2026 Emmys best, boldest and most 'wait, what' red carpet looks: From Zendaya's crystals to Shailene Woodley's closet roulette

The 2026 Emmy Awards are celebrating the best performances on television, but some of the night's most memorable moments took place before anyone stepped onstage.

As the first major awards show of the season, the Emmys carpet might also have offered an early look at the fashion moments that may carry over to the red carpets ahead. This year delivered method dressing, unapologetic splashes of color, coordinated families and an expectant plus-one. If this was the dress rehearsal, we're in for a fun season.

Here are the best and boldest looks of the night — and the completely unofficial awards we're giving them.

Tom Pelphrey may have been Kaley Cuoco's official date, but he wasn't her only plus-one. The actor's pale pink gown gave their second daughter her first major red carpet moment.

Derek Hough didn't merely wear teal. He devoted himself to it with a monochromatic look that even included his shoes. The green hue is the winner for him tonight.

Hottest couple: Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys

Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys didn't need coordinated black looks to convince me they're the hottest couple on the carpet, but they certainly didn't hurt. Her black leather Khatie gown and his Thom Browne tuxedo were perfectly matched without veering into prom-photo territory.

There are few guarantees during awards season, but Zendaya landing on the best-dressed list is one of them. The two-time Emmy winner returned to the show as a nominee for Euphoria, wearing a crystal-covered Prada gown and a dramatic new pixie cut. Did we expect anything less?

At 6 years old, Duke McCloud already knows how to give the internet what it wants. The All Her Fault star (and former Yahoo Kids Rate contributor ) flashed the viral 6-7 hand gesture on the carpet, securing his place as the night's cutest meme correspondent.

Most likely to go home with herself: Meg Stalter

Hacks star Meg Stalter didn't just dress like an Emmy — she became the Emmy, complete with gold body paint, wings and an atom. She didn't win in her category, but, really, does it matter?

Most mirrors in the building: Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez is recognized as an executive producer for Only Murders in the Building . Yet, the only mystery here is how she managed not to blind the entire red carpet with her gold Louis Vuitton gown covered in tiny mirrors.

Best case for color theory: Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo paired a terracotta jacket with a bright pink shirt, miniature bow tie, magenta sash, ivory pants and white boots — a list that shouldn't necessarily add up to a look this good. But on one of Hollywood's most reliable dressers, it makes perfect sense.

Best sister act: Dakota and Elle Fanning

Dakota and Elle Fanning share genes, but apparently not a red carpet mood board. The two went in different directions with their looks — Dakota in black and white, and Elle in a shimmering mint gown with trailing fringe. Both were undeniably stylish.

Most likely to slay: Sarah Michelle Gellar

Sarah Michelle Gellar has spent decades slaying, so why stop on Emmys night? The Buffy the Vampire Slayer star refused to be missed in a hot-pink satin column dress, paired with enough diamonds to give the color some competition.

It's practically magic that Nicole Kidman appeared at the Emmys at all. The Margo's Got Money Troubles actor and producer returned after nine years away from the award show, and on the heels of the long-awaited release of Practical Magic 2 . Her white Chanel gown, decorated with floral details along the neckline and grounded by black pumps, made the comeback well worth the wait.

Luckiest spin of closet roulette: Shailene Woodley

Shailene Woodley appears to have played closet roulette. The newly minted Emmy winner combined a periwinkle halter top, gold sequined pants, burgundy gloves and a colorful necklace all in one look.

Strongest supporting cast: Mariska Hargitay and family

Emmys host Mariska Hargitay showed up to the red carpet with her strongest support cast: husband Peter Hermann and their three children, Andrew, Amaya and August. The family was almost suspiciously coordinated, with the women in red sequins and the men in black-tie tuxedos. Clearly, everyone read the family group chat (but don't expect them to keep up with the host's numerous outfit changes).