There was a curious restraint to the 2026 Emmy Awards red carpet. Instead of the high-glamour parade of daring silhouettes, impeccable couture and unexpected fashion statements that has often made awards season so deliciously unpredictable, this year’s arrivals felt considerably more subdued.
That is not to say the evening was without its successes. There were thoughtful styling choices, beautiful gowns and a few arrivals that reminded us exactly why the red carpet remains such an important part of the awards-season spectacle. But those moments were scattered rather than defining.
Too many looks appeared caught somewhere between safe and unfinished, with clashing elements, unconvincing cuts, and styling that lacked the cohesion needed to turn an outfit into a moment. The result was a carpet that occasionally sparkled, but rarely dazzled.
Still, fashion is rarely an all-or-nothing affair. Even on a quieter red carpet, a select group of stars managed to rise above the ordinary and give us something worth remembering.
Here are 12 looks that stood out from the 2026 Emmys.
Adam Brody
Adam Brody kept things sleek in a custom Prada suit, proving that classic tailoring could still make an impression without resorting to unnecessary theatrics.
Chase Infiniti
Chase Infiniti brought serious glamour to the carpet in a custom Louis Vuitton mermaid-cut gown covered in copper-toned beads. The strapless silhouette gave the shimmering look a distinctly sculptural finish.
Christopher McDonald
Christopher McDonald opted for a polished Canali look that kept the focus firmly on traditional menswear and clean tailoring.
Colman Domingo
Colman Domingo once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most reliable men on any red carpet in a striking Valentino ensemble. The relaxed robe-style jacket and flared trousers offered a stylish departure from the conventional tuxedo.
Elle Fanning
Elle Fanning brought a refreshing softness to the carpet in a mint-green Ralph Lauren Collection look. The understated silhouette allowed the unexpected pastel shade to do most of the talking.
Florence Pugh
Florence Pugh embraced romantic drama in a custom lilac Vivienne Westwood gown, complete with a structured corset and delicate tulle draping. The lavender palette softened Westwood’s signature hourglass construction while retaining its distinctive edge.
Joy Sunday
Joy Sunday channelled Art Deco glamour in Dior, bringing a polished, vintage-inspired sensibility to the evening with a look that felt both elegant and distinctly modern.
Nicole Kidman
Nicole Kidman delivered classic Hollywood glamour in Chanel, wearing a white fringed, off-the-shoulder gown that was cinched at the waist for definition. The refined silhouette and intricate detailing gave the look an unmistakably sophisticated finish.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez went for gold in a Louis Vuitton column gown that shimmered from every angle and subtly echoed the Emmy statuette. A sculpted waist and mermaid-style finish gave the metallic look an elegant, statuesque quality.
Sheryl Lee Ralph
Sheryl Lee Ralph brought old-school glamour to the carpet in Sergio Hudson, wearing an embellished camo-style gown that was both commanding and polished. It was the sort of look that understood the assignment without needing to shout.
Supriya Ganesh
Supriya Ganesh looked effortlessly romantic in McQueen, wearing a soft blue gown that balanced delicate femininity with a striking, sculptural quality. Paired with Irene Neuwirth jewellery, the look made a quietly compelling statement.
Zendaya
Zendaya once again made a compelling case for her unofficial title as the queen of the red carpet in a custom Prada gown covered in shimmering embellishment. The plunging, beaded design was paired with a dramatic new pixie cut, Mikimoto jewellery and a confidence that made the entire look feel unmistakably Zendaya.