The Critics’ Choice Awards 2026 lit up Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar on January 4, launching awards season with bold fashion statements that had everyone buzzing.
Stars brought their A-game to celebrate film and TV wins, but the real show happened on the red carpet. From ethereal gowns to daring suits, some looks owned the night, while others sparked heated debates across X and Instagram.
Social media lit up with instant reactions, proving fashion remains the ultimate conversation starter in Hollywood.
Best Dressed: The Looks That Stole the Spotlight
Ariana Grande turned heads in a blush pink Alberta Ferretti gown with silver floral details and a sheer lace cape, channeling pure elegance for her Best Actress nod in Wicked: For Good.
Fans on X couldn’t get enough, with one user posting, “Ariana really best dressed at the critics choice awards everyone else is doing too much.” Instagram comments echoed the love, like “Ariii😍” and “Michael B J and ariana G killed it ❤️.”
Kylie Jenner revived ’90s Versace vibes in a glamorous vintage dress, pairing perfectly with Timothée Chalamet’s ’50s-inspired suit as he snagged Best Actor for Marty Supreme. X users highlighted the duo’s style synergy, and WWD noted how Jenner brought archival glamour to the forefront.
Elle Fanning shimmered in a 2003 vintage Ralph Lauren gold gown with a plunging neckline and backless design, accessorized with Cartier jewels.
Chelsea Handler, the host, kicked things off in a plunging emerald gown that led multiple best-dressed lists, including from Harper’s Bazaar.
Other major wins included Chase Infiniti in bright Louis Vuitton, Mia Goth’s elegant Dior, Teyana Taylor’s bold Saint Laurent, and Michael B. Jordan’s burgundy custom suit. Menswear got playful too, with Jacob Elordi adding tinted glasses to his sharp ensemble.
Worst Dressed: The Risks That Didn’t Pay Off
Not every look landed. Alicia Silverstone topped several worst-dressed lists in an outfit that Daily Mail described as a fashion faux pas. X posts echoed the sentiment, with users questioning the choices amid the night’s high stakes.
Jessica Biel’s tiered gold sequin Lanvin gown, while sparkly, got called out for unflattering proportions in the mesh and lace details.
Amanda Seyfried and Patricia Arquette also drew criticism, with YouTube breakdowns labeling their ensembles as “hot boooo mess.”
Adam Brody and Erin Doherty rounded out the lists, per Pedestrian.TV’s roundup. Teyana Taylor appeared on both best and worst tallies, showing how subjective fashion can be.
Memorable Moments: The Spoof Everyone’s Sharing
The night’s highlight? Hacks stars Meg Stalter and Paul W. Downs hilariously recreating Kylie Jenner and Timothée Chalamet’s Marty Supreme premiere outfits.
One X user called it “beyond brilliant,” and Instagram dubbed it a “talk about a double take!” adding levity to the glamour.
Why This Red Carpet Matters Now
As awards season ramps up, the Critics’ Choice 2026 red carpet reflects Hollywood’s evolving style scene, mixing vintage revivals with modern edge.
It spotlights how celebrities use fashion to spark joy, debate, and connection in a fast-paced world. With fans dissecting every detail online, these looks remind us that style isn’t just about clothes, it’s about the stories they tell.
Whether you’re team slay or team shade, one thing’s clear: This event has set a high bar for the Oscars and beyond.
What’s your take on the night’s biggest win or flop? Drop it in the comments.