Elle Fanning’s understated dress still makes a statement. Photo: Reuters
With the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards having recently taken place, fashion spotting is in full swing.
So far, elegant gowns, subtle textures and carefully chosen accessories have defined the season, offering looks that are refined and understated yet still memorable.
In the past, celebrities were generally expected to wear pieces straight from current-season collections. These days, however, fashion houses are taking a different approach.
Designers are delving into their archives to create red- carpet moments that feel more storied.
It is by no means a safe approach, as a lot of thought still goes into the process.
Vintage pieces must be carefully selected – and sometimes even adapted – to suit the celebrity’s personality, ensuring she wears the outfit, rather than the outfit wearing her.
Read more: The 2026 fashion conversation: Expect a return of thoughtful, timeless designs
At the Critics’ Choice Awards, Elle Fanning stepped out in a metallic Ralph Lauren dress from the Autumn/Winter 2003 ready-to-wear collection.
The design, featuring a head-turning plunging neckline and open back, was paired with just a few minimal Cartier jewellery pieces.
Custom designs are also becoming the norm. Mia Goth stunned that same evening in an off-shoulder Dior creation by Jonathan Anderson, styled with barely-there earrings and a single ring, also by Dior.
As for colours, quieter shades are proving popular this season. Monochrome looks and soft pastels dominate, creating an understated elegance.
Ayo Edebiri’s all-black Chanel velvet dress for the Golden Globes, designed by Matthieu Blazy, held its own through sheer presence and texture.
Lisa of Blackpink opted for a similar approach, wearing a Jacquemus gown with a see-through bodice and flowing silhouette.
Emma Stone, however, injected a gentle splash of colour to the occasion.
Her Louis Vuitton dress embraced the soft butter-yellow trend, proving that even subtle hues can make a memorable statement without overpowering the overall refined aesthetic.
Even the men are keeping things more muted and returned to conventional tailoring.
Colman Domingo, who is known for embracing loud colours on the red carpet, appeared in a classic Valentino suit for the Golden Globes. It carried just a hint of embellishment: silver leaves running up one side of the jacket.
Read more: Inside the new season: The fashion campaigns shaping what we’ll wear
Timothee Chalamet bucked his usual avant-garde style too.
He skipped the red carpet walk at the Critics Choice Awards, later appearing in a double-breasted pinstripe suit by Sarah Burton for Givenchy.
At the Golden Globes, he again went low profile, this time wearing a three-piece velvet Chrome Hearts suit. The twist was that he matched it with a pair of black boots.
While it may all seem a little “quiet” at the moment, this is just the start of the 2026 awards season.
With the Screen Actors Guild Awards, Baftas and Oscars still to come, the coming weeks promise even more red-carpet moments to watch – where elegance, refinement and the occasional bold statement will define the year’s celebrity fashion narrative.
Classic elegance kicks off the 2026 awards season
Elle Fanning’s understated dress still makes a statement. Photo: Reuters
Mia Goth channels bridal chic with her all-white red carpet outfit. Photo: Reuters
Emma Stone looks effortlessly chic in butter yellow separates on the red carpet. Photo: AFP
Ayo Edebiri goes for old Hollywood glamour, wearing a velvet gown that exudes timeless elegance. Photo: Reuters
Colman Domingo wears a suit with silver leaves on the one side of the jacket. Photo: AFP
Timothee Chalamet ditches his usual avant-garde style for classic tailoring. Photo: AFP
Blackpink's Lisa wears a flowy gown for her appearance on the red carpet. Photo: AFP
