Emmys 2026 Red Carpet: Feathers, Sequins and Sharp Suits at the Peacock Theater

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, held September 14 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, produced a red carpet heavy on sequins, feathers and voluminous silhouettes, according to roundups from Hello!, W Magazine, Hola and Katie Couric. Host Mariska Hargitay wore a red off-the-shoulder gown covered in sequins that flowed into a feathered mermaid skirt and sweeping train.

Nicole Kidman returned to the Emmys carpet after nine years, wearing, according to one report, a white Chanel wool crepe bustier dress decorated with 46 sculptural flowers made of silk crepe, silk organza and raffia. Selena Gomez wore a golden gown built from rows of beading that tapered at the hips and flared into a train. Cynthia Nixon chose a maroon dress with structural pleating and an asymmetrical hem, Kristen Bell wore a pale silky gown with a high tied neckline and a cape sleeve, and Sheryl Lee Ralph sparkled in a strapless Sergio Hudson gown covered in pastel, gold and earthy-toned sequins.

W Magazine noted Grace Gummer in a black strapless Dior gown from Jonathan Anderson's resort 2027 collection, with pearl buttons along the skirt. Outlets described Zendaya's look differently in their coverage, so details of that gown are best checked against official credits. At the lighter end, comedian Megan Stalter of "Hacks" arrived dressed as an Emmy statuette.

Katie Couric's roundup identified three trends: sharp suits on men and women, eye-catching embellishments such as sequins and feathers, and big, voluminous silhouettes.

Reporting based on Hello!, W Magazine, Hola, Katie Couric and Ara.