The Best-Dressed Stars at the 2025 Emmy Awards

The 2025 Emmy Awards turned Los Angeles into a dazzling runway, with television’s brightest stars arriving at the Peacock Theater in a parade of bold fashion choices, timeless classics, and statement-making gowns. While fans worldwide watched the red carpet unfold live, the editors at Marie Claire were already buzzing behind the scenes, trading real-time reactions and fashion insights.

From striking velvet gowns to dreamy couture, the best-dressed stars of the night set the tone for the upcoming award season. Below, we break down the looks that earned top marks from the magazine’s fashion and beauty experts.

Why Red Carpet Fashion Matters at the Emmys

The Emmys red carpet has long been one of the most important stages for celebrity style. Unlike film festivals or music award shows, television’s biggest night allows a blend of high glamour and experimentation. Designers showcase their most daring ideas, while stylists push boundaries to cement their clients’ places on “best-dressed” lists.

In 2025, the mood leaned toward classic silhouettes with modern twists—rich fabrics, bold textures, and thoughtful details. Trends such as velvet, shoulder pads, and pink hues dominated, while timeless couture pieces reminded audiences that elegance never fades.

Hunter Schafer in Alexander McQueen

One of the evening’s most unforgettable moments came courtesy of Hunter Schafer, who stunned in an Alexander McQueen gown that perfectly matched her pink-red hair. The monochromatic effect was striking, with an edge that felt editorial yet sophisticated. Editors praised her ability to merge bold color coordination with a model-like presence, creating a standout look that immediately set the night’s tone.

Chase Sui Wonders in Thom Browne

Chase Sui Wonders turned heads in a Thom Browne design that mixed masculine tailoring with delicate femininity. The front of the gown was a sleek reinterpretation of a tuxedo, while the back featured breathtaking lace-up detailing framed in the designer’s iconic tri-color trim. According to Marie Claire editors, it was one of the most fashion-forward ensembles of the night—an instant red carpet classic.

Meghann Fahy in Velvet Glamour

Meghann Fahy, best known for her role in The White Lotus, embodied power and sophistication in a plunging black velvet gown. The structured shoulders gave a nod to the revival of 1980s maximalism, while the long sleeves and dramatic neckline added a winter-ready elegance. Her look combined nostalgic elements with modern drama, making her one of the evening’s most commanding presences.

Selena Gomez in Louis Vuitton

True to form, Selena Gomez delivered refined sophistication in a minimalist Louis Vuitton gown. The high-neck silhouette channeled understated luxury, while her sparkling six-carat engagement ring added a personal touch that turned heads. For many editors, the gown hinted at a possible direction for her future wedding attire—a seamless blend of simplicity and grandeur.

Lisa in Lever Couture

Global star Lisa showcased her softer side in a custom Lever Couture creation. The blush-colored gown was airy and romantic, layered with gauzy textures that looked like something out of a fairytale. While Lisa is often associated with edgy and experimental fashion, this dreamy look demonstrated her versatility and grace on the red carpet.

Mariska Hargitay in Crimson Velvet

Mariska Hargitay embraced the cherry red trend with a crushed velvet mermaid gown. The tailored fit highlighted her elegant silhouette, while the rich texture brought depth and sophistication. Editors noted how the bold choice reflected both confidence and timeless style, making Hargitay one of the night’s standout veterans.

Michelle Williams in Vintage Chanel

Few celebrities embody classic Hollywood glamour as seamlessly as Michelle Williams. At the Emmys, she wore a vintage Chanel gown that was equal parts ladylike and dramatic. The ruffled fabric and sweeping train channeled couture elegance, proving once again that Williams is a master of refined red carpet fashion.

Ruth Negga in Printed Prada

Breaking away from the monochromatic looks dominating the evening, Ruth Negga stunned in a printed Prada gown with hand-painted detailing at the hem. A plunging neckline framed with black trim added a modern touch, while a diamond choker elevated the ensemble. Her bold choice earned her a coveted spot on the editors’ best-dressed list.

Jenna Ortega in Givenchy

Jenna Ortega, already a style icon in her own right, wore a daring Givenchy Fall 2025 look featuring a crystal-embellished top. The ensemble shimmered under stage lights as she presented an award, proving that youthful risk-taking can pay off on the red carpet. Editors called her outfit a “jaw-dropper” that highlighted her fearless approach to fashion.

Cristin Milioti in Danielle Frankel

Cristin Milioti surprised with a custom Danielle Frankel gown in a bold shade of red. With a cinched silhouette and sculptural neckline, the look balanced drama and sophistication. The gown’s architectural elements gave Milioti a commanding presence, perfectly aligning with her fearless television persona.

Britt Lower in Calvin Klein

For those who appreciate minimalist elegance, Britt Lower offered a lesson in restraint. Her satin Calvin Klein gown featured a sleek silhouette in a deep autumnal shade, which paired beautifully with her ginger hair. The understated look demonstrated that sometimes simplicity is the boldest choice of all.

Leighton Meester and Adam Brody in Prada

One of the night’s most memorable moments came from a coordinated couple’s look. Leighton Meester wore a pastel Prada gown that complemented her soft glam styling, while Adam Brody chose a striking blue suit. Together, the pair stood out as the ultimate power couple, bringing personality and playfulness to the red carpet.

Other Notable Mentions

• Natasha Rothwell in Di Santo delivered effortless glamour with clean lines and subtle detailing.

• Megan Stalter broke conventions with a T-shirt-and-jeans-inspired ensemble that made a bold artistic statement.

• Several presenters and nominees alike leaned into bold textures and rich tones, cementing fall 2025’s top fashion trends.

Key Red Carpet Trends from the 2025 Emmys

Beyond individual looks, the night revealed several key trends:

• Velvet Renaissance – From Meghann Fahy to Mariska Hargitay, velvet reigned supreme.

• Power Shoulders – Structured silhouettes evoked the return of 1980s maximalism.

• Romantic Pinks and Reds – Shades of blush, cherry, and crimson dominated the palette.

• Minimalist Chic – Stars like Selena Gomez and Britt Lower reminded us that clean lines and simple silhouettes never go out of style.

• Vintage Couture – Michelle Williams’ Chanel look highlighted the enduring power of archival fashion.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Emmy Awards red carpet was more than just a parade of designer gowns—it was a celebration of individuality, artistry, and storytelling through fashion. From daring newcomers like Chase Sui Wonders to seasoned icons like Michelle Williams, the night’s best-dressed stars proved that television’s biggest night is also one of fashion’s most thrilling.

According to Marie Claire editors, these 14 looks captured the spirit of the season, blending glamour, creativity, and timeless elegance. As award season continues, one thing is certain: the fashion bar has been set high, and audiences can’t wait to see what comes next.