Key Trends From the 2026 Oscars Red Carpet

The color red became the dominant choice on the 2026 Oscars red carpet, even eclipsing the classic black.

Stars like Renate Reinsve, from 'Sentimental Value', dazzled in a strapless Louis Vuitton dress with an exaggerated slit. Nominee Jessie Buckley also opted for this color in a custom Chanel gown, complemented by a blush-colored skirt.

Li Jun Li, from 'Sinners', shone in a Gaurav Gupta dress from the Spring 2026 collection, with decadent draping and a sculptural neckline. Even Kylie Jenner, departing from her usual habit of matching with her partner, Timothée Chalamet, wore a crimson Schiaparelli number to contrast with Chalamet's white tuxedo.

Feathers and bird-inspired designs were a standout trend, adding a touch of fantasy and sophistication to the red carpet.

Teyana Taylor, nominated for her role in 'One Battle After Another', impressed with a custom Chanel dress adorned with intricate black and white feathers. Nicole Kidman also wore a strapless gown with pristine plumage at the bottom.

Demi Moore opted for a darker direction, channeling a wildlife effect in a black and green gradient dress with feathers blooming from her bustier.

On the red carpet, the traditional tie was replaced by more unexpected options in men's wear, marking a break from conventions.

Joe Alwyn and Paul Mescal opted for ultra-slouchy and loose bow ties. Michael B. Jordan, from 'Sinners', looked dapper in a button-up Nehru jacket.

Pedro Pascal dispensed with the blazer and tie entirely, opting for a tucked-in white shirt and a huge brooch, although he kept his signature small glasses.

A select group of celebrities interpreted the theme of the night literally, wearing outfits with golden details that referenced the awards statuettes.

Law Roach wore a long jacket with Baroque detailing, evoking the grandeur of the old world, combined with a Chanel bag and Christian Louboutin heeled boots. Audrey Nuna, star of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters', shone with an asymmetrical ball gown with golden sequin details and a regal collar.

Ejae wore a shimmering gown reminiscent of fluid chainmail, or a coveted gold figurine, demonstrating a complete dedication to the theme.

Unusual necklines and shifting silhouettes offered a new perspective on fashion on the red carpet, reinventing the way of dressing.

Kirsten Dunst's tiered Celine number featured a sharp décolletage design instead of the classic V-cut. Regina Hall offered a lesson in a well-executed off-the-shoulder slant.

Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, star of 'Sentimental Value', revamped a classic column gown with folded fabric florals, taking the trend to new textural heights.

Bridal fashion, with white dresses and romantic details, had a strong presence on the 2026 Oscars red carpet.

Mia Goth, from 'Frankenstein', immersed herself in the ethereal romance of her role with a cream dress embroidered with lace flowers, courtesy of Dior. Emma Stone, from 'Bugonia', also opted for white in a timeless Louis Vuitton dress.

Elle Fanning served princess-gown glamour with an embroidered bodice and a frothy skirt, while Gwyneth Paltrow offered 90s minimalism with a pristine strapless satin number with Tiffany & Co. jewels. 'Hamnet' director Chloe Zhao gave it a subversive twist with an all-black tiered dress and a gothic veil.