From modern glamour to archival elegance, these celebrities defined the night in unforgettable style.
The Critics Choice Awards 2026 officially kicked off awards season in spectacular fashion. Held at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica and hosted by Chelsea Handler for the fourth consecutive year, the 31st annual ceremony brought together Hollywood’s biggest names—not only to celebrate film and television, but to set the tone for red carpet fashion in the months ahead.
The Critics Choice Awards 2026 red carpet was more than just a parade of beautiful clothes—it was a preview of the fashion narratives likely to dominate awards season. Sleek column gowns, dramatic volume, archival references, and expressive tailoring all shared the spotlight, proving that there’s no single definition of red carpet perfection.
From Ariana Grande’s dreamy drama to Elle Fanning’s golden nostalgia, each of these stars brought a distinct point of view to the evening. Together, they turned the Barker Hangar into a runway of creativity, confidence, and craftsmanship—setting a high bar for the many glamorous nights still to come.
This year’s carpet was a masterclass in contrast. Minimalist silhouettes shared the spotlight with dramatic, high-volume gowns, while classic tailoring received fresh updates through color, texture, and accessories. From Ariana Grande’s ethereal fantasy to Elle Fanning’s molten-gold archival moment, the evening proved that personal style—not trends alone—was the real star of the show.
Below, our picks for the five best dressed celebrities who truly owned the Critics Choice Awards 2026 red carpet.
Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande delivered one of the most theatrical and romantic looks of the night, perfectly aligned with her Wicked era. The singer and actress floated onto the carpet in a custom off-the-shoulder pink satin gown that felt both classic and dreamlike. The real showstopper, however, was her white tulle floor-length cape, adorned with delicate silver floral appliqués by Alberta Ferretti.
The sheer, lightweight fabric created an illusion of movement, making Grande appear almost weightless as she walked. The look was unapologetically whimsical yet refined, striking a balance between Old Hollywood glamour and fairy-tale fantasy. It was a reminder that Ariana Grande knows how to dress for a moment—and fully commit to the story she’s telling.
Elle Fanning
Few actresses wear vintage quite like Elle Fanning, and her Critics Choice Awards look was a testament to her impeccable taste. For the evening, Fanning chose a slinky 2003 Ralph Lauren gown pulled straight from the archives. Featuring a plunging neckline and intricate beading that shimmered like molten gold, the dress hugged her silhouette while radiating understated opulence.
As a Cartier ambassador, Fanning completed the look with rose-gold jewelry, including elegant ear clips and a curated selection of rings. The effect was luminous without feeling overdone. Sentimental, sophisticated, and quietly powerful, Fanning’s ensemble proved that archival fashion—when worn with confidence—can feel just as relevant as any custom creation.
Mia Goth
Mia Goth brought an air of modern minimalism to the red carpet, opting for a look that felt serene yet striking. The actress wore a strapless white Dior gown described as “cloud dancer,” complete with off-the-shoulder sleeves in a soft, frosty champagne tone. The silhouette was clean and sculptural, allowing the craftsmanship of the gown to speak for itself.
Her styling was intentionally restrained. Dainty diamond pieces from Dior Fine Jewelry added just the right amount of sparkle without disrupting the purity of the look. In a sea of bold colors and dramatic shapes, Goth’s quiet elegance stood out—proof that simplicity, when executed flawlessly, can be just as memorable as extravagance.
Amanda Seyfried
Amanda Seyfried embraced playful sophistication in a Valentino gown that blended classic couture with a pop-art sensibility. The dress featured a black velvet bodice paired with a bubblegum-pink skirt, finished with a bold fuchsia bow that added a youthful, fashion-forward twist.
The color contrast was striking yet harmonious, giving the look a lighthearted charm that felt refreshing on a red carpet often dominated by neutrals. Seyfried elevated the ensemble with vintage-inspired jewelry from the Tiffany & Co. archives, including a diamond wristwatch and platinum earrings. The result was sweet but polished—a reminder that elegance doesn’t always have to take itself too seriously.
Jessica Biel
Jessica Biel surprised and delighted with a departure from her typically minimalist red carpet style. Channeling a boho-chic mood, Biel wore a sleeveless black-and-gold lace gown from Lanvin, featuring tiered layers and rich texture. The intricate lacework and fluid silhouette created a sense of movement and depth, making the look feel both romantic and bold.
She paired the gown with statement Cartier jewelry that added a touch of high glamour to the otherwise free-spirited aesthetic. The overall effect was confident and refreshing, showcasing Biel’s versatility and willingness to experiment with fashion while staying true to her refined sensibility.
