The New Formal: Skirts, Trousers, and Crop Tops
While the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival certainly had its share of stunning, dramatic gowns, a closer look reveals a significant trend toward two-piece ensembles. The classic ballgown is no longer the default choice for A-list premieres. Instead,
we're seeing a surge in chic trousers, elegant skirts paired with distinct tops, and even structured pantsuits. This isn't about dressing down; it's about redefining what formalwear can be. At the premiere for her documentary, Lisa of Blackpink fame wore a brown velvet crop top with a matching skirt from Louis Vuitton, a look that was both sophisticated and refreshingly modern. Similarly, Kate Mara opted for a black lace-trimmed bralette and a matching satin skirt from Dolce & Gabbana, demonstrating a powerful and dramatic alternative to a single dress. These choices represent a move toward pieces that feel more personal and less like a costume, reflecting a broader shift in how celebrities approach their public-facing style.
A Statement of Power and Practicality
So, why the move away from the traditional gown? The benefits are twofold, touching on both practicality and personality. A gown is a singular statement, often designed for one specific, statuesque moment. Separates, on the other hand, offer a different kind of power. A well-tailored pantsuit or a sharp top-and-skirt combination can convey an air of authority and confidence that feels distinctly contemporary. Actor Luke Evans embraced this at a premiere, pairing a silky burgundy shirt with high-waisted, wide-leg trousers for a look that was both relaxed and impeccably sharp. There's also an undeniable element of comfort and versatility. While navigating a film festival, which involves long hours, multiple appearances, and unpredictable weather, separates can be far more forgiving than a restrictive, floor-length gown. This choice allows for greater freedom of movement and a sense of ease that translates into effortless confidence on camera.
Breaking the Mold, One Outfit at a Time
More than anything, the rise of separates is about expanding the language of red carpet fashion. It allows for more nuanced and individual expressions of style. For instance, Elle Fanning wore a Valentino look that cleverly emulated separates with a white, one-shouldered top portion and a simple black floor-length skirt, blurring the lines between a dress and a two-piece set. After a premiere, Maude Apatow changed into an embellished two-piece Valentino look, showcasing the adaptability of separates for different events within the same night. Even menswear-inspired looks are gaining traction. Canadian actor Shamier Anderson made a statement in a dark orange suit complete with a bolo tie and cowboy hat, proving that formalwear can have a strong point of view. These moments challenge the monolithic idea that premiere-worthy fashion must involve a certain type of femininity, opening the door for more androgynous, architectural, and minimalist aesthetics.
What This Means for Red Carpet Style
The embrace of separates at a major festival like TIFF isn't just a fleeting trend; it’s a reflection of a larger cultural shift. As Hollywood continues to evolve, so too does its visual identity. The move beyond the traditional gown signals a move toward a more dynamic, personalized, and arguably more interesting era of celebrity dressing. While grand ballgowns will always have their place for pure fantasy and fairytale moments—as seen on stars like Cynthia Erivo in a dramatic Dior gown and Penélope Cruz in Chanel—the growing popularity of separates suggests that power and elegance are no longer confined to a single silhouette. It shows that today’s stars are just as likely to find glamour in a perfectly tailored trouser or a sharp crop top as they are in a voluminous tulle skirt. The red carpet is becoming less of a uniform and more of a conversation, with every piece telling its own unique story.
