The 2026 Golden Globes signalled a seismic shift in celebrity style, marking a decisive end to the era of 'naked' dressing. When even Kylie Jenner appeared relatively covered up, it was clear the fashion pendulum had swung firmly towards modesty and majesty, leaving last year's cleavage-dominated flesh-fest a distant memory.
The Rise of Demure Dressing on the Red Carpet
Throughout 2025, sheer fabrics and strategic sequins created the illusion of near-nudity on countless red carpets. This year, however, the trend was turned on its head. The phrase 'very demure, very mindful', which became an internet sensation in 2024, finally reached Hollywood's most prestigious step-and-repeat. High-profile stars who clung to the 'less is more' approach, including Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Lawrence, and Julia Roberts, found themselves looking somewhat out of step with the new mood.
This shift is a boon for those who appreciate craftsmanship over sheer physical exposure. The focus moved decisively from flaunting toned bodies to celebrating fit, fabric, and traditional Hollywood glamour. Nominees opted for substantial fashion creations, favouring elegant coverage and sophisticated design.
Stars Championing the New Modesty
No colour embodies chastity quite like white, and no star championed it more effectively than Pamela Anderson, 58. Her simple white Ferragamo shirt and matching skirt offered a masterclass in understated elegance, defining her post-Baywatch renaissance. She was joined by Emily Blunt, 42, in a slender Louis Vuitton gown with a capelet, and Claire Danes, 46, in a Zac Posen for Gap Studio sequin sheath.
The timeless appeal of Chanel proved a perfect fit for the new mood. Selena Gomez, 33, looked flawless in a custom black velvet gown with white feather detail, while Best Actress winner Rose Byrne, 46, added a splash of colour in a green satin 1970s-inspired dress. Amal Clooney, 47, also provided vibrant flair in a vintage 1957 Balmain red gown, choosing to make her back the focal point instead of her cleavage.
Swimming Against the Tide
Despite the overwhelming trend, a few notable stars made daring choices. The most striking was Jennifer Lawrence, 35, in a skin-tight, nude Givenchy gown embroidered with flowers and leaves. This was an unexpected move, not only for its revealing nature but because Lawrence, a Dior ambassador, chose to wear a design by Sarah Burton for Givenchy—a significant endorsement for the house.
Jennifer Lopez, 56, also defied the modest trend in a vintage Jean-Louis Scherrer fishtail gown with minimal applique, perhaps hoping to recapture the viral magic of her 2000 Grammys dress. For many others, classic black was the safe harbour for glamour, worn by the likes of Kirsten Dunst, Ariana Grande, and Miley Cyrus.
Even Julia Roberts, 58, whose plunging black Armani Prive gown initially seemed anomalous, revealed a playful nod to modesty with a chaste strawberry Swarovski pendant—a 'very demure, very mindful, and very funny' touch in her inimitable style. The 2026 Globes have firmly established that, for now, fashion's fascination with baring all has been elegantly covered up.
