Los Angeles was buzzing with excitement as Hollywood’s biggest names gathered for the 5th Annual Academy Museum Gala at the Ted Mann Theatre on Saturday night.
While the event is famed for its star-studded attendees and red carpet moments, this year was a mixed bag, with some outfits dazzling and others leaving fashion critics scratching their heads.
Kim Kardashian Stuns or Confuses in Head-to-Toe Mask
Kim Kardashian, the queen of red carpet drama, certainly made a statement — though perhaps not the one fans expected.
The 44-year-old SKIMS founder appeared in a nude Maison Margiela gown with a corset bodice, but it was the flesh-toned mask covering her entire head that stole the spotlight.
The ensemble, complete with bat-wing sleeves and claw-like manicure, left many wondering if the reality star was giving an early nod to Halloween.
Elle Fanning and Naomi Watts Take Feathered Risks
Elle Fanning, 27, opted for a Balenciaga outfit featuring a bold red feathered skirt, though the design left some puzzled, as the embellishment was only attached at the front.
Naomi Watts, 57, went for a light blue dress with feather details at the hem, but the open shoulders combined with the unexpected feathers made the overall look feel less polished than intended.
Cara Delevingne and Michelle Monaghan Go Big on Glamour
Cara Delevingne turned heads in a silver gown with ruffled blue neckline details.
While the floral accents were gorgeous, the ruffles around her neck unintentionally became the dress’s main focus.
Meanwhile, Michelle Monaghan made a dramatic entrance in a voluminous Carolina Herrera number straight from the Spring/Summer 2026 runway.
The purple, flower-covered gown overwhelmed the 49-year-old, and her sleek, low bun with stark makeup drew as much attention as the dress itself.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Jenna Ortega Miss the Mark
Time magazine’s 2024 Most Influential Person, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, chose an all-white gown with a floor-length skirt and oversized tulle ruffles around her hips — a design that critics found frumpy rather than chic.
Jenna Ortega, known for her bold red carpet choices, wore a Grace Ling metal plate top paired with a brown column skirt.
The top’s daring design clashed with the relatively plain skirt, and her updo with fringe over one eye added to the unbalanced look.
Zoe Kravitz and Kristen Wiig Take Dramatic Approaches
Zoe Kravitz went full Saint Laurent with a ruffled, puff-sleeve dress that nearly swallowed her petite frame.
The backless design showcased her tattoos, but the sheer volume of fabric overshadowed her figure.
Kristen Wiig attempted to bring runway flair to the gala with a white polo-style top and a bold red tiered skirt, complete with an asymmetric hemline and train.
While the look was striking, it risked feeling more “office chic” without the full train effect.
Mikey Madison, Charli XCX, and Rebecca Hall Offer Quirky Choices
Mikey Madison donned a Dior lace gown with embroidered details and cinched puff sleeves, but the tied ribbon and ruffled hem felt awkward.
Charli XCX commanded attention in a black lace-and-leather gown, accessorized with diamonds, though the heavy leather skirt slightly dampened the outfit’s overall elegance.
Rebecca Hall went for a paint-effect corset paired with a black maxi skirt — the daring top contrasted sharply with the formal simplicity of the bottom half.
Olivia Wilde and Other Stars Keep It Simple
Olivia Wilde kept her look understated in a black Saint Laurent maxi dress, accented with chunky jewelry and glamorous makeup.
While sleek and polished, the monochrome outfit seemed slightly muted compared to the evening’s bolder ensembles.
British stars including Ed Sheeran, Jude Law, Eddie Redmayne, and Orlando Bloom were also in attendance, adding to the international flair.
Gala Highlights and Honorees
The evening, co-chaired by Jon M. Chu, Viola Davis, Robert Downey Jr., and Jennifer Hudson, celebrated storytelling in film.
Academy Museum director Amy Homma praised the event’s mission, recognizing Penelope Cruz, Walter Salles, Bruce Springsteen, and Bowen Yang for their cinematic contributions.
Funds raised during the gala support museum exhibitions and educational programs, continuing the legacy of celebrating and preserving cinema.