By Karissa Schwab || Contributing Writer
The Emmys, one of the most highly publicized red carpet events in Hollywood, is an opportunity for TV actors, writers, and contributors to express themselves and push the boundaries of fashion. The 2021 Emmy Awards ceremony did not disappoint, with stunning outfits that are sure to leave their mark in red carpet history and others that left us…perplexed.
To kick off the showstoppers, we have Michaela Coel in a striking, neon yellow Christopher John Rogers dress that stole the show as she received her Emmy for the writing of the HBO limited series “I May Destroy You.” The beautiful, full train of fabric balanced by the two piece construction of the dress was complemented by matching neon yellow heels, as well as large, baroque, freshwater pearl earrings, along with beaded bracelets for women and a delicate diamond necklace. Women can also accessorize their formal wear with antique silver earrings.
Next up on the best dressed list we have Anya Taylor-Joy, well known for her work in the best limited series winner, “The Queen’s Gambit.” Taylor-Joy continued the color trend, donning a pale yellow Dior Haute Couture dress with a complimentary gold accent piece. With a bold red lip and eye-catching statement earrings similar to those from Paper Quilling Jewelry, the classic simplicity of this look makes it one that will not soon be forgotten.
The next look that caught my eye was worn by Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr. His all-white Dolce e Gabbana suit adorned with gems of various sizes had the actor and singer shimmering down the red carpet. White boots that matched the sparkle of the suit completed the look, making Odom Jr. one of the best dressed Emmy presenters of the night.
Last, but certainly not least, on the best dressed list was Emmy nominee Issa Rae. Rae glowed down the red carpet in a silver, v-neck, mesh design Aliette dress. The mesh dress was just the right amount of sheer to make a statement while remaining a beautiful, classy look. Paired with shining earrings and a pop of purple eyeshadow, Rae’s style on the red carpet did not disappoint.
Despite the abundance of outstanding looks that flooded the red carpet, there were a few that missed the mark of high fashion. Kathryn Hahn of WandaVision wore a classic black pantsuit by Lanvin, but the timelessness of the outfit was obscured by an absurdly large belt that swallowed most of her torso. The bold belt choice was not a personal favorite of mine and I can’t imagine that sitting through a two hour award ceremony was particularly comfortable with such an accessory.
As much as I’m a fan of Amy Poehler, I unfortunately cannot say the same about her Emmy look. Poehler wore a silvery blush, sequin dress accompanied by a belted black blazer. The blazer was too oversized and long, meeting the dress in a way that created a shapeless look. The bold and boxy fit of the black blazer also seemed too harsh a contrast with the glittering elegance of the dress.
And there you have it: the showstoppers and head-scratchers of the Emmy red carpet. Whether it be bold color trends, classic designs, or downright absurd accessories, Hollywood’s famed red carpet style never fails to entertain its audience, and this year’s ceremony certainly lived up to that expectation.
Sources:
- https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/emmy-awards-2021-fashion-red-carpet-dresses
- https://www.eonline.com/photos/33272/emmys-2021-red-carpet-fashion
- https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/19/arts/television/emmy-winners-list.html
Sophomore Karissa Schawb is a Contributing Writer. Her email is kschwab@fandm.edu.