Timeless Elegance: Iconic Vintage Looks from Critics Choice Awards History
Celebrating the Critics Choice Awards
Every year, the awards season swiftly follows the holiday season, and 2026 is no exception. The Critics Choice Awards, a glittering event filled with A-list stars, will commence on January 4, marking the beginning of a series of prestigious ceremonies that culminate with the Oscars at the end of February.
The Glamour of Awards Season
Awards season brings with it unparalleled glamour. Fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the red carpet moments, and this year’s ceremony promises to be no different. With nominees like Emma Stone, Amanda Seyfried, and Teyana Taylor, we can expect a sartorial feast. Chelsea Handler will host this year’s event, which includes categories ranging from acting accolades to cinematography and animation. Leonardo DiCaprio’s film, “One Battle After Another,” is tipped to win Best Picture.
Notable Style Moments
Last year’s ceremony saw some remarkable fashion choices. Ariana Grande stunned in a structured couture gown by Dior, while Nicole Kidman channeled Julia Roberts in a suit-and-tie ensemble by Saint Laurent. The Critics Choice Awards, now in its 31st year, has a rich history of celebrating achievements in film and television, merging with the BFTA Awards in 2011 to include TV stars.
The Rise of Vintage Fashion
One trend that has gained significant popularity in recent years is vintage fashion. Many celebrities are opting for archival pieces, making red carpet moments even more special. Gen Z style icons like Kylie Jenner have been spotted in vintage Versace, Dior, and Mugler pieces, delighting fashion fans worldwide. This trend is not only stylish but also environmentally friendly. According to B-Corp certified fashion label Omnes, British consumers are re-wearing their outfits 35% less than they did 15 years ago, with the average garment lasting only 7 to 10 wears. Therefore, buying less and buying better is essential for a mindful and sustainable wardrobe.
Iconic Vintage Looks
In celebration of the upcoming Critics Choice Awards, let’s take a look back at some of the best vintage red carpet moments from previous years:
Mikey Madison in Armani
2025 was a sensational year for actress Mikey Madison, who won numerous awards for her role in “Anora,” which also bagged Best Picture. For the ceremony, Mikey opted for a monochrome moment in vintage Armani from their AW92 collection, accessorized with Tiffany & Co. jewelry and Manolo Blahnik heels.
Angelina Jolie’s Matchy-Matchy Look
Angelina Jolie looked cooler than ever at the 2000 ceremony, sporting a matchy-matchy look with her brother James Haven. Both opted for blazers and lashings of leather, while Angelina wore a t-shirt emblazoned with Gena Rowlands from “A Woman Under the Influence,” a nod to “Girl, Interrupted,” the film for which Angelina received a nomination that year.
Willa Fitzgerald in Jean Louis Scherrer
Scream actress Willa Fitzgerald turned heads at the 2024 Critics Choice Awards in a dress by Jean Louis Scherrer, a vintage piece sourced from Shrimpton Couture, known for its incredibly curated selection of rare vintage pieces.
Charlize Theron’s Y2K Classics
The ensemble actress Charlize Theron sported to the 2000 Awards is a testament to her timeless style. Her choice of vintage pieces showcased her unique fashion sense and made a lasting impression on the red carpet.