There are moments in fashion where it seems like more is always more. Larger-than-life silhouettes, attention-grabbing hues and layered textures always seem to dominate the red carpet. But this awards season, we’re seeing black return to the spotlight, proving once again that the classic shade has an unrivalled aura, one that near defies the ever-flippant nature of trends in fashion.
Understated yet quietly powerful, black was the colour of choice for some of entertainment’s best and brightest at the 68th Grammy Awards, including Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kehlani and Miley Cyrus. But arguably one of the event’s most memorable looks was Lady Gaga’s theatrical ensemble. The ‘Abracadabra’ singer—and fashion icon, in her own right—wore a dramatic gown from French label Matières Fécales to the award show. In true Gaga fashion, the dress, completely tufted in feathers, featured a neckline that crept up and framed the face for dramatic effect. The gown’s impact was further exemplified by layers of tulle that added volume to the dress’ train.
As they say, the devil is in the details, and it is precisely those added details that imbue the look with personal allure and flair. Gaga is wearing the dress, not the other way around.
It is, then, even more interesting to see how different celebrities have been working black in different styles on red carpet events this year. Whether the looks are enhanced through light-catching beads that shine and sparkle or through cuts that play with depth and proportion to elevate the female form, there are endless ways to add interest to a black ensemble.
Here, we dissect how the stars are approaching black on the red carpet this year—and how you might make the timeless shade your own.
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Feathered up: Odessa A'zion in Dolce & Gabbana
When in doubt, look to feathers for that va-va-voom volume. Case in point: Odessa A’zion’s vintage Dolce & Gabbana look for the 2026 Golden Globes. Texturally, feathers have the power to immediately enhance a look with visual interest, while keeping the overall finish light and approachable.
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Feathered up: Tate McRae in Balenciaga
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Feathered up: Lady Gaga in Matières Fécales
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Bling on: Miley Cyrus in Saint Laurent
When it comes to all-black ensembles, there might be no companion as timeless as sequins. Striking without being over-the-top, sequins—especially when varied slightly in size and shape—give the look a gorgeous shine and elevate the most restrained of silhouettes in an old Hollywood type of way.
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Bling on: Ana de Armas in Louis Vuitton
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Bling on: Demi Lovato in Rodarte
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Big and bold: Jenna Ortega in Dilara Findikoglu
Beyond fabric choices, a classic black dress can easily be made contemporary, by playing with proportions. Whether it’s achieved through extra volume, unconventional shapes or even strategically placed cut-outs, changing up silhouettes—à la Audrey Nuna’s playful entry and Jenna Ortega’s sinuous number—is the easiest approach to redefining the LBD.
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Big and bold: Audrey Nuna in Marc Jacobs
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