Regarding the red carpet, no stage is more glamorous and scrutinized than the Emmys. Television’s biggest night allows celebrities to showcase their professional achievements and style. Over the years, some stars have proven themselves true red-carpet royalty, consistently nailing their Emmy looks with grace, confidence, and an undeniable sense of style. Here’s a look at 25 celebrities who have truly mastered the art of the Emmys look.
25 Red Carpet Icons Who Ruled the Emmys with Style
1. Zendaya
View this post on Instagram
Zendaya has solidified her status as a modern fashion icon with her stunning appearances at the Emmys. Draped in an emerald Vera Wang corset gown, she commanded attention with a show-stopping silhouette that fused striking color and sculptural finesse. This ensemble radiated a commanding presence and effortless grace, perfectly exemplifying her talent for balancing bold, daring fashion choices with timeless sophistication on the red carpet.
Her black Valentino gown further proved her versatility and deep appreciation for classic style. With its nod to old Hollywood glamour, the look felt timeless yet entirely hers. Zendaya effortlessly blends tradition with innovation, making each appearance a statement of confidence, artistry, and high fashion sensibility.
2. Billy Porter
By UKinUSA – https://www.flickr.com/photos/ukinusa/53601826326/, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
With every stride down the red carpet, Billy Porter transforms fashion into a theatrical spectacle, igniting the Emmys with his flamboyant charisma and fearless self-expression. Celebrated for breaking fashion boundaries, he effortlessly blends menswear with high fashion, captivating audiences with bold, architectural hats, striking silhouettes, and lavish embellishments that radiate inventive bravado and confident artistry.
Whether adorned in a dramatic cape that flows behind him or a crystal-studded suit that sparkles under the spotlight, Porter continually challenges and redefines the boundaries of conventional red-carpet style. His Emmy looks are more than outfits—powerful expressions of identity and artistry that challenge norms and celebrate self-expression in its most fearless form.
3. Sarah Paulson
View this post on Instagram
Sarah Paulson consistently mesmerizes the Emmys red carpet with her fearless and expressive sartorial selections. Celebrated for embracing vibrant colors and cutting-edge silhouettes, she infuses each look with a captivating blend of drama and elegance that distinguishes her presence. Whether draped in a sweeping gown of audacious shade or clad in a sharply tailored outfit accented with surprising details, Paulson transforms every appearance into a striking declaration of style.
What truly elevates her fashion presence is her willingness to take risks. She does not shy away from unconventional cuts or experimental designs; her confidence makes each look intentional and refined. With a blend of elegance and edge, Sarah Paulson has firmly established her place among the red-carpet elite, redefining what it means to be one of the best-dressed.
4. Regina King
View this post on Instagram
Regina King radiates timeless elegance on the Emmys red carpet, seamlessly blending the elegance of classic sophistication with the allure of contemporary glamour. Her choices, from radiant blue gowns to shimmering silver designs, highlight her innate sense of style and attention to detail. Her look reflects her polished demeanor, showcasing silhouettes that enhance her grace and presence.
What sets King apart is her ability to make bold colors and sleek fits feel timeless. Her wardrobe choices never overshadow her natural poise; instead, they amplify it with a sense of controlled drama and elegance. Regina King reinforces her reputation with every appearance as a red carpet mainstay—flawlessly dressed, undeniably confident, and always in command of her fashion narrative.
5. Tracee Ellis Ross
View this post on Instagram
Tracee Ellis Ross brings fearless energy to the Emmys red carpet, embracing fashion as a vibrant form of self-expression. She is known for her love of volume, color, and dramatic couture, often turning heads with bold choices, such as her oversized pink Valentino gown. These bold pieces embody her spirited yet commanding style, championing individuality with each ensemble.
Her willingness to experiment with textures, shapes, and metallic tones sets her apart as a true fashion risk-taker. From sculptural dresses to eye-catching accessories, Tracee consistently delivers red-carpet moments filled with joy, confidence, and creativity. Her style transcends mere statements—it transforms fashion into a living canvas of artistry, emotion, and unapologetic authenticity.
6. Sterling K. Brown
By Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Sterling K. Brown commands the Emmys red carpet with an unrivaled symphony of sartorial mastery, redefining tailoring as an art form in motion. He deeply understands fit, proportion, and timeless style with each appearance. His tuxedos are always sharply tailored, offering a flawless silhouette that speaks to refined elegance. Yet, he keeps things fresh by incorporating subtle modern touches—a textured fabric, a deep jewel-tone jacket, or a sleek accessory—that elevate his look without overpowering it.
His ability to balance tradition with a contemporary edge truly sets him apart. Brown never strays far from classic black tie attire, but his careful attention to detail—from lapel choices to pocket square placement—shows that sophistication lies in the nuances. His consistent presence on best-dressed lists is a testament to his impeccable style and understated yet confident fashion sense.
7. Laverne Cox
View this post on Instagram
Laverne Cox commands the Emmys red carpet with theatrical glamour that is as meaningful as visually striking. Her fashion choices often feature bold silhouettes, dramatic trains, and architectural elements that create unforgettable statements. But beyond the show-stopping designs, Cox uses her platform to infuse her looks with more profound significance, making each appearance a fusion of style and substance.
Whether she incorporates text and symbolism or collaborates with designers who share her values, Cox blends fashion with advocacy intentionally and empoweringly. Her gowns are more than couture—declarations of identity, strength, and purpose. Through fearless elegance and thoughtful presentation, Laverne Cox turns the red carpet into a stage for beauty and powerful messaging.
8. Kerry Washington
View this post on Instagram
Kerry Washington commands the Emmys red carpet with a captivating fusion of grace and strength, embodying elegance and resilience in every moment. Her style choices range from intricately beaded gowns that shimmer with detail to sleek, minimalist ensembles that emphasize clean lines and sophistication. No matter the look, she carries each one confidently and elegantly, solidifying her status as a red carpet mainstay.
Her fashion presence is so striking that she seamlessly transitions between classic and contemporary. Washington’s looks are always thoughtfully curated, highlighting her poise while embracing subtle boldness. She consistently delivers polished, powerful, and unforgettable red-carpet moments, whether embracing timeless glamour or modern chic.
9. Nicole Kidman
View this post on Instagram
A consistent Emmy icon, Nicole Kidman has gracefully evolvconsistent Emmy icon, has gracefully evolved her red carpet style from traditional glamour to bold, cutting-edge sophistication. Early on, she embraced cutting-edge sophistication. Early on, she embraced timeless shapes and sumptuous fabrics reminiscent of classic Hollywood elegance. Her fashion choices go beyond mere aesthetics, embodying a more profound meaning and highlighting her trailblazing impact reminiscent of classic Hollywood elegance. Her fashion choices go beyond aesthetics, illustrating a more profound meaning and highlighting her trailblazing impact on the industry.
One constant shines through her evolving fashion journey: an unmistakable aura of sophistication. Whether adorned in a sculptural avant-garde gown or a striking statement piece, Kidman wears every ensemble with calm confidence and effortless elegance. Her Emmy wardrobe blends bold reinvention with timeless grace, securing her lasting style legacy.
10. Rami Malek
View this post on Instagram
Rami Malek dominates the Emmys red carpet with a flawless fusion of timeless elegance and contemporary edge. He wears impeccably tailored looks that honor the heritage of classic menswear while confidently showcasing his distinctive sartorial voice. He often chooses suits with clean lines and precise fits, but subtle twists—like an unexpected color, asymmetrical detail, or unique lapel—give his style a distinctive flair.
His fashion sense strikes a perfect balance between tradition and creativity. Whether opting for deep jewel tones, velvet textures, or monochromatic ensembles, Malek always looks polished while injecting just enough personality to stand out. His ability to blend sophistication with quiet innovation makes him a consistent presence among the best-dressed men at the Emmys.
11. Sandra Oh
View this post on Instagram
Sandra Oh consistently makes a statement on the Emmys red carpet by embracing bold colors and commanding silhouettes that mirror the strength and complexity of her on-screen roles. Her fashion choices often feature vibrant hues and striking shapes that convey confidence and sophistication, allowing her to stand out with power and grace. Whether she opts for a dramatic gown or a tailored suit, Oh’s looks are thoughtfully crafted to express modern elegance with a fearless edge.
Sandra distinguishes herself by infusing each outfit with the vibrant essence of her dynamic personality. Her choices go beyond surface appeal, resonating with deep meaning and reflecting her trailblazing spirit amid the industry’s constant evolution. Sandra Oh elevates the red carpet into a dynamic empowerment and fearless self-expression arena through her impeccable style.
12. Angela Bassett
View this post on Instagram
Angela Bassett moves through the Emmys red carpet not as a visitor but as the vibrant force that reinvents its spirit. She is infused with eternal energy and bold style and turns every entrance into a dynamic masterpiece where timeless elegance meets cutting-edge creativity. Wrapped in sculptural form and rich detail, she transcends arrival—she rules, tells stories, and dominates the stage.
Her talent for anticipating fashion trends while gracefully honoring timeless aesthetics distinguishes her. Bassett’s looks balance innovation with grace, proving that bold style and timeless beauty are not mutually exclusive. Her presence on the red carpet is always commanding, gracefully making each appearance a masterclass in age while embracing fashion’s most adventurous expressions.
13. Janelle Monáe
View this post on Instagram
Janelle Monáe may be best known for her groundbreaking music career, but her fashion choices are equally impactful when she graces the Emmys red carpet. She often opts for sculptural, monochromatic ensembles that showcase her flair for bold, avant-garde style. These looks emphasize sharp lines, architectural shapes, and striking textures, making her presence unforgettable and unmistakably fashion-forward.
Her preference for black-and-white palettes adds a timeless yet edgy dimension to her red-carpet appearances. Monáe’s style consistently challenges traditional norms, blending artistic expression with high fashion. Her appearance becomes a powerful visual statement when she attends the Emmys, reflecting her unique identity and creative spirit.
14. Viola Davis
View this post on Instagram
Viola Davis consistently brings classic glamour to the Emmys red carpet, elevating her looks with bold textures and rich, vibrant hues that command attention. Her fashion choices often highlight luxurious fabrics like velvet and satin, adding depth and sophistication to every ensemble. By embracing colors that complement her radiant complexion, she exudes confidence and timeless elegance, making each appearance a powerful statement of style.
What truly distinguishes Viola is her commitment to showcasing designers of color and celebrating her heritage through fashion. She leverages her platform to amplify diverse voices in the industry, all while embracing and celebrating her cultural heritage with elegance and authenticity. Through this thoughtful approach, Viola Davis transforms red-carpet moments into celebrations of identity, artistry, and empowerment.
15. Dan Levy
View this post on Instagram
Dan Levy has swiftly risen to become a defining fashion voice for the new generation, celebrated for his fearless and whimsical red-carpet flair. His vibrant suits and imaginative blend of unconventional fabrics inject a lively, contemporary spirit into the Emmys, reflecting his sharp wit and bold charisma. Levy weaves a spell with audacious patterns and sumptuous textures, broadcasting a singular originality that stamps every look with her unmistakable personal imprint.
Dan’s fashion presence stands out for its effortless fusion of wit and elegance. He confidently embraces risk-taking, challenging traditional menswear norms while maintaining a polished and charismatic look. Through his distinctive style, Levy redefines red carpet fashion as a space for creativity, individuality, and joyful self-expression. It just transforms it’s very essential.
16. Jessica Biel
View this post on Instagram
Jessica Biel masterfully combines romantic elegance with modern sophistication in her Emmys red carpet appearances. Her gowns often showcase intricate fabrics—such as delicate lace, flowing chiffons, or textured silks—that add depth and refinement to each look. Biel’s preference for feminine cuts highlights her graceful silhouette, creating a balance between softness and structure that feels effortlessly chic. She transforms powerfully through her flawless style.
What makes her style truly captivating is the subtle drama she incorporates without ever overwhelming the overall aesthetic. Whether it’s a delicate embellishment, a tasteful slit, or a gentle layering of textures, Biel’s fashion choices whisper elegance while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge. Her ability to blend romance with modernism makes her red-carpet presence timeless and uniquely captivating.
17. Gwendoline Christie
View this post on Instagram
Gwendoline Christie consistently makes bold and unconventional fashion choices, making her red-carpet appearances unforgettable. Known for her fearless approach, she has worn everything from striking medieval-inspired couture to elegant Grecian gowns, showcasing an impressive range that defies traditional expectations. Her style radiates strength and confidence, turning heads with every daring ensemble she wears.
What sets Christie apart is her choice of garments and her commanding presence in each look. Whether donning armor-like textures or flowing drapery, she embodies a powerful blend of drama and grace. Her fashion narrative is one of bold individuality, making her a standout figure who transforms the red carpet into a stage for fearless self-expression.
18. Taraji P. Henson
View this post on Instagram
Taraji P. Henson always commands the red carpet with fierce, fabulous looks that flawlessly blend boldness and elegance. Her fashion choices often feature daring elements, such as plunging necklines, vibrant colors, and thigh-high slits, all of which showcase her confidence and commanding presence. Each ensemble is designed to captivate, allowing her to stand out with an effortless mix of sexiness and sophistication.
Taraji’s style magnetism lies in her effortless command over every outfit, blending grace with unshakable confidence. She wields fashion as a bold declaration of power and uniqueness, all while exuding a refined, sophisticated vibe. Taraji P. Henson transforms every red carpet into a stage for fearless glamour and unforgettable elegance, from dazzling gowns to sharp, tailored ensembles.
19. Millie Bobby Brown
View this post on Instagram
Millie Bobby Brown has quickly established herself as a rising star on the red carpet, impressing with looks that strike a delicate balance between youthful charm and sophisticated elegance. Even at a young age, she consistently selects perfectly age-appropriate ensembles, showcasing her natural elegance without sacrificing style. Her Emmys appearances often feature clean lines, subtle details, and soft colors that complement her fresh, youthful presence.
What sets Millie apart is her ability to make thoughtful fashion choices that respect her age while showcasing her emerging status as a style icon. She embodies elegance without trying to imitate more mature red-carpet veterans; instead, she carves out a distinct and genuine fashion identity. Through her poised and polished looks, Millie Bobby Brown continues to make a memorable impression as a young talent with a promising future both on-screen and in fashion.
20. Donald Glover
Donald Glover’s Emmy style blends boldness and sophistication through fearless texture and color. Whether he opts for plush velvet suits or soft pastel tones, Glover consistently brings a unique and dynamic energy to his fashion choices. His ability to mix unexpected fabrics with vibrant hues ensures his looks are always eye-catching and memorable, standing out in a sea of traditional menswear.
What truly distinguishes Glover’s style is his confidence in taking risks that pay off with striking results. He perfectly balances whimsical creativity and sharp tailoring, creating contemporary and timeless looks. Through his innovative approach, Donald Glover continues to redefine red-carpet fashion with originality and effortless charm.
21. Julia Louis-Dreyfus
View this post on Instagram
Much like her impressive Emmy-winning career, Julia Garner consistently excels on the red carpet with a style defined by structured elegance and thoughtful detailing. Her fashion choices often feature clean lines and tailored silhouettes, highlighting her poised and confident presence. By incorporating high-impact elements—through intricate embellishments, bold textures, or striking accessories—she elevates each look beyond classic refinement into something uniquely memorable.
What truly stands out about Julia’s red carpet style is her ability to blend simplicity with sophistication, creating modern and timeless ensembles. Her attention to detail and commitment to polished elegance ensure that every appearance is stylish and reflects her growing stature as a fashion force to be reckoned with.
22. Issa Rae
View this post on Instagram
Issa Rae’s red carpet journey showcases a striking evolution defined by confidence, creativity, and impeccable style. Her fashion choices range from vibrant, eye-catching gowns celebrating bold colors and playful patterns to sleek, minimalistic masterpieces emphasizing clean lines and understated elegance. This versatility highlights her talent for adaptation and experimentation, all while preserving a steady aura of poise and purpose in every look.
What makes Issa’s red carpet presence truly inspiring is the deliberate confidence with which she owns every look. She approaches fashion as a form of self-expression and empowerment, using her wardrobe to highlight her individuality and cultural identity. With every step, Issa Rae exudes a blend of grace and strength that resonates beyond the surface, solidifying her status as a rising fashion icon who embraces boldness and refinement.
23. Mandy Moore
View this post on Instagram
Mandy Moore’s red carpet style blends classic Hollywood glamour with fresh, contemporary elements. Her gowns often feature flowing, ethereal fabrics that evoke timeless elegance, while deep necklines or unique color pairings add a modern edge. This fusion creates nostalgic and innovative looks, capturing the spirit of old Hollywood while embracing today’s fashion sensibilities.
Her ability to balance softness and boldness with effortless ease sets Moore apart. Whether donning a pastel-hued gown with a dramatic neckline or experimenting with unexpected color contrasts, her style always exudes confidence and sophistication. Mandy’s approach to red-carpet fashion celebrates tradition without being bound by it, making her a standout figure in today’s style landscape.
24. Padma Lakshmi
View this post on Instagram
Padma Lakshmi owns the Emmys red carpet with a sleek sophistication drawn from her modeling roots. She effortlessly unites graceful poise with a refined, polished style. Her sartorial selections are a masterclass in polish, featuring impeccably tailored gowns and ensembles that celebrate her statuesque silhouette and regal aura. Whether embracing minimalist purity or intricate embellishments, every outfit radiates a commanding elegance that captivates and commands the spotlight.
Padma’s ability to project confidence and poise through every outfit she wears distinguishes her. She embodies timeless silhouettes and luxurious fabrics, ensuring that her red carpet appearances are modern and classic. Her sartorial discipline and keen eye for detail reflect a deep understanding of fashion, making her one of Emmys’s most compelling style icons.
25. Elisabeth Moss
View this post on Instagram
Elisabeth Moss is known for her preference for clean lines and subtle glamour. She chooses red carpet looks that embody understated elegance rather than flashy showmanship. Her fashion choices often feature minimalist silhouettes with refined details, allowing her natural poise and confidence to take center stage. Moss’s style quietly commands attention through its simplicity and timeless sophistication, proving that less can truly be more.
What makes her red carpet presence so compelling is the consistent balance she strikes between modernity and classic refinement. Though her ensembles may not always clamor for attention, they leave a lasting impression. Elisabeth Moss exemplifies the impact of understated elegance and sleek minimalism on one of the industry’s most prestigious stages.
Where Fashion Meets Meaning at the Emmys
What sets these stars apart is not just the gowns or suits but the intention behind each appearance. Emmys fashion is more than just glitz; it’s a statement, a celebration of individuality, and often a tribute to cultural moments and personal milestones. As the Emmys continue to evolve, so will the fashion—and we’ll watch every step down that carpet.
These 25 celebrities prove that mastering the Emmy look requires more than good taste; it takes courage, vision, and an unmistakable sense of self.
