The Emmy red carpet has seen a good number of stunning and downright perplexing dress choices that have either left us in awe or baffled.
As we examine some of the most outrageous looks in Emmy history that have delighted and delighted audiences throughout the years, get ready for a wild trip.
Sarah Paulson
At the 2014 Emmys, Sarah Paulson brought goth fantasy to life with a garment that was undoubtedly unique. The Armani Privé ensemble was all about frothy volume, with red dots floating atop a black netting that seemed to overflow.
Cyndi Lauper
At the 1995 Emmys, Cyndi Lauper showcased her signature unique style by donning a black bodice, a crimson miniskirt with ruffles, and fuzzy heels. Her bright yellow hair made her easily visible from a mile away, as if that weren’t enough.
Millie Bobby Brown
Star of Stranger Things Millie Bobby Brown, at the age of 13, seemed to want to slay grown-up glamour at the 2017 Emmys. With a hint of Gen-Z, her tea-length, full-skirted ivory crepe and tulle gown evoked the style of 1960s idols Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.
Gwendoline Christie
Gwendoline Christie definitely achieved in her goal of looking like a fashion deity descending from the sky with her ensemble.
The Game of Thrones actress gave the impression that she had taken an outfit from a religious figure when she wore a Gucci robe composed of a majestic-looking, billowy fabric.
Chyna
When Chyna debuted on the red carpet in 1999, she appeared like she was channelling her own professional wrestling attire with her leather gear. Her strong frame was highlighted by a provocative series of cuts on the top and a skimpy skirt in this iconic ensemble.
Billy Porter
Billy Porter arrived at the 2019 Emmys sporting a stylish side of drama. A million rhinestones covered his black-and-white pinstripe Michael Kors Couture suit. Not to mention the icing on the cake: a hip-length tie and an extravagant, asymmetrical Stephen Jones hat. Because you can be a walking, sparkling display rather than settling for understated?
Victoria Rowell
At the 2009 Emmys, Victoria Rowell made a bold political statement by wearing a gown that featured Barack Obama’s face all over it. Having a beloved politician’s face as a red carpet print is the ultimate kind of publicity, as seen by the couture dress’s ability to draw attention and start conversations.
Heidi Klum
At the 2015 Emmys, Heidi Klum surprised everyone by wearing a hybrid garment that defied description. Everyone was left scratching their heads and chatting about this bizarre and outrageous decision made by the model, who is well-known for her timeless red carpet style.
Sharon Stone
Because, well, why not, Sharon Stone stole the show at the 2004 Emmys in a sleek silver gown with a slit that lowered to her belly button? Who needs a rationale for such a low slit?
The bold look came with some glam and barely-there drama, paired with shoes and accessories made of glitter.
Jonathan Van Ness
Known for consistently stepping it up with gorgeous looks on the red carpet, Jonathan Van Ness appeared to adopt a more laid-back attitude in 2024. This year, he gave off the impression of having made a gown out of a curtain and then gone through his backyard to get a headpiece.
Naomi Grossman
Naomi Grossman stole the show at the 2015 Emmys in a figure-hugging gown that revolutionised the nude illusion look. Some people may find the optical illusion design to be a strange combination of modern art and fashion, while others may find it to be completely bizarre.
Phoebe Price
From headpiece to toe, Phoebe Price looked stunning in red lace for her 2008 Emmy appearance. She almost disappeared into the red carpet thanks to her transparent split gown and matching red pants worn with a matching tiara.
Tess Smith
In 2005, Tess Smith arrived at the Emmys with the appearance of someone who had hurriedly transformed a sheet into a costume for an impromptu celebration. The filmmaker and former Playboy model made a big impression on the red carpet with a scarcely there yellow costume that left a lot to the imagination.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson resembled a glitzy bird of paradise as she flitted across the 2018 Emmy Awards red carpet.
She looked like a floral queen and added a flash of exuberant drama to the occasion with her extravagant outfit.
Barbra Streisand
Barbra Streisand made the decision to attend the Emmys in 2004 wearing a full pink velvet outfit. Because a full-on velvet cloak and dress combo says, “California in late September,” better than anything else. You may dress anyway you like when you’re a legend, even if it turns you into a talking, walking pink sofa.
Zoë Kravitz
Zoë Kravitz wore a vivid Dior outfit with Tiffany jewellery to add a pop of colour to the 2017 Emmys. Why stick to one colour when you can wear them all? Her gown’s fiery feathers, which were coloured orange, red, and yellow in the front, changed into a gorgeous combination of black, blue, grey, and green in the rear.
