Keke Palmer hosted one of fashion’s biggest nights in fashion history, and looked TF good.
The Big Boss led the 2026 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards on Nov. 2, rocking a strappy gold vintage Bob Mackie dress. The fashion girls know just how historic her look was. Mackie, a legendary fashion and costume designer, died Sept. 14 at 87. Mackie built his name on old Hollywood shimmer, and his sparkle dressed legends like Diana Ross and Cher.
As soon as Keke was tapped as host, we knew she would raise the standard. “Fashion is one of my favorite ways to tell a story before even saying a word,” she said in the August announcement.
Red Carpet Rundown: Top Looks From The 2026 CFDA Awards
Keke was one of several stars who brought their A-game. The CFDA Awards are one of the year’s most stylish nights, honoring the American designers who keep changing the fashion game. So it only makes sense that celebrity looks matched the gravitas of the night. Several designers walked alongside their muses, and top-tier celebs arrived in over-the-top, avant-garde designs we loved.
On the designer front, we spotted Brandon Blackwood, Zac Posen and Sergio Hudson on the carpet. Sergio Hudson posed with Brandy, who wore his Spring/Summer 2027 collection. Brandon Blackwood dressed Olandria Carthen in a corset bodysuit, and Lupita Nyong’o wore custom GapStudio by Zac Posen.
Last year’s carpet was all about monochrome. This year, the stars brought color, sparkle and fashion history. Red showed up on Lupita and Megan Thee Stallion, while Keke and Coi Leray went for the gold. Sheer black turned sexy on Chlöe Bailey and Olandria. And Naomi Osaka – a known fashion slayer – slayed in polka dots. The girls weren’t shy about showing skin either. Cropped tops, waist cutouts, thigh-high slits and sheer mesh were all over the carpet.
Menswear also had its moment. Law Roach went big in feathers and satin, while Shaboozey gave us cowboy couture. Swipe to see every look we loved.