All the Red Carpet Trends Celebs Are Wearing This Awards Season—From Cobalt Blue to Molten Gold

Celebs are embracing bold colors, glittering metallics, and sexy lace—here’s your insider peek at awards season.

By Camila Quimper Jan 08, 2026 12:00 AMTags
Shop Red Carpet Trends 2026_1024x759.jpgPhoto Courtesy of Zara

Awards season is in full swing, and the 2026 red carpet is proving to be a showcase of bold colors, metallics, and unexpected silhouettes. With the Critics Choice Awards behind us and the Golden Globes approaching, this year’s trends are setting the tone for the months ahead.

One of the most talked-about trends is molten gold. An actress known for her “princess” roles, often seen in voluminous ballgowns, swapped her signature style for a sleek, archival gold gown, showing that a metallic, liquid-like finish can be just as striking as a traditional evening dress. Minimal jewelry and soft waves completed the look, emphasizing the gown’s fluidity and shine.

Sultry lace is also dominating the red carpet. A Kardashian/Jenner sister embraced this trend in a form-fitting vintage couture gown, pairing an understated classic LBD take with a subtle, sultry lace. The look proves that lace can be modern and minimal, not just a classic evening staple.

Meanwhile, vibrant colors like Lilac are emerging as a must-have shade for awards season. The Blair Waldorf actress opted for a lilac strapless gown, while other rising stars have embraced the purple hue in sheer bodices, ball skirts, and bold eveningwear, echoing runway inspiration from designers including Balenciaga, Valentino, and Gucci.

Other notable trends include Cobalt Blue, red-carpet suiting, unexpected cuts, and minimalistic accessories, allowing the garments themselves to shine. From metallics to jewel tones and sheer fabrics, 2026 is redefining glamour, encouraging stars to experiment with texture, color, and silhouette.

Keep scrolling for all the fashion trends we spotted (and plan to see) on the red carpet this awards season. Plus, how to transform these trends into your own style.

Red Carpet Trend: Lilac Glamour

The Occasion by Old Navy Flutter-Sleeve Keyhole Satin Maxi Dress

Even if your calendar isn’t packed with red-carpet moments, spring weddings are right around the corner. This flutter-sleeve maxi channels the season’s pastel palette in a romantic, totally wearable way.

BBX Lephsnt Women's Sheer Mesh Layering Top

For a low-effort, high-impact approach, we love a mesh top that shows off the true pastel tone. Add neutral layers and accessories, and the whole outfit instantly feels brighter and more polished.

Lilly Pulitzer Sharone Boucle Shift Dress

The bouclé detailing on this Lilly Pulitzer dress instantly nods to the lilac glamour trend spotted across recent red carpets. Consider it a soft, wearable interpretation that fits seamlessly into your spring wardrobe.

Red Carpet Trend: Molten Gold

PLOUTOS Bold Molten Gold Drop Earrings

If molten gold gowns have been living rent-free in your mind, these sculptural earrings are the wearable version. The fluid metal effect feels luxe, bold, and just a little dramatic—in the best way.

Zara ZW Collection Metallic Cropped Blazer

A shimmering metallic blazer that brings awards-season glimmer into real life, without the fuss. It’s tailored yet playful, luxe yet totally wearable.

Zara ZW Collection Satin Wide Leg Pants

If you’re craving elevated staples with a glamorous edge, these satin wide-leg pants are it. Their glossy sheen and flowing silhouette make them a must-have for chic spring looks.

Reformation Daniela Silk Dress

This silk dress is the epitome of quiet glamour, with a sheen that catches the light like it was made for evening photos. While it's not exactly the shade of molten gold, it reflects just like the mineral.

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Red Carpet Trend: Sultry Lace

Superdown Anahi Wrap Lace Top

For a lace piece that reads contemporary and sultry, this top delivers with delicate detail and a flattering wrap fit. Dress it up with leather trousers or keep it sweet with a satin skirt — either way, the lace trend shines.

Free People Elena Lace Tank

Lace tops have been everywhere from awards shows to runways, and this tank brings that same allure to your closet. It’s a standout piece that still plays nicely with everything else in your wardrobe.

Urban Outfitters Kimchi Blue Aura Sheer Lace Flare Pant

Lace isn’t just for dresses anymore. These flared lace pants make the sultry trend feel fresh, modern, and totally now. They’re a chic way to lean into texture and intrigue without going full glam gown.

Red Carpet Trend: Cobalt Blue

Aritzia Original Contour Ravish Top

If color is your statement this season, cobalt blue is the head-turning hue to choose, and this top delivers it flawlessly. Pair with crisp white pants or satin trousers for an office-ready look.

Old Navy SoSoft Loose Crew-Neck Sweater

Bring the vibrant cobalt trend into your closet with a sweater that feels both polished and livable. Its deep blue tone pairs beautifully with everything from crisp pants to satin skirts.

Aritzia Ten Audience Satin Mini Halter Dress

Saturated cobalt is having a fashion moment, and this silky mini dress captures it in all the right ways. Add sleek metallic accents, and you’ll be radiating that awards season shine from day to night (trust).

Looking for more trends to shop? Add a pop of red to your outfit!

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