98th Academy Awards: Chanel's Cinematic Influence
Last Sunday, the 98th Academy Awards, affectionately known as the Oscars, once again captivated the world. Hollywood’s elite, a dazzling constellation of seasoned legends and rising stars, converged from every corner of the globe to celebrate the pinnacle of cinematic achievement. Yet, as much as this night is dedicated to honoring film, it is undeniably a grand spectacle of fashion, where stars become living canvases for the world’s most coveted designs. And when it comes to sartorial dominance, one brand consistently commands attention: Chanel. Indeed, a palpable coco fever swept through the event, with the iconic double C logo catching every discerning eye.
The Academy Awards weekend is far more than a single Sunday night; it’s a multi-day celebration that begins with exclusive gatherings. A prime example is the highly anticipated CHANEL and Charles Finch Dinner, a ritual as integral to the Oscars experience as the ceremony itself. Held on March 14, 2026, at the opulent Polo Lounge of The Beverly Hills Hotel, this 17th annual dinner brought together cinema’s most luminous figures. Here, amidst the clinking of champagne glasses and hushed conversations, black tweed glided, pearls caught the candlelight like constellations, and silk moved with an effortless grace, framing the night before the red carpet flashes began.
Notable attendees at this exclusive pre-Oscars event included Nicole Kidman, who graced the occasion in a Chanel Pre-Fall 2026 white knot silk organza embroidered jacket and skirt. Jessie Buckley was seen in hues of celeste blue and jade, while Teyana Taylor opted for a Chanel Fall 2026 RTW ensemble. The distinguished guest list also featured Gracie Abrams, Lily-Rose Depp, Sarah Pidgeon, Al Pacino, Jessica Biel, Mick Jagger, Maya Rudolph, Elle Fanning, and Kristen Stewart. Conspicuously absent, however, was the one and only Margot Robbie.
Chanel on the 98th Academy Awards Red Carpet
When the main event arrived on March 15, 2026, Chanel, under the creative direction of Matthieu Blazy, continued its sartorial reign. Celebrities adorned in Chanel showcased a spectrum of designs, from custom creations to pieces fresh off the runway.
Jessie Buckley, a winner for ‘Hamnet’, captivated in a custom electric blue velvet gown with a high neckline and bedazzled shoulder brooches for her on-stage appearance. Her red carpet look was a light pink bustier chiffon gown paired with a striking red satin leather stole, evoking a mid-century couture mood. This was complemented by Chanel High Jewelry, including the N°5 Drop white gold necklace and Bouton de Camélia earrings.
Nicole Kidman, a long-standing Chanel ambassador, made a statement in a custom powder pink bustier dress featuring a peplum and a skirt adorned with apricot feathers, a testament to Chanel’s exquisite craftsmanship. Her look was completed with Chanel Fine Jewelry.
Teyana Taylor, a nominee, chose a custom Chanel gown entirely embroidered with glass pearls and crystals, further embellished with black and white feathers, drawing inspiration from the Chanel Spring 2026 Haute Couture collection.
Pedro Pascal brought old Hollywood romance to the red carpet, foregoing a traditional tuxedo jacket for a look accented with a feather brooch, Chanel eyewear, and shoes. This demonstrated the growing momentum of Chanel menswear under Matthieu Blazy.
Gracie Abrams wore a navy Chanel ensemble embroidered with navy and black sequins in a floral motif, featuring a cropped top, skirt, and a navy chiffon scarf, blending youthful modernity with old Hollywood glamour.
Maya Rudolph appeared in a layered silhouette with sheer detailing, showcasing the diverse range of Chanel’s designs.
The 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party: Chanel’s After-Party Presence
The glamour continued into the night at the exclusive 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, where Chanel once again dressed some of Hollywood’s brightest stars.
Kendall Jenner was a standout in a light blue dress adorned with gradient sun sequins and multiple layers of mousseline and satin in shades of blue and white, depicting a mushroom motif. This look was completed with Tiffany & Co. jewels.
Teyana Taylor transitioned into a white Chanel slip dress with elegant chain straps draping down her spine for the after-party.
Jessie Buckley opted for a black lurex fur dress, accessorized with Chanel High Jewellery.
Nicole Kidman was seen in a Chanel Spring 2026 gold metallic fibre dress, which featured frayed edges.
Gracie Abrams wore a Chanel Pre-Fall 2026 dress, styled with Chanel High Jewellery, presenting a softly romantic aesthetic.
Quenlin Blackwell also wore a Chanel Spring 2026 dress.
In essence, the 98th Academy Awards weekend underscored the symbiotic relationship between cinema and couture. From the intimate pre-Oscars dinner to the extraordinary red carpet and the exclusive after-parties, Chanel’s presence was undeniable, proving that on a night when cinema crowns its dreams, the letter C quietly takes its place at the center of it all, not only in Oscar, but in Chanel.
