2026 Awards Season Style: Celebrities Embrace Chic Updos on the Red Carpet
The red carpet is poised for elegance, with predictions of polished updos dominating the upcoming awards season. As the 2026 Actor Awards and Academy Awards approach, Hollywood’s elite are expected to showcase a variety of sophisticated hairstyles.
Set to take place on March 1 at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the Actor Awards will honor outstanding performances in film and television. Shortly after, the Academy Awards will be held on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, celebrating notable cinematic achievements.
Recent award shows have hinted at a trend towards sleek buns, sculpted chignons, and pristine twists, with Us Weekly predicting a surge in ballet-core fashion, featuring off-the-shoulder dresses and sparkling earrings. Unlike the more relaxed styles often seen at the Grammys and Golden Globes, this season’s events favor polished, smooth updos.
“At the 2026 Grammys, trending updos felt glamorous yet playful, from Sabrina Carpenter’s elegant low updo with loose tendrils to the textured hairstyles sported by PinkPantheress and Tyla,” noted Nicole Petty, Brand Director at Milk & Blush. “What ties them together is intentional structure balanced with softness—a trend loved by stylists blending classic glamour with modern flair.”
Kate Hudson at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards on February 22, 2026, in London. (Photo by Dominic Lipinski/Getty Images)
Petty emphasized that incorporating extensions into updos can enhance volume and shape, creating styles that are both bold and wearable. Brushed-back styles are also gaining traction on the red carpet. “[Sculpted updos and sleek, braided strands] feel both elegant and edgy,” said hairstylist Charlotte Mensah. “Whether paired with full glam or a bare face, the effect instantly elevates even the simplest ponytail.”
Notably, Amanda Seyfried captivated audiences at the 2026 Golden Globes with an Old Hollywood-inspired regal bun, featuring curled face-framing pieces. This chic look perfectly complemented her strapless ivory Atelier Versace gown, crafted over 400 hours and paired with Tiffany & Co. diamonds.
Seyfried’s hairstylist Renato Campora shared, “I wanted the hair to feel ethereal and timeless, soft yet sculpted, with a subtle nod to 1930s glamour. It’s all about building a flawless foundation and layering in intention, so the final look feels polished, romantic, and effortlessly golden from every angle.”
Recently, Kate Hudson turned heads at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards with a chic updo that beautifully showcased her stunning red Prada dress. Styled by Peter Lux, her hair featured a side part, while Naoko Sofia Patrizia Scintu handled her glowing makeup for the event.
