Each year, awards season is one of the first things to get us out of the new year slump. From a craft perspective, it provides an opportunity for us to reflect on the creative work across film, music, and television of the previous year that deserves recognition. From a fashion perspective, it allows us to be reminded of all of the wonderful collections we've seen from our favorite brands, and the way custom looks come alive with each personality.
And then there are the archives. Once a red carpet rarity, a booming business has emerged for vintage fashion, specifically for luxury archival pieces that are being re worn on the press circuits of today, breathing new life and new meaning into special runway pieces, or even gowns that have been made iconic by celebrities of a bygone era.
This year so far, we've witnessed perfect Alexander McQueen archival on Lady Gaga at the Grammys, and John Galliano's vintage runway on Margot Robbie at one of her many press calls. Elle Fanning attended the Critics Choice awards in a Ralph Lauren gown from 2003, and Chappell Roan threw it back with Rodarte as she announced Grammy winners late last month.
Ahead, are all of the best vintage red carpet looks of the year so far.
Margot Robbie
Shutterstock
Margot Robbie arrived at a press call in London for Wuthering Heights in John Galliano Spring/Summer 1992 collection, originally worn on the runway by Helena Christensen.
Lady Gaga
Shutterstock
At the 2026 Grammys, Lady Gaga wore a perfect structures feather look from Alexander McQueen's Fall/Winter 2009 collection.
Chappell Roan
Shutterstock
Another archival Grammys look this year was donned by Chappell Roan, who presented an award in a watery 2007 Rodarte gown.
Tyla
Shutterstock
On the Grammys red carpet, Tyla arrived wearing another feathered look. This one was by Dsquared2 from their Fall/Winter 2017 collection.
Elle Fanning
Shutterstock
Etheral angel Elle Fanning arrived at the Critics Choice Awards wearing a gold cowl neck Ralph Lauren gown from Fall/Winter 2003.
