Here is a roundup of the notable looks from the 2026 NAACP Image Awards, where classic glamour, sharp tailoring and a few bold risks shared the same carpet.
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Sheer Would Have Served
I don’t mind that Chloe Bailey’s Christian Siriano Fall 2026 dress is sheer, but I think the decision should have been to line the look from head to hem, or not at all. This halfway option isn’t working for me. Here, the solid insert makes the top feel heavier and slightly stiff on her. Chloe thrives when there is a bit more edge, and this alteration dulls that impact. Bucherer Fine Jewellery completed her look.
Christian Siriano Fall 2026
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Haute Couture Rewear
Halle Bailey wore the same Stéphane Rolland Spring 2022 Haute Couture gown previously seen on Izabel Goulart and Nieves Álvarez. She is not as tall as those models, but she stands tall in it. The column shape frame her beautifully, and she carries that dramatic neckline with ease. She looks composed, confident and this is one of my favourite looks from her.
Styled by Bryon Javar.
Stéphane Rolland Spring 2022 Haute Couture
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A Study In Black
Seeing Issa Rae in all black is totally unexpected, yet this strapless Rhea Costa gown is beautiful on her. She looks elegant, proving at least to me that she does not need bold colour to command attention. A Rodo clutch completed her look.
Styled by Wouri Vice.
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Brown Is Her Love Language
I love Janelle James’ detour in this Do Long Spring 2026 look among a sea of gowns. I do not feel it needed the gold fine crystal threaded bra, as the rich colour, exaggerated collar and hook-and-ring embellishments give the look more than enough drama.
Do Long Spring 2026
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Old Hollywood With Edge
Keke Palmer wore Miss Sohee Spring 2026 Couture gown, styled with Rahaminov Diamonds jewels. The gown may not have been from the archives, but it certainly felt like it. The ivory satin and crystal trimmed straps gave her that classic movie star finish, with the feathered stole amplifying that feel. She continues to be completely at home in this aesthetic.
Styled by Molly Dickson.
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Velvet Victory
Michael B. Jordan wore a dunhill Fall 2026 look. As much as I am drooling over the burgundy velvet jacket, the styling in the look book with the bow tie makes me wish inspiration had been taken from there.
Styled by Jason Bolden.
dunhill Fall 2026
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Custom With Character
Quinta Brunson wore custom Gabriela Hearst inspired by the Spring 2026 collection. I adore the rich warm hues and the star motif adds personality. She looks joyful and comfortable, which is always when she shines the most.
Styled by Jessica Paster.
Gabriela Hearst Spring 2026
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Sharp As Always
Regé-Jean Page wore a Brioni suit styled with a Spinelli Kilcollin ring and a David Yurman chain, but it was the details, once again, that elevated this beyond standard black tie. The embellished shawl collar added depth to the all-black palette, while the cummerbund sharpened the silhouette and gave the look a formal, old school finish. This struck the right balance between classic tailoring and modern ease.
Styled by Holly Macnaghten.
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Minimal, But Make It Count
A rare understated minimalist moment from Tyla came in the form of this simple black Jean Paul Gaultier dress. The Jacob & Co. choker and heels ensured that it still felt like a moment. You may be surprised to hear this, but I absolutely adore this on Tyla.
Styled by Ron Hartleben.
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Classic With A Modern Edge
Tyriq Withers wore a Louis Vuitton navy single breasted tuxedo, styled with a white wing tip tuxedo shirt and black leather boots. He looks sharp and contemporary without trying too hard.
Styled by Jason Bolden.
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Velvet With History
Uzo Aduba wore a Kamilla Purshie velvet gown previously worn by Niecy Nash. The silhouette flatters her shape, with the hem bringing the drama. This proves that a repeat can still feel fresh when the wearer brings something new – styling-wise -to it. Le Vian jewels completed her look.
Styled by Ron Jeffries.
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Crimson With Presence
Recipient of the Chairman’s Award, Viola Davis wore a custom Marmar Halim dress in a rich red tone that works beautifully against her skin. However, I am neither a fan of the blunt bob nor the block heel on her Roger Vivier pumps. They feel too clunky for a dress.
Styled by Elizabeth Stewart.
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Colour-Blocking
Wunmi Mosaku wore Christian Siriano, delivering a sculptural two tone gown that stands out instantly. The contrast between the soft peach and deep brown is bold, but she carries it with ease. I feel like Siriano could have added a bit more finesse to the bodice, but she looks stunning nonetheless. Elyzian jewels completed her look.
Styled by Shameelah Hicks.
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Brioni, Chloe Bailey, Christian Siriano, Do Long, dunhill, Gabriela Hearst, Halle Bailey, Issa Rae, Janelle James, Jean Paul Gaultier, Kamilla Purshie, Keke Palmer, Louis Vuitton, Marmar Halim, Menswear, Michael B Jordan, Miss Sohee, NAACP Image Awards, Quinta Brunson, Regé-Jean Page, Rhea Costa, Runway To Red Carpet, Stéphane Rolland, Tyla, Tyriq Withers, Uzo Aduba, Viola Davis, Wunmi Mosaku