Best Looks at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala: 4 Hits and 3 That Missed the Mark

Gowns that stood out

Taylor Swift wore a baby-blue, strapless Dior gown with a sweetheart neckline, all-over ruching and a floor-length skirt with a short train. A silver bow extended down the bodice, creating a princess-like silhouette that suited her.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph chose a white Louis Vuitton gown with off-the-shoulder long sleeves, a fitted bodice and a floor-length skirt tailored to her height. Her updo and diamond jewelry completed the look.

A historic dress misfired

Kim Kardashian wore a cream-colored Balenciaga gown designed in 1951. It featured a ruched baby-pink neckline, a corseted bodice and a lace-lined skirt. Although the gown was a piece of fashion history, its old-school fabrics were judged a poor fit for Kardashian’s modern style. Her short hair also made the overall effect appear costume-like.

Menswear with room to improve

Connor Storrie wore a custom Valentino outfit with an unbuttoned black blouse, flared trousers, a bedazzled blazer, a satin cummerbund and a matching loose tie. The look was considered stronger with a different jacket.

Another Saint Laurent look paired wide-leg trousers and a satin top with a neck scarf and coat. The styling assessment suggested a shorter option or no outerwear.

Other red-carpet choices

A model and influencer identified as Richie wore a sleeveless, form-fitting black vintage Versace gown from 2001. It had a high neckline, a long skirt and a skinny attached train; bold makeup or statement accessories could have added more impact.

Lee wore a sleeveless, ankle-length Dior gown made entirely of strings of beads. Its color and material were considered well suited to her, and the dress stood apart on the red carpet.