Red Carpet Fashion Trends 2021
I have to say, 2021 has been quite the journey in the fashion scene, particularly on the red carpet. Some styles have made such a splash, you’d think they jumped right out of a fashion fairytale. Let’s dig into these standout trends that are turning heads and sparking conversations.
European Fall Trends
This year, Europe brought a mood that’s a tad mysterious but oh-so-glam to the red carpet. Picture designers like Miuccia Prada, Raf Simons, Dries Van Noten, Rokh, and Marni showcasing collections loaded with sequins, stoles, and that delightful dose of whimsy. They’re crafting looks that practically scream, “TA-DA!”, perfect for those dramatic entrances we all secretly love.
| Designer | What’s Hot |
|---|---|
| Miuccia Prada | Sparkle with Sequins |
| Raf Simons | Stole the Show with Stoles |
| Dries Van Noten | Goth Glam Magic |
| Rokh | Big, Bold Volumes |
| Marni | Brocade Bonanza |
Peek into our celebrity red carpet outfits if European flair tickles your fancy.
Millennial Nostalgia Revival
This year, it’s like someone hit rewind and we’re back to the days of pop princess glory on the red carpet. Designers like Blumarine, Conner Ives, Alyx, and Roberto Cavalli are resurrecting pastel minidresses, crystal crowns, and those teeny-weeny details that scream “young and fancy-free.” It’s all about turning heads and channeling some serious I-want-to-be-a-superstar vibes.
| Designer | Trend Throwbacks |
|---|---|
| Blumarine | Pastel Dreams |
| Conner Ives | Crystal Crowns |
| Alyx | Tiny but Mighty Details |
| Roberto Cavalli | Pop Idol Extras |
Have a wander through our best red carpet dresses for more of this carefree blast from the past.
Pleated Skirt Sets
Pleated skirt sets have been strutting their stuff this fall and are basically saying, “We’re here to steal the spotlight.” Designers like 3.1 Phillip Lim, Plan C, Schiaparelli, Chopova Lowena, and Collina Strada have been busy showcasing everything from quirky tweed to elegant drapes. These ensembles scream ease while oozing sophistication, perfectly suited for a red carpet stroll.
| Designer | Pleats to Meet You |
|---|---|
| 3.1 Phillip Lim | Playful Pleats |
| Plan C | Prim and Proper Vibes |
| Schiaparelli | Elegance in Every Fold |
| Chopova Lowena | Bold and Unapologetic |
| Collina Strada | Fun Meets Formal |
Check out the vibe in our red carpet fashion trends section.
Keep your eyes peeled here for more sizzling scoops from the red carpet fashion universe.
Red Carpet Attire Innovations
Let’s chat about the wild and wonderful red carpet styles of 2021—where creativity ran free and fashion took a step beyond its usual confines. Designers and celebs were the risk-takers, mixing unique fashion pieces that had everyone talking. I’m diving into three rockstar trends: cozy blankets turning into high fashion, the dramatic return of capes and trains, and those eye-catching feathered details.
Blankets as Fashion Pieces
Yep, you read that right—blankets upgraded to fashion royalty in 2021. Wraps moved from your comfy couch to the star-studded red carpet. Jonathan Anderson, Gabriela Hearst, Alberta Ferretti, and Missoni were all about ponchos and capes that not only kept folks warm, but also stole the spotlight (Vogue). These snuggly wonders brought an elegant twist to any red carpet ensemble, proving that fashion doesn’t have to be uncomfortable to be groundbreaking. Cozy and chic—what’s not to love?
For a peek at fashion essentials, swing by best red carpet dresses.
Resurgence of Capes and Trains
Capes and trains were the ‘it’ item for making a scene on the red carpet in 2021. Icons like Jennifer Lawrence, Sarah Jessica Parker, Lady Gaga, and Kate Middleton were all about making an entrance with bold capes, bringing a mix of drama and grace to their looks. These fashion statements weren’t just about looking good; they were about owning the room and leaving folks in awe.
Opera gloves also made a sneaky comeback, offering both style and usability. Cynthia Erivo at the Golden Globes and Emma Corrin at the Emmys rocked the retro gloves like nobody’s business (Hollywood Reporter).
Here’s a roundup of some A-listers who nailed the capes and trains look:
| Event | Celebrity | Attire Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Globes | Cynthia Erivo | Opera Gloves |
| Emmys | Emma Corrin | Opera Gloves |
| Various | Sarah Jessica Parker | Coordinated Capes |
| Various | Lady Gaga | Coordinated Capes |
Feathered Accents
Now, let’s talk feathers. 2021 was all about adding a sprinkle of whimsy with feathers. Stars like Angela Bassett, Laura Dern, and Harry Styles took to the Golden Globes and Grammys with feathery flair (Hollywood Reporter). Some went subtle, others went wild, but feathers always managed to catch the eye and add that special something.
These feathered touches brought life and movement to gowns and suits, taking them from pretty to downright show-stopping. If you want to dig deeper into such fab trends, have a look at celebrity red carpet outfits.
The red carpet of 2021 was a playground for creativity and style evolution. Whether you’re chatting about blanket-chic or the classic elegance of capes or the fun of feathers, the looks didn’t just make waves—they made fashion history. For more tricks on nailing those iconic looks, swing by red carpet hairstyles and red carpet makeup ideas.
Red Carpet Looks of 2021
Walking the red carpet in 2021 was all about blending elegance and glam with a sprinkle of laid-back chic, catching the fancy of fashion lovers far and wide. Here’s a peek at some of the trends that ruled the red carpet runways this year.
High Slit Dresses
This year, high slit dresses took the spotlight, giving everyone a reason to gawk at the endless legs flaunted by celebs. Zendaya, at the Venice Film Festival, and the stunning Gemma Chan at Cannes, made jaws drop with their daring ensembles. It’s that perfect mix of grace and audacity that made this style a headliner.
| Celebrity | Event | Look |
|---|---|---|
| Zendaya | Venice Film Festival | High Slit Dress |
| Gemma Chan | Cannes | High Slit Gown |
Curious for more titillating trends like these? Check out best red carpet dresses.
Return to Glamorous Styles
After months of living in sweatpants (thanks, pandemic), stars strutted back to glam-town in a big way. High heels, show-stopping outfits, and luxurious details became the norm. Think fluttering capes, regal trains, and feather trims. Taylor Swift, with her grand getups, was a walking testament to this grand comeback.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Capes | Bold and sweeping |
| Trains | Long and showy |
| Feathers | Feather accents adding flair |
| Colors | Bright and twinkly |
Want more celeb inspiration? Peek at celebrity red carpet outfits.
Emphasis on Jeans and Jewelry
While fabulous gowns were a red carpet staple, something new grabbed attention—jeans paired with posh jewelry. It was the best of both: comfy yet luxe. Statement necklaces and leather pieces took center stage, showing the evolving nature of today’s red carpet fashion.
| Elements | Description |
|---|---|
| Jeans | Stylish, comfy |
| Jewelry | Eye-catching and upscale |
Wanna delve deeper into the trends? Explore red carpet fashion trends.
2021’s red carpet looks say it loud and clear: whether you’re into bold glamour or love laid-back luxe, there’s a seat for everyone at the fashion table. Plus, don’t miss our deep dives into red carpet makeup ideas and red carpet designers for even more little extras.
Iconic Celebrity Red Carpet Styles
Being obsessed with all things fashion, I live for those jaw-dropping red carpet moments. Last year, a parade of celebrities flaunted some unforgettable outfits on this glamorous stage. Let’s sneak a peek at some of the most eye-catching ensembles and the genius minds behind them.
Met Gala 2021 Standouts
The 2021 Met Gala was a feast for the senses. There was no shortage of show-stopping brilliance. Here’s who had everyone talking:
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Billie Eilish: Channeling the elegance of Hollywood’s golden era, Billie dazzled in an Oscar de la Renta gown that would make Grace Kelly nod in approval. With peachy tulle and a mammoth train, her look screamed classic glam (Vogue).
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Lil’ Nas X: Talk about a wow factor. Lil’ Nas X strutted in a tri-layer Versace spectacle: a luxurious cape, a shiny suit of armor, and a second-skin catsuit underneath. His daring fashion striptease was the reason jaws dropped.
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Kim Kardashian: She turned the mysterious into art with a fully masked Balenciaga number. The enigmatic look was right in line with the American fashion showcase’s dramatic vibe (Vogue).
Taylor Swift’s Style Evolution
Taylor Swift owns the red carpet like she owns hit records. Her style has danced through her career, growing as her music does—from her early days to the present:
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Early 2000s: The “Fearless” singer often dazzled in sparkly ball gowns, bringing fairy-tale dreams to life with structured bodices and twirling skirts.
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2010s: This era was about edgy charm with a nod to yesteryears. Her 2016 Met Gala outfit—a futuristic silver mini—marked a turning point from country princess to pop powerhouse.
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2021: Taylor embraced a nostalgic, classy flair. At the Grammys 2021, she shined in an Etro gown that nodded to Renaissance elegance, her go-to red lip and understated jewels completing her magical look (Katerina Perez).
Powerhouses in Styling
Behind the curtain of these stunning looks are the folks who really know their fashion onions. The geniuses of style took the spotlight in 2021, big time:
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Law Roach: Crowned Stylist of the Year by The Hollywood Reporter, Roach’s work with Zendaya at the Oscars was pure magic (Hollywood Reporter). Zendaya shimmered in a canary yellow Valentino gown embodying ethereal grace that seemed to dance with the wind. Roach is also the fairy godstylist for stars like Anya Taylor-Joy and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
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Bulgari Jewelry: Zendaya did not just spark at the Venice Film Festival; she beamed. Sporting Bulgari’s glorious High Jewellery, she wore a 6-carat fancy vivid yellow diamond necklace and matching earrings that turned her into walking sophistication (Katerina Perez).
| Celebrity | Event | Look | Designer/Stylist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Billie Eilish | Met Gala 2021 | Tulle Oscar de la Renta Gown | Oscar de la Renta |
| Lil’ Nas X | Met Gala 2021 | Layered Versace Ensemble | Versace |
| Kim Kardashian | Met Gala 2021 | Full-Coverage Balenciaga Gown | Balenciaga |
| Zendaya | Oscars 2021 | Canary Yellow Valentino Gown | Law Roach |
| Zendaya | Venice Film Festival 2021 | Bulgari Jewelry | Bulgari |
Get your fill of glam by checking out our piece on celebrity red carpet outfits. Wanna see how makeup plays a starring role too? Head on over to red carpet makeup ideas.
Celebrity Jewelry Moments
2021 was a sparkly year for jewelry lovers, with celebs bedazzling us on the red carpets with their bling. Let’s take a look back at some of those moments that left us all starry-eyed and maybe a bit envious.
Bulgari Showstoppers
Zendaya lit up the 93rd Annual Academy Awards and the Venice Film Festival. She dripped with Bulgari High Jewelry, flashing a 6-carat fancy yellow diamond necklace, a 21.14 carat yellow diamond ring, and diamond earrings that would make any magpie swoon. Talk about eye-popping elegance!.
Then, Chinese actress Li Meng turned some serious heads at the Cannes Film Festival with a wild Bulgari poncho necklace in pink gold, boasting more gemstones than I could count. It was all kinds of wow with its jaw-dropping designs and colors (Katerina Perez).
Cannes Kick-Off
Bella Hadid brought the drama to the Cannes Film Festival sporting the Gold Lung necklace by Daniel Roseberry for Schiaparelli. Paired with Chopard’s ruby earrings and a Phoenix cocktail ring, she was a walking masterpiece of boldness and beauty (Katerina Perez).
Jodie Turner-Smith also wowed everyone with her Gucci High Jewelry. Decked out in yellow beryl and diamond lion head jewels, she looked like royalty, perfectly pulling off that tricky mix of class and daring (Katerina Perez).
When Jewelry Met Fashion
Jewelry went rogue in 2021, mixing it up with fashion in all sorts of ways. Elle Fanning was a trailblazer at the InStyle Awards with her giant gold chain crop top, blurring the lines in true daring fashion. It was a total head-turner, breaking all the usual rules in the best way possible (Katerina Perez).
| Celebrity | Event | Jewelry Pieces |
|---|---|---|
| Zendaya | Academy Awards, Venice | Bulgari necklace with a 6-carat yellow diamond, 21.14 carat yellow diamond ring, yellow diamond earrings |
| Li Meng | Cannes Film Festival | Bulgari poncho necklace in pink gold with gemstones |
| Bella Hadid | Cannes Film Festival | Schiaparelli Gold Lung necklace, Chopard ruby earrings, Phoenix cocktail ring |
| Jodie Turner-Smith | Cannes Film Festival | Gucci yellow beryl and diamond lion head jewels |
| Elle Fanning | InStyle Awards | Gold chain crop top |
2021 was all about pushing the envelope on red carpet glitz and glamour, with celebs wearing some of the swankiest and most mind-blowing jewelry pieces. From Bulgari’s high-end gems to eye-popping fashion-jewelry combos, it was a year to remember. Check out more glam stories with our best red carpet dresses and red carpet fashion trends.
Fashion Influences: Met Gala & TikTok
TikTok’s Impact on Fashion World
Over the past few years, TikTok’s been stirring up the fashion scene like your grandma’s secret recipe, shaking things from street style all the way to those glittery, over-the-top Met Gala looks. You ever notice how trends can pop up there quicker than you can say “hashtag”? It’s like a conveyor belt of fab, with fashionistas watching their freshly baked trends leap right from their phones to the runway. It was a total mic-drop moment at the Met Gala, where the wild trends from TikTok found their spotlight in the grand reality show of fashion (Washington Post).
TikTok’s viral content has sparked some seriously creative fashion movements. Stuff like #OOTD and #FashionHacks whip up a frenzy of folks trying new things with their style, pushing boundaries with gutsy looks. It’s like a merry-go-round of creativity where startup designers get to show off their flashy duds, ready for that jaw-dropping celebrity entrance.
This app ain’t just for the pros either; it’s given Joe and Jane Average a chance to be style gurus too. Imagine the red carpet taking style notes from something your neighbor’s cousin posted on TikTok. Crazy, right? Celebs have been dipping their brushes into this palette of nostalgia, rocked those Y2K vibes and the warm fuzzies of millennial throwbacks have strutted onto the carpet like they never left.
| Influence | Example |
|---|---|
| Viral Hashtags | #OOTD, #FashionHacks |
| Resurgence of Nostalgia | Y2K Styles, Millennial Nostalgia |
If you need proof, think back to the Met Gala 2021 when celebs rolled with TikTok’s flavor, flaunting bright colors, giant bling, and wacky materials, echoing the hype seen in those short clips. It’s like red carpet fashion got a TikTok filter, showing just how the app is shaking up the fancy fashion stage.
TikTok’s funhouse mirror isn’t just for clothing either. Hairstyles and makeup getting a TikTok twist — we’re talking funky hair colors and makeup experiments that seem like they’re straight outta a video tutorial gone viral.
Catching the drift of TikTok’s wave on fashion enriches this cool back-and-forth between social media and glam events. If the red carpet looks are calling your name like a siren, and you’re keen to add some of this celeb magic to your style, keep TikTok hilts up your sleeve for that fresh and chichi perspective.
Ready for more? Check out some fab and infamous red carpet moments, explore the brilliance of red carpet designers, and soak up the ultimate inspo from celebrity style on the carpet. Stay in the loop and red-carpet-ready, because why not step out in style like you own the runway?
