The Critics Choice Awards 2026 delivered a visual spectacle with Ariana Grande’s Glinda-inspired gown and Teyana Taylor’s Saint Laurent power suit stealing the show — but behind every look was a story about legacy, brand synergy, and the evolving language of red carpet fashion.
The Night That Fashion Took Center Stage
As the 31st annual Critics Choice Awards unfolded in Santa Monica, California, Hollywood didn’t just attend — it performed. Stars transformed into living advertisements for luxury brands while simultaneously navigating the delicate balance between personal expression and industry expectations. The event, hosted by Chelsea Handler, became more than an awards ceremony; it was a runway for the year’s most powerful fashion narratives.
Ariana Grande: Glinda Reimagined in Pink Satin
For Wicked: For Good nominee Ariana Grande, the red carpet was an opportunity to embody her character’s magic. Her Alberta Ferretti off-the-shoulder gown, adorned with silver floral appliqués and a white tulle cape, wasn’t just dress code — it was a costume. This was intentional. Grande leveraged her nomination to create a moment that transcended awards night: she wore fantasy made real.
The choice was strategic. It echoed the film’s whimsical aesthetic while grounding it in haute couture craftsmanship. The gown’s structure — sculpted shoulders, plunging neckline — mirrored the confidence and vulnerability of her on-screen persona. This wasn’t mere attendance; it was narrative continuation.
Teyana Taylor: Power Suit as Political Statement
One Battle After Another star Teyana Taylor arrived not as a guest but as a force. Her full Saint Laurent ensemble — double-breasted jacket, feathered shirt, over-the-knee boots — was a statement of control. Each piece was meticulously curated to project authority without compromise. Tiffany & Co. jewelry completed the picture, turning accessories into armor.
This wasn’t accidental. Taylor’s fashion choices echo her public persona — bold, unapologetic, and rooted in cultural resilience. In a year where representation matters, her outfit wasn’t just glamorous; it was a declaration of self-worth.
Elle Fanning: Liquid Gold as Emotional Resonance
Elle Fanning stunned in a liquid gold Ralph Lauren gown that shimmered like memory itself. Soft waves framed her face as if time had slowed down for this moment. Her look wasn’t flashy — it was poetic. Fanning, nominated for Sentimental Value, used fashion to reflect emotional depth rather than trendiness.
The gown’s texture and color evoked nostalgia — a callback to classic Hollywood glamour while feeling modern. Fanning’s choice resonated because it wasn’t trying to outshine others; it was inviting viewers into a world of quiet elegance. She understood that sometimes, less is more — and that’s exactly what made her stand out.
Danielle Brooks: Minimalism Meets Maximum Impact
Danielle Brooks opted for contrast. Her semi-sheer, figure-hugging gown paired with a choker necklace and flippy ponytail created a tension between intimacy and rebellion. The simplicity of her silhouette amplified her presence — no embellishment needed. Brooks didn’t chase trends; she redefined them.
Her look reflected her role in Peacemaker — fierce yet vulnerable. The rings and earrings added sparkle without overwhelming. Brooks proved that minimalism can be powerful when executed with intentionality.
Meghann Fahy: Sequins and Symbolism
Meghann Fahy, nominated for Sirens, chose sequins as armor. Her halter-neck gown sparkled like a constellation, complemented by Tiffany & Co. jewelry that doubled as symbols of success. Fahy’s look wasn’t just about shine — it was about recognition.
The sequins weren’t random. They were deliberate — echoing the oceanic themes of her series. Fahy didn’t just walk the red carpet; she carried her world with her.
Michael B. Jordan: Tailored Confidence
Michael B. Jordan brought precision to the stage. His Louis Vuitton burgundy double-breasted suit, paired with David Yurman studs and tennis bracelet, spoke volumes about discipline. Jordan didn’t play up his charisma — he let his attire do the talking.
His look was grounded, refined — a reflection of his on-screen gravitas. Jordan understood that fashion isn’t about excess; it’s about elevation. He showed up ready to lead — not just in performance, but in style.
Jackie Tohn: Marigold as Metaphor
Jackie Tohn, nominated for Nobody Wants This, lit up the carpet in a marigold bustier gown. The color wasn’t chosen randomly — it symbolized warmth, passion, and transformation. Carina Hardy jewelry added sophistication without overshadowing the message.
Tohn’s look told a story of rebirth — a metaphor for her journey through the film’s emotional landscape. She didn’t just wear the dress; she wore her evolution.
Ali Larter: Risk as Rebellion
Ali Larter dared to bare — literally and figuratively. Her Nina Ricci slip dress featured a deep V-neckline, low back, and thigh-high slit. Silver sandals grounded the look, making it feel both daring and accessible.
Larter’s choice wasn’t about shock value — it was about authenticity. She embraced vulnerability as strength. Her look reminded us that fashion isn’t always about perfection — sometimes, it’s about presence.
Nicole Brydon Bloom: Sequins and Self-Acceptance
Nicole Brydon Bloom, pregnant and radiant, wore a long Akris sequined gown that celebrated her body as art. Statement earrings framed her bump, transforming it into a focal point rather than an afterthought.
Bloom’s look was a celebration — not of vanity, but of joy. She didn’t hide her pregnancy; she wore it like a crown. Her fashion choice was a reminder that beauty exists in all forms — even those still unfolding.
Ego Nwodim: Red as Revolution
Ego Nwodim shone in a long-sleeve red dress with a ribbon-lined thigh-high slit. Fred Leighton jewelry matched her intensity. The color wasn’t chosen for its vibrancy — it was chosen for its meaning.
Red represents power, passion, and resistance — all qualities Nwodim embodies. Her look wasn’t just elegant — it was revolutionary. She didn’t just appear on the carpet; she claimed it.
Rhea Seehorn: Black as Boldness
Rhea Seehorn, nominated for Pluribus, chose black silk crêpe with sculptural shoulders and a bold red lip. The contrast wasn’t accidental — it was intentional. Seehorn didn’t want to blend in; she wanted to command attention.
Her look was minimalist yet commanding — a testament to the idea that less can be louder. She understood that true power lies in subtlety, not spectacle.
Quinta Brunson: Suits Over Sparkle
Quinta Brunson, creator of Abbott Elementary, opted for a pale peach blazer, lacy top, and wide-leg pants. The look wasn’t flashy — it was familiar. Brunson didn’t need to dazzle; she needed to connect.
Her outfit was a nod to her roots — comfortable, approachable, and effortlessly chic. Brunson proved that fashion doesn’t have to be extravagant to be impactful — sometimes, it’s about comfort and confidence.
Jeff Goldblum: Classic Reimagined
Jeff Goldblum brought vintage flair to the present. His ivory tuxedo jacket paired with a Blancpain timepiece offered a timeless elegance. Goldblum didn’t chase trends — he resurrected them.
His look was a bridge between eras — blending old-world sophistication with modern minimalism. Goldblum understood that fashion isn’t about chasing novelty — it’s about honoring tradition.
Chase Infiniti: Two-Piece as Triumph
Chase Infiniti bared her abs in a Louis Vuitton two-piece — sleeveless draped top and flared skirt. The look wasn’t just bold — it was brave. Infiniti didn’t shy away from her body; she celebrated it.
Her outfit was a statement of self-love — not just for herself, but for her fans. Infiniti proved that fashion can be empowering without being performative — sometimes, it’s about owning your truth.
Kristen Bell: Lace as Legacy
Kristen Bell selected a black Elie Saab halter neck dress with lace inserts. The EFFY jewelry added sparkle without overpowering. Bell’s look was timeless — a blend of classic elegance and modern edge.
Her choice wasn’t about reinvention — it was about reverence. Bell understood that fashion isn’t just about looking good — it’s about carrying history forward.
Chelsea Handler: Emerald as Empowerment
Host Chelsea Handler looked like a queen in emerald green — a color that screams confidence and control. Jennifer Meyer jewelry added sophistication without distraction.
Handler’s look wasn’t just about aesthetics — it was about authority. She didn’t just host the event; she owned it. Her fashion choice was a mirror to her leadership — commanding, colorful, and unapologetically herself.
Chase Sui Wonders: Bold Halter Neck as Identity
Chase Sui Wonders stood out in a bold halter-neck dress — matching nails and Tiffany & Co. jewelry completing the look. The dress wasn’t just stylish — it was symbolic.
Her outfit represented her journey — fearless, vibrant, and unafraid to stand out. Sui Wonders proved that fashion isn’t just about trends — it’s about telling your story through fabric.
Erin Doherty: Drama in Design
Erin Doherty, nominated for Adolescence, chose a custom light emerald green Louis Vuitton gown with a voluminous skirt. The design wasn’t just eye-catching — it was emotionally resonant.
Doherty’s look wasn’t about showing off — it was about expressing. Her gown whispered stories of growth, complexity, and transformation — mirroring her character’s arc.
Hannah Einbinder: Contrast as Character
Hannah Einbinder picked a Louis Vuitton number — ecru pleated top with a black silk velvet skirt. The contrast wasn’t accidental — it was intentional. Einbinder understood that fashion can tell a story without words.
Her look was a reflection of her role — playful yet sophisticated. Einbinder proved that fashion isn’t just about appearance — it’s about personality.
Denée Benton: Burgundy as Boldness
Denée Benton, nominated for The Gilded Age, chose a custom Bach Mai design — burgundy bralette and corset with a purple skirt. Baetyl Fine Jewelry completed the look.
Her outfit wasn’t just beautiful — it was defiant. Benton didn’t follow trends — she set them. Her look was a declaration of independence — fashion as a form of protest against conformity.
Chris Perfetti: All Black as Authority
Chris Perfetti, nominated for Abbott Elementary, elevated his black tuxedo with textured fabric and David Yurman jewelry. The look wasn’t just sharp — it was authoritative.
Perfetti’s fashion choice wasn’t about standing out — it was about standing tall. He didn’t chase trends — he defined them. His look was a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful statements are the quietest ones.
These aren’t just outfits — they’re declarations. Every stitch, every hue, every accessory carries meaning. The Critics Choice Awards 2026 wasn’t just about celebrating excellence — it was about showcasing the artistry behind celebrity fashion. From Ariana Grande’s pink satin to Teyana Taylor’s power suit, each look told a story — one that went beyond the red carpet and into the heart of the entertainment industry.
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