Emily Ratajkowski delivered another striking fashion moment at the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscars after‑party in Los Angeles on March 15, wearing a deep maroon velvet gown that instantly grabbed attention for its bold design and plunging silhouette. Known for her fearless approach to red carpet style, the model and author arrived at the star‑studded event in a custom creation by designer Conner Ives that nodded to 1990s glamour with its minimalist yet eye‑catching aesthetic. The dress featured a dramatic cowl neckline that plunged toward her sternum and complimented her figure with delicate spaghetti straps and subtle ruching around the hips, creating an elegant yet daring look. At the back, the gown mirrored the front’s deep scoop, offering an equally bold reveal that aligned with Ratajkowski’s signature fashion choices.
Styled with sleek, straight hair parted in the middle and makeup accented by plum eyeliner and a dewy lip, Ratajkowski completed the ensemble with matching platform heels from Christian Louboutin, further elevating the statement she made on the carpet. The styling was executed by Danielle Goldberg, who also works with high‑profile clients like Kendall Jenner and Zoë Kravitz, helping cement the outfit’s status as one of the night’s most talked‑about looks. Attendees at the exclusive after‑party included prominent figures such as Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, Hailey Bieber, Michael B. Jordan, and Timothée Chalamet, underscoring the event’s A‑list appeal.
This appearance continues Ratajkowski’s long history of daring fashion choices at Oscars events, where she has often helped steer conversation around red carpet trends. Over recent years she’s embraced everything from sheer lace and cutouts to glitzy designs, making her one of the most talked‑about style fixtures during awards season. Fashion watchers have noted her ability to balance elegance with edge, consistently opting for silhouettes that challenge traditional red carpet norms while still rooted in classic glamour.
Emily Ratajkowski gives her best pose at the #VFOscars carpet pic.twitter.com/JFXjweTD09
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 16, 2026
Beyond her red carpet presence, Ratajkowski’s career has expanded into other creative arenas, including television and writing. She is set to appear in the Netflix romantic comedy series Too Much, created by Lena Dunham, and is also preparing to make her debut as a screenwriter for an upcoming Apple TV+ project alongside Dunham and author Stephanie Danler. In addition, she has recently shared her personal life with the public, going “Instagram official” with French filmmaker Romain Gavras and sharing glimpses of their life together.
emily ratajkowski at the vanity fair oscar party pic.twitter.com/qn7DeKA76g
— pop backup ꧂ (@favsbackupp) March 16, 2026
Fashion at the Oscars after‑party has long been a platform for celebrities to push boundaries, blending high fashion with personal expression. Ratajkowski’s maroon velvet gown is a continuation of this tradition, embodying how contemporary red carpet fashion often plays with bold cuts, rich fabrics, and silhouettes that emphasize individuality. Velvet itself has been a recurring choice on red carpets for its luxurious texture and depth of color, often chosen for its ability to photograph beautifully under bright lights and make a memorable impact. Designers like Conner Ives have become known for reinventing classic elements with modern sensibilities, appealing to stars eager to make a standout impression at high‑profile events.
The Oscars after‑parties are more than just celebrations of cinematic achievement; they’ve become de facto showcases for fashion risk‑taking, where celebrities feel encouraged to experiment and make bold statements. Ratajkowski’s look exemplifies this evolution, blending nostalgic inspiration with contemporary daring to create a memorable moment that resonated across social media and fashion commentary alike.
What do you think of Emily Ratajkowski’s fashion choice at the Oscars after‑party — share your thoughts in the comments!
