The 2026 Golden Globes showcased not only outstanding performances but also fashion that tells powerful stories. From cultural symbolism to personal narratives, this year’s awards season highlighted the significance behind standout looks from various stars.
Chloé Zhao’s Powerful Accessories
Director Chloé Zhao made a statement with her choice of accessories at the Palm Springs International Film Festival. She adorned her elegant Lanvin dress with a striking black jade bracelet crafted by Lisa Eisner. Known for her artistry as a “seeker,” Eisner explained that jade offers emotional stability, which resonates deeply during the high-pressure awards season. “It can give you a little emotional stability, and honestly, who doesn’t need that?” Eisner stated, underscoring the protective qualities of her designs.
Odessa A’zion Breaks Fashion Norms
Actress Odessa A’zion turned heads by embracing lesser-known brands like Ott Dubai and L’Atelier 7474. In a bold move, she designed some of her looks herself, including chic trousers for the Golden Globes, showcasing her knack for vintage fashion. By stepping outside conventional styling, A’zion challenged the typical brand contracts that often restrict celebrity wardrobes.
Elle Fanning’s Vintage Charm
Actress Elle Fanning brought vintage elegance to the ceremony by donning a stunning Nettie Rosenstein gown that had been waiting in her closet for two years. The ice-blue princess gown, well-loved by true vintage enthusiasts, was acquired from Xtabay Vintage in Portland. Stylist Samantha McMillen had recognized the gown’s potential just after the pandemic, making Fanning’s choice not only a fashion statement but a testament to sustainability and history.
Wunmi Mosaku’s Heartfelt Reveal
In a poignant moment, Wunmi Mosaku, star of “Sinners,” revealed her pregnancy through a sunflower-yellow gown designed by Matthew Reisman. The dress symbolized optimism, encapsulating the Yoruba saying, “Iya ni Wúrà,” meaning “mother is golden.” Mosaku expressed her intention to embrace the joy of motherhood while acknowledging the societal concerns surrounding Black maternal mortality. She plans to launch a clothing line called Iyadé, focusing on transitional fashion for mothers, aiming to promote comfort and dignity.
Rajab Saja Kilani’s Cultural Statement
At the Golden Globes, actress Saja Kilani wore a gown by Reema Dahbour, incorporating traditional Palestinian embroidery known as tatreez. This choice was a meaningful tribute, particularly in light of the serious themes of her film, “The Voice of Hind.” Kilani aimed to honor the memory of Rajab, a young Palestinian girl who tragically lost her life during the recent conflict. “Sometimes fashion says what words cannot – it’s kind of its own language,” Kilani noted, emphasizing the importance of cultural heritage in her attire.
The 2026 awards season has unfolded as a platform for artists to express themselves through fashion that carries significant cultural weight. As the industry continues to evolve, the stories behind these looks remind audiences that style can be both a personal statement and a powerful vehicle for broader narratives.
