The Best Fashion Moments From the 2022 Oscars

Between the surprising reveals of the night’s wins and at-times even more surprising knock-out moments of the ceremony, the 94th annual Academy Awards were definitely an Oscars for the books. The show featured Amy Schumer (Wanda Sykes) and Regina Hall (Reggina Hall), who were co-hosts after many years of no host. But while it was definitely Hollywood’s biggest night, not all the action that happened on Sunday night took place during the ceremony—the fashion on the red carpet added plenty of flavor to an already eventful night.

While some looks of the night made a style statement by merely existing—like the regal and yards-long train on Jada Pinkett Smith’s emerald green Jean-Paul Gaultier couture by Glenn Martens gown—other looks were fashion statements with a more symbolic bent, like Jason Momoa’s blue and yellow pocket square in a seeming nod of support to Ukraine. Other looks, like Kristen Stewart’s daring Chanel shorts suit, were a refreshing reminder that fashion, whether on the Oscars red carpet or in our daily lives, can—and should—be fun.

This is a list of the greatest, worst and most bizarre fashion moments at the 2022 Oscars.

Seeing red

The night’s biggest trend was red, which is one of our most bold colors. The red Versace suit was a favorite color at the event, and was worn by everyone, from Kirsten, the Best Supporting Actress nominee in the floral-inspired Vintage Christian Lacroix gown, to Simu Liu the presenter wearing a Versace tuxedo. However, the best red look of the night might have been Ariana Debose’s fire engine red Valentino couture bustier and pants set with matching cape, that she showed off while walking the red carpet with Rita Moreno.

Ukraine: Support

From sporting all black for Time’s Up to showing support for female directors, the red carpet has always been another platform for people to express opinions through clothes. Jason Momoa, a presenter, wore a blue-and-yellow pocket square with his all black ensemble to support the Ukrainian people. Jamie Lee Curtis and a host of stars opted for a blue ribbon as a support of refugees.

Red carpet was a new place for fun

Fashion risks seem all the more exciting in 2022 after two years’ worth of social distancing, and cancellations of awards shows. Kristen Stewart, a nominee for Best Actress, made the case in a bold but elegant Chanel shorts suit. Holding that same energy was Timothée Chalamet, who arrived to the red carpet in a Louis Vuitton suit sans shirt, much to the internet’s admiration. David Oyelowo argued strongly for bold prints from head to foot. Best Actress nominee Jessica Chastain and Best Supporting Actor nominee Kodi Smit-McPhee didn’t shy away from color or embellishment. And while it’s been Will Smith’s time to shine this awards season with his multiple wins for King RichardAll eyes were focused on Jada pinkett Smith as she walked down the red carpet wearing a Jean Paul Gaultier couture gown by Glenn Martens.

Old Hollywood – An Honor

Perhaps it should come as no surprise that on Hollywood’s biggest night, many of its stars would pay homage to its golden era in their style of dress. Best Actress nominee Nicole Kidman stunned in a pearl gray Armani Privé gown with a prominent peplum, bow, and train, while her Big Little LiesZoe Kravitz, co-star of the show and presenter, channeled Audrey Hepburn in a baby pink Saint Laurent sheath gown. King RichardDemi singleton looked angelic in a Miu Miu column dress with embellishments that were lavender.

Send an email to Cady Lang at cady.lang@timemagazine.com.