The Golden Globe Awards event stands as a highly anticipated evening in the heart of Hollywood. Each year, renowned celebrities collaborate with famous designers in search of the ideal attire to showcase their style. While some outfits lean towards understated elegance, most actresses opt to make a bold fashion statement. Among the most audacious ensembles, you’ll find plunging necklines, thigh-high slits, and ample cleavage displays. Prepare to be astonished as we present the top 20 daring Golden Globes fashion moments in history.
January Jones in Versace (2011 Golden Globes)
January Jones donned a Versace Spring 2011 gown featuring striking red fringes and a plunging V-neckline that extended down to her waist at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards. The Mad Men star received criticism from the Red Carpet Fashion Awards, who commented that her bold choice was not entirely flattering, suggesting that the dress may have been a bit revealing for her ample bust.
Jennifer Aniston in Valentino (2004 Golden Globes)
Jennifer Aniston left a lasting impression on her departure from Friends with a stunning fashion statement. She graced the 2004 Golden Globe Awards in a vintage Valentino gown that featured a daring low-cut neckline. The eye-catching ensemble was accentuated by a bold belt that added a touch of risqué flair, seemingly ensuring the outfit’s stability. Thankfully, there were no wardrobe malfunctions on that memorable night!
Jennifer Lopez in Marchesa (2009 Golden Globes)
Jennifer Lopez has consistently pursued the element of surprise in her fashion choices. Even as a mother of two at the time, she donned a dazzling golden gown from the Marchesa Spring Summer 2009 collection that left little to the imagination. The dress featured a nearly bare back, daring cleavage, and a plunging neckline, rivaling some of J-Lo’s iconic dresses that were renowned for their bold and revealing designs.
Salma Hayek in Gucci (2020 Golden Globes)
Prior to her red carpet appearance, Salma Hayek offered fans a sneak peek of her evening attire on Instagram. The actress, known for her breakthrough role in ‘Desperado’ and her appearance in the 2020 Marvel film ‘The Eternals,’ stunned in a Gucci ensemble. Her outfit featured a cream-colored skirt paired with a striking low-cut blue top. At the age of 53, Hayek continues to captivate Hollywood with her timeless beauty and ability to command attention.
Jessica Biel in Elie Saab (2017 Golden Globes)
Jessica Biel exhibited a bold fashion choice with a combination of a plunging neckline that descended to her waist and a high thigh-slit in a voluminous ballgown skirt, creating a look that unquestionably commanded attention. Her choice of attire was a stunning Elie Saab Fall 2016 Couture design, which also allowed her to showcase her well-toned arms.
Beyoncé in Elie Saab (2009 Golden Globes)
Beyoncé looked resplendent in a strapless Elie Saab gown adorned with glistening white beads. The gown elegantly showcased her hourglass figure, offering sufficient coverage to accentuate her curves. Not to be overlooked was the daring thigh-high slit that added a touch of allure. Beyoncé attended the event as a nominee for the Best Original Song – Motion Picture category, thanks to her song ‘Once in a Lifetime’ from the film ‘Cadillac Records.
Drew Barrymore in Atelier Versace (2010 Golden Globes)
In 2010, Drew Barrymore achieved a significant milestone by winning her first Golden Globe in the category of Best Performance by an Actress In A Mini-series or Motion Picture Made for Television for her role in ‘Grey Gardens.’ In stark contrast to her character, Edith Bouvier Beale, known for her eccentric clothing choices such as tablecloths and curtains, Barrymore opted for a bold and radiant look that evening. She confidently donned an Atelier Versace nude gown embellished with dazzling accents on her hips and shoulders.
Kate Hudson in Versace (2015 Golden Globes)
At the 2015 Golden Globe Awards, Kate Hudson faced a triple fashion challenge with her choice of Versace dress. Firstly, she dared to wear the color white, a shade often considered unforgiving unless one possesses an extremely slender figure. Secondly, the gown featured peekaboo sides that tapered down, which can be quite revealing. Lastly, the plunging neckline provided minimal coverage for her bust. Remarkably, Hudson effortlessly conquered all three challenges, showcasing her fashion prowess.
Charlize Theron in Christian Dior (2012 Golden Globes)
In that particular year, Charlize Theron made a stunning appearance on the red carpet, as she received a Best Performance in a Motion Picture nomination for ‘Young Adult.’ She graced the event in a dusty rose pink chiffon Dior couture gown that featured a daring plunging neckline and an alluring thigh-high slit. Theron effortlessly carried off the gown’s draped detail on the hip and the flowing train, exuding an undeniable sense of elegance and sophistication.
Lea Michele in Marchesa (2012 Golden Globes)
Lea Michele donned a mesmerizing metallic gun-gray dress adorned with antique embroidery from the Marchesa Spring 2012 collection. The gown featured captivating feathered accents strategically placed in peekaboo fashion, alluringly tapering down towards the sleek, straight skirt.
Evan Rachel Wood in Gucci (2012 Golden Globes)
Evan Rachel Wood made a bold fashion statement at her Best Supporting Actress nomination for ‘Mildred Pierce’ by donning a custom Gucci Première gown in a captivating midnight green shade. The gown featured a halter neck adorned with sequins and sheer fabric. However, the real risk factor lay in the avian-inspired design of the dress, which incorporated overlapping fish-scale patterns and ostrich plumes, cascading down into a full skirt embellished with iridescent feathers.
Halle Berry in Versace (2013 Golden Globes)
Halle Berry graced the occasion in a striking Atelier Versace Fall 2012 gown, featuring a one-shoulder design adorned with an abstract pink pattern. In a nod to the ‘Angelina’ leg trend, inspired by Angelina Jolie’s iconic leg-baring moment at the 84th Academy Awards, Berry fearlessly showcased her toned leg with a bold thigh-high slit.
Janelle Monae in Armani Prive (2017 Golden Globes)
Janelle Monae marked her inaugural appearance at the 2017 Golden Globes in a distinctive Armani Prive ensemble. Her high-low draped gown, featuring a front bustle and adorned with black polka dots, delivered a striking and unique fashion statement.
Blake Lively in Atelier Versace (2017 Golden Globes)
Blake Lively opted for a daring approach when she confidently walked the red carpet in a sophisticated custom velvet gown by Atelier Versace. The gown elegantly embraced her curves, while the strategically placed pockets accentuated her hips, contributing to the overall dramatic allure.
Naomi Campbell in Atelier Versace (2017 Golden Globes)
This bold and otherworldly creation, featuring intricate strips and panels by Atelier Versace, is a style that seems tailor-made for someone of Naomi Campbell’s caliber. As a seasoned runway model, she effortlessly transitions the red carpet into her own personal catwalk, making it seem like a walk in the park.
Kendall Jenner in Giambattista Valli Couture (2018 Golden Globes)
Known for her penchant for making a statement, Kendall Jenner didn’t shy away from boldness as she donned a Giambattista Valli Fall 2017 Couture gown. Kendall confidently walked in a captivating inky black tulle ballerina dress that featured a shorter front and an extravagant, ultra-long train trailing behind her.
Keri Russell in Monique Lhuillier (2019 Golden Globes)
Keri Russell, who was there to represent the award-winning series ‘The Americans’ for Best Television Series, left a lasting impression on the red carpet in a striking silver sequin gown by Monique Lhuillier Fall 2018. The gown featured an audacious neckline that added to her stunning presence.
Nicole Kidman in Michael Kors Collection (2019 Golden Globes)
Nicole Kidman resembled her aquatic character from ‘Aquaman’ as she adorned herself in a boldly form-fitting burgundy sequined gown from Michael Kors Collection. This appearance was a stark contrast to her gritty portrayal in ‘Destroyer,’ which earned her a Best Performance Golden Globe nomination.
Lady Gaga in Valentino (2019 Golden Globes)
Lady Gaga, nominated for Best Actress in a Drama for her role in ‘A Star Is Born’ and the recipient of the Best Original Song award for ‘Shallow,’ made a grand entrance on the red carpet in a striking blue Valentino ensemble, complementing her hair color. Her bold choice included a strapless gown with voluminous off-the-shoulder sleeves and an enormous trailing train, so massive that it required a team of attendants to assist in lifting it as it followed her.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Fendi (2020 Golden Globes)
Gwyneth Paltrow was fortunate that the Los Angeles weather was mild during the 77th Annual Golden Globe Awards in 2020. Paltrow made a bold fashion statement by arriving in a translucent Fendi dress from the pre-fall 2020 collection, which left very little to the imagination. The sheer gown was paired with a bikini top, and the lower ruffles provided minimal coverage for Paltrow’s posterior.
Kerry Washington in Altuzarra (2020 Golden Globes)
Reactions poured in with phrases like ‘There are no words,’ ‘Slayed,’ and ‘Stuns’ as Kerry Washington graced the 2020 Golden Globe Awards. Her ensemble featured a satin black Altuzarra skirt with a daring thigh-high slit, a black jacket, and an absence of a traditional shirt. Instead, she adorned herself with diamond body jewelry that encircled her chest and waist. When questioned about the potential of her look ‘breaking the internet,’ Washington responded that she would be ‘honored.’ Suffice it to say, the internet was left in awe.
Salma Hayek in Narciso Rodriguez (2003 Golden Globes)
As the saying goes, ‘hindsight is 20/20,’ and witnessing Salma Hayek on the 2020 red carpet evoked nostalgia for her very first appearance at the Golden Globes back in 2003. At that time, Hayek’s timeless hourglass figure was just as impeccable as it is today. She graced the event in a plunging crimson dress designed by Narciso Rodriguez, beautifully complemented by matching lipstick.
Billy Porter in Alex Vinash and Jimmy Choo (2020 Golden Globes)
Renowned actor Billy Porter, celebrated for his captivating red carpet fashion choices, continued to make a statement at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards. Nominated for Best Actor for his role in ‘Pose,’ Porter graced the red carpet in a unique ensemble. He wore a custom-made white tuxedo jacket seamlessly connected to a feather train, crafted by Alex Vinash. To complete his angelic appearance, Porter donned white Jimmy Choo heels, a Tiffany necklace, and a crisp white button-down shirt.
Jennifer Lopez in Valentino (2020 Golden Globes)
One of the most polarizing outfits at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards was undoubtedly Jennifer Lopez’s choice. She appeared in a white Valentino gown accentuated by a large green and gold bow draping down in the front. The Daily Mail dubbed the dress a ‘bow pas,’ and it received comments such as ‘No no no no no’ from various critics. Despite Lopez’s nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘Hustlers,’ this particular gown is unlikely to win any fashion awards.
Lisa Bonet in Fendi (2020 Golden Globes)
Lisa Bonet and her husband, Jason Momoa, received accolades for their fashion choices at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards. Bonet donned a 2019 Fendi embroidered dress featuring sheer sleeves, while Momoa coordinated his look with velvet lace-up shoes, a velvet Tom Ford jacket, and a black shirt. During the ceremony, Momoa’s chivalrous gesture of giving his velvet jacket to Bonet to keep her warm created a heartwarming moment that captured the internet’s affection for the adorable couple.
Heather Locklear (1996 Golden Globes)
Jayne Mansfield, the epitome of a classic Hollywood bombshell, graced the silver screen in numerous daring dresses throughout her career. While her iconic moment alongside actress Sophia Loren at a 1957 20th Century Fox party is widely recognized, it was in 1961 that Mansfield made her boldest fashion statement at the Golden Globes. In the photograph, she can be seen wearing a low-cut, lace-embroidered dress, sharing a jovial moment with her husband, Mickey Hargitay.
Madonna (1997 Golden Globes)
Madonna, known for her audacious fashion choices, lived up to her reputation with a bold appearance at the 1997 Golden Globe Awards. The singer attended the event as a nominee for Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical for her role in ‘Evita.’ Madonna not only took home the award but also showcased her strikingly voluptuous figure in a daring low-cut black dress, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Michelle Williams in Givenchy (2006 Golden Globes)
Michelle Williams made a memorable appearance on the red carpet in a bold purple Givenchy gown during the year she received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for ‘Brokeback Mountain.’ While the vibrant color added a daring element to her ensemble, it was the multiple tiers of the dress that truly elevated her standout look.
Sarah Michelle Gellar in Monique Lhuillier (2012 Golden Globes)
Sarah Michelle Gellar turned heads in a breathtaking Monique Lhuillier Spring 2012 gown that stole the spotlight on the red carpet. The gown featured a striking blue watercolor print and intricate draping layers, garnering the attention of everyone in attendance. Interestingly, Gellar mentioned that her 2-year-old daughter had a hand in selecting the dress, attributing this fashion choice to her daughter’s influence.
Julia Roberts (1990 Golden Globes)
Back in 1990, Julia Roberts was undeniably one of the most prominent movie stars in the world, and it was expected that she would make a grand entrance at a prestigious event like the Golden Globes. However, she surprised everyone by opting for a rather unconventional choice, reminiscent of David Byrne’s iconic oversized grey suit. On that remarkable evening, she not only made a memorable fashion statement but also took home the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘Steel Magnolias.’ Strange? Indeed. Unforgettable? Absolutely.
Anjelica Houston (1991 Golden Globes)
Anjelica Houston’s choice of attire at the 1991 Golden Globe Awards leaves us somewhat perplexed. It seems she was aiming for a look that resembled an opulent linen napkin at one of the most significant industry events of the year.
Jennifer Lopez (1998 Golden Globes)
Jennifer Lopez has graced the red carpet with numerous iconic looks over the years (who can forget the 2000 Grammys?), but one of her earliest memorable moments was her multi-colored ensemble at the 1998 Golden Globe Awards.
Diane Kruger (2005 Golden Globes)
Diane Kruger made quite a statement with her unconventional outfit at the 2005 Golden Globe Awards. At that time, Kruger was at the height of her fame, having earned a spot on People’s ’50 Most Beautiful People in the World’ list in 2004 and ranking #50 on Maxim’s ‘Hot 100’ list in 2005. This makes her fashion choice for the event all the more puzzling.
Billy Porter (2023 Golden Globes)
Billy Porter made a striking, though divisive, fashion statement by donning a red tuxedo gown at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards. Reactions to the ensemble have been quite varied, to say the least, leaving us somewhat uncertain about how to interpret it.
Andrew Garfield (2023 Golden Globes)
Andrew Garfield made a bold choice by wearing an orange suit on the red carpet at the 2023 event. The reason behind it? Well, if you connect the dots: orange, Garfield… you might just find a playful nod to Garfield the Cat, who happens to be orange. It’s a fun and clever twist on fashion.
Jennifer Coolidge (2023 Golden Globes)
Jennifer Coolidge, propelled into the spotlight by her unforgettable performance in ‘The White Lotus,’ undoubtedly stole the show at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards. Her appearance perfectly captured her unique persona, embodying it to the fullest, whether for better or for worse.
Selena Gomez (2023 Golden Globes)
Selena Gomez’s attire at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards was overall quite impressive, with one notable exception – the sleeves. The decision regarding those sleeves remains somewhat perplexing, perhaps better left as just an idea.
