Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet featured a wide range of styles, from avant-garde fashion experiments to clean, column-driven gowns.
- Celebrities such as Audrey Nuna, Chase Sui Wonders, and Emilia Jones made bold fashion statements with their choices.
- Some looks, such as those worn by Eva Victor and Odessa A’zion, were less successful and felt overwhelming or unflattering.
- Other celebrities, such as Keri Russell and Kristen Bell, opted for more classic and elegant looks.
- The awards ceremony saw a mix of risk-takers and safe bets, with some celebrities playing it safe and others pushing the boundaries of fashion.
Introduction to the Red Carpet
The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet was a showcase of diverse styles, with celebrities taking risks and making bold fashion statements. From avant-garde fashion experiments to clean, column-driven gowns, the lineup revealed the wide range of styles that dominated the red carpet. One of the standout looks was worn by Audrey Nuna, who wore a Marc Jacobs Spring 2025 collection dress that featured exaggerated proportions and a sculptural silhouette. The styling and statement jewelry added to the overall effect, making it a fun and memorable look.
Avant-Garde Fashion
Some celebrities took a more avant-garde approach to fashion, with looks that were experimental and bold. Emilia Jones wore a custom Thom Browne slashed corset and pencil skirt that was sharp and unmistakably Browne. The Boucheron statement necklace added a touch of elegance to the overall look. Another celebrity who took a risk with her fashion choice was Rei Ami, who wore a Chochengco Fall 2025 Couture look that leaned fully into fashion-as-expression. The look was not about convention or ease, but about committing to a vision and doing it with confidence.
Classic Elegance
On the other hand, some celebrities opted for more classic and elegant looks. Keri Russell wore a Tom Ford dress that was clean, simple, and modern. The styling was understated, with Boucheron jewelry adding a refined finishing note. Kristen Bell also chose a classic look, wearing a black dress by Elie Saab that was elegant and flattering. The dress was styled with EFFY Jewelry and Jimmy Choo shoes, adding a touch of glamour to the overall look.
Mixed Reviews
Not all looks were successful, however. Eva Victor’s Ferragamo Spring 2026 suit did not quite deliver the spark that was expected, and the fringed scarf felt like an afterthought. Odessa A’zion’s Ott Dubai dress also felt like it was trying to say too much, with the result being overwhelming rather than exciting. Quinta Brunson’s Chloé suit was a deliberate change of pace from her usual glamour, but the tailoring needed a rethink. Despite these missteps, the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet was a celebration of fashion and individuality, with celebrities taking risks and making bold statements with their choices.
Couture Confidence
Some celebrities exuded confidence and elegance on the red carpet, with looks that were both stylish and sophisticated. Sheryl Lee Ralph wore a Tony Ward Fall 2025 Couture gown that was undeniable in its presence and craftsmanship. The look allowed her natural confidence to shine through, making it a standout moment on the red carpet. Wunmi Mosaku also wore a custom GapStudio look that was regal and fitting for the occasion. The drama was evident, with subtle nods to denim-adjacent hues, but the end result was a gown that felt entirely fitting for the queen that she is.
Fashion Experimentation
The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet was also a showcase of fashion experimentation, with celebrities trying out new looks and styles. Jessica Biel wore a Lanvin Fall 2025 embellished dress that was instantly recognizable, having been worn by Chloé Zhao the night before. The craftsmanship was undeniable, but the look felt like a repeat rather than a new statement. Natasha Lyonne wore a Celine mini dress paired with flared trousers, which gave her a slightly irreverent edge that suited her perfectly. The look was a departure from her usual style, but it worked well for the occasion.
Red Carpet Highlights
The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards red carpet was a highlight of the awards season, with celebrities bringing their A-game to the fashion stakes. From avant-garde fashion experiments to classic elegance, the lineup was a showcase of individuality and style. Some looks were more successful than others, but the overall effect was one of glamour and sophistication. As the awards season continues, it will be interesting to see how celebrities continue to push the boundaries of fashion and make bold statements on the red carpet.
