Deep Jewel Tones Reign Supreme
Forget pastels and basic black; the 2026 Emmys were all about deep, saturated color. A flood of rich jewel tones brought a luxurious and moody energy to the evening. Emerald greens, sapphire blues, and ruby reds were spotted on nominees and presenters
alike, signaling a collective desire for bold, unapologetic statements. Standouts included Betty Gilpin in a stunning red ensemble and Emily Bader in a shimmering olive-green sequined gown by Oscar de la Renta. This turn toward decadent color felt both classic and fresh, proving that a powerful hue is sometimes the most impactful accessory.
Liquid Metallics and Shimmer
If it didn't shine, it wasn't on trend. Metallics were everywhere, with many stars opting for looks that resembled molten gold and silver. Leslie Bibb of "The White Lotus" was a prime example, dazzling in a floor-length slip dress made of shimmering metallic gold. The effect was opulent and radiant, with the fabric catching the light with every movement. Rachel Blanchard also chose a fluid mustard-gold satin gown, while Connor Storrie's mother, Linda, sported a sparkly gold maxi dress. This trend leans into pure, unadulterated glamour, suggesting that after years of more subdued styles, Hollywood is ready to sparkle again.
The Rise of Structured Silhouettes
While flowing gowns made their usual appearance, a sharper, more architectural trend took hold. Stars embraced structured and tailored silhouettes that emphasized clean lines and powerful shapes. We saw an increase in gowns with strong shoulders, corseted bodices, and crisp, folded necklines, as seen on Karolina Wydra's sleek black strapless dress. This move toward structure over softness suggests a new kind of power dressing on the red carpet, where modern tailoring meets classic eveningwear. Even menswear saw this influence, with Colman Domingo and Kingston Rumi Southwick wearing Valentino looks that played with form and expectation.
Minimalist Gowns, Maximum Impact
Counterbalancing the bold color and shine was a strong current of refined minimalism. Several celebrities proved that less can be more with elegant, understated gowns that focused on perfect tailoring and simple forms. Natalie Portman was a masterclass in this, choosing a gown praised for its clean lines and subtle embroidery. Similarly, Kaitlin Olsen's white gown featured a simple, structured square neckline that felt both modern and timeless. Shailene Woodley also opted for a chic white mini dress, keeping her look effortless and clean. These looks served as a quiet but confident statement, prioritizing silhouette and craftsmanship over embellishment.
Vintage and Sustainable Statements
A growing and welcome trend on the red carpet is the focus on sustainability and archival fashion. A number of stars made a conscious choice to wear vintage pieces or custom gowns made from eco-friendly materials. While not always the most headline-grabbing, this trend speaks to a larger shift within the industry toward more responsible fashion choices. With the Television Academy officially banning real fur beginning in 2026, the move toward ethical choices is gaining institutional support, making it a conversation point that is only expected to grow louder in the seasons to come.
