Elle Fanning Turns Heads in Daring Vintage Dress at Critics Choice Awards
Elle Fanning made a stunning appearance at the Critics Choice Awards 2026, wearing a striking vintage gown.
The actress, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Sentimental Value, chose a Ralph Lauren dress from 2003, proving that old-school glamour never goes out of style.
The golden gown featured a deep cowl neckline, an open back, and a fitted silhouette that flowed into a long trailing skirt. Fanning kept her accessories minimal, wearing only a few diamond rings and Cartier drop earrings. She styled her blonde hair in loose waves with a middle part and complemented the look with glowing makeup, including rosy eyeshadow and glossy lips.
Elle Fanning and Mckenna Grace at the 31st Critics Choice Awards https://t.co/FTYPngmgdt
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) January 5, 2026
Fanning’s entrance at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, captured everyone’s attention. Known for her whimsical and voluminous style, she switched things up with a bold, skin-baring look that many described as glamorous and unforgettable.
Elle Fanning attends the 31st Annual #CriticsChoiceAwards 💛 pic.twitter.com/rnJ1Tq2oNR
— Variety (@Variety) January 4, 2026
This is an important night for Fanning, as she competes alongside co-star Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas in the Best Supporting Actress category. The film Sentimental Value earned six nominations in total, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Renate Reinsve, Best Supporting Actor for Stellan Skarsgård, and Best Director for Joachim Trier.
Fanning has a long history with the Critics Choice Awards, having attended multiple times before, including in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2022, and 2023. Three years ago, she appeared in a cream-colored floral gown with a strapless neckline and structural skirt, pairing it with sunflower earrings and gold shoes.
By choosing a 23-year-old gown, Fanning showed confidence and a willingness to take fashion risks. The bold choice paid off, as she impressed both fans and photographers on the red carpet.
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