Elle Fanning made a striking entrance at the 98th Oscar Nominees Luncheon held this February at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles. The gathering brought together the year’s most talented film performers for the traditional group photo and a chance to celebrate their achievements before the big night. As a first-time nominee, the young actress stood out among her peers with an effortlessly elegant presence that drew plenty of attention from everyone in the room.
She earned her Academy Award nod in the Best Supporting Actress category for her compelling work in the Norwegian drama ‘Sentimental Value’. Directed by Joachim Trier, the film features Fanning as Rachel Kemp, an American actress navigating a tangled family inheritance in Oslo. Many critics have praised this role as her most mature and emotionally resonant performance to date, highlighting her growth as an artist.
The luncheon buzzed with energy as nominees mingled, shared laughs, and posed for photos alongside co-stars and industry icons. Fanning appeared relaxed and joyful while connecting with others in the room, adding to the festive mood of the day. Her choice of attire perfectly suited the occasion and reflected her well-known ethereal charm.
She opted for a sophisticated black ensemble that blended tailored sophistication with graceful flow. The look came straight from Givenchy’s Spring/Summer 2026 ready-to-wear collection, featuring a blazer with a deep V-neck that transitioned seamlessly into a midi skirt layered with draped black fabric. A center leg slit added a touch of modern edge while keeping everything polished and appropriate for the daytime event.
Elle Fanning at the 98th Oscars Nominees Luncheon
— JumpTrailers (@JumpTrailers) February 10, 2026
(Chelsea Lauren/Shutterstock) pic.twitter.com/SmuG5HYNKh
When the nominations came out in late January, Fanning captured the moment in a heartfelt FaceTime video with director Joachim Trier. Tears filled her eyes as the reality sank in, with her family close by offering support and excitement. She later posted on social media about feeling breathless and in complete shock, describing how her mother, grandmother, sister Dakota, and aunt joined her in screams, hugs, and joyful tears over the news.
Fanning emphasized the special nature of this honor tied to a project that celebrates the magic of filmmaking and family bonds. She expressed deep gratitude to the entire ‘Sentimental Value’ team, including actors Stellan Skarsgård, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, and Renate Reinsve, as well as editor Olivier Bugge Coutté and the Neon distribution crew. Her enthusiasm showed just how much the recognition meant after years of building her career.
The nominees luncheon serves as one of the key pre-Oscar traditions where honorees get to connect in a more intimate setting away from the full glamour of the awards night. For Fanning, it marked a milestone in what has already been an exciting awards season journey. Her poised and radiant appearance reinforced why she continues to captivate audiences and fashion observers alike.
What do you think of Elle Fanning’s sophisticated black look at the nominees luncheon, share your thoughts in the comments.
