The Best Dressed Gen Z Stars At 'Variety' Power Of Young Hollywood 2026
Our take
The annual *Variety* Power of Young Hollywood event has always served as a valuable barometer for emerging trends, but this year’s red carpet felt particularly significant. The level of considered elegance displayed by Gen Z’s rising stars—Madison Beer, Tate McRae, Inde Navarette, and others—signals a distinct shift away from the maximalism that characterized previous years. It’s a move towards a quieter, more sophisticated kind of glamour, one that prioritizes timeless silhouettes and subtle details over overt displays of branding. This echoes a broader cultural mood, a growing appreciation for understated luxury and a rejection of performative excess. We’ve seen similar sentiments reflected in recent style trends, like the enduring appeal of neutral footwear – The Chicest Shoe Color Trend to Wear With White Jeans Isn't Black or White—It's This Neutral, demonstrating a preference for pieces that offer versatility and longevity. The focus isn’t about shouting “look at me,” but rather projecting an aura of effortless confidence, a key tenet of the “quiet luxury” aesthetic that’s currently dominating both high fashion and consumer consciousness.
What's particularly compelling is how these young stars are translating this aesthetic into their personal style. It’s not simply about wearing expensive pieces; it's about *how* they wear them. The looks felt curated, thoughtful, and deeply personal, suggesting a move away from the dictated trends and towards a more individualistic approach to dressing. Many appeared to be drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood icons, reimagining vintage silhouettes with a modern sensibility. This echoes the broader influence of archival fashion and the increasing desire for pieces with a story and a sense of history. It’s a reaction, perhaps, to the fast-fashion cycle, a yearning for something more enduring and meaningful. The curated nature of these looks also reflects the influence of social media, where authenticity and intentionality are increasingly valued. Consumers are gravitating towards influencers and celebrities who project a sense of genuine style, rather than simply following trends. The popularity of wardrobes built around core staples, like those championed by fans of Free People – More Than Half of My Wardrobe Is Free People—The 15 Tops, Bottoms, and Dresses That Earn Me the Most Compliments – further illustrates this shift towards a more considered and versatile approach to building a wardrobe.
This development has significant implications for the fashion industry. Brands that prioritize quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design are likely to thrive, while those that rely on fleeting trends and aggressive marketing tactics may struggle. The emphasis on individuality and personal expression also suggests a move away from the traditional top-down approach to fashion, where trends are dictated by designers and influencers. Consumers are increasingly seeking out pieces that reflect their own unique style, and they’re willing to invest in brands that align with their values. The celebration of fall staples also hints at a growing consumer base eager for enduring pieces – Fall Boots Are My Favorite Category to Shop—16 Perfect Pairs From Nordstrom, highlighting the continued desire for quality, long-lasting investments. The Power of Young Hollywood event showcased a generation that understands the power of subtlety and the enduring appeal of timeless style.
Ultimately, the red carpet looks from this year’s Power of Young Hollywood event aren’t just about beautiful dresses; they’re a reflection of a broader cultural shift towards a more refined, intentional, and emotionally intelligent approach to style. It’s a move away from fleeting trends and towards a more enduring appreciation for quality, craftsmanship, and personal expression. The question now is: will this aesthetic continue to dominate, or will we see a return to the maximalism that characterized previous years? And, perhaps more importantly, how will brands adapt to this evolving landscape and cater to the desires of a generation that values authenticity and intentionality above all else?
Last night, seemingly every young celebrity in LA brought their most elegant fashion A-game to the red carpet. Stars across music, film, television, and social media gathered to celebrate their influence at Variety’s annual Power of Young Hollywood event — and their looks for the occasion didn’t disappoint. In fact, they actually incorporated a ton of trends that have been impacting both red carpets and street style throughout 2026.
Both vibrant and tonal hues like pistachio green and tomato red were seen on a newly engaged Madison Beer and Love Island star Olandria Carthen. Plenty of other celebrities opted for all-black looks with lingerie-inspired details, like Kiernan Shipka, Sombr, and Obsession lead Inde Navarette — who, it must be said, has become a true fashion industry obsession in the last several months. This season’s top shoe styles were also present, from sophisticated pumps to delicate slip-on mules and kitten heels.
Of course, young Hollywood also understood the assignment when it came to trending beauty looks. Siren-inspired waves, undone curls, and ponytails proved to be the night’s hairstyles of choice. Dark, lined, and concealer-covered lips were also popular finishing touches for the occasion, which honored singer Tate McRae, actor Tyriq Withers, and more for their cultural contributions this year. Scroll down to see the best red carpet looks from the special night.
Madison Beer
Fresh from her engagement to football star Justin Herbert, Madison Beer hit the red carpet in a custom minidress version of a Geyanna Youness gown. The pistachio-hued piece featured a fluttery hem and plunging neckline, which she matched with slip-on mules.
Kiernan Shipka
The perpetually stylish Shipka perfected summer’s lace trend in a black minidress from Roberto Cavalli. The sultry piece’s razor-thin straps and velvet trimmings instantly elevated her floral Calzedonia tights and classic pumps.
Inde Navarette
New fashion darling Inde Navarette slipped on a black dress with a lace bodice and sheer corset. A black low-rise skirt finished the Salih Balta piece, which stylist Enrique Melendez complemented with matching platforms and Cartier pendant necklaces.
Tate McRae
Fresh from her headlining set at Lollapalooza, McRae went for a strapless black Versace dress from the brand’s Spring 1998 collection to accept the night’s Triple Threat Award. Blue sandals with thong straps and low heels — both top summer sandal trends — gave her look a burst of color.
Olandria Carthen
Olandria Carthen never fears a statement look — as evidenced by her bright red dress. The fiery piece was made with allover floral embroidery, creating a lacey effect. Matching pumps and a daring waist-high slit brought a slick finish to the Love Island star’s outfit.
Rebecca Black
Rebecca Black opted for a black George Keburia dress with metal cups on its bust. The strapless design wasa paired with a red satin clutch by Ahikoza.
Avantika
Avantika sparkled in a black dress covered with celestial gold embroidery. The Not Suitable For Work star’s intricate design included an embellished choker neckline, creating a statement sans jewelry.
Sienna Spiro
Rising musician Sienna Spiro sparkled on the red carpet in a strapless dress. The piece’s silver-and-green beadwork created a grid pattern, which she paired with a blue manicure and brushed pouf hairdo.
Sombr
Sombr, who received the evening’s Songwriter of the Year honor, continued his dark aesthetic in a sheer floral shirt and black pants. Black sunglasses, studded Oxfords, and a silver collar necklace — plus a strand of black beads — lent his outfit a rockstar flair.
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