Tuxedo-Inspired Dressing at the 2026 CFDA Fashion Awards
The 2026 CFDA Fashion Awards delivered plenty of dresses, but it was the women putting their own spin on tuxedo dressing who caught my attention. From classic tailoring to more playful interpretations, these four women showed just how versatile black-and-white dressing can be.
A Modern Take on the Classic Tuxedo
Emmy Rossum wore a Kallmeyer Spring 2027 runway look that brought together traditional and modern tailoring. The stand collar referenced vintage menswear, while the embellished white cummerbund-like detail on the jacket gave the classic jacket a feminine update. I love how these contrasting elements work together, with Arielle Ratner earrings providing the finishing touch.
Styled by Delphine Danhier.
A Little Cabaret Glamour
Brandy took a more playful approach in Sergio Hudson Spring 2027, pairing a classic Oxford shirt with a fringed mini skirt that brought all the cabaret glamour. The L’eggs sheer tights, pointed pumps and black gloves completed the look, and I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s fun, glamorous and full of personality.
Styled by Ashley Sean Thomas.
From Shirt Cuff to Statement Top
Ashley Graham offered one of my favourite interpretations with a strapless Thom Browne top inspired by an oversized tuxedo cuff, complete with a cufflink, paired with black trousers. I love the cleverness of the design, especially how such a familiar menswear detail has been transformed into something entirely different.
Black-Tie With a Twist
Olandria Carthen took us furthest from traditional tuxedo tailoring in custom Brandon Blackwood. This reinterprets her favourite sculpted, body-conscious silhouette with dramatic sweeping trains, bringing a black-tie element to the style we’ve come to associate with her. Her Oscar Heyman diamond earrings and Spectrum Jewels Zambian emerald and diamond necklace completed the look.
Styled by The Reismans.
Of these four interpretations, Emmy’s is the most traditional, while Ashley’s is perhaps the most inventive. But which approach to tuxedo-inspired dressing stands out for you?
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