The 2026 Critics Choice Awards once again became a stage for bold fashion experiments and daring choices. The red carpet transformed into a true runway, where celebrities not only showcased designer outfits, but also pushed the boundaries of classic dress codes. This year, stars surprised everyone not just with their choice of brands, but also with unexpected combinations that sparked lively debate in the fashion community.
Among the evening’s guests, there were both impeccably styled looks and total fashion misses. Some celebrities opted for timeless classics, while others took risks with outfits that clearly defied the ceremony’s traditional framework. Yet it’s precisely these daring choices that make such events unforgettable.
Particular attention went to those unafraid to step outside the ordinary. Their boldness became the talk not only among stylists, but also fans who eagerly awaited new fashion sensations.
Dazzling triumphs
Elle Fanning’s gilded Ralph Lauren gown truly embodied luxury and elegance. Her look proved that gold is always on trend at film festivals, regardless of fashion movements. Renate Reinsve chose a black dress by The Row—in appearance, simple, but in reality, a feat of architectural lines and impeccable sophistication.
Rhea Seehorn also opted for black, choosing a sleek, understated outfit that highlighted her individuality. Ariana Grande made her red carpet debut in a pink polka-dot dress by Alberta Ferretti, while Sara Foster wore a long-sleeved, high-neck white gown that fit perfectly with this year’s trends.
Kylie Jenner arrived in a black slip dress with thin straps, becoming one of the most talked-about figures of the night. Odessa A´zion chose sparkly sequins, while Ego Nwodim and Katherine LaNasa added vibrant touches with their coral and red looks. Jessica Biel appeared in a luxurious gypsy-inspired style, and Amanda Seyfried proved that Valentino classics are always in style.
A man’s perspective
Among the men, Paul Mescal and Jacob Elordi stood out, both choosing total black but each interpreting the style in their own way. Mescal wore a tuxedo without a shirt, pairing it with a silk T-shirt, while Elordi went for a Bottega Veneta suit with a satin tie. Adam Scott embraced retro trousers from Dolce & Gabbana, and Eva Victor and Kathy Bates showed that a women’s tuxedo can be just as striking.
Ginnifer Goodwin dazzled in a sequined black Armani dress, while Keri Russell went for a look inspired by her TV role. The evening was full of unexpected choices that often defied the usual rules, making the show all the more vibrant.
Fashion missteps and misses
Not everything went off without a hitch, with some clear fashion disappointments. Megan Stalter and Paul W. Downs showed up in outfits reminiscent of Halloween costumes, while Danielle Brooks wore a look that puzzled the crowd. Teyana Taylor in Saint Laurent seemed out of place, almost like a character from another world, and Gwendolyn Yates Whittle and Sherry Cola went with dresses that were too short and odd, doing little to flatter their figures.
Ruth E. Carter looked tired in her pale blue ensemble, while Marin Ireland’s emerald dress felt outdated. Jillian Bell, for her part, seemed stuck in a fashion dead end, and among the men, Diego Luna stood out in particular — his look was considered one of the least successful. Ethan Hawke and Wood Harris also failed to impress the audience with their fashion experiments.
Jessica Williams tried to surprise with a white dress, but the result was questionable. Chalamet once again broke every possible protocol by choosing a striped suit for an evening event, and Adam Brody backed him up with his gray suit, which clearly was out of place for such an occasion.
Fashion without borders
Despite all the missteps, it’s these bold choices that make the Critics Choice Awards red carpet truly compelling. While not every look was a success, none left viewers or experts indifferent. This year, fashion again proved: rules exist to be broken, and individuality is the main trend of the season.
RUSSPAIN reminds you that the Critics Choice Awards is one of the most prestigious prizes in film and television, annually bringing together the industry’s top actors, directors, and creators. The event is renowned not only for its awards, but also for the colorful red carpet where celebrities showcase the boldest and most unexpected looks. Every year the ceremony serves as a stage for fashion experiments and heated debate, setting the tone for future trends.
