Oscars 2026: the red carpet risks that didn’t quite land

The Oscars red carpet is known for delivering unforgettable fashion moments, but not every look lands the way celebrities hope. At the 2026 Academy Awards, several outfits quickly sparked debate among viewers and fashion critics.

From bold styling choices to designs that overwhelmed the wearer, some red carpet appearances left fans wondering what went wrong.

Here are some of the Oscars 2026 red carpet looks that divided fans.

Felicity Jones

Felicity Jones arrived at the ceremony wearing a sleeveless yellow Prada gown featuring delicate sequins and a pleated tulle skirt.

While the bright colour stood out on the red carpet, the gown’s loose shape and layered detailing left the overall look feeling less structured. The subtle sequins also became lost within the folds of the skirt.

Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet walked the red carpet in an all-white Givenchy ensemble that included a double-breasted jacket and wide-legged trousers.

The retro-inspired suit had potential, but his styling choices drew attention. Chalamet paired the look with boots instead of traditional dress shoes and added black sunglasses, which gave the outfit a more casual feel for Hollywood’s most formal night.

The actor attended the ceremony as a nominee for best actor for his performance in Marty Supreme.

Anne Hathaway

Anne Hathaway wore a strapless Valentino gown decorated with pale pink floral details that flowed into a mermaid-style skirt.

Although the dress itself was elegant, the styling choices became a talking point. Hathaway paired the gown with a black belt and elbow-length gloves, which some viewers felt distracted from the softer floral design.

Hathaway attended the ceremony as a presenter.

Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum chose a strapless Chrome Hearts gown designed to create a nude illusion effect.

The dress featured scattered pearl embellishments across the fabric, but the placement of the pearls diluted the intended effect and made the look feel less cohesive.

Josh Dallas and Ginnifer Goodwin

Josh Dallas and Ginnifer Goodwin arrived together wearing contrasting black-and-white looks.

Goodwin wore a glamorous mesh gown from Monse, while Dallas chose a simple blazer paired with white trousers. The difference in formality between the two outfits made the pairing appear mismatched on the red carpet.

Renate Reinsve

Renate Reinsve attended the ceremony in a strapless Louis Vuitton gown with a dramatic asymmetric skirt.

The design featured a high slit on one side and a long train on the other, creating an uneven silhouette that drew attention away from the otherwise classic bodice.

Reinsve was nominated for best actress for her role in Sentimental Value.

Kevin O’Leary

Kevin O’Leary opted for a dramatic Dolce & Gabbana jacket paired with black trousers and a matching shirt.

The robe-like outerwear was already a bold statement piece, but the addition of several accessories, including a large diamond necklace, multiple watches and a trading card, made the look feel overly busy.

Kristen Wiig

Kristen Wiig wore a black Christian Cowan gown featuring a crystal-covered skirt and beaded top.

While the silhouette suited the actor, the mix of textures and heavy jewellery created a look where multiple elements competed for attention.

Kirsten Dunst

Kirsten Dunst attended the ceremony alongside her husband Jesse Plemons wearing a strapless black Celine gown.

The dress featured tiered layers of fabric cascading to the floor, but the shape appeared slightly overwhelming for her frame.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris chose a Prada outfit featuring black trousers, shiny boots and a blue satin jacket with fur lapels.

The dramatic jacket stood out but gave the look a theatrical feel that some viewers felt was better suited to a costume event than the Oscars red carpet.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall wore a gown designed by Yara Shoemaker featuring an asymmetric neckline and metallic gold bodice.

Although parts of the dress were striking individually, the bold neckline and layered skirt created a silhouette that some felt overwhelmed the overall look.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Priyanka Chopra Jonas arrived in a white Dior gown featuring a strapless bodice and thigh-high slit.

The dress included black-and-white feathered detailing along the skirt, but the contrasting elements distracted from the otherwise sleek design.