

Next, he uses the Ziip Halo Microcurrent Device ($400). "I love using this, especially before big red carpet events, like The Odyssey premiere in London, Paris, and NYC. You really do see the difference right away. It's the perfect prep for the complexion so your glow really looks like it's coming from within. The four-minute facial feature gave such amazing effects and only took four minutes, so the hairdresser, manicurist, and stylist don't get mad at me for eating into their glam time," he says.

As an exfoliating step, he uses Lisa Eldridge's Luxuriously Gentle Cleansing and Exfoliating Cloth ($16). "I often soak this in warm water, then squeeze until it's damp and scrub the face, neck, and lips in circular motions to polish and get rid of any possible dry patches before makeup," he explains.

Lastly, he uses Chanel's Sublimage Le Sérum($560), La Crème ($505), La Crème Yeux ($320), and Lip Oil ($365) to prep Nyong'o's skin. Then, it's on to makeup.

Shop the Skin Prep

London

"The silver Christian Cowan dress is very vampy and fierce," Barose says. "I drew inspiration from Hollywood's very first vamp screen persona, Theda Bara in 1917, as well as the later photographs of Marilyn Monroe dressed up as Theda Bara by photographer Richard Avedon from 1958." Barose created "sultry, dark, vampy" eyes and lips with razor-sharp cheekbones. He kept the color palette quite muted and created defined eyes and lips with fresh, glowing skin as a backdrop.

The look's standout products came courtesy of Lisa Eldridge Beauty, starting with the Elevated Glow Balm in High Key Light ($38). "I applied the golden-tone highlighter on the top of cheeks and brow bones as well as the shoulders. It illuminated the skin, adding that candlelit glow," he says.

Next were two black cherry products. First, he used the Velatura Balm in Hellebore Heaven ($36). "The black cherry balm adds a hint of colour and shine on cheeks and lips," he explains. He added the Rouge Experience Refillable Lipstick in 190 Bohemian Cherry ($59) "for a seductive, vampy pout." He finished off the look with the brand's Liquid Lurex Eyeshadow in Liza ($30), a chic metallic pewter.

Shop the London Premiere Look

Paris

"Fun fact: Eartha Kitt also played Helen of Troy onstage in Paris for the legendary director Orson Welles in 1950. [Nyong'o's] flaming-red Chanel see-through dress is giving a bit of Eartha Kitt, so I wanted the makeup to be a nod to Eartha Kitt with her famous Catwoman feline eyes," he says. He paired the eye makeup with deep-red lipstick and gold sparkles on the skin for "extra drama and theatrics."

He started with Chanel's Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint ($72) in Deep Plus and Sublimage L'Essence de Teint Longwear Foundation ($180) in BR152 "for the perfect amount of glow and radiance." Next, he used Chanel's Joues Contrast Cream to Powder Blush in Grenat Profond ($56). "This fresh berry tone adds a hint of flush on the apples of the cheeks," he adds.

Then, he lined Nyong'o's eyes with Chanel's Le Crayon Yeux in 01 Noir Black ($36), added full and fluttery lashes with the Inimitable Mascara Intense ($40), and applied a rich lipstick, the 31 Le Rouge in 11 Rouge Coromandel ($198). "This looks plummy in the tube, but on deep skin, it adds the perfect amount of rich red that complements her fire-engine red Chanel dress without being matchy-matchy or competing with it," he says.

Last but not least, he used Chanel's Les Beiges Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Fluid ($56), Hume's Dry Body Oil Mist ($25) (which Nyong'o actually turned him on to), and a little sparkle—Ben Nye Sparklers Glitter in LD-3 Gold, to be exact. He says, "The perfect sparkles! I sprinkled them on top of her cheekbones and body while Vernon dusted it in her hair too."

Shop the Paris Premiere Look

New York City

"The regal gold lace Nicholas Oakwood Couture paired with the Sabyasachi necklace harked back to those glamorous femme fatales from iconic sword-and-sandal films of the '50s, '60s. Think Anne Baxter from The Ten Commandments, Donyale Luna in Fellini's Satyricon, and, of course, Liz Taylor in Cleopatra," he says. Barose created a '60s-inspired look with winged liner, a defined crease, and gold details that were paired with long, feathery lashes and angular, arched brows for an "Old Hollywood screen goddess" effect.

Barose used T-beauty eyeliners from his home country of Thailand, as well as Danessa Myricks Colorfix Pigment ($22) in Goldmine. "I painted this on the inner corners of eyes, center of lids, and a bit on the brow bones," he says. "The gold details added highlight to the eyes and tied in with her gold gown."

Then, he used the I-Envy Classic Timeless Wispy False Lashes. "I love the long, feathery lashes that have spaces in between. They add drama but not density, so the gold on the lids still shows through without being overwhelmed by the length of the lashes. I then glued two of the 12-millimeter clusters from the Cluster Palette ($15) on the outer corners for extra lifts and a feline effect using I-Envy Super Strong Waterproof Glue ($5), which is a must, especially for this sweaty NYC heat wave," he says.

A major part of the look was defined, sculpted cheekbones. For that, Barose turned to a product from a fellow celebrity makeup artist, the Tansculpt Bronzing Contour Balm ($34) by Hung Vanngo. "I was on the Odyssey press tour from London to Paris and NYC with Hung, who's glamming Anne Hathaway," he says. "He turned me on to this [product]. It's so dark and delicious—perfect for sculpting, contouring cheekbones for deep skin tones."

Shop the New York City Premiere Look

Heat-Wave Makeup-Setting Essentials

It's no secret that The Odyssey's premieres have been happening in the midst of a summer heat wave. Barose says doing full glam in these conditions is every "makeup artist's worst nightmare," as high heat can affect the aesthetic and wear of makeup. Luckily, he has some makeup-setting and shine-controlling staples.

First, he recommends Mehron's TouchUp Anti-Shine ($12). He uses the shade Dark on Nyong'o. "This theater/cinema backstage brand is my go-to for shine control," he says. "A little bit goes a long way."

He also uses a setting spray, but not just any setting spray. It's Mistine's Matte Setting Spray ($13), another Thai beauty brand he swears by. "A little bit of this helps lock it all in," he says. "I focused more on the T-zone, so it's matte and polished while the rest of the face remains glowy in all the right places."

Last but not least, he uses Payot's Absorbing Blotting Sheets ($13) before any necessary touch-ups. "This heat required more touch-ups, which can turn makeup cakey real fast," he says. "I always blot with blotting paper first before each touch-up to keep skin fresh looking in this heat wave."

Shop the Essentials

If you grew up using Tumblr, Vine, Snapchat, and early Instagram, you likely also grew up watching Kylie Jenner's style evolve in real time. There was the blue-hair era—the unforgettable King Kylie reign that had everyone overlining their lips, hunting down thigh-high boots, and screenshotting every outfit she posted. Then came the monochromatic "Kylie Cosmetics founder" era, followed by a polished wardrobe full of vintage designer, custom gowns, and front-row fashion week moments. And now? She's in her lover girl chapter alongside Timothée Chalamet, serving quiet luxury, becoming an unexpected Knicks fan, and making every Chanel appearance feel like an event.

The fun of following Jenner's fashion has always been that she's never been afraid of reinvention. Every era has reflected a different version of who she was at the time, whether she was experimenting with colorful wigs and streetwear, defining the 2010s Instagram-baddie aesthetic, embracing minimalist dressing, or stepping confidently into the world of high fashion. In recent years, she's delivered some of her most memorable looks yet, from the viral Schiaparelli lion-head dress to standout moments at ACNE Studios, Chanel, Jean Paul Gaultier, and beyond, proving she's just as comfortable in couture as she once was in distressed denim and body-con dresses.

While Jenner and the trends have changed, her willingness to take fashion risks has remained constant. Ahead, revisit every chapter of Kylie Jenner's style evolution, year by year, from the iconic red carpet looks that defined a generation to the elevated wardrobe that's still making headlines today.

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ICYMI, the premiere of The Odyssey took place in London yesterday, and the film's star-studded cast took to the red carpet. Matt Damon, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong'o, Anne Hathaway, and Charlize Theron were among the main cast in attendance alongside the recently married Tom Holland and Zendaya. The latter worked her signature press-tour finesse with stylist Law Roach, who dressed her in a Schiaparelli dress hot off the F/W 27 haute couture runway in Paris, and makeup artist Ernesto Casillas, who created her jaw-dropping, Athena-esque look.

"I wanted to give Zendaya a bronzed, sun-kissed, and radiant complexion worthy of a glowing Greek goddess," Casillas said in a press release. "I created light, mesmerizing eyes to echo the ethereal elegance of the dress." Luckily, I have the details on the exact makeup products Casillas used. Hint: All of them were from Charlotte Tilbury. Keep scrolling to see the 15 items.

Even with the Eras Tour in the rearview mirror and no word on album number 13, Taylor Swift fans have plenty to be excited about right now. Of course, there's her impending wedding to Travis Kelce, expected to take place in early July. (For the record, no, I don't believe the rumors that it will be held at Madison Square Garden!) That alone would be enough to tide over Swifties for the entire summer, but she threw in an extra treat for us: a new single for the Toy Story 5 soundtrack called "I Knew It, I Knew You."

Tonight, Swift appeared at the Los Angeles premiere of the highly anticipated Disney-Pixar movie. On the red carpet, she wore a patchwork dress from Erdem's fall/winter 2026 collection with bronze satin high-heeled sandals. Bronze shoes are a popular choice among the fashion crowd because they're just as versatile as black but slightly punchier, cooler, and more unexpected. Scroll down to see what Taylor Swift wore on the Toy Story 5 red carpet and shop the shoe trend for yourself.

Shop Bronze Sandals for Summer 2026

ICYMI, we're in the midst of the 79th Annual Cannes Film Festival. Celebs are flying to the South of France and flooding the red carpet, and Bella Hadid is no exception. On Sunday, May 17, she attended the screening of Garance, wearing a custom Prada dress and dazzling Chopard jewelry. She looked stunning in the highly sophisticated, Old Hollywood glamour we expect to see on the revered Cannes carpet.

The fashion was incredible. However, as a beauty editor, I couldn't help but focus on Hadid's matching makeup look. It was silvery, shimmery, luminous, and created entirely with Prada Beauty products. (No surprise there, Hadid is the brand's Global Beauty Ambassador.) "Bella wanted her glam to sparkle, complementing her dress," says celebrity makeup artist Nadia Tayeh. "We created a silver shimmery eye with black liner to enhance the eyes, paired with glowing skin and a neutral glossy lip for a luminous finish." Ahead, see the exact products she used.

The Exact Products Used

It's been a fantastic month for fans of red carpet style. First, we had the Met Gala, where Rihanna, Sabrina Carpenter, Beyoncé, and Blue Ivy Carter left us speechless with their dresses. Now, we've set our sights on the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, which is celebrating its 79th year. The legendary event has always been the epitome of French glamour and is attended by the most stylish celebrities in the world. Did you know, by the way, that the Cannes Film Festival has a strict dress code for gala screenings? Sneakers are forbidden on the red carpet, but Kristen Stewart and other celebrities have boldly broken the rules over the years.

This year, the red carpet looks are seriously impressive. Barbara Palvin Sprouse announced her pregnancy in a Miu Miu gown, and Simone Ashley dug into the Alexander McQueen archives for her F/W 05 dress. Scroll down to get all the details on the 2026 Cannes Film Festival's best dressed celebrities. Might I suggest also taking a look at my retrospective of the best Cannes looks of all time? It includes late fashion icons such as Princess Diana, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and more.

Be sure to check back here often, as we'll be updating our roundup until the festival ends on May 23.

WHO: Bella Hadid

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Bataille de Gaulle

WEAR: Custom Schiaparelli dress; Chopard jewelry

WHO: Ruth Negga

WHAT: Attending the premiere of Amarga Navidad

WEAR: Prada dress; Chopard jewelry

WHO: Demi Moore

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Vie d'une Femme

WEAR: Gucci dress; Chopard jewelry

WHO: Barbara Palvin Sprouse and Dylan Sprouse

WHAT: Attending the Trophée Chopard ceremony

WEAR: On Barbara Palvin Sprouse: Willy Chavarria S/S 26 dress

WHO: Simone Ashley

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Vie d'une Femme

WEAR: Alexander McQueen F/W 05 dress; Chaumet jewelry

WHO: Alicia Vikander

WHAT: Attending the premiere of Hope

WEAR: Louis Vuitton dress, shoes, and High Jewelry Tumbler bracelet, Pure V earrings, and Majestic ring

WHO: Mike Mendez, Jaya Harper, Laura Dern, and Bruce Dern

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Bataille de Gaulle

WEAR: On Laura Dern: Boucheron earrings, bracelet, and ring

WHO: Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Leclerc

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Vie d'une Femme

WEAR: On Alexandra Leclerc: Giorgio Armani dress

WHO: Aja Naomi King

WHAT: Attending the premiere of La Vie d'une Femme

WEAR: Miu Miu dress; Messika jewelry

WHO: Barbara Palvin Sprouse and Dylan Sprouse

WHAT: Attending the premiere of Histoires Parallèles

WEAR: On Palvin Sprouse: Miu Miu dress; Chopard jewelry

WHO: Ruth Negga

WHAT: Attending the Trophée Chopard ceremony

WEAR: Vintage Ossie Clark dress

The Boulevard de la Croisette, also known to locals as the Temple of Idleness, is a three-kilometre stretch of seafront that snakes through the glamorous alcove that is the Côte d'Azur. But for a week each May, the palm-laden promenade is transcendent, alight with the glitz and glamour of fashion starlets, film titans, studio bigwigs, and Hollywood heavyweights as they descend on the French Riviera for the annual Cannes Film Festival.

The prestigious event has been in operation since 1938, where it has awarded emerging and established auteurs and actors alike with the career-defining honours like the Palme d'Or, the highest prize given for best film outside of the Academy Awards, for close to a century. This is the place that nurtured talents like Jean-Luc Godard, introduced transcendent scene-stealers including Isabelle Huppert and Mikey Madison and becomes a flurry of sequins and plumage as the who’s who of Hollywood make a home-away-from-home in the revolving doors of opulent properties like the Hôtel Martinez. Suffice to say, completely luminary.

Given the reputation that precedes it, it’s only fitting that the red carpet reflects the grand and theatrical essence of the films that the event celebrates. There has been no shortage of looks worthy of an eight-minute-long standing ovation, which is the average length of applause that succeeds the closing credits, though the event is no stranger to sartorial controversy either.

In 2015, the Cannes Film Festival decreed a strict dress code that only permitted female attendees to wear high heels, leading to an incredibly elegant rebellion by the likes of Julia Roberts and Jennifer Lawrence, who either decided to go barefoot or wear flip-flops on the red carpet, respectively. In 2025, a mere decade later, organisers declared there would be “no naked dressing”, putting a ban on revealing clothing for the sake of “decency”.

In light of this dimming of frivolity, the drama showcased on the silver screen inside the Grand Théâtre Lumière is certainly enough to stir. And with that being said, there is still a storied repertoire of barely-there gowns and breathtaking dresses that lurk in the annals, for those considerate enough to look through it.

Now, on the eve of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, we thought it incredibly pertinent to task ourselves with that mission. Because beneath the frothy embellishments and swaths of tulle, there lies something more potent; a dialogue between fashion and film that transcends far beyond stunts like method dressing or nude illusions.

Without further ado, scroll through for the best Cannes Film Festival looks of all time.

The 13 Best Cannes Film Festival Looks of All Time

1. Princess Diana

Style Notes: In the image of Grace Kelly, Princess Diana attended the Cannes Film Festival in 1987, wearing a gown as blue as the Mediterranean sea that lapped at the nearby shore.

Designed by Catherine Walker, the look paid homage to the chiffon dress worn by the late Princess of Monaco in Alfred Hitchcock’s To Catch a Thief. Perhaps one of the earliest incidents of stylistic references on the red carpet, it has since become synonymous with her own approach to monarch fashion; quietly rule-breaking and elegantly intimate.

2. Bella Hadid

Style Notes: Bella Hadid’s Schiaparelli dress, which she wore to the Cannes Film Festival in 2021, is nothing short of fashion fantasy. The haute couture gown is the creation of Daniel Roseberry, who rendered a low-cut, long-sleeved dress in a delicious wool crepe that allowed the pièce de résistance—a pair of gilded trompe l'oeil lungs—to shine.

Anatomical and entirely beguiling, the silhouette became a symbol of the supermodel’s avant-garde and individualistic approach to dressing, which was the antithesis of the quotidian and inconspicuous off-duty uniform of the time.

3. Dakota Johnson

Style Notes: Despite having been born into a Hollywood dynasty—being the daughter of Melanie Griffith and granddaughter of Tippi Hedren will do that to you—Dakota Johnson only made her highly anticipated Cannes Film Festival debut in 2025.

Attending the premiere of Spike Lee’s crime thriller Highest 2 Lowest, the actress opted for a cotton candy pink Gucci dress. With barely-detectable, capellini-esque straps, the spring-ready gown was finished with two layers of embroidered fringing and baby pink paillettes.

4. Naomi Campbell

Style Notes: Naomi Campbell attended the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, re-wearing a Chanel couture dress she had debuted previously during the autumn/winter 1996 collection. Arguably a more proactive spin on the silhouette than the one she first styled in the Parisian salon all those years ago, the look is a testament to the power of enduring design, especially if it’s Karl Lagerfeld.

5. Pamela Anderson

Style Notes: Pamela Anderson might now be revered for her sweetly stripped-back style that speaks to her less-is-more philosophy, but during her heyday, her vampy looks and bombshell glamour couldn’t be further from the refined minimalist she’s grown to be.

With brazen ambition and sensuality that made her an icon of her time, the Baywatch star ditched her little red one-piece for a leather corset and bicep-grazing gloves to unveil her sexy, noir action film, Barb Wire, in 1996.

6. Natalie Portman

Style Notes: Having grown up in front of the camera, Natalie Portman has delivered her fair share of iconic red carpet moments in her illustrious career. However, none greater than the time she attended the premiere of Todd Haynes’ psychological drama May December, which she co-starred in with Julianne Moore and Charles Melton, at the Cannes Film Festival in 2023.

For the occasion, the actress wore a painstakingly accurate recreation of one of Christian Dior’s most iconic creations, the Junon dress. Dating back to 1949, the design was realised in the Monsieur’s signature shade of 18th-Century grey and was dusted with iridescent beading and embroidery before cascading into a petal-like skirt made of silk tulle and an ombre finish that is reminiscent of ostrich feathers, the bird associated with the mythological Roman goddess from whom the style derives its name.

7. Elle Fanning

Style Notes: Another masterclass in fashion history came courtesy of Elle Fanning when she attended the premiere of Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood… during the Cannes Film Festival in 2019. With sprightly femininity and joie de vivre, she donned a reworked version of Christian Dior’s New Look. A silhouette that emerged following WWII, the pieces themselves consisted of an ivory silk organza shirt, a navy tulle skirt and a sweeping, wide-brimmed raffia hat that took 450-plus hours to create.

8. Jennifer Aniston

Style Notes: Before there was Matt Damon in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, there was Brad Pitt in Troy. An epic in every sense of the word, this Homeric tale also delivered us one of the most memorable looks in Jennifer Aniston’s career as she arrived to support her then-husband in a harlequin-print, halterneck dress decorated with diamonds by Versace.

9. Jane Birkin

Style Notes: Before the pomp and circumstance, there was Jane Birkin and her beloved basket bag. Though the idea of bringing a ludicrously capacious, market-ready tote onto the red carpet would be ludicrous now, it wasn’t out of the ordinary when the down-to-earth multi-hyphenate showed up on the arms of her then-boyfriend, Serge Gainsbourg, at the Cannes Film Festival in 1976.

10. Anya Taylor-Joy

Style Notes: At the Cannes Film Festival, much is also said about the off-duty styling. As previously mentioned, haunts like the Hôtel Martinez become as much of a hotbed for panache and elegance as the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

Whilst promoting Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, for which she played the titular lead, during the event in 2024, Anya Taylor-Joy showcased exactly why the South of France has become a cradle for style by jaunting through the lobby in a strapless dress and balmy sunhat from Jacquemus’ “Le Mariage” bridal collection.

11. Margaret Qualley

Style Notes: A blushing vision in just-plucked pink, Margaret Qualley dove back into the Chanel archives to revive a dress first worn by Claudia Schiffer for the French Maison’s spring/summer 1990 haute couture collection. Styling the chiffon gown with a pair of two-toned ballet flats, the look was nothing short of ethereal.

12. Rihanna

Style Notes: Amidst an expected downpour, another surprise arrival occurred during the 2025 Cannes Film Festival as Rihanna showed up at the event to support her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky. In a body-conscious Alaïa gown that showed off her baby bump, it brought her epic run of maternity fashion to a triumphant, and award-worthy, end.

13. Cate Blanchett

Style Notes: A sustainable stalwart with a penchant for rewearing red carpet looks or opting for something upcycled, Cate Blanchett made international headlines for all the right reasons when she arrived at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024.

At the premiere of The Apprentice, the biographical drama about Donald Trump’s ascent as a real estate tycoon, she wore a tri-coloured dress designed by Haider Ackermann for Jean Paul Gaultier's spring/summer 2023 couture collection. With a concealed train, the moment the Australian actress lifted the back of her dress to reveal a hint of green against the red backdrop and black bodice, it cemented the event as one that could also serve as a forum for international politics and calls to action.

The Met Gala 2026 might have come and gone, but the night's incredible looks are still living in my mind, rent-free (along with the rest of our Who What Wear editors, who recapped the night on our live blog) While there was no shortage of drama this year, I found myself lingering on ballerina and icon Misty Copeland even after the night was over—not because her glam was the loudest, but because it was one of the most considered.

At first glance, it reads as effortless. But the more I looked, the more it revealed itself as something much more intentional—layered with meaning, restraint, and a very specific point of view.

“The inspiration really comes from a love of movement, art, history, and lineage,” Copeland exclusively shared with Who What Wear ahead of the evening. She and celebrity makeup artist Mali Boykin collaborated on a full Merit Beauty look emphasizing movement and radiance. Nothing about the glam is static; it has a kind of fluidity to it, like it could shift depending on the light, the angle, the moment. “I wanted something you can feel, not just see,” she added—and that’s exactly how it lands.

There’s also a sense of ease that grounds the entire look. “For me, feeling like myself is about ease and honesty… when nothing feels forced," Copeland explained. That philosophy carries through every element of the glam. It doesn’t try to transform her—it refines, enhances, and lets her presence do the rest.

Boykin approached the look through a similarly thoughtful lens, centering her concept on “beauty as art”—specifically, an exploration of brown as a full spectrum. “Brown as luxury. Brown as softness. Brown as power,” she explained. It’s a subtle but striking reframing, and on Copeland, it feels both modern and deeply resonant.

The complexion is where that idea comes to life most clearly. It’s luminous, but not in an obvious way—more like light catching on bronze, shifting as she moves. Boykin described wanting the skin to feel “radiant, sculptural, and alive,” which translates to a finish that’s dimensional rather than dewy-for-the-sake-of-dewy. You see warmth, depth, and light all working together.

Importantly, nothing overwhelms. “My goal was never to overpower that,” Boykin said, referring to Copeland’s natural grace and presence. “I wanted the beauty to feel like an extension of who she is while still making a statement.” That balance—between visibility and restraint—is what makes the look so compelling.

Technically, it’s all very precise, even if it doesn’t read that way at first. Skin is prepped to be deeply hydrated, featuring Merit's Great Skin Priming moisturizer, then evened out with sheer layers of the brand's signature tinted moisturizer, The Uniform, that lets the natural complexion show through. Contour and bronzing are placed strategically but diffused to avoid harshness, while Lucitano, a soft, peach flush, brings life back into the cheeks, and a soft golden highlight is used on the high points to create that lit-from-within effect.

The eyes stay within a warm, tonal range—rich browns blended into a soft, almost glossy finish that adds depth without pulling focus thanks to Merit's beloved Solo Shadow pots in shades Vachetta, Midcentury, and Glacé. Brows are structured but still full, lashes are defined and separated, and the lip is sculpted in a way that feels modern and slightly blurred rather than sharply outlined.

The lip is where everything subtly comes together: softly sculpted with the Signature Lip Liner in June (a new shade launching May 9), then diffused with Signature Lip Blush in Archival for a rich, modern finish that avoids anything too sharp or overdrawn.

The result is beauty that feels lived-in, considered, and deeply aligned with Copeland herself. Paired with her custom look by Michael Kors, Effy Jewelry, and soft, fragrant hair by Miles Jefferies, it all reads as one cohesive story: one where Copeland's soft yet commanding power is the only thing you need to pay attention.

In a night built on spectacle, this was something quieter, but no less impactful. The kind of beauty look that doesn’t demand attention, but keeps it. Shop Misty Copeland's full Met Gala beauty look below.

Shop Misty Copeland's Met Gala 2026 Beauty Look

There's the Met Gala as we see it on livestreams and in perfectly shot red carpet photos, and then there's the version that is far more up close and personal. Very few people get to stand outside the Mark Hotel and watch celebrities appear for the first time in the outfits that the world will be talking about for years to come. This year, while the world watched the red carpet in real time, fashion commentator Albert Ayal aka @UpNextDesigner had a front-row view of the stars before they even stepped onto the carpet. Ayal got the best seat in the house and had a perspective that feels equal parts unfiltered, fast-paced, and deeply informed.

In the midst of the madness of Met Gala Monday, we sat down with the commentator at the creator watch party hosted by Instagram to chat about the big night. From guessing designers in real time to spotting the details cameras miss, Ayal experienced the 2026 Met Gala in a way few do. Ahead, he breaks down the night's defining trends, the designer who "won," and why this year felt like a turning point, one where fashion moved beyond dressing up and fully into the realm of the theme itself—fashion as art.

I know you had a front-row view at the Mark Hotel—tell me about that. What was the energy like? Where were you?

It was amazing. Every time the talent walked through the doors, everyone was like, "Look right, look left—tell me what you're wearing." I was always the one either guessing what they were wearing, or if I didn't know, I'd be like, "It's Dior!" And then they'd give me a thumbs-up. It was just a really fun, "test my knowledge" type of vibe and made for great content.

How would you describe the overall mood of the fashion we've seen at the Met Gala so far?

Very on theme. A lot of the looks felt artistic and sculptural this year. People really leaned into dramatic shapes and pieces that felt inspired by art and iconic cultural moments. It felt like fashion was being treated more like wearable art than just red carpet dressing.

Every year, people say one brand "won." Is there a brand you feel has won so far?

Robert Wun won, for sure. He definitely ran the show tonight with looks on Lisa, Beyoncé, Naomi Osaka, and several more. I always believed his work was a piece of art.

Were there any standout trends of the night people should be shopping?

I've been seeing a lot of trompe l'oeil and body-illusion designs this year—pieces that highlight the shape of the body or create these really artistic optical illusions using body parts like hands, arms, etc. There were also a lot of florals, sculptural silhouettes, dramatic wings, and details that felt very inspired by art. Overall, fashion felt a lot more experimental and expressive.

Were there any styling choices that really set certain looks apart?

Definitely. I noticed a lot of bold nails, statement jewelry, and really eye-catching accessories. The styling felt very intentional this year. Everyone seemed to have their own interpretation of art, and you could see that reflected not just in the clothing but [also] in all the smaller details too.

Are there any looks you think will be remembered for years to come when we think about 2026?

I've been seeing a lot of angelic vibes. Tate McRae had an angelic vibe. There were a lot of wings, a lot of ethereal moments. Emma Chamberlain's look is one to remember. Chase Infiniti's look is really fabulous. The Robert Wun stuff is always memorable. I also liked La La [Anthony's] look. That Wiederhoeft moment was incredible.

Was there a look everyone loved that you didn't really buy into?

I'd probably say Heidi Klum. I understand the artistic direction she was going for, and honestly, it felt very true to her brand. It had that dramatic, almost Halloween–inspired energy she's known for. I do think she could've worn the dress without covering her face, but she really committed to the concept and took it to another level.

Did anything look different in person at the Mark Hotel compared to the carpet?

Definitely. Everything looks so much more detailed and dimensional in person. The sparkle from the jewelry, the fabrics, and all the small design elements really stand out in a way you can't fully capture on a livestream or in photos. Seeing it up close gives you a whole different appreciation for the craftsmanship.

Do you think people were pushing fashion forward this year or playing it safe?

I think it was a mix. Some people definitely played it a little safer, but even those looks still had intention behind them, like Doja Cat. Her look was really feminine and alluring, and it still felt thoughtful and polished. A lot of these outfits have deeper inspiration behind them, so once people understand the reference or concept, they appreciate the look on a whole different level.

Do you think this night will influence other red carpets, runways, or how people dress?

I think this night is definitely going to influence future red carpets and even everyday fashion. People are starting to lean more into artistic expression instead of playing it safe. Sometimes, people are hesitant to go in a more creative direction, but events like this show how stunning and impactful those looks can be. I think it'll inspire more people to take risks with fashion and treat it more like art.

If you had to sum up the night in three words, what would they be?

Art. Couture. Sculpture.

Does anyone come to mind who hit the theme spot-on?

I'm not the biggest artist connoisseur, but everyone had inspo for their looks. Look at Hunter Schafer's nod to Gustav Klimt's "Mäda Primavesi." Emma Chamberlain and Anok Yai are names worth noting as well.

Jalil Johnson is a Who What Wear editor in residence and New York–based writer, fashion authority, and media personality who began his career as a stylist and later spent three years at Saks Fifth Avenue refining his eye for trend reporting, emerging talent, and brand storytelling. He now brings his expertise to his newsletter, Consider Yourself Cultured, and has also been featured in The New York Times, Harper's Bazaar, The Wall Street Journal, and The Financial Times, and Vogue named him one of the "New Faces of Street Style."

There has long been a debate over whether or not fashion can be considered art. In fact, while playing a rousing game of trivia at the Instagram Met Gala watch party hosted at the Mark Hotel, I was reminded of something Karl Lagerfeld said in the documentary The First Monday in May: "What we do is applied art. Chanel never said she was an artist. She was a dressmaker. Madam Vionnet was a dressmaker. Madam Lanvin was a dressmaker. They wanted to dress a certain kind of society, and they were happy and flattered when those women bought those dresses."

Inside the Exhibition

This year, however, the Met's Costume Institute's spring exhibition, Costume Art, attempts to push that conversation forward, reframing the question of whether fashion can be considered an art form or, in the words of Lagerfeld, an "applied art."

At the press preview, Andrew Bolton, the Wendy Yu curator in charge of the Costume Institute, stated, "It implores us to see the dressed body as not only an object of representation but as a subject of experience, a medium in which the medium of art can be reimagined." Costume Art, the inaugural exhibition in the Condé M. Nast Galleries, encourages visitors to move beyond seeing fashion as a vehicle for art and instead understand fashion and art as working in tandem.

It reinforces not only what Met Gala honorary chair Lauren Sánchez Bezos declared at the preview ("The Met has always understood something the world is finally catching up to—fashion is art") but also asks viewers to consider fashion as the medium we engage with daily to perform the ultimate act of art, be it applied or performance: living. As Bolton went on to say, "Fashion isn't only something we see. It's something we wear. It shapes posture, gesture, presence, and perception. In wearing clothes, we don't simply express who we are. We become who we are, which makes fashion different from any other art form. It collapses the boundary between subject and object."

The exhibition itself comprises nearly 400 items from the Met's collection, and fashion is placed in dialogue with artwork spanning centuries, creating connections that range from the literal to the conceptual. These works are organized into a series of thematic categories, all tied to the body. Among them is Classical Body, which is rooted in Hellenic and Roman studies of form, featuring a molded, armor-like gold minidress from Givenchy designed by Alexander McQueen alongside more fluid, draped pieces that echo the softness of classical sculpture, like a Di Petsa dress that appears as though the wearer arrived straight from a wet T-shirt contest.

Pregnant Body examines maternalwear through the ages, including a Charles James taffeta dinner suit designed as part of a maternity line for Lane Bryant Inc. in 1954, serving as both a counterpoint to the classical ideal and a reclamation of it. Epidermal Body and Inscribed Body explore fashion that mimics or evokes skin, reinforcing the idea of clothing as a second skin, from a Schiaparelli dress by Daniel Roseberry with the appearance of peeling flesh to Adriana Varejão's "Parede com Incisões à la Fontana—Horizontal" and Jean Paul Gaultier's mesh tattooed pieces, two of which are included in the exhibition.

Though the exhibition undoubtedly sets the tone for what appears on the carpet, the official gala dress code, Fashion Is Art, gave attendees permission to interpret the idea on their own terms. Some leaned quite literal. Hunter Schafer arrived in Prada inspired by Gustav Klimt's "Mäda Primavesi," and Colman Domingo, in Valentino by Alessandro Michele, called to mind Pablo Picasso's "Acrobat and Young Harlequin." Amy Sherald, in Thom Browne, appeared as if she had stepped directly out of one of her own paintings, "Miss Everything (Unsuppressed Deliverance)."

The Red Carpet as Interpretation

Others took a more abstract approach. Nicole Kidman's red Chanel dress read less as reference and more as interpretation, channeling the emotional and historical weight of the color itself.

There was also Sabrina Carpenter in Dior, paying homage to the film Sabrina with actual film reels forming the bodice and film stills set as the central jewels of her flapper-esque headpiece.

In terms of standout houses, Saint Laurent, one of the evening's sponsors, turned inward, revisiting its own history with art by re-creating the famed golden cast for Hailey Bieber, originally produced in collaboration with Claude Lalanne for the A/W 69/70 haute couture collection.

Singer Rosé wore a pared-back black dress punctuated with birds in the style of Henri Matisse's "The Birds," a subtle but pointed callback to the house's S/S 88 collection.

Another strong showing came from emerging designer Robert Wun, who dressed Jordan Roth, Naomi Osaka, and Beyoncé, the latter wearing the designer inside the Met during the evening's programming.

Still, the most pervasive reference point of the night may have been the Hellenic and Roman statues that continue to shape our visual language around the body. Their influence appeared everywhere, from Sombr in Valentino to Serena Williams in a battle-ready silver draped gown by Marc Jacobs and, most overtly, Heidi Klum, who arrived as a literal statue, gray-faced and all, really driving home the point that fashion is art.

The thing about the Met Gala is that it exists in two drastically different timelines at once: the perfectly curated final looks we see grace the carpet and the contrasting chaos that ensues in the hotel suite during the 24 hours that lead up to the big night. In the case of The Studio actress Chase Sui Wonders, the latter included late-night movie binges, shuffling between five different beauty treatments, and a playlist that hits every genre and decade of music in just 30 minutes. This year marked both her first Met Gala and her debut as a host committee member—an experience that felt, in her words, like a "fever dream" in the best possible way.

Although many stars attempt to convince you that the day starts in pure Pinterest-worthy, aesthetic bliss, a refreshingly honest Sui Wonders confirmed that her day didn't exactly begin with meditation or green juice. In fact, it started somewhere between fiction and adrenaline.

"I watched Total Recall and Die Hard back-to-back until 3 a.m., so technically, it began with John McClane saying 'Yippee ki-yay, motherfucker!'" she says.

If that tone feels slightly unhinged, it's because the day itself, well, is, yet what unfolded from there was a look rooted in something deeply romantic.

This year's dress code, Fashion Is Art, left plenty of room for interpretation, but Sui Wonders approached it with a surprisingly specific reference point.

"I thought about my favorite pieces of art I've seen in the past year and immediately thought of the wall murals I fell in love with when I went to the Roman city of Pompeii a couple weeks ago," she tells Who What Wear. "They're these almost-perfectly-preserved portraits of daily life in ancient Rome. They used all-natural pigments. They're so romantic, and some of them date back to 200 BC."

The result was a lilac silk georgette–and-satin gown from McQueen's A/W 26 collection complete with an oversize bow and raw edges that gave the look a sense of intentional imperfection. Styled by Thomas Carter Phillips, the dress was paired with Wolford layers, McQueen's satin sandals, and Jean Schlumberger Tiffany & Co. jewelry that climbed up the ear. The final effect felt equal parts ethereal and grounded.

"The edges of the dress are raw, which I thought made the look feel so complete yet undone. Also, I didn't have time to get a manicure! Sue me!" she says.

For Sui Wonders, choosing McQueen was instinctive, especially under Seán McGirr's direction.

"I've always been a fan of McQueen, and Seán McGirr has brought such a brilliant freshness to the brand," she tells us. "My jaw dropped when I saw his latest collection. Also, the Jean Schlumberger Tiffany & Co jewels that crawl up the ear take it all to a different level."

In the end, the look leaned more romantic than Sui Wonders's past red carpet appearances, a shift she was fully aware of and leaned into. "It's more feminine. I'm a big-time tomboy, but there's a little lady somewhere in there, and she was on display tonight," she says.

If there's one myth about Met Gala prep worth dispelling, it's that it's this graceful, effortless moment of everything falling into place perfectly. The reality is it's chaotic.

"I did five separate beauty treatments today. Life is effortless. ✨"

Her glam team—makeup artist Shayna Goldberg and hairstylist Blake Erik—brought everything together, with makeup by Ilia and hair products by Milk_Shake adding to the soft, romantic finish.

While you might expect green juice and elaborate snacks in the hours leading up to the carpet, Sui Wonders kept it… minimal. When we asked her what her go-to meal is the day of the big event, she replies honestly, "Air, deep breathing, maybe a cube of ice, perhaps a mint as a treat. Just being real here."

Like any good getting-ready moment, the playlist set the tone: eclectic, nostalgic, and just a little chaotic. "Madonna, Addison, Daft Punk, Skatt Bros, Air, Peter Ivers. The freakin' classics," she recommends.

Between her role on the host committee and her first walk up the Met steps, the night carried extra meaning, and once it was over, the processing began almost immediately: "[It was] such an honor! Baby's first Met, and I got to be on the host committee?! Getting to gossip on the pod with Chloe Malle and Chioma Nnadi directly after the big night was a dream. [It was the] perfect way to process the fever dream. (Also, see photos for when I got the news.)"

As for what she'll remember most? That part, apparently, stays off the record.

"Nothing I can put in writing ;)))))))))," she says.

What she could put into words, though, was the feeling that lingered after everything wrapped—the part that doesn't show up in photos.

"Feeling like life is beautiful 🔮 and it 🔮takes 🔮 a🔮 village 🔮 and there is some real heartfelt community in that," she explains.

Maybe that's the real story behind the Met Gala—not just the "fashion as art" moments on the carpet but the people, energy, and chaos behind the scenes that make it all come together.

Photographer: Alexandra Arnold
Stylist: Thomas Carter Phillips
Hairstylist: Blake Erik
Makeup Artist: Shayna Goldberg
Creative Director: Alexa Wiley
Entertainment Director: Jessica Baker
Producer: Erin Corbett

After the controversial chartreuse shade stormed the spring/summer 2026 runways, it should come as no surprise that the colour would once again rear its head for fashion’s night of nights, the Met Gala. Utterly polarising with a piquant tone that’s not quite a brat green nor a balmy yellow, this hybrid shade saturated the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art as guests made their arrival.

The first appearance of the evening came from Alexa Chung, who traded in her signature stovepipe jeans and twee knitwear for a daring Dior dress designed by Northern Irish creative director Jonathan Anderson.

The custom look continued the dialogue presented in the French maison’s autumn/winter 2026 collection, which Chung sat in the first row for as it was unveiled on an uncharacteristically scintillating February day in the Tuileries Garden. With a square-neckline, plunging slit and protruding botanical motif, the silhouette was a clear homage to both craftsmanship and Claude Monet’s magnum opus Water Lilies series, which couldn’t be more fitting for the dress code “Fashion Is Art”.

Later, the striking shade made another appearance in the burgeoning actress, Sarah Pidgeon. After becoming a household name for her performance as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, the Love Story breakout star continued to embrace the codes of ‘90s minimalism that her character was so revered for. However, marking a firm schism in this form of method dressing, the 29-year-old arrived at the event in a chartreuse two-piece set designed by Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez for Loewe.

Again, this look is a bespoke version of a look presented on the runway that Pidgeon was privy to after attending the brand’s show back in February. Though it could be argued that this look nods to the iconic Donna Karen green set worn by Gwyneth Paltrow in Great Expectations, this slightly acidic version feels far more contemporary and cool.

In saying that, a key part of both Dior and Loewe’s brand philosophy is the importance of artistry and innovation within the boundaries of materiality, so it’s also no surprise to see these houses be some of the first to adopt this bold colour. (Of course, that’s not to mention the shared history of Anderson at the helm.) Elsewhere, Belgian fashion designer Pieter Mulier presented a series of asymmetrical chartreuse skirts for his penultimate collection at Alaïa. In Milan, Mrs Prada unveiled her interpretation of uniform dressing with chartreuse accents that covered boilersuits, puffed skirts and bralettes.

Of course, the sartorially aware amongst us know that chartreuse has always been a maligned colour that has sat on the fringes of the mainstream, only to be adopted by the most daring dressers amongst us. From Nicole Kidman wearing a John Galliano for Dior chartreuse chinoiserie gown to the 1997 Oscars to Zoë Kravitz wearing the shade to a Hollywood event earlier this year, this proactive shade continues to be exactly that.

Shop the Chartreuse Colour Trend, as Seen on the 2026 Met Gala

When it comes to Met Gala dressing, go big, go bold, and then push it even further. It’s fashion’s most theatrical night—so naturally, it’s the last place you’d expect to spot something as seemingly everyday as jeans. Which is exactly why I did a double-take when model Bhavitha Mandava arrived in what appeared to be a pair of jeans and a zip-up polo.

At first glance, her look feels worlds away from the sculptural Schiaparelli moments that dominate the red carpet. But this wasn’t a casual, off-duty denim situation—it was Chanel, after all. Her floor-skimming, straight-leg “jeans” were lifted from Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel and echoed the very look she wore to open the house’s Métiers d’Art show back in December.

And here’s where it gets interesting. What reads like classic denim and a lightweight knit is, in fact, crafted from an ultra-fine silk, designed to mimic the appearance of everyday fabrics. It’s a trompe l’oeil effect that’s become something of a Chanel signature of late, also seen across the brand’s spring/summer haute couture collection.

Admittedly, it might not deliver the kind of overt drama we’ve come to expect from a Met Gala red carpet, but for Bhavitha, this particular look carries a deeper resonance—mirroring the outfit that helped launch her modelling career in the first place.

If you suddenly feel inspired to revisit your own denim collection, you’re not alone. While silk iterations may be few and far between, there’s no shortage of impeccably cut straight-leg styles to choose from. Keep scrolling to discover the best pairs to invest in now.

Shop Jeans:

We’ve spent the night discussing the most noteworthy red carpet looks from the 2026 Met Gala. The theme of the 2026 exhibition is Costume Art, which the Metropolitan Museum of Art shared examines “the centrality of the dressed body.” Now that the red carpet has concluded, it’s clear that some of the looks adhered to the theme, while others strayed. On-theme or not, these are the top looks that stand out as the best dressed of the evening.

Beginning with some of the theme-adherent looks, Hailey Bieber was dressed in Saint Laurent wearing a look that referenced a 1969 haute couture collection in collaboration with Claire Lalanne, which famously featured a gilded body casts worn over diaphanous dresses. Gracie Abrams, too, wore an art-forward look by Matthieu Blazy for Chanel that took Gustav Klimt as inspiration. Chase Infiniti’s look designed by Thom Browne brought the form of the body to the dress itself. Ahead, see the best Met Gala looks of 2026.

On Gracie Abrams: Chanel dress and jewelry

On Hailey Bieber: Saint Laurent dress and cape; Belperron earrings

On Alex Consani: Gucci dress

On Paloma Elsesser: Francesco Risso dress

On Chase Infiniti: Thom Browne dress; Marli jewelry

We made it! Finally, it's the first Monday in May, which means that the chicest celebrities and tastemakers are busy ascending the famous steps at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the 2026 Met Gala. This year, the museum will display an exhibition titled Costume Art, with the ball's dress code being Fashion Is Art. Guests were asked to "express their own relationship to fashion as an embodied art form and celebrate the countless depictions of the dressed body throughout art history," and so far, many have done what they were told. (There are always a rogue few who don't, a daring choice given how often non-thematic looks are met with negative reviews.) Naturally, cohost Beyoncé knows better, rising to the occasion like she always does—and doing so alongside her daughter Blue Ivy Carter, who made her Met Gala debut tonight.

On Beyoncé: Custom Olivier Rousteing dress; Chopard jewelry

On Blue Ivy Carter: Custom Balenciaga; Jimmy Choo Alia Crystal Covered Pointy Toe Pumps ($4900)

For tonight's ball, Beyoncé's first in a decade, the Cowboy Carter singer chose to work with Balmain's former creative director, designer Olivier Rousteing, together creating a silver, skeletal naked dress fit with a matching crown à la her sister Solange's Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination headpiece from 2018 and a feather cape. (In 2016, at her last Met Gala, she dressed in a peach-colored latex number by Givenchy.) The crown wasn't the only embellished accessory she wore, though. With it, she worked with Chopard, curating a mix of diamond pieces, including a necklace in 18K white gold with one 6.41-carat brilliant-cut diamond and 140 carats of additional diamonds. And that's not counting the bracelet, earrings, and rings.

Her daughter went a simpler route, donning a white, strapless bubble dress with a shorter hemline that perfectly showed off her Cinderella-esque pumps and a coordinating bomber jacket, both by Balenciaga. A diamond necklace with a yellow diamond pendant was the star, while her brown cat-eye sunglasses gave her look a feeling of unbothered coolness that only a 14-year-old girl could pull off. Yes, she's 14, and yes, we're feeling old too.

On the red carpet, Beyoncé was the picture of a proud mom, saying, “She looks so beautiful," about her daughter. "It’s incredible to be able to share [her first Met Gala] with her.” She also praised her daughter’s red carpet posing, saying, “She was ready! She is ready.”

See the mother-daughter duo from every angle below.

Margot Robbie has been a longtime Chanel ambassador. She officially became a partner of the French fashion house in 2018, so she has worn designs from Karl Lagerfeld and Virginie Viard for many red carpets, including the Met Gala. Though we've seen Robbie wear several designs by Matthieu Blazy since he took the helm of the brand last year, tonight marks her first Chanel look designed for the Met Gala by the creative director.

The golden draped lamé dress is designed with a cascade of ruffles along the back and embellished with feathers and flower petals. The intricate design includes 1080 embroidered elements and took 761 hours to make. Robbie's look was also styled with Chanel High Jewelry, including rings and a pair of chandelier earrings that tap into the heirloom-jewelry trend we've been seeing on the rise in 2026. Ahead, see Margot Robbie's custom Chanel look for the 2026 Met Gala.

See Margot Robbie's Custom Chanel Met Gala Dress

On Margot Robbie: custom Chanel dress; Chanel High Jewelry earrings and rings; Manolo Blahnik Paloma sandals

The Kardashian-Jenner women are no strangers to the Met Gala. They've been attending since 2013, when Kim Kardashian made her debut. Following that, Kendall Jenner went in 2014, Kris Jenner in 2015, Kylie Jenner in 2016, and both Khloé Kardashian and Kourtney Kardashian in 2022.

Regardless of the year, they always bring the fashion and tend to step onto the Met steps fashionably late. The 2026 Met Gala is no exception—as the red carpet is now winding down, the Kardashian-Jenner clan has just arrived, bringing plenty to talk about, starting with Kylie's ensemble.

For fashion's biggest night, Kylie has stepped out in a custom Schiaparelli "dropped ball gown" by Daniel Roseberry. It features a "rigid bustier in brown corset toile embellished with a sfumato effect, and a voluminous skirt with over 2,000 sating stitching balls, 10,000 natural baroque pearls, and more than 7,000 painted pearlescent fish scales," the brand notes in a press release. To complete the look, Kylie chose an antique silver necklace decorated with rhinestones, pearls, and small hand-sculpted bird heads, and matching chandelier earrings.

Jenner's dress is a true work of art, perfectly embodying the Fashion Is Art dress code. The embroidery alone took approximately 11,000 hours, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship. The beaded details highlight the labor intensity and storytelling. At the same time, the use of a "sfumato effect," a Renaissance painting technique, is what solidifies the dress's artistry.

Keep scrolling to see Kylie's 2026 Met Gala outfit, destined to be pinned, saved, and added to lists of the best Met Gala red carpet looks to date.

See Kylie Jenner's Dress

On Kylie Jenner: custom Schiaparelli

See the Sketches of Jenner's Dress

There's nothing quite like the first Monday in May, when the most prominent names in fashion, sports, Hollywood, and more come together for one night only to support the arts, and more specifically, the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It's fashion's biggest night, and this year's Met Gala cohosts and buzzy guests—Nicole Kidman! Venus Williams! Zoë Kravitz!—outdid themselves debuting jaw-dropping ensembles with art in mind. The dress code for 2026's ball is Fashion Is Art, which ties back to the Costume Institute's corresponding exhibition, Costume Art, and allows for plenty of varying interpretations. As a result, everyone joined the hosts and got creative, debuting masterpiece after masterpiece as they arrived at the base of the museum's carpeted steps.

WHO: Gigi Hadid

WEAR: Custom Miu Miu dress; Jessica McCormack Asymmetric Emerald Diamond Hoop Earrings (Price upon request), 5.01ct Heart-Shaped Diamond Button Back Ring (Price upon request), 7.01ct Emerald Cut Diamond Button Back Ring (Price upon request), Large Cut-Down Blackened Gold Band ($30750), and a Small Round Diamond Millegrain Eternity Band ($27250)

Gigi Hadid is one such attendee, arriving on the Van Gogh–inspired carpet for her 11th Met Gala wearing a completely sheer, rhinestone-crusted gown by Miu Miu featuring flame and floral embroidery in gold, black, and silver. According to an interview with Vogue, she referenced two Miu Miu collections from the past—spring 1998 and spring 2011—taking the sheer base from the former and the embroidery from the latter. She paired the dress with a smattering of diamond jewelry by Jessica McCormack. I'm talking over 33 carats worth.

The result is a naked-dress outfit for the Met Gala record books—and an unexpected lingerie trend.

Given the translucent nature of her dress, you can easily spot the panties she chose to wear underneath it: a pair of cream cheeky underwear. Typically, it's thongs that we spot on the red carpet, so Hadid's cheeky style is an unexpected choice, one that will no doubt influence the way people shop for undergarments post-Met. All I'm saying is that the next time you go shopping for new undies, keep this look in mind.

There are many glittering red carpet events in a calendar year, but none captures our hearts quite like the Met Gala. On this first Monday of May, celebrities, designers, socialites, and more will descend upon the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City dressed in fashion’s finest while (mostly) adhering to the event’s theme: Costume Art, in correspondence with the museum’s spring exhibition. The 2026 dress code is simply Fashion Is Art, according to a press release from the Met, and a flood of stars is slowly ascending those revered stairs decked in referential ensembles and custom couture. But we beauty editors are locked in on the makeup, hair, and nail moments that make Met Gala looks stand the test of time.

While the event is primarily a showcase of the greatest modern (and archival) feats in fashion, there is no denying the power a great beauty look has to pull everything together. Sculptural silhouettes and lush fabrics can take a look to the sky, but it’s the painstakingly styled hair moments, dazzling storms of eye shadow, and vivid clouds of blush that land the plane.

Follow along as we detail the beauty looks that turned these stylish celebrities into living, breathing works of art (and keep up with our live reactions to the red carpet as the night goes on). Our Super Bowl is finally here.

The Best Beauty Looks at the 2026 Met Gala

Late but extremely worth the wait, Rihanna floated onto the mossy Met Gala carpet adorned in a silver, gold, and bronze gem-encrusted gown with matching makeup and hair. The devil was in the details: Golden spirals adorned her slicked curls, and gems decorated her eyes and mimicked falling tears. The multi-hyphenate also made a case for frosted lips; her Cupid's bow glistening champagne-gold.

Beauty products used: Fenty Beauty Trace'd Out Lip Liner in Rose Amber ($22), Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter ($40), Fenty Beauty Shake N' Play Liquid Blush ($28)

It's official: We're crowning Anok Yai the winner of the best Met Gala beauty competition. From her bronze statue-inspired hair and skin to her visceral dripping tears, the look is teeming with references. This one will go in the makeup history books.

Beyoncé looks every bit a sun goddess in her bejeweled headpiece, flowing curls, and skeleton-inspired gown (and every bit the proud mother at Blue Ivy's first Met). To allow her couture to steal the show, she kept her makeup simple and beautiful—but that by no means means boring. Her cool-pink blush, placed on the apples of her cheeks, adds a youthful glow while her eyes and lips are frosted with glittery shadows and glosses.

Beauty products used: Cécred Volumizing Mousse ($32), Cécred Strong Hold Gel ($32), Cécred Flexible Hold Hairspray ($38)

Is Doechii capable of anything less than iconic? Based on her Met Gala appearance tonight, the answer is no. The rapper paired her layered look with a stunning array of plum and shimmery mint green eye shadows to pull in her ornate jewelry and let her curls fall softly from her headpiece.

Beauty products used: Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Color Stick ($24), Milk Makeup Highlighter Stick ($24), Milk Makeup Odyssey Lip Oil Gloss ($26)

We didn't expect to see Hudson Williams on our list of the best beauty looks, but we learned a firm lesson to never underestimate the breakout star. His softly tousled hair contrasts the striking blue and red slashes of eye shadow adorning his eyes, which he confirmed was inspired by Black Swan. Bravo, Hudson!

Beauty products used: Chanel Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in The Space Traveler ($160), Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer ($349, was $450), Redken Max Sculpting Gel ($28)

Leave it to Sabrina Carpenter to steal the show in both the fashion and beauty categories. While her gown—a custom Dior dress made of film—was undoubtedly the star of the show, her dripping-diamonds headpiece, chic roller curls, and signature soft glam made us ooh and ahh.

Beauty products used: Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Leave-In Treatment ($36), Redken Spray Wax Invisible Texture Mist ($29), Redken Control Hairspray ($29)

Ayo Edebiri's angelic Chanel look was enough to capture our attention, but her shimmering glam (body glitter and all!) made us stay. The actress and comedian let her hair fall loosely out of its braided style to offset her frosty, ethereal glam, fashioned by celebrity makeup artist Dee Carrion using Chanel Beauty.

Beauty products used: Chanel Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in The New Singular ($160), Chanel Les Beiges Highlighting Fluid ($56), Chanel Baume Essentiel Glow Stick ($49)

The picture of painterly grace, Euphoria star Hunter Schafer stole our breath with this watercolor-finish, vintage-inspired look. Her skin was kept simple and velvety to showcase the cloud of peachy-pink blush that stretches from her lips to her under-eyes and the hazy wash of denim blue on her eyelids. To finish the look, Schafer popped on a medium pink lipstick, skipped mascara, and blew her hair dry into bouncy, romantic waves.

Beauty products used: Prada Beauty Touch Blush ($42), Prada Beauty Dimensions Eyeshadow in Pure ($85), Prada Beauty Monochrome Hyper Matte in Tamaris ($50), K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil ($65), Ghd Speed Hair Dryer ($429)

Kylie Jenner confirmed it: Bleached brows are spring's coolest beauty trend yet. The multi-hyphenate's look, crafted by celebrity makeup artist Ariel Tejada, is kept relatively simple to show off her custom Schiaparelli gown, ornate jewels, and dyed brows. However, her Old Hollywood kiss curl–adorned hair makes a definite statement.

Beauty products used: Kylie Cosmetics Precision Pout Lip Liner in Cool Nude ($19), Kylie Cosmetics Plumping Powder Matte Lip in Nude Mood ($22), Kenra Perfect Medium Hold Hairspray ($21)

Joey King is the definition of cherubic thanks to her Pre-Raphaelite makeup and cascading red curls. The actress wears glowy pink blush high atop her cheeks to enhance the look's angelic innocence, and her lips are etched in a similar pink lip liner for a soft, natural pout.

Beauty products used: Neutrogena Evenly Clear Clarifying Hypochlorous Acid Spray ($15, was $17), Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel Moisturizer ($30)

We're transfixed by Ejae's crystalline look. The KPop Demon Hunters star slicked her hair into an ornate updo with delicate, crystal-embellished adornments draping over her asymmetrical knotted buns. To pull it all together, celebrity makeup artist Min Kim deepened the singer and actress's eyes with cool-toned, smoky brown shadow.

Beauty products used: Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eye Makeup Palette in Grand Bal ($72), SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic ($185), SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore ($155)

Angela Bassett turned heads at the 2026 Met Gala in a hot pink gown dripping in florals, but her beauty look is what truly captured our attention. The legendary actress kept blush at the focal point and adorned her under-eyes in Twiggy-esque individual lashes. If you look closely, you can spot the scattered gems on her skin—one by her brow, another below the outer corner of her eye, and the other acting as a beauty mark above her lip.

Lisa's spellbinding Robert Wun look was completed with a gorgeous cool-toned eye shadow look, a smattering of crystals surrounding her eyes, and a wet-looking storm of kiss curls (and what our senior fashion editor Anna LaPlaca called "cool Princess Leia buns"). The singer and actress found ways to incorporate her jewels down to her fingertips—complete with crushed sequins on her hands and icy gems on her nails.

Beauty product used: Kiss Glam Embellished Press-On Nails in Day n' Night ($13)

FX Love Story alum Dree Hemingway gave new meaning to the word "ethereal." The actress looks straight out of a Renaissance painting with her halo-glow skin, blurred lips, and softly contoured skin.

If there's one person we can depend on to serve up an on-theme, striking look, it's Gwendoline Christie. The high-glam actress paired her oxblood Giles Deacon gown with inky red lips, wavy platinum tresses (a nod to paintings by John Dinger Sargent), and completely bare eyes. (Even her lashes and brows have been bleached!)

Beauty products used: Virtue Un-Frizz Cream ($22), Virtue Flourish Thickening Styling Treatment ($46), Virtue Healing Oil ($46)

In case you've been missing FX's Love Story on your screens, our on-screen Carolyn Bessette Kennedy (ahem, Sarah Pidgeon) stunned in a bronzy, natural spring look by celebrity makeup artist Emily Cheng using Chanel Beauty. To complement her glowing look, celebrity stylist Christian Wood styled Pidgeon's gradient blonde tresses in loose waves that delicately frame her face.

Beauty products used: Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream ($195), Kenra Shine Spray ($21), Chanel Rouge Coco Satin Lipstick ($53), Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner ($36)

Doja Cat never shies away from a look, and this year's Met Gala ensemble might be her most glamorous yet. The star embraces a monochromatic look from head to toe—her mocha bronde strands blending effortlessly into her soft matte complexion, dramatic eyeliner moment, and nude lips before trailing into a latex-looking draped gown.

Beauty products used: RED by KISS 0.3 Inch Pencil Flat Iron ($25, was $28), MAC Cosmetics Brushstroke 24-Hour Liquid Eyeliner Pen in Brushblack ($25), MAC Lip Pencil in Cork ($18, was $25)

Zoë Kravitz is channeling Wuthering Heights romanticism with her windswept hair and stunning half-up, half-down 'do by lauded celebrity hairstylist Nikki Nelms. To complement her breezy hairstyle and swept-up braids, the actress wore her eyebrows fluffy. In a painterly finish, Kravitz's cheeks and lips are flushed with terra-cotta pink, and her eyes are defined with a thin black line that wraps around her inner corner.

Beauty products used: Ghd Speed Hair Dryer ($429), SK-II Skinpower Re-New Airy Cream ($255), SK-II GenOptics Infinitaura Brightening Serum ($169), SK-II Aging Skin Facial Treatment Essence ($99)

Charli XCX took her signature barely there smoky eye and amped it up with a swipe of plum eyeliner in her lower waterline. Her nude lip completes her diffused, cool-toned glam with cool-girl flair, and she finished the look with a voluminous half-up, half-down 'do by celebrity stylist Matt Benns.

Beauty products used: Wavytalk Smooth Barrier Heat Protectant Spray ($29), Wavytalk Power Wave Hair Crimper ($60, was $80), Initio Parfums Privés Atomic Rose Eau de Parfum ($280)

Chase Sui Wonders looks angelic in her breezy lilac gown and sculptural updo, fashioned by celebrity hairstylist Blake Erik. The former Who What Wear cover star kept her makeup classic with a smattering of champagne shimmer eye shadows and mauve lips to let her swooping hairstyle do the talking.

Beauty products used: Ilia Eye Stylus Shadow Stick in Beam ($33), Milk Shake Extra Strong Hairspray ($28), Milk Shake Medium Hold Gel ($26)

Cochair Venus Williams oozes regality in her custom Swarovski look, but the facet we love most about this ensemble is her crystal-adorned updo. A swirling bouquet of coiled braids, Williams's ultra-slicked hair features a single gem at the center of every spiral. To finish things off, the tennis star completed her glam with smoky, shimmer-flecked eyes.

Beauty product used: Kiss Glam Embellished Press-On Nails in Day n' Night ($13)

Red alert! Nicole Kidman graced the mossy carpet wearing shaggy curtain bangs (aka our new go-to bangs trend), styled by celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel, and subtly bronzy makeup. The famous blonde wore her golden hair long, just barely brushing the fiery feathers adorning her sleeves and waist.

Beauty products used: Virtue Healing Oil ($46), Virtue Damage Reverse Serum ($60), Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System ($230, was $350), Cle de Peau Eye Color Quad 8 ($80), Joonbyrd Confetti Sky Multitasking Hand Treatment ($65)

Cara Delevingne is giving us a master class in elegant styling with her slicked finger waves and low, knotted bun. The model, singer, and actress wore her makeup in a classic black wing and a chic, blurred lip—the perfect combo.

Ashley Graham arrived on the green carpet in a tan ensemble and natural, glowing makeup—letting her silver-dipped nails (and fingers!) do the talking. Though we're obsessed with her literal take on chrome nails, we're itching to re-create her petal-pink pout and brown mascara makeup look for spring.

Beauty products used: Revlon ColorStay Full Time Volumizing Mascara in Black Brown ($12), Revlon ColorStay Face & Body Glow Lotion ($7, was $11), Revlon PhotoReady Blur Liner in Lazy ($10, was $13)

Emma Chamberlain kicked things off with artistic flair. The creator and six-time Vogue special correspondent donned a sweeping oil painting–inspired Mugler gown that perfectly complemented her bleached-blonde hair—a nod to the Fashion Is Art dress code.

Her ’20s-inspired eye shadow look, courtesy of celebrity makeup artist Lilly Keys using Makeup by Mario, feels perfectly in line with the exhibition’s Costume Art —bleached eyebrows and deeper inner corners and all. To make things extra regal, the star’s inner corners are flecked with gold.

Beauty products used: Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette: The Neutrals ($56), Makeup by Mario Master Metallics Eyeshadow Palette ($52), Makeup by Mario Ultra Suede Lipstick in Erin ($28)

It's here! We've arrived at the first Monday in May, a date that every fashion person has had circled in red ink in their calendars. It's finally time for the 2026 Met Gala. The dress code for this evening is Fashion Is Art, and guests have been instructed to "celebrate the countless depictions of the dressed body throughout art history" in their looks. The theme mirrors the Costume Art exhibit, which explores the relationship between clothing and the body. As for the guest list itself, well, Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams are joining Anna Wintour as the evening's cochairs, which means that the red—er, beige—carpet has been as varied as it is star-studded.

Now, let's get into the fashion. The evening has seen countless custom ensembles and couture moments, from like Kylie Jenner's sculpted Schiaparelli look to Rihanna's shimmering Maison Margiela couture, as well as many looks plucked right from the fall 2026 runway collections that were staged just a few short months ago, including Zoë Kravitz's striking sheer lace Saint Laurent dress with a corseted waist. The looks here may be all we can talk about right now, but we can all but guarantee they'll leave an impact on fashion dialogue for years to come. With plenty of showstopping moments and epic celebrity sightings (Beyoncé and Blue Ivy! Nicole Kidman and her daughter Sunday Rose!), scroll down to see all the best red carpet looks from the 2026 Met Gala.

WHO: Rihanna
WEAR: Maison Margiela couture; Briony Raymond and DYNE jewelry; Glenn Spiro earrings; Fred Leighton ring; custom Jennifer Behr headpieces

WHO: Beyoncé
WEAR: Olivier Rousteing look; Chopard jewelry
STYLED BY: Ty Hunter

WHO: Kylie Jenner
WEAR: Custom Schiaparelli

WHO: Nicole Kidman
WEAR: Chanel dress; Omega watch
STYLED BY: Jason Bolden

WHO: Hailey Bieber
WEAR: Saint Laurent look; Belperron earrings

WHO: Kendall Jenner
WEAR: Custom GapStudio; Buccellati jewelry

WHO: Sabrina Carpenter
WEAR: Dior look; Chopard jewelry; Christian Louboutin shoes
STYLED BY: Jared Ellner

WHO: Gigi Hadid
WEAR: Custom Miu Miu; Jessica McCormack jewelry

WHO: Zoë Kravitz
WEAR: Saint Laurent; Jessica McCormack jewelry
STYLED BY: Alexandra Mandelkorn

WHO: Teyana Taylor
WEAR: Tom Ford

WHO: Kim Kardashian
WEAR: Allen Jones and Whitaker Malem look; Christian Louboutin shoes

WHO: Margot Robbie
WEAR: Chanel

WHO: Paloma Elsesser
WEAR: Francesco Risso look; Bernard James necklace and ring

WHO: SZA
WEAR: Bode

WHO: Tessa Thompson
WEAR: Valentino dress; Pandora jewelry
STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Dree Hemingway
WEAR: Valentino couture; Pandora jewelry

WHO: Laura Harrier
WEAR: Di Petsa look; Briony Raymond and Isabel Delgado jewelry

WHO: Emma Chamberlain
WEAR: Custom Mugler; Stuart Weitzman shoes; Chopard jewelry
STYLED BY: Jared Ellner

WHO: Lisa
WEAR: Robert Wun look; Bulgari jewelry

WHO: Chase Infiniti
WEAR: Thom Browne dress; Marli jewelry

WHO: Simone Ashley
WEAR: Stella McCartney dress; De Beers jewelry

WHO: Daisy Edgar-Jones
WEAR: McQueen dress; Bucheron jewelry

WHO: Louisa Jacobson
WEAR: Custom Dilara Findikoglu; Repossi jewelry
STYLED BY: Edward Bowleg

WHO: Doechii
WEAR: Custom Marc Jacobs; David Webb jewelry
STYLED BY: Sam Woolf

WHO: Adwoa Aboah
WEAR: Simone Rocha look; Nikos Koulis jewelry; Sauer earrings

WHO: Lila Moss
WEAR: Conner Ives; Jimmy Choo shoes

WHO: Venus Williams
WEAR: Custom Swarovski
STYLED BY: Ronald Burton III

WHO: Hunter Schafer
WEAR: Prada
STYLED BY: Dara

WHO: Ayo Edebiri
WEAR: Chanel dress and jewelry

WHO: Keke Palmer
WEAR: Prabal Gurung look; Christian Louboutin shoes; Wempe jewelry

WHO: Alexa Chung
WEAR: Custom Dior dress and shoes; Dior Joaillerie ring and earrings

WHO: Anok Yai
WEAR: Balenciaga

WHO: Maude Apatow
WEAR: Valentino look; Brilliant Earth jewelry
STYLED BY: Mimi Cuttrell

WHO: Gracie Abrams
WEAR: Chanel; Manolo Blahnik shoes

WHO: Charli XCX
WEAR: Saint Laurent dress and shoes; David Yurman jewelry

WHO: Emily Blunt
WEAR: Mikimoto pearl body necklace

WHO: Angela Bassett
WEAR: Prabal Gurung; custom Aleví shoes; Judith Leiber bag; Messika jewelry; Glashütte watch
STYLED BY: Jennifer Austin

WHO: Carey Mulligan
WEAR: Custom Prada spring 1998; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Naomi Osaka
WEAR: Robert Wun

WHO: Janelle Monáe
WEAR: Custom Christian Siriano; Blumera clutch; Rainbow K jewelry
STYLED BY: Alexandra Mandelkorn

WHO: Alex Consani
WEAR: Gucci

WHO: Grace Gummer
WEAR: Custom Gabriela Hearst

WHO: Vittoria Ceretti
WEAR: Carolina Herrera

WHO: Hudson Williams
WEAR: Balenciaga; Bulgari jewelry

WHO: Suki Waterhouse
WEAR: Michael Kors Collection; Christian Louboutin shoes; Boucheron jewelry

WHO: Olivia Wilde
WEAR: Thom Browne look; Jimmy Choo shoes
STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Maya Hawke
WEAR: Prada

WHO: Misty Copeland
WEAR: Michael Kors Collection; Effy Hematian jewelry
STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Paige Bueckers
WEAR: Custom Coach

WHO: Stevie Nicks
WEAR: Custom Zara by John Galliano; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Yseult
WEAR: Harris Reed look; Chopard jewelry
STYLED BY: KJ Moody

WHO: Alysa Liu
WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton; Pasquale Bruni jewelry
STYLED BY: Katie Qian

WHO: Joey King
WEAR: Miu Miu

WHO: Irina Shayk
WEAR: Alexander Wang

WHO: Angel Reese
WEAR: Altuzarra dress; Blumera clutch; Stuart Weitzman shoes; Smiling Rocks jewelry

WHO: Camila Morrone
WEAR: Tory Burch; David Yurman jewelry
STYLED BY: Emma Morrison

WHO: Chase Sui Wonders
WEAR: Alexander McQueen dress and bag; Wolford bodysuit; Amina Muaddi shoes; Tiffany & Co. jewelry
STYLED BY: Thomas Carter Phillips

WHO: Connor Storrie
WEAR: Saint Laurent; Omega Constellation Observatory 39.4mm watch; Tiffany & Co. jewelry
STYLED BY: James Yardley

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon
WEAR: Loewe
STYLED BY: Emma Morrison

WHO: Gwendoline Christie
WEAR: Giles Deacon look; Herbert Levine pumps; Gillian Wearing mask

WHO: Ashley Graham
WEAR: Di Petsa dress; Zales jewelry
STYLED BY: Ava Deith

WHO: Cara Delevingne
WEAR: Ralph Lauren dress; De Beers jewelry

For some, today is just the first Monday in May. For those who follow fashion and celebrity style, it's Met Gala Monday. It's undoubtedly our most highly anticipated event of the entire year here at Who What Wear. The buzz about who will walk the red carpet (which is always kept a secret) has been growing by the day, and we've finally reached the hour in which we get the answers, along with what they're wearing. As is always the case, many of the most iconic looks at the Met Gala tonight will live on in fashion history. In addition to Anna Wintour, the 2026 cochairs are Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, so we know for sure that we have that to look forward to.

This year's Met Gala dress code is "Fashion Is Art," intended to complement the Met's exhibition theme, Costume Art. As always, we'll be keeping close tabs on who does and doesn't follow said dress code, although the theme is a bit more vague some years than others—this year being one of them. That said, a theme that allows for a broader interpretation can make for a very interesting red carpet.

Along with our minute-by-minute Met Gala coverage on Instagram and our roundups of the best fashion and beauty looks on the red carpet of the night, you can follow along here as we provide our real-time reactions to the evening's biggest moments. Stay tuned!

Happy Met Gala Monday to all who celebrate! We're IRL at The Mark Hotel to get the first glimpse at the attendees as they head for the red carpet. Be sure to catch all of the candid moments we capture on Who What Wear's Instagram.

Posted up on the Upper East Side at The Carlyle and The Surrey!

Erin, our associate director of fashion news, is reporting live from the Met Gala red carpet—or should we say cobblestone carpet?

Here we go! Emma Chamberlain is one of the first to step onto the red carpet. She's wearing custom Mugler and looks like an oil painting personified, which is right in step with the Fashion Is Art theme.

Ashley Graham has arrived and is wearing a custom Di Petsa wet-look gown similar to one featured in The Met's Costume Art exhibition that my colleague Eliza spotted while previewing it this morning.

Charli XCX just exited The Carlyle and is en route to the steps of The Met.

Cochair Nicole Kidman just stepped onto the red carpet (wearing Chanel, of course) with her daughter Sunday Rose Kidman Urban in Dior.

Anna has arrived. Like Nicole Kidman, she's wearing Chanel. I'm going to need a minute to stare at her feathered cape. Feathers have already become a signature of Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel, and have been featured prominently in his collections for the fashion house thus far. Fun fact: She wore a pink version of this look that was almost identical to the Met Gala in 2019.

My colleague Anna just posted Who What Wear's Met Gala 2026 red carpet roundup featuring the best looks of the night. Be sure to follow along as she updates it throughout the evening. Lots to come!

Who What Wear's roundup of the best beauty looks of the night is also live! Our editor Alyssa will leave no stone unturned, so be sure to keep checking it for updates. There are going to be plenty of jaw-dropping beauty moments on the red carpet—trust me.

Connor Storrie (and his Saint Laurent polka-dot scarf) just stepped out of The Carlyle and is on his way to make his Met Gala red carpet debut.

Not sure we'll be getting a glimpse of Zoë Kravitz's engagement ring on the red carpet tonight. She's really using the pockets of her peplumed lace Saint Laurent F/W 26 dress to their fullest.

One of the most iconic moments of Met Gala night in 2024 was when Doja Cat stepped out of The Mark in a bath towel. Well, Hudson Williams just re-created that moment. We applaud you, Hudson.

2026's breakout star has arrived! Sarah Pidgeon is wearing Loewe for her Met Gala debut.

Few red carpets produce moments such as this. Sarah Pidgeon's Love Story costar Dree Hemingway just arrived wearing Valentino Haute Couture S/S 26, designed by Alessandro Michele.

Gigi is here, and she's wearing custom Miu Miu! Could this be a sign that the naked dress is back?

Spotted leaving The Surrey en route to The Met: golden girl Hailey Bieber.

Another Met Gala debut! Figure skating star (and new Louis Vuitton ambassador) Alysa Liu just arrived wearing a custom creation by the fashion house. "Her stylist Katie Qian told Up Next, "Our LV Look is a 'dissected' dress—it's meant to recall a cross-section of the human body or a cell. The ruffles have an anatomical shape, almost like muscle striation, veins, the interior of a cell. At the same time it also shows the 'guts' and the interior structure of a dress, showcasing the creation of clothing as an art form."

Our latest cover star, Carey Mulligan, just arrived, wearing vintage Prada from the S/S 98 collection. The abstract print on the sleek column dress calls to mind a piece of modern art.

Wearing deconstructed custom Schiaparelli Haute Couture, Kylie Jenner is sure to be on every list of the attendees who nailed the theme, "inviting guests to express their own relationship to fashion as an embodied art form and celebrate the countless depictions of the dressed body throughout art history." The inspiration was the iconic Ancient Greek sculpture Venus de Milo.

The wait is over! Sabrina Carpenter just stepped on the hand-painted carpet wearing custom Christian Dior. You'll want to zoom in on this one—her dress is made of film strips.

Margot Robbie has arrived, and the Chanel ambassador is fittingly wearing Chanel. Her dress took 761 hours to create and has 1080 embroidered elements. That fringed train will surely go down in Met Gala history.

I had a hunch you'd want to see Hailey Bieber's full look. She's wearing custom Saint Laurent. Our team is getting superhero vibes.

Gracie Abrams is wearing a stunning brocade Chanel creation inspired by Klimt's most famous painting, The Kiss. I don't think anyone could've worn this dress better than Gracie.

SZA brought a major dose of drama to the red carpet in custom Bode. Fun fact: Designer Emily Adams Bode Aujla made the dress of fabric that was sourced from eBay, and she shared with Vogue that she looked to Vienna Workshop, a pre-war design collective, for inspiration.

Met Gala mainstay Kendall Jenner is wearing custom GapStudio, designed by Zac Posen. It's one of several Grecian-inspired looks of the night.

Anne Hathaway is wearing a custom, hand-painted Michael Kors Collection dress, designed with the artist Peter McGough. Kors told Vogue, "We used ‘Ode on a Grecian Urn’ by John Keats as a starting point." Andy Sachs would be so proud.

If there were Met Gala red carpet awards, this would get the one for hair and makeup. Bad Bunny, wearing custom Zara, looks completely unrecognizable! You can always count on him to not phone it in.

Ladies and gentlemen, Beyoncé, wearing custom Olivier Rousteing. Met Gala cochairs are typically among the first to arrive, but not her. She's on the carpet with Jay-Z and Blue Ivy, making it a family affair.

Ayo Edebiri is looking positively angelic in a white Chanel gown, which gives the illusion of being held up by birds.

In case you missed it, Hunter Schafer, wearing a custom Prada gown which appears to be inspired by Gustav Klimt’s portrait Mäda Primavesi, is one of our editors' favorite looks of the night.

Blake Lively made a return to the Met Gala carpet tonight wearing a dramatic sherbet-hued Versace gown with a fitted bodice and full skirt. It's a signature look for her.

ICYMI, Chase Infiniti is another editor favorite of the night in a painterly Thom Browne formfitting dress.

You're not going to find another dress that moves like Teyana Taylor's, which is custom Tom Ford by Haider Ackermann. Here she is on the carpet with the designer.

The always fashionably late Rihanna is on her way from The Carlyle to The Met! Here's a first look.

The queen and king of the Met Gala have officially shut down the red carpet. Rihanna is wearing custom Maison Margiela drawing upon its Artisanal 2025 collection, and A$AP Rocky is wearing Chanel.

If a celebrity wears a naked dress to a regular old movie premiere, it might not garner all that much attention. If they wear one to the Met Gala, however, it will instantly enter the fashion lexicon. Sheer and illusion dresses have become recurring headline-makers on those museum steps, and we have Cher to thank for that. She wore a bedazzled Bob Mackie number to the event in 1974, causing quite the stir. These days, the trend is not as controversial as it was back then, but it's no less memorable.

No one did it quite like Beyoncé at the Met Gala in 2015, when she arrived in a barely there Givenchy gown embroidered with glittering embellishments that caught the light (and every camera angle) perfectly. That’s exactly why this year feels primed for a full-circle moment. Beyoncé is officially back at the Met for the first time since 2016—and this time, she’s a cochair. Expectations are, understandably, high. But she’s not the only one who’s delivered a memorable take on the look. At the 2024 gala, Elle Fanning offered her own version with a glass-like gown that was a true work of art. Scroll down to revisit other sheer moments on the Met Gala red carpet.

Kim Kardashian in Jean Louis, 2022

Cher in Bob Mackie, 1974

Beyoncé in Givenchy, 2015

Zoë Kravitz in Saint Laurent, 2021

Kendall Jenner in Givenchy, 2021

Blake Lively in Chanel, 2011

Greta Lee in Loewe, 2024

Elle Fanning in Balmain, 2024

Rita Ora in Marni, 2024

Rachel Brosnahan in Sergio Hudson, 2023

On the first Monday in May, the upper echelons of the fashion industry gather on the Upper East Side for the most opulent display of style, taste and creative excellence; more commonly known as the Met Gala.

For the uninitiated, the annual charity ball has been hosted for three-quarters of a century and raises funds for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute. With an exclusive guest list that gathers aristocrats, designers, actors, musicians, athletes, business tycoons and titans in their respective industries, the show-stopping night has come to be known as the crème de la crème of the sartorial calendar.

The actual proceedings of the event are an enigma thanks to a strict no-phones policy—save for star-studded selfies captured in the ladies’ room—making it also one of the most secretive events across the East Coast.

But of course, the real standout of the evening is the array of looks that grace the red carpet. Serving as a proverbial runway, the granite front steps are elevated beyond disbelief, serving both a literal and figurative platform for the haute couture creations that exceed all expectations.

From Gigi Hadid’s bespoke Thom Browne gown that made history for taking over 13,500 hours to construct to Dua Lipa wearing a completely beguiling 100-carat Tiffany & Co. necklace that was reportedly worth over $100 million USD, these ensembles aren’t for the faint of heart.

And with the annual Met Gala just around the corner, we felt it pertinent to revisit the best Met Gala dresses of all time. Blood racing, heart pumping, jaw-dropping and gasp-inducing, consider this the ultimate guide to the most memorable looks of all time.

The 13 Best Met Gala Dresses of All Time

1. Rihanna

Style Notes: With the theme as expansive and loaded with historical connotations as “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination,” it was only fitting that Rihanna take not only the most subversive route, but also the most straightforward.

Quite literally taking the fashion set to church, the multi-hyphenate musician and makeup mogul opted for a custom silver Maison Margiela cape-and-dress concoction designed by John Galliano. The pièce de résistance, however, was her homage to papal regalia in the form of her Stephen Jones headpiece. Hers is one conclave we’d gladly join.

2. Princess Diana

Style Notes: Six months after Princess Diana enshrined her fashion legacy by turning up to the Serpentine Gallery Summer Party wearing the inimitable revenge dress designed by Christina Stambolian, the late Lady Spencer made a discreet public outing to deliver another iconic ensemble for the ages.

Blending in with the Manhattan evening, she arrived at the soiree in an understated midnight blue slip dress designed by John Galliano for Christian Dior. (Just one of the British enfant terrible’s many features on this list.) Her one and only appearance at the event eventually came to define her sartorial shift following her separation from King Charles III; elegant, unburdened and an expression of her true sense of self.

3. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

Style Notes: without an appearance from the perennially mysterious Olsen Twins. Mary Kate and Ashley have been fixtures at the soirée since they were 18 years old, making the event a true home-away-from-home for the secretive duo. However, it was at the 2017 iteration, which was themed “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons”, where The Row designers made their biggest impact.

Returning to their bohemian roots, the duo arrived in truly antique lace slip dresses that were reportedly over a century old. Dripping in pendant necklaces, fur-trimmed jackets and chunky accessories, the looks also honoured the Japanese designer’s autumn/winter 2005 collection “Broken Brides”, which was a subtle full-circle moment, given it also acknowledged the year they first started attending.

4. Zendaya

Style Notes: You can rest assured that whenever Zendaya has confirmed her RSVP, a sartorial feast is guaranteed. As one of the pioneers of method dressing, the 29-year-old takes her job as a guest incredibly seriously. However, when it came to her co-chairing the event in 2024, she exceeded all expectations.

Not only did she both open and close the red carpet with two separate but incredibly visionary looks, she delivered the most hauntingly beautiful interpretation of the theme “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion”. With the dress code being "The Garden of Time," which was inspired by J.G. Ballard's 1962 short story exploring themes of beauty, decay, and the fleeting nature of time, she wore a custom gown by John Galliano for Maison Margiela that embodied the ephemeral and elegant source material. Quite euphoric.

5. Kate Moss

Style Notes: Another iconic co-chair came in the form of Kate Moss. Attending the 2009 iteration, which adhered to the theme “The Model as Muse”, she proved the power that supermodels wield as the ultimate shapeshifter. A true incarnation of Marc Jacobs' vision for the evening, she ditched her Camden-core leather jackets, skinny jeans and knee-high boots for a gold lame mini dress and matching Elizabeth Taylor-inspired turban.

6. Zoë Kravtiz

Style Notes: One of the symbols for Anthony Vaccarello’s sensually sophisticated visions for Saint Laurent, Zoë Kravitz was truly firing on all cylinders when she arrived at the 2021 Met Gala. Dressing to the theme “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion”, the actor-turned-director’s phenomenally risqué wore what could only be described as a netted dress made from dazzling crystals that made the shape of itty-bitty YSL monograms. Because who needs a slip dress when you’re dripping in diamantes?

7. Lady Gaga

Style Notes: Why have one look when you can have four? That was the thesis question that Lady Gaga designed her 2019 Met Gala ensemble around, landing on a captivating Brandon Maxwell look that was part performance art, part moving installation and completely camp.

Beginning with a magenta overcoat that featured an elongated train and accompanied by five dancers, she later slipped into a gown before changing into a Madonna-esque column dress, before closing out her epic entrance in a sequin-encrusted black bralette, panties, fishnet tights and platform booties.

8. Lily-Rose Depp

Style Notes: As someone who was appointed as one of Karl Lagerfeld’s “choupettes” as a teenager, it should come as no surprise that Lily-Rose Depp has almost unlimited access to Chanel’s archives for her public appearances.

At the 2019 Met Gala, The Idol star embraced the French maison’s most vampy silhouettes in a little black dress adorned with gold chains and gilded camellias. The piece was also first worn by Christy Turlington on the luxuriate’s spring/summer 1992 runway and later featured on Penelope Cruz in Pedro Almodóvar’s 2009 romantic thriller Broken Embraces.

9. Naomi Campbell

Style Notes: From walking the runway alongside her fellow “supers” to George Michael’s “Freedom” for Versace’s autumn/winter 1991 show to wearing the Italian designer’s iconic chainmail butterfly dress to an event alongside Kate Moss in 1999, Naomi Campbell has had no shortage of iconic Versace moments in her lifetime. Of course, the most sentimental moment came when she attended the 1995 Met Gala—the first hosted by Anna Wintour—alongside the brand’s founder, Gianni.

10. Tyla

Style Notes: It’s quite a feat to make the Met Gala best dressed list on your first time attending. But that’s exactly what South African pop sensation Tyla did for the 2024 event. In the spirit of surrealism and trompe l'oeil, the singer arrived in a Balmain dress that evoked the sands of time.

The gown was a custom fit to her figure and ended up being so tight that she needed to be carried up the steps by a security guard. Made from a plaster moulding that combined mica and mirror powder, the look was a true standout and firmly established her place in fashion’s elite circles.

11. Kendall Jenner

Style Notes: Though she might be known for her signature stealth wealth way of dressing, Kendall Jenner delivered her most high-octane look when attending the 2019 Met Gala in custom Versace. Wearing Marty Supreme orange and a feathered gown that left a trail of plumage, the look has become incredibly iconic over the years for the way the showgirl-esque silhouette completely transformed the model turned tequila maven. Later that year, for her Halloween-themed birthday party, the waiters were dressed up in this exact costume, proving just how camp the look actually was.

12. Kim Kardashian

Style Notes: Of course, it wouldn’t be a guide to the most iconic Met Gala dresses if it didn’t include this Kim Kardashian look on the list. Love it or hate it, this infamous Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy design helped segue the reality star and aspiring lawyer into a new stratosphere of fame.

Whilst many were vicious in their lamenting over her attendance at the event in the first place, the majority were brutal in tearing down the dress itself. Earning comparisons to Robin Williams in Mrs Doubtfire and even the couches owned by grandmothers, it's safe to say that Skims founder herself had the last laugh, given how iconic this look has become in its own right.

13. Anne Hathaway

Style Notes: Bearing resemblance to both an Oscar statuette and Star Wars character C3PO, Anne Hathaway’s Ralph Lauren dress from the 2015 Met Gala just proves how ahead of the fashion curve she is. This is a fact we might all recognise now, but it wasn’t the case over a decade ago. But as her fictional grandmother in The Princess Diaries, played by the incredibly Dame Julie Andrews, said, a queen is never late, everyone else is simply early.

What Is The Theme of the 2026 Met Gala?

As announced by VOGUE, the theme of the 2026 Met Gala is "Costume Art". As always, the theme is derived from the Costume Institute's spring exhibition. According to the centre's head curator, Andrew Bolton, the theme addresses “the centrality of the dressed body in the museum’s vast collection".

The museum reports that the exhibition will "pair garments with artworks to reveal the inherent relationship between clothing and the body". It continues, "from the formal to the conceptual, the aesthetic to the political, the individual to the universal, the illustrative to the symbolic, and the playful to the profound, these pairings are organised into a series of thematic body types that reflect their pervasiveness and endurance through time and cultures."

The exhibition is sponsored by tech billionaire Jeff Bezos and his wife, Lauren Sanchez Bezos, Saint Laurent and Condé Nast.

What is the Dress Code for the 2026 Met Gala?

Accompanying the theme, guests are invited to adhere to a compulsory dress code that further elucidates the crux of the exhibition. Keeping things incredibly simple for the 2026 event, the dress code is "Fashion is Art". This can be translated however the guest sees fit and can run the gamut from gowns that literally transpose famous works onto fabric to dresses that embrace the Métiers d'Art (or arts and crafts) that underscores any ensemble.

When is the 2026 Met Gala?

Like clockwork, the 2026 Met Gala is set for Monday, May 4, 2026. As the event is held in New York City, those of us here in the United Kingdom should expect to see looks from the red carpet begin to trickle in during the early hours of Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Gird your loins!

If there's one night that consistently delivers jaw-dropping fashion, internet-breaking moments, and just the right amount of red carpet chaos, it's the Met Gala. Every year, I find myself scrolling for hours, dissecting every feather, train, and sheer illusion panel, in the name of answering one impossible question: What are the best Met Gala outfits of all time?

Let's be honest. "Best dressed Met Gala attendee of all time" isn't just a title. It's a debate. It's Cher in barely-there Bob Mackie, Princess Diana rewriting royal dress codes, and Rihanna ascending literal fashion-royalty status (multiple times, might I add). The Met Gala red carpet best dressed moments aren't just about clothes. They're about cultural shifts, risk-taking, and those rare looks that instantly make fashion history.

That's what makes this list so fun and so subjective. From the unapologetic excess of the '80s and the polished minimalism of the '90s to the experimental looks of the 2000s and the meme-worthy and theme-dominating looks of the 2010s and 2020s, the Met Gala has given us decades of style moments to obsess over. They might not be your cup of tea, but they sure are unforgettable.

Consider this your definitive, highly opinionated, fashion editor–approved walkthrough of the best dressed Met Gala of all time—era by era, look by iconic look. Let's get into it.

What is the Met Gala 2026 theme?

According to Vogue, the Met Gala 2026 theme is officially Costume Art. The theme ties directly to the Costume Institute's spring exhibition, which explores how clothing and the dressed body have been depicted across thousands of years of art history—pairing actual garments with paintings, sculptures, and more.

Now, when it comes to what we'll actually see on the steps, the dress code is where things get fun. For 2026, it's Fashion Is Art, a different theme that plays in conjunction with the Costume Institute's exhibition.

When is the Met Gala 2026?

Mark your calendar: The Met Gala 2026 is set for Monday, May 4, 2026. As always, it falls on the first Monday in May aka fashion's biggest night.

Where can I watch the Met Gala 2026 red carpet?

If your invite to the Met Gala 2026 got lost in the mail this year (same!), the next best thing is watching the Met Gala red carpet live. The official livestream will be hosted by Vogue and kicks off at 6 p.m. ET, streaming across its website, YouTube, and TikTok.

If you want the fashion-person commentary—the real reason we're all watching—we've got you. Who What Wear will be reacting in real time on our socials with best dressed breakdowns and all the moments that matter.

See the Best Met Gala Looks of All Time

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Lauren Chan is a Who What Wear editor in residence, model, former award-winning fashion editor, and founder of Henning, a luxury plus-size clothing label.

Live from Los Angeles: I attended the 98th Academy Awards! As part of Etalk’s Oscars coverage, I reported from the red carpet alongside Tyrone Edwards and Lainey Lui. And let me tell you this was like no other assignment I’ve had before. The carpet was the longest of the season, taking up multiple lanes down Hollywood Boulevard, tracking all the way inside the Dolby Theatre. Our coverage lasted for a whopping three and a half hours. And the scene was filled with the world’s biggest stars, from Michael B. Jordan to Zendaya.

Etalk’s camera angles captured several memorable moments—thanks to Lainey’s infamously sharp eye for gossip—like Timothée Chalamet avoiding Steven Spielberg and celebs like Brandi Carlile and Elle Fanning shooting tequila. Tyrone was able to speak to stars like Best Supporting Actress winner Amy Madigan, who confirmed to Etalk that Warner Brothers is behind a Weapons prequel. And my job? Fashion expertise, of course.

It didn’t take long for me to spot the trends of the evening: glitter, feathers, chokers, brooches, and red lipstick. Here, the best examples.

Bold Glitter

Whether it was sequins or, more unexpectedly, beading, sparkle was the name of the game at this year’s Oscars. And there was a version for everyone, from sexy to classic to cool. We saw stars like Wunmi Mosaku go for bold gem-tone sequins in Louis Vuitton, Kate Hudson in head-to-toe seafoam paillettes by Armani Privé, and Audrey Nuna in gilded beading paired with a ball-gown skirt from Thom Browne.

WHO: Wunmi Mosaku

WEAR: Louis Vuitton

WHO: Kate Hudson

WEAR: Armani Privé

WHO: Audrey Nuna

WEAR: Thom Browne

Feathers

One of fashion month’s top trends was feathers—cut to Schiaparelli couture, Chanel fall 2026, etcetera, etcetera. It was exiting to see that theme hit the red carpet a matter of days after Paris Fashion Week wrapped. Chanel took the front position here with Teyana Taylor in a tiered ostrich-feather skirt with a matching black-and-white handbag and Nicole Kidman in a feather-accented peplum number. Demi Moore wore a more birdlike custom gown by Gucci.

WHO: Teyana Taylor

WEAR: Chanel

WHO: Nicole Kidman

WEAR: Chanel

WHO: Demi Moore

WEAR: Gucci

Choker Necklaces

I’m not exaggerating when I say that almost every single woman had a statement choker on. Below are my favorites, including Anne Hathaway in Bulgari (and Valentino), Chase Infiniti in De Beers (and Louis Vuitton), and Jessie Buckley in Chanel. But we also saw them on Zoe Saldaña, Mikey Madison, Kristen Wiig, Alicia Silverstone, Ava DuVernay, Elle Fanning, Priyanka Chopra, Anna Wintour—the list goes on.

WHO: Anne Hathaway

WEAR: Valentino

WHO: Chase Infiniti

WEAR: Louis Vuitton

WHO: Jessie Buckley

WEAR: Chanel

Beautiful Brooches

For those who wore menswear, it was all about the brooch. My favorite of the evening was Pedro Pascal in an unexpectedly large white floral pin made from feathers against a crisp white shirt. More classically, Hudson Williams wore a small diamond brooch on the lapel of this all-black three-piece Balenciaga 'fit. And if you looked super closely, you could see the tiniest gold adornment on the center of Miles Caton’s brown monochrome Amiri ensemble.

WHO: Pedro Pascal

WEAR: Chanel

WHO: Hudson Williams

WEAR: Balenciaga

WHO: Miles Caton

WEAR: Amiri

The Standout Beauty Look: Red Lip + Slicked Bun

If there was one standout beauty trend, it was easily red lips and slick hair. (For the men: mustaches and bow ties.) Renate Reinsve, Rose Byrne, Li Jun Li, and Jessie Buckley all rocked this look. At the Vanity Fair after-party, model Precious Lee followed suit.

WHO: Rose Byrne

WEAR: Dior

WHO: Renate Reinsve

WEAR: Louis Vuitton

WHO: Li Jun Li

WEAR: Gaurav Gupta

There are few things in fashion we can bank on, but if there's one thing, it's that the Academy Awards will serve multiple very good looks on the red carpet. Be it sexy, sequinned or downright surprising, we know as editors we'll wake up on that Monday in March to a series of viral moments, magnificent dresses and, of course, the news of who took home the most-coveted awards.

When covering the Oscars, particularly the red carpet fashion, we expect fun, fabulous but relatively unwearable looks. Feathers! Naked dresses! Rhinestones! Stunning? Yes. But easy to wear day to day? Perhaps not. But there was one microtrend I spotted at this year’s Academy Awards that I think is not only wearable but about to be huge, and that’s embroidered floral motifs.

Whilst we spotted a few examples; Rose Byrne in custom Dior, Lauren Santo Domingo in Conner Ives for the Vanity Fair after-party and Arden Cho in Miss Sohee, Anne Hathaway’s black velvet haute couture Valentino Garavani gown was possibly the most breathtaking. With a mermaid silhouette, a deep waisted belt and accessorised with matching black velvet opera gloves, Roger Vivier Jewel heeled sandals and Bulgari jewellery, this was not your standard little black dress. Hathaway’s choice to wear the luxury brand was no doubt a tribute to the house’s namesake designer Valentino Garavini, who died in January and was a friend of hers.

Another example that caught my eye was Lauren Santo Domingo’s Conner Ives dress for the Vanity Fair after-party. Floral embroidered silk pieces, primarily coats with a fur trim, are fast becoming a signature for emerging London-based New York designer. Just this weekend Zoe Kravitz was pictured wearing a custom jacket whilst stepping out with her boyfriend Harry Styles. Adorned with oriental florals, like the wisteria on Domingo’s dress, the style feels similar to that of Mary-Kate Olsen’s Balmain silk floral coat worn at The Met Gala in 2013.

Actress and KPop singer Arden Cho also chose soft floral embroidery on her chartreuse green (a trending spring/summer 26 colour) shawl by Miss Sohee courture. The Demon Hunters star paired the green embroidered puffed sleeve piece, which has a long trail from each arm to wear with her fishtail black lace gown.

Rose Byrne, who was nominated for Best Actress at the awards for her role in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, wore a stunning black velvet gown not unlike Anne Hathaway's. The Dior dress was also sleeveless, with a mermaid silhouette, in jet black with beautiful floral embroidered bouquets across the bottom and chest.

With the annual Academy Awards in its 98th edition, it was only a matter of time before those who attend the prestigious event pay tribute to their predecessors through their looks. On the 2026 Oscars red carpet, that’s exactly what several notable guests did, eschewing the preferred form of method dressing for something more cinematic.

Given that this ceremony is held to toast the stirring on-screen portrayal and box office achievements of the best the industry has to offer, it’s fitting that those who turn out gesture towards the rich history of fashion and film that set the scene for them. This year was certainly a more demure affair, with bridal whites the predominant colour choice and feather accents the defining way to steal the spotlight.

However, these classic gowns certainly still found a way to nod to the past, be it through pulling a look directly from the archives or emulating a dress worn by a previous winner, perhaps in a way of having their success impart onto the wearer.

The most notable iteration of red carpet referencing came in the form of Jessie Buckley’s custom Chanel gown. Whilst the actress, who made history by becoming the first Irish woman to secure the coveted Best Actress award, shares a Celtic connection with Johnathan Anderson and was speculated to be wearing Dior, it was French-Belgian couturier Mattieu Blazy who had the privilege of dressing her for the occasion.

And what an occasion it was, with the luxuriant’s light pink bustier chiffon dress and red satin leather stole broadcast to the world as Buckley accepted the statue through a teary-eyed acceptance speech. (She dedicated the win to the “beautiful chaos of a mother’s heart”, which is an incredibly moving devotion given the subject matter of Hamnet.)

Appropriately, Blazy crafted the gown with Grace Kelly’s 1956 Oscars dress in mind. Though the late Princesses was made by MGM’s in-studio costume designer, Helen Rose, she also wore the silhouette to accept her Best Actress award for her performance in The Country Girl. The same dress, the same stage, close to 70 years later.

Elsewhere, Gracie Abrams accompanied her boyfriend, and Buckley’s co-star, Paul Mescal for what is his second outing to the Oscars, wearing a cropped bustier and pencil skirt darted with embroidered camelia flowers. Also by Chanel, the look emulated the essence of the naked dress Bob Mackie designed for Cher to wear to the 1987 Oscars—where she also took home the top prize for her role as a pragmatic widow in Moonstruck—in all its chintzy glory.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a red carpet reference without mentioning McKenna Grace’s tribute to Gwyneth Paltrow’s bubblegum pink Ralph Lauren dress from 1999, the same year she took home the brass ring for her work in Shakespeare in Love.

Later, at the Vanity Fair after party, Hailey Bieber honoured the long lineage Giorgio Armani has of dressing Oscar winners by wearing a bespoke leopard print dress inspired by the Italian brand’s autumn/winter 2005 haute couture collection.

In the words of Taylor Swift, I think I’ve seen this film before. So, without further ado, scroll on to see all the iconic fashion references you might’ve missed on the 2026 Oscars red carpet.

All the Iconic Fashion References on the 2026 Oscars Red Carpet

1. Jessie Buckley and Grace Kelly

Jessie Buckley in Chanel

Grace Kelly in Helen Rose

2. Gracie Abrams and Cher

Gracie Abrams in Chanel

Cher in Bob Mackie

3. Mckenna Grace and Gwyneth Paltrow

McKenna Grace in Vera Wang

Gwyneth Paltrow in Ralph Laurent

4. Hailey Bieber and Giorgio Armani

Hailey Bieber at the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscars After Party

Giorgio Armani's Autumn/Winter 2005 Haute Couture Collection

To no one's surprise, the 2026 Oscars red carpet did not disappoint. After months of award-season buildup, Hollywood's biggest stars finally arrived at the Dolby Theatre, and as always, the fashion was just as thrilling as the nominations. From jaw-dropping gowns to sleek, statement-making tuxes, this year's red carpet was full of moments that made us stop mid-scroll and take notes.

As a fashion editor, I can't help but focus on the details: the unexpected color choices, the bold accessories, the silhouettes that flatter in all the right ways. Some stars went for classic Hollywood glamour, others pushed the boundaries with modern and edgy tailoring, and a few pulled off looks so whimsical you'll want to re-create them yourself. These are the looks that will inspire not only the next red carpet season but also bridal trends, party dressing, and even street style for months to come.

Here are our top five best dressed stars from the Oscars 2026 red carpet.

See the Oscars 2026 Red Carpet Best Dressed List

Elle Fanning

"Elle Fanning is giving Princess of Genovia in this wedding-worthy dress. Her Cartier necklace was the perfect complement to her full-skirted Givenchy dress." — Erin Fitzpatrick, Associate Fashion News Director

Teyana Taylor

"Teyana Taylor has always been a fashion North Star of mine, and every time she shows up to a red carpet, I know she's going to turn a look. This stunning custom Chanel look designed by Matthieu Blazy was a highlight of the night for me." — Ana Escalante, Associate Features Editor

Rose Byrne

"Rose Byrne's custom Dior dress is the picture of elegance. The stunning, whimsical floral embroidery is the pinnacle of craftsmanship. In my opinion, black dresses don't always translate well in red carpet photography, but this sleek one was the perfect blank canvas for the pearl-laden florals." — Fitzpatrick

Renate Reinsve

"I've been talking about what Karla Welch and Sentimental Value star Renate Reinsve have been doing as a duo this entire award season, and I should have known that they were saving the best for last at the Oscars. Still, I was shocked by how perfect Reinsve's look was last night. She wore a bright-red custom Louis Vuitton strapless gown that is apparently just a single piece of fabric, according to the E! red carpet team. The power of it was in its simplicity and ability to stand out in a sea of voluminous gowns and detailed beadwork and embroidery. The waist-high slit also helped. Let's just say that I'll be thinking about this monochromatic look for many Oscars to come." — Eliza Huber, Associate Editorial Director

Chase Infiniti

"There's something so enthralling about an up-and-coming actor and their first award season, including what they choose to wear and the designers they align themselves with on the red carpet. After Chase Infiniti's breakout role in One Battle After Another, I've been following her fashion journey closely, and I'm so happy to see her save the best look for last—a beautiful ruffled lilac gown created by Louis Vuitton. I often see too many young actors wear gowns that feel too old or too stuffy, so to see her Gen Z sense of style shine through in this custom dress means, in my eyes, it's perfect." — Escalante

Hollywood is always a place of glitz and glamour, but never is a time when this is more apparent than during the annual Academy Awards. However, for the 2026 Oscars, it wasn’t chintzy sequins, naked dresses, or bold bombshell looks that paid homage to the Golden Age of cinema that dominated the red carpet—though all of those were present—but a slew of bridal white looks.

It’s a fitting move considering an industry that’s been dominated by matrimonial discourse over the past few weeks since Law Roach dropped that bombshell alluding to the fact Zendaya and Tom Holland might’ve tied the knot. For her part, the actress did not choose to honour her possible new nuptials by wearing a white gown as she did at Louis Vuitton’s autumn/winter 2026 collection presentation during Paris Fashion Week, though she did spend the weekend that just passed at Las Vegas’ Little White Wedding Chapel promoting her upcoming A24 dark romantic comedy, The Drama.

Of course, with so many iconic movie brides to reference—Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate! Sophie in Mamma Mia!—Juliet in Love Actually—it’s only fitting that this trope gets thrust into the spotlight on film’s night of nights. Leading the charge was none other than Emma Stone, who arrived in a bespoke Louis Vuitton gown. Featuring an open back, shimmering details, and severe capped sleeves that emulate the Empire era, the two-time Best Actress winner arrived at the Dolby Theatre to mark her seventh nomination at the ceremony.

Later in the evening, Gwyneth Paltrow, who recently made her comeback to the screen as a past-her-prime actress in Marty Supreme, made an appearance to add another entry in her canon of memorable red carpet looks. But rather than wearing a blushing pink taffeta Ralph Lauren number or burgundy velvet Tom-Ford-for-Gucci suit as she did in the ‘90s, she took a far more risqué route in an ivory silk Giorgio Armani Privé gown that featured an exaggerated slit up the side.

And whilst there were plenty of more bridal white looks and pseudo wedding dresses to take note of, including Nicole Kidman, Priyanka Chopra and Mia Goth, the most breathtaking was Elle Fanning in a custom Givenchy dress designed by Sarah Burton. The strapless gown was nothing short of ethereal, with a cloud of silk taffeta following the first-time nominee as she made her way into the Dolby Theatre.

Speaking to VOGUE, Fanning revealed that the dress also held sentimental value as it was embroidered with wisteria motifs that paid tribute to the flowers that clung to her childhood home in the American South. Continuing the botanical illusion, she paired the look with a wisteria necklace from Cartier that dates back to 1903.

Ethereal, elegant and looking of love, scroll through for the best bridal white looks that dominated the 2026 Oscars red carpet. (And the after party to boot!)

All the Bridal White Looks on the 2026 Oscars Red Carpet

If the Oscars 2026 red carpet is the ultimate award-season showdown, the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party is where Hollywood lets its hair down. It's where fashion gets a little more daring. After months of red carpet glitz and glamour, tonight's attendees traded gowns built for the Dolby Theatre for looks designed to dance, mingle, and make a statement under the iconic after-party lights. Every sequined slip, tailored suit, and showstopping accessory deserves its moment in the spotlight, and we're here to give them just that.

Think of the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party as the night's style playground, where stars take risks and stylists get experimental. From unexpected color combinations to whimsical details and bold silhouettes, these are the after-party looks we'll be talking about long after the night is over. Scroll down to see outfits worn by Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Chase Infiniti, Keke Palmer, and more.

See All the Looks From the Vanity Fair Oscars After-Party Red Carpet 2026

WHO: Bella Hadid

WEAR: Prada top and pencil skirt; Chopard Haute Joaillerie Collection necklace, earrings, and rings

WHO: Hailey Bieber

WEAR: custom Giorgio Armani Privé dress

WHO: PinkPantheress

WEAR: Tamara Ralph dress; Manolo Blahnik shoes

WHO: Anya Taylor-Joy

WEAR: Archival Dior by John Galliano romper; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Odessa A'zion

WEAR: Harris Reed dress; Pandora lab-grown diamond jewelry

WHO: Wunmi Mosaku

WEAR: Custom Georges Chakra Couture gown

STYLED BY: Shameelah Hicks

WHO: Elle and Dakota Fanning

WEAR: On Elle: Givenchy dress; Cartier jewelry; On Dakota: Zuhair Murad dress

STYLED BY: Samantha McMillen

WHO: Olivia Rodrigo

WEAR: Custom Saint Laurent dress; Chopard earrings and ring

STYLED BY: Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo

WHO: Kendall Jenner

WEAR: Chanel dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry; Gianvito Rossi shoes

WHO: Quinta Brunson

WEAR: Tom Ford gown; Schutz heels.

STYLED BY: Jessica Paster

WHO: Karol G

WEAR: Ashi Studio dress; Gianvitto Rossi heels; Jacob & Co. Jewels.

STYLED BY: Brett Alan Nelson

WHO: Isha Ambani

WEAR: Dilara Findikoglu dress made with custom woven fabrics sourced from Swadesh

STYLED BY: Jamie Mizrahi

WHO: Kaia Geber

WEAR: Givenchy by Sarah Burton gown

WHO: Julia Fox

WEAR: Viktor&Rolf S/S 22 Couture dress; La Marquise ring and earrings

STYLED BY: Briana Andalore

WHO: Dua Lipa and Callum Turner

WEAR: On Lipa: Schiaparelli Couture dress; Bulgari jewelry

STYLED BY: Lorenzo Posocco

WHO: Amelia Gray Hamlin

WEAR: Revolve Los Angeles dress

WHO: Olandria Carthen

WEAR: Custom Pajtim Raci gown; Atazure jewelry

STYLED BY: The Reismans

WHO: Tate McRae

WEAR: Ludovic de San Saint Gown

STYLED BY: Chloe and Chenelle Delgadillo

WHO: Simone Ashley

WEAR: Tamara Ralph dress; Buccellati jewelry

WHO: Chase Infiniti

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton Gown; De Beers jewelry

STYLED BY: Wayman and Micah

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon

WEAR: Custom Calvin Klein Collection dress; archival Stuart Weitzman Ellsie 100 Sandals

STYLED BY: Emma Jade Morrison

WHO: Teyana Taylor

WEARING: Chanel gown

WHO: Rita Ora

WEAR: Tamara Ralph dress

WHO: Keke Palmer

WEAR: Gucci gown

WHO: Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams

WEARING: On Connor: Saint Laurent top; Tiffany & Co. jewelry; TAG Heuer vintage watch; On Hudson: Balenciaga blouse; Bulgari jewelry, Christian Louboutin shoes

WHO: Kim Kardashian

WEAR: Gucci dress; Ofira jewelry

WHO: Cara Delevingne

WEAR: Thom Browne dress

WHO: Rachel Sennott

WEAR: Custom Balenciaga dress

STYLED BY: Jared Ellner

WHO: Tracee Ellis Ross

WEAR: Marine Serre dress; Boucheron jewelry

STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Jessica Alba

WEAR: Tamara Ralph dress; Ahikoza by Brham clutch; Chopard earrings and rings

STYLED BY: Dani Michelle

WHO: Kiernan Shipka

WEAR: Rodarte dress

WHO: Delaney Rowe

WEAR: Maison Margiela dress

WHO: Quenlin Blackwell

WEAR: Chanel dress

WHO: Lauren Santo Domingo

WEAR: Conner Ives dress

The Oscars red carpet has long served as Hollywood's final and most influential fashion stop of the season. By the time celebrities arrive at the Academy Awards, the trends that have quietly been building across months of premieres and ceremonies tend to crystallize into something bigger. Color palettes, naked silhouettes, beauty looks, and statement jewelry often set the tone for the year ahead. This time around, though, one unexpected theme is emerging: bridal inspiration.

Actress and Who What Wear cover star Elle Fanning stepped onto the 2026 Oscars red carpet in a breathtaking strapless white gown designed by Sarah Burton for Givenchy. The ethereal look—complete with a sculpted bodice and soft, romantic draping—already felt like something out of a modern fairytale. Fanning, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Joachim Trier's Sentimental Value, revealed to Vogue that the gown's most meaningful detail was deeply personal.

See Elle Fanning's Oscars 2026 Red Carpet Look

Woven throughout the bodice and echoed in her Cartier jewelry was a delicate wisteria motif inspired by her childhood home. "Growing up, my childhood home had a wisteria trellis that bloomed in the spring," Fanning explained. "I remember thinking it was the most beautiful thing when the petals would fall and create a lilac cloud on the ground." Burton and the Givenchy team translated that memory into intricate embroidery, hand-stitching each tiny petal with silk threads in shades of blue, pink, silver, and lilac.

The romantic detail feels particularly timely. While brides have long gravitated toward lace, tulle, and crystals, a growing number of 2026 wedding looks are embracing floral motifs instead—stitched into veils, embroidered onto bodices, and worked into jewelry. Fanning leaned further into the theme with a vintage Cartier wisteria necklace from 1903, proving that sometimes the most memorable red carpet moments double as the ultimate bridal mood board.

Fanning's wisteria-detailed gown shows how a little personal touch can make a red carpet look feel magical and totally bridal.

Kylie Jenner has had a busy few months, and tonight, she's bringing that momentum straight to the 2026 Oscars red carpet. The beauty mogul and budding actress (Gen Z is raving about her cameo in Charli XCX's mockumentary, The Moment) arrived at the 98th annual Academy Awards in a plunging red Schiaparelli gown that felt equal parts glamour and classic Hollywood drama, instantly making her one of the evening's most talked-about attendees before she even arrived at the Dolby Theatre.

For her Oscars 2026 look, Jenner chose to channel another Hollywood icon—the fictional Jessica Rabbit—in a plunging, shimmery red gown from French fashion maison Schiaparelli and approximately 200-carats worth of diamond jewelry from Lorraine Schwartz. The gown, a custom creation designed by Creative Director Daniel Roseberry, features a plunging neckline and a cool detail that makes the dress feel oh so 2026: a keyhole cutout below the bust.

While keyhole-cutout dresses have been trending on Hollywood red carpets since the '90s, Jenner's literal interpretation is silly and whimsical, something Roseberry has become known for.

See Kylie Jenner's Oscars 2026 Look

Jenner was styled by duo Mackenzie Grandquist and Alexandra Rose Grandquist. The Grandquists have lended their eye to Jenner's recent red carpet looks too—most notably the jaw-dropping hourglass look the 28-year-old wore while attending the Golden Globes 2026.

Jenner never shies away from a reason to turn a 'fit, but of course, there's another reason she's at the Academy Awards tonight: her boyfriend, Timothée Chalamet, who is nominated for Best Actor. The pair have been making their way through award season side by side, stepping out together across the red carpet circuit following the whirlwind press tour for Marty Supreme.

With Chalamet's category still ahead and the night just getting started, Jenner's dramatic Schiaparelli moment has set the tone for what's shaping up to be another major night for the couple. If this Oscars 2026 red carpet look is any indication, award season's most stylish duo isn't slowing down anytime soon.

Though we'd happily enjoy a star-studded red carpet every Sunday night, award season unfortunately comes to a close this evening with the 2026 Academy Awards, the finish line of a long and very stylish run of shows that started all the way back in November. It's bittersweet, so we want to savor every second of it, paying especially close attention to the looks that tonight's attendees and their stylists spent hours upon hours putting together. Every last earring and hand-sewn embellishment deserves its moment, and we're happy to give them just that.

Of all the award shows each season, the Oscars are always the mecca when it comes to fashion. Think back to some of the greatest looks of all time, like Nicole Kidman's chartreuse Dior Haute Couture dress by John Galliano in 1997, Lupita Nyong'o's aquamarine Prada gown in 2014, and Emma Stone's gold fringed Givenchy dress designed by Riccardo Tisci. Of course, we can't forget Gwyneth Paltrow's iconic baby-pink Ralph Lauren number that she wore in 1999, the year she won Best Actress for her role in Shakespeare in Love. And tonight, we were lucky enough to witness the next "greats" to be added to this list. Think Renate Reinsve's custom Louis Vuitton dress with a waist-high slit and Elle Fanning's bridal Givenchy gown by Sarah Burton and vintage Cartier necklace circa 1903.

Keep scrolling to discover the best looks unveiled on the 2026 Academy Awards red carpet. If you thought the stylish pre-parties delivered, just wait until you see the fashions that debuted at the main event.

WHO: Elle Fanning

WEAR: Custom Givenchy gown; vintage Cartier necklace circa 1903

STYLED BY: Samantha McMillen

WHO: Zoe Saldaña

WEAR: Saint Laurent dress and shoes; Cartier jewelry

STYLED BY: Petra Flannery

WHO: Jacob Elordi

WEAR: Custom Bottega Veneta suit; Cartier jewelry and watch

STYLED BY: Wendi and Nicole Ferreira

WHO: Paul Mescal

WEAR: Celine suit, shoes, and belt; Cartier jewelry and watch

STYLED BY: Felicity Kay

WHO: Anne Hathaway

WEAR: Valentino couture gown; Roger Vivier shoes

STYLED BY: Erin Walsh

WHO: Teyana Taylor

WEAR: Custom Chanel dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Emma Stone

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress

STYLED BY: Petra Flannery

WHO: Nicole Kidman

WEAR: Custom Chanel dress; Omega watch

STYLED BY: Jason Bolden

WHO: Mikey Madison

WEAR: Dior dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

STYLED BY: Jamie Mizrahi

WHO: Timothée Chalamet

WEAR: Custom Givenchy by Sarah Burton suit and boots; URBAN JÜRGENSEN watch

STYLED BY: Taylor McNeill

WHO: Gwyneth Paltrow

WEAR: Giorgio Armani Privé dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry; Christian Louboutin shoes

STYLED BY: Elizabeth Saltzman

WHO: Kate Hudson

WEAR: Giorgio Armani Privé dress; Garatti jewelry

STYLED BY: Sophie Lopez

WHO: Michael B. Jordan

WEAR: Custom Louis. Vuitton suit

STYLED BY: Jason Bolden

WHO: Jessie Buckley

WEAR: Custom Chanel dress

STYLED BY: Danielle Goldberg

WHO: Renate Reinsve

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress and heels; Louis Vuitton High Jewelry ring and bracelet

STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Gracie Abrams

WEAR: Chanel set

STYLED BY: Spencer Singer

WHO: Mia Goth

WEAR: Dior dress; Stuart Weitzman shoes

STYLED BY: Jamie Mizrahi

WHO: Jayme Lawson

WEAR: Loewe dress; Christian Louboutin shoes

STYLED BY: Jason Rembert

WHO: Pedro Pascal

WEAR: Chanel suit

STYLED BY: Jamie Mizrahi

WHO: Demi Moore

WEAR: Custom Gucci dress; Boucheron jewelry

STYLED BY: Brad Goreski

WHO: Odessa A'zion

WEAR: Valentino couture dress; Pandora jewelry

WHO: Hudson Williams

WEAR: Custom Balenciaga suit; Bulgari jewelry

STYLED BY: Anastasia Walker

WHO: Chase Infiniti

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress; De Beers jewelry

STYLED BY: Wayman + Micah

WHO: Kirsten Dunst

WEAR: Celine dress and shoes; Fred Leighton jewelry

STYLED BY: Samantha McMillen

WHO: Ariana Greenblatt

WEAR: Vintage John Galliano dress from Raffe Vintage; Mikimoto jewelry

STYLED BY: Molly Dickson

WHO: Barbie Ferreira

WEAR: Custom Gap Studio by Zac Posen dress; Christian Louboutin heels; De Beers jewelry; La Marquise ring

STYLED BY: Chris Horan

WHO: Ejae

WEAR: Dior dress; Swarovski jewelry

WHO: Ava DuVernay

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress; Pomellato jewelry; Gianvito Rossi shoes

STYLED BY: Katie Bofshever

WHO: Rose Byrne

WEAR: Custom Dior couture dress; Taffin desert diamond necklace and earrings; Gianvito Rossi shoes

STYLED BY: Kate Young

WHO: Audrey Nuna

WEAR: Thom Browne dress; Chopard jewelry

STYLED BY: Danyul Brown

WHO: Vicky Krieps

WEAR: Custom Bottega Veneta dress

WHO: Bruna Marquezine

WEAR: Custom Gucci dress; Wempe jewelry

STYLED BY: Dani Michelle

WHO: Misty Copeland

WEAR: David Koma dress; Jared Atelier jewelry

STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Amelia Dimoldenberg

WEAR: Vintage Ralph Lauren dress; Bulgari jewelry

STYLED BY: Chloë Griffin

WHO: Arden Cho

WEAR: Miss Sohee dress; Christian Louboutin shoes

WHO: Calum Harper

WEAR: Custom Dzojchen tuxedo; Christian Louboutin shoes

STYLED BY: Zak Maoui

The 2026 award season is coming to a close, and it seems that the nominees, presenters, and attendees are saving some of their best red carpet looks for last. Last night, the 32nd Actor Awards (aka, the award show formerly known as the SAG Awards) took place in downtown Los Angeles, and I found it to be a very chic red carpet. In contrast to the upcoming Oscar Awards, the Actor Awards offer the attendees the opportunity to have a bit more fun with their looks. They're not quite as formal as the Oscars, and many on the red carpet embraced the opportunity to take some fashion risks that undoubtedly paid off. It's also worth noting that for the first time in my memory for an award show, the red carpet had a theme—"Reimagining Hollywood Glamour From the '20s and '30s"—and many on the red carpet seemed to let that guide what they chose to wear.

You may have seen our coverage of all the looks from the Actor Awards red carpet, as well as our exhaustive beauty coverage from the night, but now that we've all had some time to marinate on it, I've chosen the top five looks of the night. If I'm being honest, it wasn't all that easy—it was a very chic red carpet, with lots of looks that even the most discerning of fashion people would appreciate, but narrow it down I did. From my fashion-person perspective, the following are the top five looks of the night. Scroll on to find out why.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone has become a staple on the red carpet, with a great many nominations and wins under her belt. And although I may personally be biased because I'm a fan, let me just say that she has been killing it on the award circuit this year. Stone, who was nominated for her work in Bugonia, and stylist Petra Flannery opted for a shimmery lilac Louis Vuitton gown with a matching shimmering cardigan. It had an effortless '90s minimalism feel to it and exemplified what cool girls wear on the red carpet in 2026.

WHO: Emma Stone

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress and jacket; Garatti jewelry

STYLED BY: Petra Flannery

Chase Infiniti

New red carpet It girl Chase Infiniti, nominated for One Battle After Another, also opted for Louis Vuitton. Her wheat-colored formfitting long-sleeve gown and cloche-style mesh cap perfectly represented the theme and felt glamorous yet modern. She said in a red carpet interview that she was going for a Josephine Baker look, and she undoubtedly succeeded.

WHO: Chase Infiniti

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress; De Beers jewelry

STYLED BY: Wayman + Micah

Sarah Pidgeon

Sarah Pidgeon, another new face on the red carpet this year, has seen her star in Hollywood and the fashion world rise in recent months, given her spot-on portrayal of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. Pidgeon wore a pale pink tulip-shaped strapless gown from Balenciaga's S/S 26 collection, and it pretty much solidified her as the new fashion It girl who I hope will be a fixture on red carpets for years to come. Taking fashion risks right out of the gate is always a good idea, if you ask me.

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon

WEAR: Balenciaga S/S 26 dress; Rahaminov Diamonds jewelry

STYLED BY: Emma Jade Morrison

Demi Moore

Whenever I receive a press release that someone will be wearing Schiaparelli on the red carpet, I know it's going to be a dramatic, showstopping moment, and that's exactly what it was when Demi Moore stepped on the red carpet wearing a S/S 26 couture gown by the fashion house. According to Schiaparelli, the sculptural black bustier gown was made of black wool crêpe embellished with a satin-stitch trompe l’œil crocodile tail, and the white tulle "cloud" at the back was embroidered with 8500 black mimosas in silk thread and over 11,000 crystals. Breathtaking, to say the least.

WHO: Demi Moore

WEAR: Schiaparelli S/S 26 Couture dress; Harry Winston jewelry

STYLED BY: Brad Goreski

Kate Hudson

Last but not least, Kate Hudson, nominated for Song Sung Blue, went with an ethereal bridal-esque gown, custom-made by Valentino. It included trend-forward elements such as elegant ruching and a cape detail that cascaded over her shoulders. It was the perfect example of the glamorous, romantic Grecian-inspired aesthetic that was popular in the 1930s, in keeping with the theme for the night.

WHO: Kate Hudson

WEAR: Custom Valentino dress; bespoke desert diamond necklace, earrings, and rings

STYLED BY: Sophie Lopez

Is anyone tired of award shows yet? I'm not. I may be biased, but I think it's fun to see what celebrities choose to wear to high-profile events like the Golden Globes, Grammys, and the Independent Spirit Awards. I've thoroughly enjoyed witnessing Chase Infiniti's breakout red carpet season and following Elle Fanning's road to her first Oscars nomination. Tonight, we have one last stop before the Academy Awards, which will be held on Sunday, March 15.

The occasion? The Actor Awards, formerly known as the SAG Awards. Hosted by Kristen Bell, the ceremony will hand out statues for acting roles across both film and television. (Unlike other shows, there are no non-acting categories such as writing and directing.) Emma Stone attended the event wearing a custom Louis Vuitton hand-embroidered lilac chiffon slip dress with a matching cardigan. Some people on social media insisted that the cardi was far too casual for an award show, while others loved the minimalist '90s vibe.

It's quite rare to see outerwear of any kind on the red carpet, so I don't blame people for being caught off guard by Stone's extra layer. However, I'm always a fan of outfits that feel fresh and different, so Stone's pretty pastels are undeniably chic in my book.

On Emma Stone: Louis Vuitton dress, cardigan, and jewelry

We're nearing the end of the 2026 award season, which kicked off shortly after New Year's Day. In the last two months, we've ogled at Selena Gomez's feathery Chanel dress at the Golden Globes, Sabrina Carpenter's Valentino number at the Grammys, and Chase Infiniti's yellow Louis Vuitton gown at the Critics Choice Awards. Today, we arrive at the Actor Awards, formerly known as the SAG Awards.

Curious about the name change? It makes sense because the ceremony does not present Best Picture or Best Director awards, focusing exclusively on acting roles across both television and film. "Voted on by SAG-AFTRA’s robust and diverse membership of 160,000+ performers, The Actor Awards has the largest voting body on the awards circuit," it explains on its website. My colleague has covered all the must-see red carpet looks from the 2026 Actor Awards, but I wanted to single out Kate Hudson wearing a custom Valentino dress and bespoke Desert diamond jewelry created by L.A.-based fine jeweler Emily P. Wheeler. Capes will be a huge trend for both brides and wedding guests in 2026, so prepare to see this silhouette a lot in the coming months.

On Kate Hudson: Valentino dress; bespoke Desert diamond jewelry created by Emily P. Wheeler

And just like that, award season is in full swing. In case you missed it, 2026 kicked off with the Golden Globes, the Grammys, the BAFTAs, and the Film Independent Spirit Awards. Up next tonight is the Actor Awards, formerly known as the SAG Awards.

Tonight's award show, hosted by Kristen Bell for the third time and streamed live on Netflix, will take place at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. The event will cover 15 categories, including Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture and Ensemble in a Drama/Comedy Series. With movies and television shows like Wicked: For Good, Song Sung Blue, One Battle After Another, Marty Supreme, The Diplomat, and Only Murders in the Building, we can expect to see the best-dressed celebrities, including Ariana Grande, Kate Hudson, Teyana Taylor, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Keri Russell.

What makes the 2026 Actor Awards so special and exciting, especially for fashion people, is that for the first time, Elle has set the official fashion theme for its red carpet: Reimagining Hollywood Glamour From the '20s and '30s. "The concept pays tribute to an era defined by bold expression, sensuality, and cultural collision," as noted in a press release. Personally, I'm eager to see how A-listers and their stylists interpret this theme. The good news is that I don't have to wait any longer, as the first celebrities are already arriving, and the energy suggests the night will be filled with stunning fashion.

With that said, keep scrolling to see all the Actor Awards red carpet outfits. And keep checking back because as more stylish celebrities step out onto the carpet, dressed to the nines. I'll be here on my couch under my Lola Blanket, updating the story with all the best looks.

WHO: Gwyneth Paltrow

WEAR: Custom Givenchy dress; Belperron jewelry

STYLED BY: Elizabeth Saltzman

WHO: Chase Infiniti

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress; De Beers jewelry

STYLED BY: Wayman + Micah

WHO: Jenna Ortega

WEAR: Christian Cowan dress; Jimmy Choo shoes

STYLED BY: Enrique Melendez

WHO: Kate Hudson

WEAR: Custom Valentino dress; Bespoke Desert Diamond necklace, earrings, and rings

STYLED BY: Sophie Lopez

WHO: Mia Goth

WEAR: Dior dress

WHO: Viola Davis

WEAR: Gucci dress; Pasquale Bruni jewelry

WHO: Timothée Chalamet

WEAR: Custom Prada suit

WHO: Claire Danes

WEAR: Rahaminov Diamonds jewelry

WHO: Erin Doherty

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress

WHO: Mindy Kaling

WEAR: Yara Shoemaker dress; Boucheron jewelry

STYLED BY: Erin Walsh

WHO: Sarah Paulson

WEAR: Vintage YSL Haute Couture dress from Shrimpton Couture; Paris Texas shoes

STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Parker Posey

WEAR: Gucci dress

WHO: Emma Stone

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress and jacket; Garatti jewelry

STYLED BY: Petra Flannery

WHO: Tyler the Creator

WHO: Demi Moore

WEAR: Schiaparelli S/S 26 Couture dress; Harry Winston jewelry

STYLED BY: Brad Goreski

WHO: Connor Storrie

WEAR: Saint Laurent suit; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Damson Idris

WEAR: Prada suit

WHO: Leslie Bibb

WHO: Aimee Lou Wood

WEAR: Custom Versace dress; Jimmy Choo shoes; Frank Darling jewelry

STYLED BY: Felicity Kay

WHO: Janelle James

WHO: Sofia Carson

WEAR: Elie Saab S/S 26 Couture dress; Chopard jewelry

WHO: Jean Smart

WEAR: Rahaminov Diamonds jewelry

WHO: Paul Mescal

WEAR: Saint Laurent jacket, top, and pants; Cartier jewelry

WHO: Amy Madigan

WEAR: Christian Dior jacket, top, and pants; Omega watch

STYLED BY: Andrew Gelwicks

WHO: Jessie Buckley

WEAR: Balenciaga dress; Jessica McCormack jewelry

STYLED BY: Danielle Goldberg

WHO: Jeremy Allen White

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton suit; The Back Vault brooch

WHO: Eiza González

WEAR: Giorgio Armani Privé dress; Paris Texas shoes; David Yurman jewelry

WHO: Teyana Taylor

WEAR: Custom Thom Browne; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

WHO: Irina Shayk

WHO: Michelle Williams

WEAR: Prada dress

STYLED BY: Kate Young

WHO: Kirsten Dunst

WEAR: Khaite F/W 26 dress and shoes

STYLED BY: Samantha McMillen

WHO: Keri Russell

WEAR: Custom Louis Vuitton dress

WHO: Rose Byrne

WEAR: Chanel dress; Messika jewelry; Gianvito Rossi shoes

STYLED BY: Kate Young

WHO: Nana Mensah

WEAR: Vintage Bob Mackie dress from Tab Vintage

STYLED BY: Solange Franklin Reed

WHO: Quinta Brunson

WEAR: Custom Gabriela Hearst dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry; Jimmy Choo shoes

STYLED BY: Jessica Paster

WHO: Adam Brody

WHO: Sarah Pidgeon

WEAR: Balenciaga S/S 26 dress; Rahaminov jewelry

WHO: Ali Larter

WEAR: Zuhair Murad dress

STYLED BY: Jeanann Williams

WHO: Michelle Randolph

WHO: Chase Sui Wonders

WEAR: Miss Sohee Couture dress; Tiffany & Co. jewelry

STYLED BY: Thomas Cater Phillips

WHO: Michelle Monaghan

WEAR: Prada dress

STYLED BY: Karla Welch

WHO: Hannah Einbinder

WEAR: Willy Chavarria dress

WHO: Britt Lower

WEAR: Colleen Allen

WHO: Odessa A'zion

WEAR: Giorgio Armani Privé jumpsuit; Jimmy Choo shoes

WHO: Patrick Schwarzenegger

WEAR: Tom Ford suit; Cartier jewelry

STYLED BY: Avo Yermagyan

WHO: Yerin Ha

WEAR: Balenciaga top and pants; David Yurman jewelry

STYLED BY: Holly White

WHO: Kristen Bell

WEAR: Georges Hobeika Couture dress; Rene Caovilla shoes; Messika the High Jewelry necklace and earrings; Messika by Khaite Moss ring

STYLED BY: Nicole Chavez

WHO: Jackie Tohn

WEAR: Genny dress

STYLED BY: Laura Schuffman

WHO: Sarah Catherine Hook

WEAR: Balenciaga dress and gloves; Christian Louboutin shoes; Cartier jewelry

STYLED BY: Jordan Johnson Chung

WHO: Dove Cameron

WEAR: Monique Lhuillier F/W 26 dress; Jimmy Choo shoes; Swarovski jewelry

STYLED BY: Marc Eram

WHO: Sheryl Lee Ralph

WEAR: Saiid Kobeisy S/S 26 dress

STYLED BY: Ivy Coco Maurice

WHO: Paige DeSorbo

WEAR: Marmar Halim dress

STYLED BY: Maren Taylor

Kristen Bell is no stranger to commanding a room. After all, it's been three years since she began hosting the iconic show. With the Screen Actors Guild being rebranded to The Actor Awards, there are even bigger shoes to fill than her normal years on this year's red carpet. Bell will be honoring the history of Hollywood. And what she plans on wearing? From tailored tuxedos to gowns that shimmer like liquid on stage, each look has been carefully designed to evolve with the night, blending Old Hollywood glamour with a distinctly modern edge. And before we get our first glimpse on the big screen, we are getting the chance to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes before they even come out.

We sat down with her stylist, Nicole Chavez, to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how these looks came together—from the first spark of inspiration to the final, statuesque moment that’s sure to leave the audience breathless. Tune in tonight to see these looks come to life, but in the meantime, we have all the sneak-peek material you’ll want to know.

In the earliest stages of Kristen’s looks this season, what sparked the excitement?

For me, I was really excited by the idea of building a fashion arc instead of just selecting three to five beautiful looks. Once we knew the theme was reimagined Old Hollywood glamour, it felt like such a great opportunity to explore different expressions of that throughout the night.

I kept going back to something we’ve done before—she comes out hosting and just commands this presence. So the thought of a tuxedo was really the first spark.

I loved the idea of opening the show in something tailored and strong. There’s something very Old Hollywood about sharp suiting, but it also feels modern and right for her as a host. She loves menswear—we even had a nod to it in the promo where she’s wearing a vest and tie. It just feels very authentic to her.

From there, I was really drawn to pieces that play with light and movement—intricate beading, elongating silhouettes. She’s quite petite, so that’s always a consideration. I kept thinking about the glamour that feels really cinematic on stage.

It became less about any one dress and more about how the looks evolve over the course of the show—starting strong with authority, then moving into luminous glamour, and ending in something bold and dramatic

The word “reimagining” stands out in the theme. What does that mean to you versus re-creating?

For me, reimagining is very different from re-creating. Re-creating feels more like a replica (almost like a costume), whereas reimagining is about honoring Old Hollywood glamour without copying one specific moment.

It’s about taking the essence—the drama, the silhouettes, the light, the black-and-white imagery—and translating that into something that feels modern but still authentic to her.

I kept coming back to bias-cut gowns because they look so good on her, and beading that feels almost liquid—something that catches the light beautifully. She’s going to be on stage, so I wanted that movement and luminosity you used to see in films from the ’30s.

I also thought about women like Marlene Dietrich—that balance of femininity and authority, especially in tailoring. That felt very aligned with Kristen as a host.

For mood boards, I didn’t do a ton, but I pulled from classic film stills, elongating silhouettes, and those really dramatic staircase moments. I also layered in more modern couture references from designers like Elie Saab and Giorgio Armani—pieces that feel sculptural and architectural.

I didn’t want anything to feel nostalgic or like we were copying something. It was about capturing cinematic glamour, but giving it a modern edge.

The Mood Board

Are there elements of Kristen’s personal style you wanted to highlight throughout?

Kristen has an incredible balance of strength and approachability, and I really wanted that to come through.

She gravitates toward clean lines and minimal silhouettes that feel strong but not overworked or fussy. Even within this Old Hollywood framework, it was important that nothing felt overly precious or costumey—especially because of her petite size. I never want it to feel like the clothes are wearing her.

Comfort is also really important to her. I always want her to feel like she can move and be at ease, especially as a host. So, even with something intricate or beaded, there has to be fluidity built in.

The tuxedo really highlights her confidence and sense of humor. When she put it on, she immediately said she loved how quirky and unexpected it felt, while still being refined and elegant. It will be Armani Privé couture, so it’s incredibly special.

The metallic gown she wears in the middle of the show really leans into that luminosity and Old Hollywood glamour—it’s all about how it catches the light.

And then the final look is a halter dress, which she loves as a silhouette. It’s fully beaded, so it ties back to that Old Hollywood feeling, but it also brings out a bold, statuesque side to her. That’s something I’m always trying to create, especially because we’re both petite—those really elongating, statuesque silhouettes.

Was there a moment in the process where everything clicked?

In all honesty, everything really clicked once I had a clear run of show, which was just this Tuesday. I had been exploring beautiful options for weeks (maybe even a month), but once I understood the pacing, the energy, the rhythm of the middle, and the tone of the ending, it all became much clearer.

That’s when it shifted from just great dresses to a cohesive fashion story. I come from costume design, working in film and television, so I naturally think in that way. That’s why I love press tours and especially doing these hosting moments with her: I get to tell a story.

The tuxedo makes sense for the opening—it establishes authority. The metallic beaded gown carries the glamour through the heart of the show. And then the black halter feels like the final punctuation mark.

I really needed that structural framework for everything to fall into place, and once I had it, the rest became very clear.

That said, I’m still keeping options waiting in the wings. It’s Thursday evening; things can still change. We still have a jewelry fitting and rehearsal tomorrow, so I always like to be overprepared.

What’s one way you intentionally made the looks feel modern rather than costumey?

This might be more off-the-record, but honestly, it comes down to restraint.

Because Kristen is petite and we tend to stay within more minimal silhouettes, I have to be really mindful of keeping things modern rather than letting them feel like a costume.

I see so many beautiful gowns and suiting that are incredibly ornate and over-the-top, and personally, I’m very drawn to that, so I actually have to edit myself when I’m styling her, but in the best way.

Instead of layering on overly vintage details, I focus on what we always aim for: clean lines, strong tailoring, and silhouettes that feel architectural rather than nostalgic.

It’s really about pulling back instead of adding more.

Without giving too much away, what can viewers expect from Kristen’s looks throughout the show?

They can expect range and intention. I put a lot of thought into making sure it doesn’t feel one-note—especially with a theme like this. As the energy of the show shifts, I want the fashion to shift with it.

We start in something strong and tailored to establish presence, then move into a more fluid, glamorous moment, and close on something bold and decisive. Everything lives in the same world, but there’s a clear progression.

At the end of the day, it’s about making sure the clothes enhance her role as a host. I never want the fashion to overpower her presence. She’s such a phenomenal host and so approachable—I want that to come through. The goal is for everything to feel polished and cinematic, but also effortless, so she feels comfortable enough to go out there and really carry the show.

What do you hope people feel when they see Kristen step onto the carpet?

I hope they feel that immediate sense of presence. The gown we selected is so beautiful—it has this liquid quality to it, and it’s very different from anything she’s worn before. It catches the light in such a cinematic way. The beading is incredibly detailed and placed in all the right areas, and there’s real strength in the silhouette.

It’s sleek and modern, but it also has this sculpted train that gives it a dramatic finish. What’s also interesting is how the logistics actually worked in our favor. We’re getting ready entirely backstage—it’s a very long day with rehearsals, glam, and everything happening at the venue. Normally, a dress like this would be really difficult to travel in—she’d probably have to ride in a sprinter, which isn’t really our style—but in this case, she can just walk straight from backstage to the carpet, which makes it ideal. I want it to do more than shimmer—I want it to command.

There’s something special about the profound impact that film and television play on our lives. However, as a fashion writer, what’s more stirring is the way that costumes from these cinematic moments weave their way off the screen and into our everyday lives. Now, with films like Emerald Fennel’s gothic romance Wuthering Heights, the new series of Shonda Rhimes’ beloved Regency-set behemoth Bridgerton and even the upcoming adaptation of Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility, which just so happens to star Daisy Edgar-Jones, it appears that style is entering its period drama era.

At least, that was the case at the 2026 BAFTAs. Hosted inside the Royal Festival Hall at London’s Southbank centre, the red carpet was dominated by theatrical ensembles that paid homage to fashion’s current favourite point in history—Victorian times. Indeed, it seems that 18th Century silhouettes have officially made their comeback, with Hollywood’s best and brightest dressing like they’re dressed for a Belle Époque-themed ball, rather than the most prestigious event for the British entertainment industry.

But, given that this awards ceremony is all about the theatrics, it’s perhaps fitting that both these emerging and established actors pay homage to the second-longest reigning monarch in the United Kingdom’s history. As for the actual looks themselves, motifs ranged from high collars to puffed sleeves and ruffled frills.

The most subversive—and perhaps breathtaking—moment came from Teyana Taylor.

The 35-year-old was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as fiery revolutionary Perfidia Beverly Hills in Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another.

However, in stark contrast to her camo trousers and flannel shirts, she arrived in a stunning plum-coloured Burberry wrap dress. Inspired by the heritage brand’s signature trench coats, the tie-up gown featured scalloped hems, a vampy neckline and a small train. It was also accented by Tiffany & Co’s Bird on a Rock brooch.

Elsewhere, Kirsten Dunst, who made her film debut in the Victorian-era horror Interview with the Vampire and has since starred in Sofia Coppola’s Southern Gothic drama The Beguiled, felt right in place in a cropped Valentino jacket with a mock neckline and extremely oversized gigot sleeves. She completed the look with custom Garatti earrings made of rare fancy green diamonds.

Earlier in the evening, before losing in her category, Odessa A’zion channelled a Victorian mourning dress in a strapless LBD that featured black lace detailing and soft floral embroidery.

However, I found the most compelling look to come from EE Rising Star nominee, Archie Madekwe. Dressed in Dior by Jonathan Anderson, the England native donned a crop jacket, a satin cummerbund, straight-leg trousers and a pleated necktie that emulates the Elizabethan collars, which were referred to back then as ruffs.

Living in London is like existing in a perpetual historical walking tour, so it's a common occurrence to see remnants of Queen Victoria’s reign throughout the city. What’s more rare, however, is to see the fashion of her day so acutely referenced and presented.

But from New York’s First Lady, Rama Duwaji, wearing lace-up Miista boots to her husband’s inauguration to the revival of corsetry courtesy of Margot Robbie’s latest press tour, it’s clear that Victorian fashion is becoming far more pervasive. Consider this quite the industrial revolution, and shop the celebrity-approved trend for yourself, below.

Shop the Victorian Fashion Trend from the 2026 BAFTAs Red Carpet

Method dressing has been the preferred sartorial route for red carpet punters in recent years. However, for the talented guests at London’s Southbank Centre for the 2026 BAFTA Awards, it wasn’t their respective movies that influenced their fashion choices, but the colour of the iconic River Thames that flanks them.

Indeed, with Hollywood’s elite descending on the United Kingdom, it’s only fitting that they take inspiration from their surroundings by saturating the red carpet in shades of navy blue. From homegrown talent like former Who What Wear UK cover star Olivia Cooke to three-time Academy Award nominee Carey Mulligan, who also sparkled in radiant Tiffany & Co. jewellery, this dark, moody and sophisticated neutral served as the shade du jour for the evening.

Leading the charge was none other than Emma Stone, who made her award season debut with this public appearance. Nominated for her role as the high-powered ‘she-e-o’ and potential alien in Yorgos Lanthimos black comedy Bugonia, Stone opted for a sleek column dress that featured a halterneck, keyhole cutout and short train.

Elsewhere across the event, Kerry Washington, who is presenting an award, arrived in a striking gown that boasts a sensual open back, pleated skirt and embroidered flowers that dusted the bodice. The top itself actually appeared to mimic an apron, which is a silhouette that’s been picking up moment after Mrs. Prada presented a range of smock-style dresses for Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2026 collection back in September during Paris Fashion Week.

However, the navy blue shade seemed to garner the most support from the British themselves. Given that the BAFTAs are held to fête their success in film and television, it’s only fitting that they steal the scene here. An honourable mention must be made to Adolescence star Erin Doherty in her peplum Louis Vuitton dress and striking Chaumet jewellery. Sitting down during the ceremony might be made difficult with the architectural number, but her continued commitment to structurally intriguing Nicolas Ghesquière creations deserves a nod in itself.

So, if you’re looking for a shade that’s an alternative to black or brown, but equally chic, this is proof that navy blue is it. And whilst it may take some time to adjust to, given how synonymous it is with military regalia like Napoleon jackets and school attire like knee-length pinafores, it’s actually proof that uniform dressing will always be stylish.

Shop the Navy Blue Colour Trend from the 2026 BAFTAs:

Calling all film fanatics and television lovers, today is the biggest day in British entertainment—the 2026 BAFTA awards have arrived! Hosted once again at the iconic Royal Festival Hall, this year’s star-studded lineup promises a mix of head-turning fashion and pop culture moments we’ll be talking about for the rest of the year. With the red carpet rolled out and a cuppa at the ready, we’re ready to capture every look from one of fashion’s most glamorous nights right here at Who What Wear UK.

With powerhouse nominees like Teyana Taylor, Emma Stone, Jessie Buckley and Odessa A’zion competing in the best and supporting actress categories, the fashion forecast for the evening is fierce. Expect old-Hollywood glamour, sculptural silhouettes, luxe accessories and maybe even a sparkly thong or two for good measure. Knowing how to deliver on both the big screen and off, these are set to be some of the most anticipated looks yet.

Naturally, the gentlemen couldn’t let the ladies have all the fun. From WWW favourites like Paul Mescal and Michael B. Jordan, a night of impeccable tailoring and suave styling is set to be on the cards, and trust us, it’ll be just as double-tap worthy as it sounds. And, with no less than three nominations, Marty Supreme’s Timothee Chalemet will also be one to watch. After a year of bold red carpet statements, our expectations are high.

So, without much further ado, let’s dive into all the wonderful looks of the 2026 BAFTA awards. You won’t want to miss a thing!

The Best Dressed BAFTA Attendees of 2026

Who: Alicia Vikander.
What: Louis Vuitton.

Who: Gracie Abrams.
What: Chanel.

Who: Jenna Coleman.
What: Armani Privé and Messika jewellery.

Who: Teyana Taylor.
What: Burberry and Tiffany & Co.

Who: Maya Rudolph.
What: Chanel.

Who: Kathryn Hahn.

Who: Little Simz.
What: Dior.

Who: Carey Mulligan.
What: Prada.

Who: Gillian Anderson.
What: Ara Vartanian Desert diamonds.

Who: Jessie Buckley.
What: Chanel.

Who: Hannah Waddingham.

Who: Emma Stone.
What: Louis Vuitton.

Who: Milly Alcock.

Who: Kate Hudson.
What: Prada and Chaumet.

Who: Olivia Cooke.

Who: Mia Mckenna-Bruce.
What: Miu Miu.

Who: Minnie Driver.

Who: Erin Doherty.
What: Louis Vuitton and Chaumet.

Who: Aimee Lou Wood.
What: Tiffany & Co.

Who: Rose Byrne.
What: Miu Miu and Boucheron.

Who: Sadie Sink.
What: Prada and Bulgari.

Who: Ellie Bamber.

Who: Jessie Ware.
What: Etro and Bulgari.

Who: Cat Burns.
What: Tasaki.

Who: Chase Infiniti.
What: Louis Vuitton and De Beers London.

Who: Odessa A'zion.
What: Dior and Swarovski.

Who: Renate Reinsve.
What: Louis Vuitton and Boucheron.

Who: Kerry Washington.
What: Prada.

Who: Hannah Van der Westhuyzen.

Welcome to your definitive destination for everything BAFTA Awards 2026. Taking place this evening on London’s South Bank, inside the iconic Royal Festival Hall, the British Academy Film Awards, widely regarded as the highest honour in British cinema, promise a night of glamour and celebration.

Hosted by Alan Cumming, this year’s ceremony is already shaping up to be a standout moment in the cultural calendar. Long considered a bellwether for the Academy Awards, tonight’s wins could offer a telling glimpse of what’s to come in Hollywood next month.

From the first red-carpet arrivals to the evening’s most important awards, we’ll be bringing you minute-by-minute updates as the night unfolds. Stay with us for every headline-making moment, every major award reveal and all the behind-the-scenes highlights from the BAFTAs 2026.

Opening this afternoon’s arrivals, Paddington Bear stepped onto the red carpet. Dressed in his signature blue duffle coat, the beloved bear marks the first of many exciting arrivals still to come.

Alan Cumming has arrived at the awards ceremony. The BAFTA host stepped out in a tasselled ombré coat, tapping into one of spring’s most pertinent texture trends.

Saja Kilani is one to watch right now. Fresh from The Voice of Hind Rajab, the actor and spoken-word poet, is gearing up for a busy stretch of fashion week appearances.

A gothic romance themse is unfolding on the red carpet this afternoon, with guests including Kerry Washington, Renate Reinsve and Ellie Bamber stepping out in decadent dresses in the richest shade of black.

Jessie Ware rings in spring in the prettiest canary yellow printed dress.

Romeo and Juliet have arrived! Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe have graced the red carpet, with Noah in a sharply tailored blazer and Sadie in a glossy satin gown.

Catherine, Princess of Wales has returned to the red carpet in an elegant purple gown by Gucci. First worn in 2019, the look marks another stylish rewear from the Princess—continuing her long-standing commitment to giving standout pieces a second outing.

Settling in for the evening, Kylie Jenner joined Timothée Chalamet at the BAFTAs ceremony, in vintage Mugler.

And the BAFTA for Best Supporting Actress goes to… Wunmi Mosaku! She takes home the award tonight for her performance in Sinners.

We have our Best Actress! Jessie Buckley takes home the award for her role as Agnes Shakespeare in Hamnet.

I'm calling it now: The 2026 award season will go down in the books as one of Hollywood's best fashion-wise. From Sabrina Carpenter's custom Valentino at the Grammy Awards to the plethora of jaw-dropping looks on the Golden Globes red carpet to Ariana Grande's beautiful nod to Diahann Carroll at the Critics Choice Awards, celebrities have served one spectacular look after another.

Today, we expect the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards to be a breath of fresh air—a fashion palate cleanser, if you will. It's being held at the Hollywood Palladium, and the art deco theater will host the best in independent film and television. To honor it's 41st year, the very funny Ego Nwodim will emcee the ceremony alongside honorary chair Lulu Wang. A-list presenters include Rose Byrne, who is nominated for Best Lead Performance for her work in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, François Arnaud, Kaia Gerber, and Regina King. The nominee list is equally star-studded, including Keke Palmer, Tessa Thompson, Eva Victor (who is nominated for her work on Sorry, Baby), Dylan O'Brien, Erin Doherty, Rebecca Hall, and many more.

Let's keep the momentum of this spectacular award season going and dive right into the most elegant red carpet—or should I say blue carpet—looks from the 2026 Film Independent Spirit Awards. With updates to come, we wait for the celebrity guests to arrive.