High Fashion and Historic Jewels Dominate the 98th Academy Awards Red Carpet

From Kate Hudson’s $35M diamonds to Michael B. Jordan’s custom LV, explore the most iconic fashion moments from the 98th Academy Awards red carpet.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 16, 2026, 5:41 AM EDT

Source: People

Million Dollar Sparkle and Seafoam Elegance

Kate Hudson, a nominee for Song Sung Blue, provided one of the evening's most talked about moments in a seafoam green peplum gown. While the dress itself was a masterclass in silhouette, it was her accessories that broke records. Hudson wore over 41 carats of rare green diamonds from Garati, a collection valued at a staggering $35 million. This level of high jewelry investment set the tone for a night where the value of the accessories often rivaled the production budgets of the films being celebrated.

The Return of Plumes and Architectural Textures

A major trend observed throughout the evening was the extensive use of feathers and intricate hand embroidery. Demi Moore made a dramatic entrance in a custom plume covered Gucci gown, while Teyana Taylor, a nominee for One Battle After Another, showcased a Chanel piece adorned with black and white glass pearls and crystals. These textures provided a three dimensional quality to the red carpet photography, moving away from the flat silks of previous years toward more tactile, artisanal craftsmanship.

A Fusion of Legacy and Modernity

The 2026 red carpet demonstrated a strategic pivot in celebrity branding, where stars are increasingly using archival references to solidify their status as industry icons. Mckenna Grace explicitly cited Gwyneth Paltrow’s 1999 pink Oscar dress as her inspiration, while Paltrow herself returned to the ceremony in a cream gown that channeled her own minimalist legacy. This "cycle of influence" shows that the Academy Awards is no longer just about current trends but about creating a visual lineage that connects Gen Z talent with the established legends of the 1990s.