Red Carpet Trends and Political Statements at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, held in Los Angeles on September 14, 2025, offered a glimpse into the upcoming fashion trends for the next year of awards season. The event, hosted at the Peacock Theater, brought together some of the biggest names in television for an evening of celebration and style. While the ceremony itself was dominated by Apple TV+’s “The Studio” winning 13 awards, it was the red carpet that stole the spotlight with its bold, colorful, and often politically charged looks.
A Go-Getters’ Take on “Naked” Dressing
One of the standout moments came from Jenna Ortega, who made a dramatic statement with her Givenchy look. Inspired by Isabella Rossellini’s iconic character in the 1992 film “Death Becomes Her,” Ortega’s ensemble featured pearls and gemstones arranged in a way that created the illusion of a dress without revealing too much. This gothic take on “naked” dressing showcased the continued evolution of the trend, with designers finding new ways to balance modesty and allure.
Pink Takes Center Stage
Pink was a dominant color on the red carpet, with many celebrities embracing shades ranging from salmon to fuchsia. However, it was Lisa, the K-pop star and actor from “The White Lotus,” who truly stood out. Her ethereal gown by Lever Couture featured ribbons arranged in swirling brushstrokes, creating a painterly effect. The look was completed with serpentine accessories and shimmery nails, all tied together with Bulgari’s Serpenti jewelry. The pink theme extended to her makeup, with matching lipstick and sapphire accents.
Honoring Giorgio Armani
Despite the passing of Giorgio Armani earlier this month, his influence remained strong on the red carpet. Many celebrities chose to wear pieces from his label, showcasing the timeless elegance that defined his designs. Cate Blanchett, for instance, opted for a backless velvet jumpsuit from Armani, while Keri Russell and Leslie Bibb wore gowns from the last collection he designed before his death.
Couples Dressed in Harmony
Several couples made a coordinated fashion statement at the Emmys. Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco arrived in matching black and red outfits, with Gomez channeling Old Hollywood glamour in a Louis Vuitton dress and Blanco wearing a custom-designed bejeweled suit. Their appearance hinted at an upcoming wedding, marking them as one of the most anticipated couple duos of the year.
Other notable couples included Adam Brody and Leighton Meester in pastel Prada looks, and Seth and Lauren Miller Rogen in complementary earth tones. Michelle Williams and her husband Thomas Kail both wore white, creating a striking visual contrast.
A Protest on the Red Carpet
Megan Stalter made a simple yet powerful statement with a handwritten message for a ceasefire taped to her bag. Her choice of a basic T-shirt and jeans ensured that her message took center stage. Meanwhile, Javier Bardem wore a keffiyeh to the event, using his red-carpet interviews to express his stance against working with organizations affiliated with Israel. Hannah Einbinder also used her acceptance speech to call for free Palestine, adding a layer of political commentary to the evening.
Reimagining the Tuxedo
Several male celebrities redefined the traditional tuxedo with creative twists. Sam Nivola, an actor from “The White Lotus,” stood out in a cropped peak lapel jacket and floral waistcoat from Dior’s Summer 2026 menswear collection. Harvey Guillén made a dramatic entrance with a wide-lapeled jacket that doubled as a train, swishing it for the cameras. Paul W. Downs also opted for a cropped jacket, completing his Wales Bonner outfit with a minimalist bow tie.
The White Lotus Cast Steals the Spotlight
“The White Lotus” cast was a major presence on the red carpet, with several members making a lasting impression. Sarah Catherine Hook wore a Miu Miu dress, while Natasha Rothwell chose an Ines Di Santo gown. The ensemble cast, which received numerous Emmy nominations, continued to generate buzz despite not winning any awards. The show remains one of the most talked-about series of the year, with its unique blend of drama and satire captivating audiences.
Sydney Sweeney’s Elegant Gown
Sydney Sweeney, known for her controversial American Eagle ad, made a graceful appearance in an Oscar de la Renta gown. The strapless design cinched at the waist and flowed elegantly to the floor, complemented by a statement Lorraine Schwartz necklace. Her look was a classic yet sophisticated choice, reflecting her status as a rising star in the entertainment industry.
Dealing with the Heat
With the event taking place on a warm LA afternoon, many men opted for more casual attire. Bowen Yang, a comedian from “Saturday Night Live,” chose an ivory tank top by Ami Paris, allowing for maximum breathability. His look, though informal, was elevated by a luxurious silk crepe material and paired with black wool cigarette pants, a cummerbund, and loafers.
Other Notable Looks
The red carpet was filled with a variety of standout outfits, from Colman Domingo’s elegant ensemble to Anna Sawai’s stylish appearance. Each celebrity brought their own unique flair to the event, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the night. The Emmys once again proved to be a platform for both fashion and expression, with attendees using the opportunity to make a statement through their attire.
