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The Critics Choice Awards 2026 opened awards season with a mix of surprise victories and show-stopping fashion. While actors and ensembles collected trophies for standout performances, the red carpet became its own awards arena—full of bold silhouettes, vintage glamour, and a few modern twists that had photographers buzzing.
From televised acceptance speeches to couture statements, the night balanced industry recognition with high-fashion moments. Below, we break down the biggest winners and the most memorable looks that defined the Critics Choice Awards red carpet.
Top winners who shaped the evening
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The ceremony honored a range of projects and performances across film and television. A few names dominated headlines and were repeatedly applauded during the broadcast.
- Sarah Snook — Took home Best Actress in a Limited Series for her work in All Her Fault, earning praise for a textured, quietly powerful performance.
- Jacob Elordi — Awarded Best Supporting Actor for his turn in Frankenstein, a win that capped a year of attention for the actor.
- Sinners (casting) — The ensemble’s casting team secured Best Casting Ensemble, recognized for assembling a compelling group of performers.
Red carpet moments that stopped the show
Fashion at the Critics Choice Awards ranged from old-Hollywood elegance to runway-forward experiments. Several celebrities leaned into tried-and-true glamour while others pushed boundaries with daring shapes and embellishments.
- Mia Goth in Dior — Opted for a refined Dior look that blended sleek tailoring with couture detailing, offering a modern take on classic elegance.
- Ariana Grande in Alberta Ferretti — Evoked a fairy-tale vibe in a heavily beaded gown, a look critics compared to a contemporary Glinda—full of sparkle and theatricality.
- Other standouts included figures who balanced simplicity and drama, favoring sculptural cuts, glossy textures, and statement jewelry.
Designers and trends that dominated the carpet
This year’s red carpet showcased recurring motifs and a handful of designers who kept appearing in photographers’ frames. Observers noted a leaning toward:
- Sculptural silhouettes that emphasized shoulders and sleek lines
- Heavy beading and sequins used to create cinematic movement on stage
- Timeless black gowns updated with modern cuts and unexpected detailing
Design houses like Dior and Alberta Ferretti made high-impact appearances, reinforcing the pairing of established labels with awards-night visibility.
Best looks: a curated list
Below are the red carpet looks that generated the most buzz, selected for craftsmanship, camera impact, and overall style statement.
- Mia Goth — Dior: Minimalist composition with couture precision; a favorite among stylists and photographers.
- Ariana Grande — Alberta Ferretti: Lavish beading and theatrical shape that translated well under the stage lights.
- Other nominees for best-dressed included actors and presenters who combined bold color, vintage-inspired elements, or avant-garde tailoring.
Behind the looks: stylists and choices
Every red carpet hit reflects a team effort—stylists, makeup artists, and hair teams work together to finish a cohesive look. Stylists this year favored:
- Clean beauty with strong brows and glowing skin to complement ornate gowns
- Updos and sleek hair that let detailed necklines and earrings stand out
- Statement accessories used sparingly to avoid overpowering intricate dresswork
These choices helped balance elaborate garments with camera-friendly presentations, ensuring outfits read well in stills and motion.
What fashion critics will be watching next
The Critics Choice Awards often predict what will trend through the rest of awards season. Expect to see elements from this night—beading, sharp tailoring, and classic glamour—reappear at upcoming ceremonies and editorials, as stylists and designers refine looks for the Oscars and other major events.
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David Miller is an entertainment expert with a passion for film, music, and series. With eight years in cultural criticism, he takes you behind the scenes of productions and studios. His energetic style guides you to the next big releases and trending sensations.
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