The 2026 awards season officially ignited at Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar as the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards brought Hollywood’s elite together for a night of high-fashion and cinematic celebration. Hosted by Chelsea Handler for the fourth consecutive year, the evening was a masterclass in modern glamour, characterized by a sophisticated palette of monochromatic tones and daring, sculptural silhouettes. As the first major televised ceremony of the year, the red carpet served as a definitive trendsetter for the months ahead, shifting away from “naked dresses” in favor of structured elegance, vintage revivals, and unexpected pops of “butterscotch” yellow and luminous pink. From Ariana Grande’s ethereal Alberta Ferretti gown to the sharp tailoring of Sarah Snook, the night proved that the red carpet remains the ultimate stage for individual expression and sartorial risk-taking.
Monochromatic Mastery and Suited Sophistication
The red carpet was dominated by a “sea of black and white,” as many of the night’s biggest stars opted for the timeless power of neutrals. Sarah Snook, fresh off her success in All Her Fault, epitomized this trend in a sharply tailored black jacket and trousers by Akris, elevated by glittering Chopard jewelry. Similarly, Quinta Brunson reinterpreted corporate chic in a monochromatic light-colored suit by Chloé, proving that a structured silhouette can be just as romantic as a ballgown when paired with delicate lace and Brilliant Earth diamonds.
Hannah Einbinder and Michelle Randolph followed suit, choosing gowns that incorporated classic colorblocking. Einbinder, in custom Louis Vuitton, showcased the brand’s ability to blend architectural rigor with red-carpet softness. This shift toward “suited styles” and refined silhouettes suggests a growing preference for comfort and presence over sheer transparency, marking a refreshing pivot in the awards season fashion cycle.
Vibrant Accents and Sculptural Statements
While neutrals ruled the evening, a few standout looks injected the carpet with much-needed color. Ariana Grande captured the “Glinda” spirit in a sparkling baby pink Alberta Ferretti gown, paired with Swarovski jewelry and a luminous beauty look that felt both classic and magical. Meanwhile, rising star Chase Infiniti made a bold statement in a sculptural, butterscotch-yellow Louis Vuitton creation, a color that stood out as a rare and welcome wildcard amidst the black-and-white landscape.
The night also saw a resurgence of “Victorian nostalgia” and gothic-inspired vibes. Mia Goth appeared in a dark, moody Dior ensemble that leaned into a structured, cinched-waist aesthetic, while Teyana Taylor stunned in a sultry Saint Laurent look accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewelry. These choices highlighted a trend toward “courageous statements” that use volume and texture to create drama without relying on traditional sparkle.
Vintage Revivals and Personal Milestones
Continuing the industry’s love affair with fashion history, several stars reached into the archives for their Critics Choice looks. Elle Fanning chose a refined gold Ralph Lauren gown from the Fall/Winter 2003 collection, demonstrating that timeless design is often the most effective way to stand out. Mckenna Grace also opted for a piece of fashion history, arriving in a vintage Vera Wang gown that blended youthful energy with old Hollywood sophistication.
The evening was also marked by personal celebrations, as Krys Marshall chose a champagne-colored gown to reveal her pregnancy, reminding spectators that the red carpet is often a backdrop for life’s biggest milestones. Even the men joined the trend of subtle, personalized detailing; Alexander Skarsgård drew attention with delicate white bows on his cuffs, a nod to the “coquette” trend that has permeated both street style and high fashion.
A Look Ahead to the Season
As the trophies were handed out—with One Battle After Another taking Best Picture and Frankenstein and Sinners leading the film wins—the fashion conversation had already begun to shift toward the upcoming Golden Globes and Oscars. The 2026 Critics Choice Awards confirmed that while silver and black remain the “new neutrals,” the season will likely be defined by a return to structure and a playful exploration of historic house codes. With brands like Bottega Veneta, Prada, and Valentino making strong showings, the 2026 red carpet season is off to a sophisticated, high-stakes start.
