THE 2026 OSCARS: THE BEST DRESSED

Mar 16

editor RAZ MARTINEZ

The 98th Annual Academy Awards took place on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, it was the night the entire fashion world had been waiting for. The end of awards season always carries a certain weight, and the red carpet reflects that. This was not the time for safe choices. This was the time to commit.

And commit they did.

Chanel and Louis Vuitton dominated the evening in ways that felt less like coincidence and more like a statement. Teyana Taylor arrived in a black and white feathered Chanel gown that was pure drama from the first step. Jessie Buckley saved her most powerful moment for last in a custom Chanel gown with a wrapped red bodice and a sweeping pink train that moved with every step.

Elle Fanning chose a full skirted white Givenchy ball gown paired with vintage jewellery. Romantic and unhurried. The kind of dressing that does not ask for attention but commands it anyway. Rose Byrne brought structure and precision in a mermaid style black Christian Dior gown, its square bodice embroidered with floral beading throughout. Every detail earned its place.

Then there was the restraint side of the evening. Emma Stone in a cap sleeved backless beaded Louis Vuitton dress with almost no jewellery at all. Renate Reinsve in a cherry red strapless Louis Vuitton sheath cut high at the hip, equally bare of accessories. Both made the same argument in different silhouettes. Confidence needs no decoration.

Wunmi Mosaku brought glittering green Louis Vuitton with unexpected cutouts, balancing glamour with something sharper underneath. Jayme Lawson closed the picture in a deep blue peplum style sheath that was quiet, considered, and exactly right.

The 2026 Oscars red carpet was a reminder of why this night matters beyond the awards. It is where fashion meets intention. Where a single look can outlast the films themselves in memory. This year delivered on every level.

Ahead, see the best dressed at the 2026 Oscars.