The 98th Academy Awards, held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, once again brought together the biggest names in Hollywood for a night of glamour and celebration. While the ceremony itself honored the finest achievements in cinema, it was the red carpet that truly set the tone for the evening, captivating audiences worldwide with an array of breathtaking fashion statements. Stars arrived in a dazzling parade of couture gowns, tailored tuxedos, and bold accessories, turning the event into a spectacular showcase of style and elegance.
Months of anticipation culminated in this grand occasion, where leading fashion houses such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Armani Privé unveiled their latest masterpieces through the celebrities who wore them. The red carpet became a vibrant runway, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship behind each ensemble. From dramatic feathered details to sleek, modern tailoring, the looks reflected a wide spectrum of design philosophies, all united by their ability to command attention and spark conversation.
Among the standout appearances was Nicole Kidman, who mesmerized attendees in a stunning ombré gown by Chanel. The dress featured a delicate gradient that transitioned from soft cream hues to deeper pinks, creating a visually striking effect. Its strapless silhouette was accentuated by a fitted bodice adorned with intricate black and grey embellishments, while a mermaid-style skirt finished with feathered trim added movement and flair. A feathered peplum detail around the waist further enhanced the gown’s dramatic volume, making Kidman’s look one of the most memorable of the evening.
Equally captivating was Teyana Taylor, who sparkled in a strapless Chanel creation covered in black-and-white sequins. The gown’s mesh bodice offered a subtle contrast to the bold sequined skirt, which featured playful feathered fringe accents that added texture and depth. Taylor complemented her outfit with a dazzling diamond necklace from Tiffany & Co., perfectly echoing the gown’s shimmering elements. Her presence was particularly notable as she attended the ceremony following her role in “One Battle After Another,” a film that was among the contenders at this year’s Oscars.
Emma Stone embraced a more classic approach with a Louis Vuitton gown that exuded timeless Hollywood glamour. The short-sleeved dress was embellished with shimmering white sequins, offering a minimalist yet elegant silhouette. This understated sparkle brought a modern twist to the traditional red carpet look. Stone’s appearance was marked by her nomination for Best Actress for her compelling performance in “Bugonia,” adding an extra layer of significance to her choice of attire.
Elle Fanning transported onlookers to the golden age of cinema with a dramatic Givenchy ball gown that radiated old Hollywood sophistication. The strapless white dress was adorned with metallic wisteria-inspired petals that cascaded across the bodice and skirt, lending a subtle but enchanting sparkle. To complete her vintage-inspired ensemble, Fanning wore a Cartier diamond choker dating back to 1903, a rare and exquisite piece that enhanced the gown’s timeless appeal. She was also recognized with a nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Sentimental Value.”
On the men’s side, Michael B. Jordan made a striking impression with a sleek, all-black outfit that combined contemporary tailoring with understated embellishments. His high-neck jacket and tailored trousers were accented by chain details at the waist, adding a unique edge to the polished look. Jordan’s ensemble perfectly complemented his status as a Best Actor nominee for the film “Sinners,” underscoring his confident presence on the red carpet.
Kate Hudson brought a refreshing burst of color to the event in a seafoam green Armani Privé gown that shimmered with sequins from top to bottom. The strapless dress featured a plunging neckline and a structured peplum top, paired with a fitted skirt that caught the light beautifully as she moved. Hudson accessorized with diamond earrings and a matching necklace, enhancing the overall radiance of her look and making her one of the evening’s fashion highlights.
Adding a touch of playful charm to the red carpet was Pedro Pascal, who opted for a Chanel ensemble that blended classic and whimsical elements. His outfit consisted of high-waisted black trousers paired with a crisp white button-up shirt, elevated by a large white flower detail affixed to the shirt. This unexpected flourish brought personality and flair to an otherwise traditional look, fitting for his role as an award presenter during the ceremony.
Demi Moore embraced bold glamour in a custom Gucci gown that featured dramatic feather accents. The strapless dress was a visual feast, with long black feathers framing the neckline, green feather embellishments decorating the bodice, and a full feathered skirt that created a striking silhouette. Moore completed her ensemble with sparkling jewelry and a statement bracelet, ensuring she stood out as one of the night’s most daring fashion icons.
Rose Byrne chose a more understated yet elegant approach in a strapless Dior mermaid gown crafted from black fabric adorned with delicate beaded floral patterns. The intricate detailing of the dress was complemented by a gold necklace shaped like a flower, tying the look together with subtle sophistication. Byrne’s appearance was especially poignant as she attended the ceremony following her nomination for Best Actress for her role in “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You.”
Finally, Chase Infiniti made a memorable impact in a custom Louis Vuitton gown that combined softness and drama. The lilac dress featured a sleeveless design with a gentle cowl neckline and a voluminous ruffled skirt that flowed gracefully across the carpet. Infiniti accessorized with a vibrant De Beers choker necklace, adding a splash of color to her ensemble. Her presence at the Oscars was linked to her role in “One Battle After Another,” one of the evening’s most talked-about films.
Overall, the Oscars 2026 red carpet was a dazzling display of creativity, elegance, and individuality. Each star brought their own unique flair to the event, showcasing the artistry of some of the world’s most prestigious fashion houses. As fans and critics continue to discuss these unforgettable looks, the red carpet remains a vital part of the Oscars experience, blending the worlds of cinema and fashion in a spectacular celebration of talent and style.
