Emilia Clarke’s Red Carpet Magic: Her Most Iconic Award Show Looks

Introduction: Emilia Clarke – A Style Icon in the Making

Emilia Clarke, the British actress who rose to fame with her role as Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones, has become an undeniable force in the entertainment industry. However, beyond her acting chops, Clarke has also established herself as a true fashion icon, commanding attention on every red carpet she graces. Over the years, she has transformed from an emerging talent to a leading figure in fashion, making waves with her sophisticated yet daring sartorial choices. Whether she’s dazzling at the Oscars or making a statement at the Golden Globes, Emilia Clarke has consistently used fashion as a medium to showcase her personal evolution and cement her status in the fashion world.

This article explores Clarke’s most memorable red carpet moments, her collaborations with high-profile designers, and her influence on both fans and the fashion industry. From her classic looks to her more daring choices, we dive into how her style has evolved and the trends she’s helped to set on the global stage.

Award Show Highlights: Emilia Clarke’s Most Memorable Fashion Moments

Throughout her career, Emilia Clarke has made an indelible impact at numerous high-profile award shows. Whether she’s stepping onto the red carpet at the Oscars, the Golden Globes, or the Emmys, Clarke consistently demonstrates her versatility, balancing timeless elegance with modern edge.

Oscars 2019: One of Clarke’s most iconic looks came at the 2019 Academy Awards, where she wore a breathtaking lavender gown by Balmain. The strapless, structured dress featured intricate beading and metallic details, blending sophistication with a futuristic vibe. Clarke’s minimalist styling—pairing the gown with sleek hair and delicate jewelry—allowed the dress to take center stage, cementing this look as one of her most memorable.
Golden Globes 2018: At the 2018 Golden Globes, Clarke opted for a classic, understated look with a black gown by Miu Miu. The form-fitting dress, with its sweetheart neckline and subtle embellishments, was in keeping with the #TimesUp movement, where many stars donned black in solidarity against gender inequality and sexual harassment in Hollywood. Clarke’s choice not only reflected the gravitas of the moment but also showcased her ability to make a powerful statement through fashion.
Emmys 2016: Clarke wowed audiences at the 2016 Emmy Awards in a nude-colored Atelier Versace gown. The dress hugged her figure perfectly, exuding Old Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. The simplicity of the silhouette, combined with the luxury of the fabric, allowed Clarke to shine, further proving her mastery of red carpet dressing.

Red Carpet Trends: Emilia Clarke’s Influence on Fashion

Over the years, Emilia Clarke has proven herself as both a trendsetter and a fashion-forward thinker, often embracing bold choices that help shape the direction of red carpet fashion. Her ability to oscillate between classic and modern trends makes her one of the most unpredictable—and exciting—stars to watch on the red carpet.

Classic Elegance: Early in her career, Clarke’s red carpet style often leaned towards classic silhouettes and soft, feminine fabrics. Her penchant for clean lines, structured gowns, and neutral tones demonstrated a timeless elegance that quickly earned her the admiration of both fans and fashion critics. One standout example is her white Dior gown at the 2014 SAG Awards, which featured a fitted bodice and a dramatic A-line skirt, offering a nod to vintage couture.
Modern Daring: In recent years, however, Clarke has also embraced more avant-garde and daring choices, experimenting with bold colors, unexpected cuts, and innovative textures. Her gown at the 2018 Met Gala, for instance, was a true showstopper. Designed by Dolce & Gabbana, the gold and black baroque gown perfectly fit the “Heavenly Bodies” theme, complete with a crown-like headpiece that elevated her look to regal status. This marked a significant departure from her earlier, more subdued looks, showcasing Clarke’s growing confidence in taking risks on the red carpet.
Minimalism Meets Drama: Another notable trend Clarke has embraced is the fusion of minimalism with high drama. At the 2020 BAFTAs, she stunned in a black custom Schiaparelli gown, which featured a plunging neckline and structured shoulders. The dress was a masterclass in how to create a dramatic effect with minimal embellishment, relying instead on expert tailoring and bold proportions.

Designer Collaborations: Emilia Clarke’s Partnership with Fashion’s Elite

A major reason behind Emilia Clarke’s consistent red carpet success is her close collaborations with some of the world’s most esteemed fashion designers. Throughout her career, Clarke has worked with iconic houses like Valentino, Dior, and Givenchy, each partnership bringing a unique flair to her style.

Valentino: One of Clarke’s most memorable Valentino moments came at the 2019 TIME 100 Gala, where she wore a stunning red Valentino gown with a dramatic bow detail at the back. The bold color and elegant draping showcased Clarke’s ability to pull off high fashion with effortless grace. Valentino’s signature romanticism paired perfectly with Clarke’s natural charm, creating a look that was both sophisticated and playful.
Dior: Dior has been a recurring name in Clarke’s red carpet wardrobe, most notably at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. Clarke’s pale pink Dior gown, adorned with floral embroidery, was a quintessential example of the brand’s ethereal aesthetic. The gown’s delicate detailing and soft color palette reflected Clarke’s earlier style, marked by a more traditional, feminine sensibility.
Givenchy: Another fashion house Clarke has often turned to is Givenchy. At the 2018 Golden Globes after-party, she wore a sleek black Givenchy gown that stood out for its minimalist yet edgy design. The dress, with its sharp lines and structured silhouette, highlighted Clarke’s growing inclination towards modern, bold fashion statements.

These collaborations not only solidify Clarke’s place among fashion’s elite but also demonstrate her adaptability and willingness to explore different facets of her style.

Fashion Evolution: From Fresh-Faced to Fearless

Emilia Clarke’s fashion journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her early red carpet appearances, where she often favored softer, more demure looks, to her recent outings, marked by bold, high-fashion choices, Clarke’s evolution reflects both her personal growth and her expanding influence in the fashion world.

Early Years: In her earlier years, Clarke often gravitated towards safe, timeless choices. Her dresses were typically form-fitting but not overly dramatic, in neutral or pastel tones that complemented her fair complexion. This phase of her fashion career was characterized by a classic elegance, as she was still solidifying her status in Hollywood.
Modern Edge: As her confidence grew, so did her fashion choices. In recent years, Clarke has increasingly embraced daring cuts, bold colors, and statement accessories. She has moved away from the softer, more traditional looks of her early career, opting instead for pieces that exude strength and confidence. Her ability to seamlessly transition between styles—from the whimsical to the avant-garde—has kept fashion enthusiasts eagerly anticipating her next appearance.

Influence on Fans and the Fashion Industry

Emilia Clarke’s red carpet appearances have not only captured the attention of fans but have also inspired fashion designers and stylists across the globe. Her chameleon-like ability to shift between classic and modern aesthetics has set her apart as a fashion icon for the new generation.

Inspiring Fans: Fans admire Clarke for her authenticity and relatability, and her red carpet style is no exception. She strikes a balance between aspirational fashion and accessibility, often choosing pieces that feel both high-fashion and wearable. Whether it’s the elegance of her Valentino gowns or the boldness of her Dolce & Gabbana Met Gala ensemble, Clarke’s style encourages her fans to experiment with their own fashion choices, blending tradition with modernity.
Impact on Designers: Clarke’s influence extends beyond her fans to the fashion industry itself. Designers are eager to work with her not only because of her star power but also because of her ability to elevate their creations with her unique charm and presence. Her evolving style has set trends on the red carpet, encouraging designers to push the boundaries of what’s considered “classic” or “modern.”

Conclusion: The Future of Emilia Clarke’s Fashion Journey

As Emilia Clarke continues to evolve both as an actress and a style icon, there’s no doubt that her future red carpet appearances will be met with great anticipation. Her ability to effortlessly transition between timeless elegance and daring modernity ensures that she remains at the forefront of fashion discussions. With each new look, Clarke continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts and set trends, solidifying her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most influential style icons.

Looking ahead, we can expect Clarke to continue surprising us with her bold choices and collaborations with fashion’s top designers. As her style evolves, one thing remains certain: Emilia Clarke will always be a force to be reckoned with on the red carpet, captivating audiences with her undeniable charm and sartorial prowess.