It’s January, and you know what that means … award show season has officially started. From the Grammys to the Oscars, these events celebrate the best in music, film and television. Annual award shows also greatly shape the landscape of pop culture by shining light on new talent and recognizing veterans of the business. However, it’s well known the most exciting part of an award show is not the show itself — it’s the red carpet.
The red carpet is where fashion and creativity take center stage, impacting society in ways that films and music cannot. The best red carpet looks have stood the test of time and influenced trends for years after. In honor of this, VALLEY compiled the most iconic award show looks we haven’t forgotten about.
Gywneth Paltrow- 1999 Academy Awards

First, let’s discuss Gwyneth Paltrow’s infamous pink Ralph Lauren dress worn at the 1999 Oscars. Although simple, it is timeless. With its simple V-neckline, spaghetti straps and tulle shawl, this look would still be classy 26 years later. Also, she did not go overboard with her accessories, adding only a dainty diamond choker, which let the focus stay entirely on the dress.
Halle Berry- 2002 Academy Awards

Halle Berry made a lasting impact on both the film and fashion worlds when she wore this dress at the 2002 Oscars — the same night that she became the first African American woman to win Best Actress for her movie “Monster Ball.” Designed by Elie Saab, it included a mesh upper half with strategically placed floral embroideries. The shiny burgundy material with hints of green in the floral design created a perfect color palette that is elegant to this day.
Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake- 2001 American Music Awards

It was difficult to pick just one Britney Spears look for this list, but this double denim look perfectly encapsulates why taking risks in fashion is worth it. 24 years later, society still cannot forget about Spears’ floor-length dress made entirely of denim patches (and the matching denim purse!). Timberlake’s fully denim blazer and cowboy hat are equally unforgettable.
Jennifer Lopez- 2000 Grammys

No iconic red carpet list would be complete without Jennifer Lopez’s green dress. The green silk Versace dress with a plunging neckline turned heads and its tropical print only added to its individuality. The look was not only bold but also playful, which are two key ingredients in creating an iconic outfit. After all, it was Googled so many times that it resulted in the creation of Google Image Search!
Sarah Jessica Parker- 2000 Emmys

This gorgeous Oscar de la Renta gown was just one of Sarah Jessica Parker’s many iconic outfits. With the success of “Sex and the City,” Parker embodied the eclectic style of Carrie Bradshaw in real life. The pink feathered skirt with a slimming satin corset created a flattering silhouette, while the flower tulle accessory on her arm added a distinctive touch that made this look especially memorable.
Celine Dion- 1999 Academy Awards

Last but not least, Celine Dion is not just iconic for her vocals. Her style has also greatly impacted the fashion world. At the 1999 Oscars, she stunned society with her unique backward tuxedo. Designed by John Galliano, this look was truly ahead of its time. Although it may have been criticized at the moment, it definitely earns a spot on the list of most memorable red carpet looks.
What look is your favorite? Let us know on Instagram @VALLEYmag!
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