Lights! Camera! Historical fashion references!
At the recent Actor Awards, previously known as the SAG Awards, nominees like Chase Infiniti and Kate Hudson were invited to embody the elegance of early cinema with a unique fashion theme set by ELLE US: “Reimagining Hollywood Glamour From the ’20s and ’30s.” The outcome? A blend of elite, exciting, and audacious styles that pushed the boundaries beyond the typical princess-like ball gowns seen at other Hollywood award ceremonies.
This is perhaps not surprising, given that the Actor Awards is the only event in the mainstream awards season where the nominees are solely determined by the performers themselves. Established in 1995, this ceremony is “the only televised awards event dedicated exclusively to actors,” with voting conducted by over 160,000 members of the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. This year marked the inaugural partnership with ELLE, merging the realms of cinema and fashion and encouraging attendees like Teyana Taylor and Emma Stone to honor the legacy of Hollywood’s original icons.
Hollywood Glamour Redefined
Among those icons is Clara Bow, known for her drop-waist satin-embroidered dresses, which continue to inspire designers such as Miuccia Prada and Ralph Lauren. A notable example of this influence was seen in Michelle Williams’s playful custom Prada ensemble, styled by Kate Young. The 1930s also brought forth bombshells like Jean Harlow, whose platinum bob, pencil-thin eyebrows, and lingerie-inspired slip dresses were echoed in Jenna Ortega’s stunning look.
Best-Dressed Highlights
Click through to discover who else nailed the sartorial challenge with our inaugural best-dressed list for the Actor Awards. In a style competition this fierce, simply being nominated is a significant achievement.
- Teyana Taylor – In custom Thom Browne and Tiffany & Co. jewellery.
- Demi Moore – In Schiaparelli and Harry Winston jewellery.
- Chase Sui Wonders – In Miss Sohee and Tiffany & Co. jewellery.
- Sarah Pidgeon – In Balenciaga and Rahaminov Diamonds jewellery.
- Odezza A’zion – In Giorgio Armani.
- Wunmi Mosaku – In custom Louis Vuitton and Messika jewellery.
- Rose Byrne – In Chanel and Messika jewellery.
- Jenna Ortega – In Christian Cowan.
- Yerin Ha – In Balenciaga.
- Emma Stone – In custom Louis Vuitton.
- Kate Hudson – In custom Valentino.
- Gwyneth Paltrow – In Givenchy and Belperron jewellery.
- Jessie Buckley – In Balenciaga and Jessica McCormack jewellery.
- Chase Infiniti – In custom Louis Vuitton and De Beers London jewellery.
- Michelle Williams – In Prada.
On March 1, 2026, Teyana Taylor turned heads at the 32nd Annual Actor Awards held at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles. Dressed in a breathtaking custom Thom Browne gown, she was accompanied by her daughter Rue Rose Shumpert, who was not only a delightful presence on the red carpet but also helped her mother with her stunning outfit.
Fashion at the Actor Awards
Teyana’s gown featured a strapless design with a bodice that resembled an abstract painting of a naked woman, rendered in shades of gray and off-white. The artistic flair was accentuated by a wavy neckline and a flowing skirt adorned with silver streaks. Ribbons cascading from the back added a dynamic touch to the ensemble. She completed her look with exquisite jewellery from Tiffany & Co., including a delicate necklace and earrings.
Rue Rose, just five years old, stole the spotlight alongside her mother, showcasing her own fashion sense in a pink skirt and blue-and-white cardigan. The young starlet even took on the role of her mother’s stylist, ensuring Teyana’s gown was perfectly positioned for the cameras. During a red carpet interview, Rue introduced herself and charmed everyone with her singing, declaring she would perform a song from Frozen in her own unique style.
Teyana Taylor was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for her work in the film One Battle After Another. Earlier this year, she won the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress for the same role. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Teyana expressed her gratitude to Rue for being the best red carpet companion, stating, “You make every room brighter, every step lighter, every dream bigger.”
Nominees Embrace Vintage Styles
As Teyana continues to thrive in her acting career, she credits motherhood for inspiring her to pursue her passions more fervently. With Rue and her other child, Iman “Junie” Shumpert Jr., Teyana is embracing this winning season with grace and style.
The 32nd Annual Actor Awards, hosted by Kristen Bell, celebrated the best performances in film and television from the past year, with One Battle After Another leading the nominations. The event streamed live on Netflix, showcasing the incredible talent and fashion of the night.
