Ever since portraying Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy in Ryan Murphy’s Love Story earlier this year, Sarah Pidgeon can not escape fashion comparisons to her famed on-screen character. And it’s no wonder, given that CBK now represents the best of sleek minimalism from the ’90s—a vibe that Pidgeon herself often nails on the red carpet, via her own cool, sleek style choices.
At the 2026 Emmys tonight, then, it was only fitting that Pidgeon nodded to CBK once again with her red carpet look—though this time, in a more subtler and more nuanced way. It was a big night for Pidgeon that demanded such a dressing spirit: She was nominated for the role, after all, for lead actress in a limited or anthology series or movie category.
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On the carpet, Pidgeon wore a custom lilac Chanel gown that took inspiration from the classic ’90s slip dress—a frock that CBK famously wore quite a lot in her heyday. Pidgeon’s take on the enduring classic was updated and refreshed, thanks to plunging neckline with pearl embellishments, and asymmetric bias cut. “The dress felt very celebratory, yet comfortable,” Pidgeon tells Vogue, adding that she was also drawn to its unique hue. “The color is just so beautiful—they did three different dye tests to get the right color for me. When I put it on, I felt like I was floating.”
The star finished off her ensemble with Chanel’s High Jewelry pieces, including chameleon flower-shaped rings and diamond necklaces. Pidgeon’s Chanel moment tonight is certainly full-circle, given she also wore the French label for the show’s New York City premiere earlier this year. Clearly, CBK’s stylish legacy is staying with the actor, and will continue to do so for years and years to come. “Carolyn has made a serious impression on me,” says Pidgeon. “Her sensibilities, opinions, and passions have rubbed off on me. So tonight, she’ll be with me on the red carpet.”
Photo: Getty Images
