The 2026 BET Awards delivered one of the most memorable red carpets in recent memory. From archived fashion moments to custom pieces, the night was a masterclass in celebrity dressing. Read on for the most eye-catching looks based on your favorites.
In no particular order…
Muni Long made a statement in a pool blue Sergio Hudson Collection sequin dress that hugged every curve. She posed with her boyfriend, Akeem Ali, and she seemed to love the look. Whether it was his look or her style, the look was sleek, sophisticated, and definitely red carpet ready.
Nia Long wore a simple brown slip gown by Carson as she posed with her Michael movie co-star Jaafar Jackson. Jaafar wore a flattering suit to her fly and both ensured their serves.
Cillian Kerner’s Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah brought her signature regal energy to the carpet with Cillian Kerner’s sculptural black textured coat draped dramatically over her shoulders. The look was bold, architectural, and unmistakably hers. This is proof that even decades into her career, the Queen still knows exactly how to command a room.
Eva Marcille debuted her new chic blonde short cut, which was the perfect accent to her bright green Muehler minidress. Gold bangles, long legs, and snake-print lace-up sandals secured her place as one of the best-dressed women of the night.
New mom Ratt wore a sheer black corset dress by Lily Ferrera, paired with a dramatic feather stole. The look was gothic, glamorous and completely her own. The snapback is a 10!
Marsai Martin proved she’s all grown up in a Salif Balta FW26 RTW gown featuring an off-the-shoulder black leather corseted bodice and sheer ruched skirt with a dramatic train. The look was sensual and sophisticated, a fitting evolution for the actress and producer who continues to redefine her style in her own way.
Olandria was the vision of Yellow Teofilio, a New York-based brand known for its vibrant, culturally-rooted designs. With the BET Awards in the background, the look seemed fresh and fun.
Kayla Nicole brought effortless glamor to the carpet, proving once again why she was a staple among the best dressed of the night. Her Sergio Hudson is an equal balance of sophistication and sex appeal, a combination that has become something of a signature of the model and media personality.
Thames in Brown Luis de Javier
Thames wore a custom brown halter neck gown by Luis de Javier that featured a dramatic feathered skirt that flowed to the floor. The Nigerian superstar looked like she is now a global fashion stalwart.
Teyana Taylor of Stephane Rolland Haute Couture
Teyana Taylor, the night’s Icon Award winner, arrived wearing a burgundy Stéphane Laurent SS 2026 haute couture ball gown with a dramatic sculpted ruffle skirt. It was one of the most talked about looks of the night – and rightly so.
Claire Salmers “Shadiat Arasoke”
Claire Salmers, Founder and CEO of Fashion Bomb Daily, wears looks from Nigerian designers Shadiat Arasokthis choice spoke to her longstanding commitment to celebrating Black designers on the world stage.
Doechii wore an archival brown Dsquared2 crochet cutout gown with a dramatic train from the archives. The look was bold and editorial, perfect for the brand of one of music’s most fearless artists.
Janet Jackson paid tribute to her late friend Tupac Shakur with a look that stopped the internet. It was one of the most emotionally resonant fashion moments of the night. A reminder that the best style tells a story.
The 2026 BET Awards proved that Black excellence goes far beyond the stage. From archive pulls to custom couture, this year’s carpet was one for the books.
Who had your favorite look that night?
movie: chastity morgan
Source: Fashion Bomb Daily – fashionbombdaily.com
