Hollywood and New York’s pre-award circuit ignited 2026 with a parade of headline-grabbing looks from Helen Mirren, Sarah Jessica Parker, Mindy Kaling, Rose Byrne and more.
> At a Glance
> – Helen Mirren wore custom pale-pink Stella McCartney to the Golden Eve gala in L.A.
> – Sarah Jessica Parker chose a silver strapless gown by Paolo Sebastian for the same event.
> – Rose Byrne hit the New York Film Critics Circle Awards in a black beaded strapless gown.
> – Why it matters: These early-year ensembles set the tone for red-carpet trends ahead of the 2026 Golden Globes.
The first week of January delivered three high-profile events across the country, giving A-listers a chance to debut 2026 style statements before awards season shifts into top gear.
Los Angeles: Golden Eve Gala
Helen Mirren previewed Globes-week glamour in a blush Stella McCartney column, matching Ahikoza clutch and statement diamonds.
Sarah Jessica Parker paired a metallic strapless gown with a cropped black jacket, both by Australian label Paolo Sebastian.
Mindy Kaling opted for sleek drama, wearing a black column dress featuring waist cut-outs and textural detailing.
- Natasha Rothwell arrived in butter-yellow off-shoulder silk and a sculptural updo.
- Mel Robbins commanded attention in a black Khaite gown with an asymmetrical neckline, thigh-high slit, Tom Ford sandals, HassanZadeh earrings and Jimmy Choo clutch.
Palm Springs International Film Festival
The desert festival delivered an all-black fashion narrative.
Miley Cyrus suited up in a sharp Tom Ford tux, layering a plunging black shirt underneath.
Teyana Taylor went dramatic in Miss Sohee, choosing an off-shoulder gown with a voluminous sculptural skirt.
Amanda Seyfried selected feather-trimmed Balenciaga, accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewels.
Elle Fanning offered the lone pop of color in vintage baby-blue Nettie Rosenstein Couture.
Chase Infiniti closed the group in soft femininity, wearing a satin pale-pink gown finished with a cowl neckline.
New York: Film Critics Circle Awards
Across the country, Rose Byrne brought classic elegance to N.Y.C. in a black strapless beaded gown and coordinating pumps.
Key Takeaways
- Pale pink and butter yellow emerged as early color trends.
- Black gowns dominated Palm Springs, interpreted through sculptural and feathered accents.
- Accessories stayed minimalist-statement jewelry, sleek clutches and simple pumps ruled.
These first standout looks of 2026 signal a year that will balance timeless Hollywood glamour with experimental silhouettes and strategic color moments.
