Elle Fanning and stylist Samantha McMillen have established a refined, ladylike style that means Fanning never misses on the red carpet—whether they’re looking to the latest runways for shimmering Chanel and feathered, powder-blue Gucci or plucking prized vintage. This weekend was a double-hit of the latter.
Last night, Fanning was up for best supporting actress for her role in Sentimental Value at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards, and for the occasion she wore a celestial gold Ralph Lauren fall winter 2003 ready-to-wear gown. Fanning paired the slinky dress, which fell in a plunging cowl neck and featured a train, with Cartier rings, forgoing the original runway styling to keep it understated. Her glam was similarly classic, with her blonde hair parted in the middle and styled in soft waves, and an English rose blush. It was sexy yet classic and youthful, delighting in the sensual and more statement-making side of Fanning’s style.
Earlier in the weekend, Fanning attended the Palm Springs International Film Festival Awards. Here, Fanning opted to finally wear a “special” vintage dress she says she bought “a couple of years ago.” Pulling the dress from her own archive was a move—it’s a striking, icy blue, mid-century gown with an off-the-shoulder collar that stood upright, encircling her collarbones and falling into a soft V. The dress also featured a small, delicate belt, and followed an A-line shape. Paired with an orange-red lip (crafted by Erin Ayanian Monroe) and a side-parted chignon (by Jenda Alcorn), it felt beautifully nostalgic and sophisticated, emphasizing Fanning’s elevated old Hollywood aesthetic.
While both looks hailed from very different vintage eras, you can always trust that Elle Fanning knows exactly what she’s doing when it comes to picking archival pieces for the right moment. What’s coming next from the Fanning files? We can only wait and see as awards season continues.
