A dazzling roundup of past red carpet looks spotted at the Golden Globes

Anya Taylor-Joy wore a ravishing emerald green gown by Dior in 2021. Photo: Instagram/Anya Taylor-Joy

A new year, a new awards season – and first up will be the Golden Globes (Jan 5 in Los Angeles) with all its stunning red carpet fashion.

The Golden Globes has always proven to not only be a celebration of film and television achievements, but also a runway of sorts for the biggest celebrities.

From designs channelling classic Hollywood glamour to boundary-pushing couture, the ceremony sets the tone for the rest of the year.

It also gives an indication of the overall red carpet trends to expect at the Oscars, Baftas, Screen Actors Guild Awards, Emmys and more.

Take metallic looks, for example. They have always been a favourite, a sure-fire way to catch attention.

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This red carpet trend exploded last year: everywhere you looked, there were gowns that shimmered and shone, and designs were dripped with sequins or rhinestones.

Bright colours can easily stand out too. However, the popular choice will ultimately depend on the colour of the setting (yes, the carpet may not always be red, despite the phrasing).

Pink was the number one choice in 2023 – partly because of the whole Barbie craze (the doll’s live-action film was released that year itself).

Maybe it will be pink and green this year due to Wicked? The blockbuster has snagged numerous award nominations for 2025.

Nude dresses – in shades of beige, pink and cream – are seen frequently at the Golden Globes.

These don’t easily clash with other colours and can look beautifully risque with the right design.

As it is, fashion and awards shows are simply inseparable.

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In 2022, the red carpet segment was cancelled at the Golden Globes because of Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. The year before that, it saw nominees tuning in remotely from home.

Yet, film stars still dressed up. Attendees showed off their outfits on social media instead, for those years.

Fashion observers usually look to the Spring/Summer collections (presented on the runway in September and October the previous year) to get a feel of what to expect.

A-list celebrities, however, will get fashion houses to create custom designs to achieve a unique look – so there’s really no way of predicting red carpet trends before the awards season kicks off.