Hollywood’s Finest Shine at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala

The sixth‑annual Academy Museum Gala took place on Tuesday evening, drawing a galaxy of A‑list talent to celebrate the museum’s mission to “celebrate and preserve cinema.” The event was co‑chaired by Tom Ford, Robert Rodriguez, Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw, and featured a roster of Hollywood heavyweights. Honorees for the night included Charlize Theron, who received the Icon Award; John Carpenter, the Luminary Award winner; and Colman Domingo, who was presented with the Vantage Award. Pop star Taylor Swift also made an appearance, delivering a special performance for the assembled guests.

Before the awards began, the red carpet became a runway of classic Hollywood glamour with modern twists. Naomi Ackie opened the carpet in a striking purple Balenciaga strapless gown, its tiered, voluminous silhouette turning heads. Maya Hawke opted for sleek elegance in a crystal‑bejeweled Prada column dress, while Mia Goth chose a slinky black sequin Dior gown that blended sparkle with simplicity.

Other notable looks included Diego Calva in a crisp Loewe suit, Cole Escola in a sharp Chanel ensemble, and Elle Fanning in a flowing Valentino dress. Miyako Bellizzi and Hailey Bieber both favored Chanel, the former in a tailored coat and the latter in a sleek evening dress. A$AP Rocky turned heads in a polished Chanel tuxedo, and Tracee Ellis Ross dazzled in a bold Balenciaga creation.

Greta Lee arrived in a sophisticated Dior gown, while Emma Chamberlain chose a refined Giorgio Armani look. Charlize Theron, the night’s Icon Award recipient, wore a Tom Ford piece designed by Haider Ackermann, pairing classic tailoring with a modern silhouette. Whitney Peak stepped out in a Diotima dress, and Connor Storrie chose a sleek Saint Laurent suit.

Emily Ratajkowski impressed in a custom Burc Akyol outfit, and Eiza Gonzalez chose a timeless Ralph Lauren look. Kendall Jenner arrived in a sleek Valentino dress, Hunter Schafer in a minimalist Prada ensemble, and Wunmi Mosaku in a striking Louis Vuitton creation. Jacob Elordi closed the evening in a sharp Bottega Veneta suit.

The gala’s red‑carpet fashion underscored the event’s blend of cinematic celebration and high‑style spectacle, with many guests embracing the allure of old‑Hollywood elegance while adding their own contemporary flair.