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Wow—what a year for red carpets! At Vogue, dissecting the Hollywood step and repeats is part of our daily job, and 2024 was one hell of a ride. In addition to well-established style stars, a cast of new characters burst onto the scene, each one of them bringing a distinct point-of-view to the mix. From actors and singers to pro athletes, they all put forth a unique sense of style that grabbed our attention.
Below, meet the breakout red carpet stars of 2024.
Mikey Madison
Mikey Madison’s star has been rising in Hollywood for quite some time now, but with her breakout role in Anora, the actor proved she is a true leading lady. (Can you say Oscars buzz?) On the red carpet, Madison has also cultivated a look that is elegant, yet decidedly modern. She has worked with stylist Jamie Mizrahi to find sleek, minimal dresses that have just the right amount of shine—whether via sequins, embroidery, or embellishments. They all feel very Old Hollywood, yet totally New Hollywood, too.
Chappell Roan
It certainly was the year of Chappell Roan: Thanks to her masterful album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, the pop star has dominated the charts (she was likely on your Spotify Wrapped round-up)—and the red carpets. Roan and stylist Genesis Webb have collaborated on campy-chic looks that heavily reference the art of drag. Medival vibes at the VMAs? Check. Country-glam at SNL? Check! Each look is more fabulous and over-the-top than the next.
D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai
Indigenous actor D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai broke onto scene with his starring role in Reservation Dogs—and he is only just getting started. Next year, the rising star will appear in buzzy films Warfare and Caught Stealing. On the red carpets, he and stylist Avo Yermagyan have zeroed in on polished suiting looks that have fresh, modern accents. At the Emmys this year, the star also used his fashion look for a powerful statement: He wore red face paint to draw attention to the epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women.
Tyla
Make me sweat, make me hotter! The South African singer has delivered many bops this year, and her approach to fashion has been filled with just as many hits. Working with stylist Ron Hartleben, she has developed a cool, graphic sense of style full of bold colors and strong silhouettes. From vintage Tom Ford Gucci at the CFDAs, to a wild zebra-print Roberto Cavalli gown at the VMAs, there is no look too over-the-top for her to pull off. Lest we not forget: Her sand-like Balmain gown at the Met Gala.
Drew Starkey
A new Hollywood heartthrob has entered the chat. With his role in Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, Drew Starkey is fast becoming an in-demand leading man—and he’s got the impeccable wardrobe to match. Thanks to the assist of his stylist Warren Alfie Baker, the actor has approached suiting up with a modern flair, choosing baggy-pant silhouettes and deep-green colorways to give classic tailoring a twist. Pepper in a fun cardigan and ripped jeans, and he’s simply the total package.
Angel Reese
Talk about a slam dunk: Chicago Sky basketball player Angel Reese knows how to serve both on and off the court. When she’s not busy sitting front row at fashion weeks (see: Her monogrammed Louis Vuitton look below) or attending the Met Gala (in custom minty 16Arlington!), you can find the athlete nailing casual-cool on her days off in sports jerseys, denim shorts, and Timbaland boots.
Josh O’Connor
Oh gosh? More like oh, Josh! Together with stylist Harry Lambert, the Challengers star has proven that he is one of the most exciting and risk-taking red carpet stars of the moment. With details like extra-long sleeves, technicolor kits, or extra-clunky shoes, O’Connor’s outfits always have an unexpected touch to them. Gone are the days of safe suits and boring accessories—long live individuality!
Anna Sawai
She’s an Emmy winner—and a fashion winner, baby! Anna Sawai earned accolades for her leading role in Shogun this year, and her red carpet sensibility was just as captivating to watch unfold. Of course, it doesn’t hurt when you have pro stylist Karla Welch by your side. Together, the pair have leaned into Hollywood glamour with knockout gowns that pack a punch. Think: Sculptural silhouettes, high-octane colors, and fabulous florals.
Cole Escola
Oh, Mary! may be one of the hardest tickets to score on Broadway at the moment, but it’s quite easy to to take notice of star Cole Escola’s one-of-a-kind style. Theatrical, boundary-pushing, and utterly entertaining, Escola navigates red carpets with whimsy and fun. Not to mention, there is a sense of unpredictability that has made their looks thrilling to watch: they can be in a refined black gown one night, and a sweet tulle-covered suit the next.
Addison Rae
Alexa! Play Aquamarine. The TikTok star-turned-pop star Addison Rae made 2024 her fashion playground, bringing both infectious dance hits and striking outfits to the scene. Stylist Dara Allen (who also styles Hunter Schafer) has worked with Rae to bring back moments on the step and repeat. When she hit the 2024 VMAs in a Miss Claire Sullivan bra, briefs, and tulle train? It was talked about for days. Equally as good, was the mermaid-inspired Thom Browne gown she wore to the CFDAs. We love the drama!
Justin Jefferson
Every year, without fail, there is a breakout athlete who captures the attention of the fashion world—and 2024 was football star Justin Jefferson’s time to shine. The Minnesota Viking made a splash at the menswear shows in Paris—wearing Amiri and Louis Vuitton pieces with effortless aplomb. Always punctuating his looks are the wide receiver's signature hefty diamond chains. Bling, bling!