The last couple of years has been a rough run for award shows. The 2020 Emmys were a virtual affair, with tuxedo-inspired hazmat suits to boot. The 2021 Emmys were al fresco, with invites culled and socially distanced. This year’s Emmys however represent a return to form, with the award show reinstating its 7,200 seat theatre in LA – and with it, elegance and flair in bounds. The red carpet played host to levels of glitz and glamour not seen since pre-pandemic times, and we’re here to tell you all about it. In no particular order, here are the best looks straight from the red carpet…
Lily James
If there’s one thing we know about Lily James, it’s that she never misses on the red carpet – and this gorgeous custom Versace gown is no exception. With word being that she had to be ‘sewn in’, Lily wowed in this form-fitting chainmail-esque dress featuring a tight bodice and beautiful draping. Inspired by Pamela Anderson no less, for which she was nominated for portraying. The look was accessorised with gold jewellery, flowing copper hair and monochromatic eyes and pout.
Zendaya
The woman of the moment of course deserves a gown to match, and Zendaya was the vision of elegance in this Grace Kelly-inspired custom Valentino. Featuring a strapless, black bodice based on a dress worn by Linda Evangelista, leading into a full-skirted silhouette, this look is equal parts glamour and theatrics. The look is matched with white gold jewellery, hair sleeked back into a black ribbon and by the end of the night, a big shiny trophy. Congratulations to Zendaya for making history as the first black woman to win in the Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series category twice.
Ella Purnell
It’s safe to say that the cast of ‘yellowjackets’ collectively slayed on the red carpet, but our standout favourite has got to be this powder blue, crystal-embellished Miu Miu number worn by Ella Purnell. Including a halter neck with keyhole cleavage, David Yurman silver jewellery, 60s-inspired long fringe and rouge glossed lips – this look was absolutely the essence of glamour.
Zuri Hall
Zurri Hall looked dazzling in this silk chiffon gown by Rami Kadi. Featuring a feathered cape, a strapless cut and holographic threads. She may not have been nominated for anything, but she’s a winner as far we’re concerned.
Alexandra Daddario
Blue-eyed beauty Alexandra Daddario looked stunning in this sheer floor-length Dior gown with intricate beading and a nude bodysuit that hid nothing. The White Lotus star paired the seductive look with a sleek long bob parted on the side, a classic red lip, and a clutch and earrings that matched her wonderful nude dress.
Ayo Edebiri
Actress and comedian Ayo Edebiri nominated for The Bear was chic and graceful in this pastel pink Giambatista Gown with a flowing pink cape and flower detailing to boot. This poised look was very flattering as well as a little playful, which complimented her beaming smile. Matched with a blunt bob, silver jewellery and pink heels – this look matched Ayo’s light and fun personality perfectly!
Elle Fanning
‘The Great’ star Elle Fanning was giving 50s starlet in this glamourous pink-and-black number by Sharon Long. This off-the-shoulder gown with a sleek black bodice and pink floral bust embellishments emphasized her wonderful figure and flowed into an elegant long train. The look was paired with a Grace Kelly-inspired blonde bob, a classic cat eye and some silver jewellery.
Laverne Cox
Laverne Cox was giving classic Jean Paul Gautier with this futuristic couture gown featuring zipper detailing, a cone bra reminiscent of madonna, and a wide hip design that was giving Marie Antoinette gone goth. She matched the look with some simple sheer tights, black pumps, a tight high pony and silver jewellery. Suffice it to say, all eyes were on her this red carpet.
Rachel Brosnahan
Rachel Brosnahan of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel took the plunge in this gorgeous royal blue Pamella Roland column gown with floral bow embellishments, silver Cartier jewellery and champagne-coloured Louboutins. Taped ‘within an inch of my life’, Brosnahan looked snatched and elegant, with the dress hugging her figure beautifully. She matched the look with natural makeup and a slicked-back hairstyle.
HoYeon Jung
Squid Game star Hoyeon Jung looked classic in this playful black Louis Vuitton dress with geometric pastel detailing in glimmering sage, lavender and peach. Celebrating her first-ever Emmy nomination, the it girl looked ready to party with a high slit, strappy black heels, a black clutch with chain detailing and a geometric hairpin laid on top of her black bob with side swept bangs.
Words by Giuliana Zamudio-Lopez
Graphics: Mia Washbrook
