Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Critics Choice Awards kicked off the awards season with a bang, featuring stunning red carpet looks from celebrities such as Chase Infiniti, Ariana Grande, and Elle Fanning.
- The event saw a mix of classic and modern fashion, with stars opting for archival gowns, custom-made outfits, and bold, eye-catching accessories.
- Some of the standout looks included Chase Infiniti’s Louis Vuitton two-piece, Ariana Grande’s Alberta Ferretti gown with a floor-length cape, and Elle Fanning’s gold Ralph Lauren gown from the fall 2003 collection.
- The awards ceremony also featured a range of stylish outfits from male celebrities, including Michael B. Jordan’s burgundy Louis Vuitton suit and Teyana Taylor’s Saint Laurent menswear look with viral thigh-high boots.
Introduction to the Awards Season
The 2026 Critics Choice Awards marked the beginning of another exciting awards season, with the ceremony taking place at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California. While the stars may have been pacing themselves fashion-wise, saving their best looks for the upcoming Golden Globes, SAG Awards, and Oscars, there was no shortage of stellar style moments on the red carpet. From Chase Infiniti’s impeccably draped Louis Vuitton two-piece to Elle Fanning’s archival gold Ralph Lauren gown, the event was a showcase of stunning fashion.
Best-Dressed Celebrities
One of the standout looks of the evening was Chase Infiniti’s Louis Vuitton set, which consisted of an ab-baring crop top and matching skirt in a beautiful butter yellow crêpe georgette. The outfit was completed with Messika diamonds, adding a touch of elegance to the overall look. Another notable look was Ariana Grande’s ethereal pink satin Alberta Ferretti gown, which featured a floor-length, embellished tulle cape. The actress’s new, darker hair color and Swarovski jewelry perfectly complemented the outfit, making her a vision in pink.
Archival and Custom-Made Outfits
Elle Fanning also made a statement on the red carpet, opting for a gorgeous gold gown from Ralph Lauren’s fall 2003 collection. The dress featured a plunging neckline and a deeply dipped back, making it a far cry from the princess-worthy pastel dresses Fanning usually chooses. The look was a welcome change, and Fanning paired it with a couple of Cartier rings to add a touch of sophistication. Meanwhile, Denée Benton looked stunning in a custom silk satin bralette, under-bust corset, and bias-cut skirt by Bach Mai, which was accessorized with Baetyl Fine Jewelry pieces featuring blue tanzanites and fiery garnets.
Bold and Eye-Catching Looks
Teyana Taylor continued her red carpet hot streak with a Saint Laurent menswear look, featuring the viral thigh-high boots that have been spotted on several celebrities, including Alexander Skarsgård, Brad Pitt, and Pedro Pascal. Taylor paired the boots with a stylish outfit and Tiffany & Co. diamonds, making her one of the most eye-catching celebrities of the evening. Another bold look was Audrey Nuna’s circular Marc Jacobs outfit, which featured a crystal brooch, quirky bubble pumps, twisted top knots, and an Ahikoza bag. The look was a perfect example of capital-F Fashion, and Nuna certainly turned heads on the red carpet.
Classic Elegance
Some celebrities opted for more classic, elegant looks, such as Leighton Meester’s lovely lavender Carolina Herrera column, which was styled with elegant Chopard jewels and luminous makeup. The look was a nod to Meester’s character Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl, and she certainly did the character proud. Ego Nwodim also looked stunning in a high-slit scarlet Carolina Herrera look, which was finished with a demure black bow and jewels from Fred Leighton, including 1920-era diamond drop earrings and an antique ruby ring. The look was a perfect example of classic Hollywood glamour, and Nwodim certainly made a statement on the red carpet.
Conclusion
The 2026 Critics Choice Awards was a showcase of stunning fashion, with celebrities opting for a range of styles, from classic and elegant to bold and eye-catching. With the awards season just beginning, it will be exciting to see what other fashion moments the upcoming ceremonies have in store. One thing is for sure, however – the 2026 Critics Choice Awards set the bar high, and the fashion world is eagerly awaiting the next red carpet event.