The Story Behind Emma Chamberlain’s Classic Hollywood Look for the 2026 Academy Museum Gala


Ahead of the gala, Chamberlain spoke with Vogue about the inspiration behind her gown and her “haunting” beauty look. At the Met Gala, she said, “People show up and they want to showcase their deepest fashion desires.” But this event, which raises money for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, called for a different approach. “It’s a very classic Hollywood evening,” Chamberlain said. “The after-party is at the Chateau. It just feels like, ‘This is LA, baby! This is Hollywood.’ And we’re going to do it exactly like that.”

Newly brunette, Chamberlain drew inspiration from iconic actors like Audrey Hepburn and Winona Ryder when envisioning her look. Ryder, in particular, was something of a dark brunette mascot for Chamberlain. “When I was going from the blonde to the brunette, Winona Ryder was a huge inspo for me,” she said. “I was looking at photos of her constantly, to kind of help me gain the courage to dye it brown.”

Image may contain Winona Ryder Head Person Face Adult Happy Smile Accessories Jewelry Necklace and Photography

Winona Ryder’s ‘90s pixie cut

Photo: Getty Images

Image may contain Susanna Kaysen Person Adult Clothing Skirt Accessories Formal Wear Tie Jewelry and Necklace

Photo: Getty Images

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