The Critics Choice Awards 2026: When The Red Carpet Gets It Right

Awards season is officially so back. And the 2026 Critics Choice Awards in California, sent the fashion-obsessed girl in me straight into a scrolling spiral, taking in every killer red-carpet moment from the A-Listers.

Let's start with some of my favorite looks: 

Quiet Glamour, Loud Impact

Ariana Grande served one of those red-carpet looks that genuinely made me stop to gasp, mid-scroll. The beaded Alberta Ferretti gown felt regal, elegant, and perfectly Ariana. And of course, she still championed her true Ginda energy, thanks to the dreamy pastel pink hue of the dress.

Odessa A'Zion delivered more than just a red-carpet moment—she was the moment. In a night full of muted luxury gowns, Odessa made her mark with a shimmery, sequin-embellished gown with flowy, open, bat wings. What I loved? She chose a custom gown from a small Emirati brand, Ott Dubai. Even better, she stayed unmistakably herself- rocking her natural curls, and septum nose ring. 

Finally, Mia Goth in Dior and Chase Infiniti in Louis Vuitton proved that you don't have to be the loudest in the room to still make noise. Mia's look was the definition of classic sophistication, balanced with modern minimalism. Essentially, you can't go wrong with a timeless look like this!

Equally, Chase Infiniti's pale yellow gown with bold drapes and a sculptural silhouette was simultaneously clean and daring. Further proof that red-carpet impact doesn't always equate to volume or sparkles. Subtlety can be just as powerful. 

When Red-Carpet Looks Are Unapologetic

Every now and then, there's a celebrity that flips the script on red carpet dressing. This time? It was Teyana Taylor—and I was so here for it. Her look wasn't about traditional glamour; it was bold, edgy, and seriously dramatic. The oversized blazer paired with thigh-high leather boots screamed confidence. Maybe breaking the red-carpet "rules" and bringing fearless personality to our looks is the most stylish move we can make in 2026? 

Sauve But Predicitable? 

Listen, I could never slander some of our favorite men in Hollywood: Paul Mescal, Michael B. Jordan, and Jacob Elordi. Did they all look undeniably sharp, rocking their Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Bottega Veneta suits? Absolutely. The tailoring was on point, the grooming was immaculate, and each outfit hit that classic red-carpet mark. But here's the thing—while they all looked great, I couldn't help wondering: are men still playing it too safe with their fits? In 2026, I'd like to see more texture, more color, more personality, and more experimentation!

At the end of the night, the Critics' Choice Awards proved exactly why I love awards-season red carpets: the mix of artistry, Hollywood glamour, personality, and a little bit of risk. Because at its best, fashion isn't just always about looking good- it's about making a statement and having fun whilst doing so! 

Get Red-Carpet Ready with my Fizzypicks!