The 78th Emmy Awards lit up Monday, Sept. 14, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. While the television industry celebrated its biggest night, the red carpet turned into a runway of daring silhouettes, shimmering details, and memorable mother-daughter moments. Simultaneously, fashion experts reminded us that true style lives in the everyday basics that never go out of fashion.
Red carpet standouts that defined the night
Among the most talked-about looks, Mariska Hargitay chose a fiery red sequin gown with a structured bustier and feather-like train, a design that swirled as she moved. Her daughter Amaya mirrored the style in a shorter version, creating a charming mother-daughter tableau.
Zendaya continued her reputation for boldness, arriving in a custom Prada nude gown that was sheer yet encrusted with crystal beading. The sheer fabric caught every light, while Mikimoto pearls added an extra layer of sparkle. Her cropped pixie cut balanced the drama with an effortless cool.
Nicole Kidman back at the ceremony after a nine-year hiatus, embodied classic elegance in a white Chanel bustier dress adorned with 46 silk, organza and raffia flowers. Chanel shoes and high jewelry completed a look that felt both romantic and timeless.
Selena Gomez embraced a futuristic vibe in a mirrored Louis Vuitton gown that resembled a sculptural armor. The reflective surface created a striking silhouette, while Tiffany & Co. jewels softened the futuristic edge.
Adam Brody proved that men’s fashion can be equally inventive, stepping out in a custom Prada suit paired with a printed ascot. The unexpected accessory turned a traditional tuxedo into a fresh, fashion-forward statement.
Couple Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin showcased coordinated elegance. Song wore an Oscar de la Renta gown with a sparkling bodice, accentuated by glittering earrings and layered bracelets. Culkin opted for a Gabriela Hearst ivory wool-silk tuxedo jacket with satin-trimmed trousers, achieving a modern take on classic tailoring.
Other noteworthy entries included Supriya Ganesh in a powder-blue silk slip dress with ruffles and a sheer hem, Kristen Bell in an Alberta Ferretti lace-inspired ensemble that recalled vintage lingerie, and Chase Infiniti in a black organza Louis Vuitton dress embroidered with copper gemstones, a look that felt like molten metal.
Everyday wardrobe basics endorsed by industry insiders
While the Emmy glow fades, the foundation of a solid wardrobe endures. British Vogue style editor Funmi Fetto stresses that basics have to work harder than anything else. Below are the pieces she and other stylists swear by, all priced affordably enough for the average shopper.
Knickers Marks & Spencer remains a go-to for reliable underwear, but the Tencel high-rise knickers from Stripe & Stare earn praise for a wedgie-free fit and silky feel. For a luxe option, French brand Baserange offers bamboo-lyocell briefs made in Portugal; they cost more but promise durability. Those needing extra coverage can turn to Beyond Nine’s high-waisted designs, which require a waiting list due to demand.
Socks Cotton classics from M&S stay on top for comfort and price. For a historic twist, Italy’s Gammarelli provides papal-style socks—available after filling a request form. Trend-focused shoppers might like Arket’s multicolored “Prada-length” socks, while Falke delivers premium craftsmanship. Athletic fans gravitate toward Nike, and winter warmth comes from Muji’s wool-blend room socks. Uniqlo’s JW Anderson line avoids ankle compression, and Denmark’s Dilling offers the softest cotton blend on the market.
T-shirts and shirts Cos supplies versatile crew-neck tees that drape without clinging, a favorite of Fetto. Sunspel delivers high-quality cotton shirts for those willing to invest, and James Perse provides a trimmed silhouette for a sleek look. Sustainable shoppers applaud Everybody.World’s bulk-buy tees made from recycled cotton waste. For crisp white shirts, With Nothing Underneath crafts Oxford cuts that hold up to frequent wear, while Frankie Shop’s poplin options on Vinted combine style and thrift-savvy pricing.
Cashmere jumpers Classic knitwear remains essential. N.Peal offers buttery cashmere that ages beautifully, Rise & Fall supplies a relaxed fit, and APC presents a lighter, fitted option for layering. When budget allows, Soft Goat’s £400+ cashmere pieces promise longevity, resisting pilling and “bobble” issues that plague cheaper alternatives.
Jeans The perfect denim balances shape and comfort. Vintage Levi’s 501s continue to haunt every fashion lover’s dream, yet JW Anderson’s straight-leg jeans at Uniqlo provide a budget-friendly alternative with a comparable cut.
Pratt students glimpse the future at New York Fashion Week
For emerging designers, New York Fashion Week (Sept. 10-15, 2026) is more than a showcase—it’s a proving ground. Tabari Davis who first fashioned a dress from a trash bag at age five, attends his first NY Fashion Week as an MFA student at Pratt Institute. The event features spring-summer 2027 collections from houses like Ralph Lauren, Coach, and newer voices such as Conner Ives.
Another Pratt voice, Sophia Marquez (21), chose the school for its hands-on focus and proximity to the Garment District. An internship with the alumni-founded label SC103 exposed her to real-world fabric manipulation, shoot coordination, and a philosophy that embraces mistakes as part of the creative process—far from the dramatized “Devil Wears Prada” myth.
These students emphasize that fashion education now blends traditional craft with industry immersion. Their presence at NY Fashion Week signals a shift toward inclusive, experimental design that values sustainability and authenticity over polished perfection.
