Red carpet retrospective: The most memorable Oscars dresses through the years
Updated . First published
The Oscars are all about honouring the film industry's best of the best, but long after the event wraps it's the fashion moments that stay in our minds.
Who could forget Halle Berry's Elie Saab net dress or Nicole Kidman's regal red Balenciaga bow gown from 2007?
Then there's Michelle Williams in marigold in 2006 - the dress we're still talking about 20 years later - and Lady Gaga's Alexander McQueen gown, each worthy of their place in style history.
So, as the 2026 Academy Awards loom, let's look back at some of the most iconic fashion moments from years gone by.
Click through to see the most memorable Oscar gowns of all time.
Ariana Grande
We're not sure how she sat down once inside the event, but Ariana Grande wowed at the 2025 event in this twinkling blush pink Schiaparelli gown with a dramatic structured peplum.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry, meanwhile, shone from every angle in this metallic silver mosaic gown.
Demi Moore
Demi Moore was gunning for gold in the 2025 Best Actress category, but opted for silver on the red carpet.
Monica Barbaro
First-time Oscar nominee Monica Barbaro looked angelic in this pale pink ballgown in 2025.
Penélope Cruz
A moment for the back of the dress!
Penélope Cruz went for a floaty white gown in 2025.
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez was dripping in crystals in 2025, delivering Old Hollywood glamour in spades.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo can always be relied upon to bring some aesthetic drama to the red carpet, and she really delivered with this bold velvet gown.
That silhouette!
Emma Stone
Emma Stone took the peplum and turned it up to 100 with this gorgeous gown at the 2024 awards.
Carey Mulligan
Carey Mulligan also gave us an eye-catching silhouette in this striking black and white gown.
That hemline!
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