The 21 Best Dressed Stars at the 2021 Golden Globes 

The term “virtual red carpet” may call to mind viral style and the internet’s democratizing effect on fashion, but celebrities provided an alternate view at tonight’s Golden Globes. Though they were beamed in from around the world to celebrate the best in film and television, stars didn’t look to the digital age for outfit inspiration. Instead, Old Hollywood glamour served as a common theme. Nominee Elle Fanning name-checked Grace Kelly when describing her icy Gucci gown’s vibe, while Amanda Seyfried channeled the opulence of the silent era with a salmon-pink Oscar de la Renta creation that alluded to her Mank alter-ego, Marion Davies.

How one chose to interpret the unofficial motif varied. Some kept things chic and straightforward. In an ethereal Chanel couture gown, The United States vs. Billie Holiday star Andra Day gave viewers a taste of jazz age decadence. Her silk tulle gown with a sequin macramé bodice from Virginie Viard’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection was an airier version of the chanteuse gowns worn by Holiday as she took to the stage at L’Olympia Bruno Coquatrix. 

By contrast, Cynthia Erivo’s electric Valentino Haute Couture look played with classic codes—a tea-length dress almost always nods to the past—while subverting them. Neon green with extreme proportions and platforms tall enough to make Lady Gaga raise an eyebrow, it commanded attention. Likewise, Regina King marked her historic Best Director nomination in an asymmetrical column gown by Louis Vuitton’s Nicolas Ghesquière that had enough sequins and crystals to light up the night sky. Glitzy without ever seeming fussy, it embodied the Globes’ celebratory spirit. 

Amid all the throwback vibes, Globes ambassadors Jackson and Satchel Lee provided some freshness in complementary Gucci ensembles. With Satchel looking elegant in a matte black silk, floral gauze gown and Jackson wearing the brand’s Grottesco jacquard on a robe-like jacket, the siblings had an innate star quality that bodes well for their fashion future. 

See the best dressed looks below.