The 2026 Emmy Awards red carpet was the center of attention this past Monday night.
Celebrities descended upon the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles to honor the year’s top television achievements, featuring hits like “Hacks” and “The Pitt.”
While stars such as Dan Levy and Selena Gomez arrived in stunning ensembles that secured them spots on best-dressed lists, not every attendee found success with their fashion choices. Here is a breakdown of the looks that didn’t quite hit the target.
Nicole Kidman’s ensemble showed promise but ultimately fell short.
She donned a white Chanel piece featuring a feathered, off-the-shoulder sleeve and a corseted bodice. However, the dress felt too short for the occasion and would have been more impactful as a full gown. Additionally, swapping her black pumps for strappy sandals would have elevated the look. Kidman attended the ceremony as both a nominee and a presenter.
Shailene Woodley’s vibrant attire suffered from too many clashing components.
Her Balenciaga outfit consisted of gold-beaded oversized trousers, a plunging blue tank top, a colorful necklace, and burgundy leather gloves. For the winner of Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series, a more streamlined approach—such as removing the gloves and necklace and opting for a tighter top—would have been more effective.
With a few adjustments, Keri Russell could have achieved a best-dressed status.
Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for “The Diplomat,” Russell wore a black Khaite leather dress. While the low back and halter neck were lovely, the bodice fit poorly and the overall design lacked impact. Adding bolder accessories and reducing the texture at the waist could have enhanced the silhouette.
Chase Infiniti’s burgundy gown proved to be overwhelming.
Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, Infiniti wore a strapless Louis Vuitton piece that featured a form-fitting top before flaring into a beaded skirt. While the color was flattering, the heavy, beaded material was too much for her smaller frame.
Michael Urie would have benefited from a different choice in trousers.
Urie, nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Shrinking,” wore a black Christian Siriano tuxedo featuring a cummerbund, bow tie, and cropped jacket. However, the silky, ballooning pants created an unbalanced silhouette. A slimmer cut would have better complemented the look.
Rachel Sennott’s hot-pink ensemble appeared unfinished.
The semi-sheer pleated gown left her undergarments visible, making the choice seem more like a mistake than a bold fashion statement. Furthermore, her half-up, half-down hair felt slightly too casual for the prestige of the Emmy red carpet.
Lisa Ann Walter’s dramatic dress might have succeeded in a different shade.
Representing “Abbott Elementary” (a nominee for Outstanding Comedy Series), Walter wore a Christian Siriano gown with a mermaid skirt, a ruched bodice, and massive detached tulle sleeves. The dark color combined with the excessive fabric made the look feel overly heavy; a lighter palette or removing the sleeves might have helped.
Riz Ahmed’s suit lacked necessary structure.
Ahmed, nominated for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for “Bait,” wore a powder-blue suit. While oversized trends were present, his outfit lacked shape, appearing to float around him with excessively long pants. A more tailored jacket would have improved the aesthetic.
Lisa Kudrow’s look was hindered by an unnecessary jacket.
Nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for “The Comeback,” Kudrow wore a black Celine gown with a full skirt and straight neckline, topped with a cropped tuxedo jacket. While both pieces were attractive, they clashed, and the loose bodice overwhelmed her frame. Removing the jacket might have allowed the dress to shine.