The selection of exceptional gowns is compiled from five decades of the industry’s acclaimed Primetime Emmy Awards show. Take a look at these beautiful dresses that absolutely steal the show.
Emilia Clarke 2019
Mother of dragons is not one to wear something off the rack for the Emmys, and this dress clearly proves it.
The "Game of Thrones" Superstar sure knows how to make an entrance.
Brittany Snow 2019
We know it's an award show and not Brittany Snow's wedding, but why would that stop her from wearing this semi-bridal gown?
Very much on-brand with her last name, this whole look screams Snowhite, and we love it.
Zendaya 2019
Zendaya rocked up at the 2019 Emmy's in a mouth-dropping Vera Wang emerald dress.
The Euphoria actress topped it off terribly elegantly with some stunning Cartier frosting.
Mandy Moore 2019
The American singer, songwriter, and of course, star of "This Is Us" certainly dressed to impress at the recent Emmy awards.
Moore showed up in a gorgeous pinky red satin dream made by Brandon Maxwell and Forevermark jewelry.
Thandie Newton in 2018
Wrapped in a sophisticated 60s-style cotton-candy pink single-shoulder gown, Thandie Newton was all decked out to receive an Emmy nomination for outstanding supporting actress in the HBO drama "Westworld."
The customized Brandon Maxwell dress features a dramatic off-the-shoulder cape, the look complemented by Harry Winston jewels.
Tiffany Haddish in 2018
If you think this double-sashed plunging rainbow ensemble is a lot of fun, you should see it twirl! The Prabal Gurung gown was designed to reflect the actress’s personality and her Eritrean roots.
Stylist Law Roach told E!, “. . . we just wanted to do something f—king fun and not really care what anybody thought about it.” The fashion statement went viral!
Zoë Kravitz in 2017
Appearing at the 69th Primetime Emmy Awards, Zoë Kravitz was going for a fairytale look with this feathery-soft Dior Haute Couture look.
The magical dress, iridescent-like, changed colors as she moved.
Nicole Kidman in 2017
Nicole Kidman won the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in HBO’s "Big Little Lies," and she could not have been better attired.
The Rose Red Calvin Klein design tied in beads and knotted at the neckline flowed to the floor with a full skirt.
Millie Bobby Brown in 2017
Stepping onto the red carpet in a Calvin Klein by Appointment tea-length, strapless ballerina dress is British actress Millie Bobby Brown. The Alice-in-Wonderland look crafted by stylist Thomas Carter Phillips is accentuated with a silky ivory tie.
The "Stranger Things" starlet was 13 years old when she was nominated for best supporting actress.
Priyanka Chopra in 2016
Priyanka Chopra made a splash “completing” the red carpet of the 68th Emmy Awards show with this amazing dress.
Designed to twirl, the Jason Wu design was adorned with one million dollars worth of Neil Lane jewels.
Emilia Clarke in 2016
The intricately tailored gown made of tiny chain-link sequin proved weighty, like a dainty suit of armor. The nude-hue creation by Atelier Versace was "Game of Thrones" star Emilia Clarke’s first pick off the rack.
She was nominated as best supporting actress for her role as Mother of Dragons.
Taraji P. Henson in 2015
Empire’s notorious “Cookie” stood out at the 2015 Emmy Awards show in a flowing, sheer black gown contrasted with straps made of industrial-grade metal chain.
An upside-down-triangle cut-out dots the bodice. She was nominated for outstanding lead.
Kerry Washington in 2015
Just days off its runway-premiere, Kerry Washington snagged this remarkable Marc Jacobs gown.
The sparkly chain mesh, three-quarter length dress with a high thigh slit and deep V-neck turned plenty of heads.
Kiernan Shipka in 2015
Amongst a sea of sophistication, enter Kiernan Shipka’s playful dress-over-pants ensemble. A dainty off-the-shoulder embroidered high-cut strapless over black trousers finish Dior Couture’s set.
A perfect fit for its 15-year-old model.
Lizzy Caplan in 2014
Lizzy Caplan surprised everyone with this dramatic Donna Karan Atelier gown at the 66th Annual Emmy Awards.
The black strapped dress, with open back and side cut-outs, is finished with a striking white train. Stunning!
Rose Byrne in 2013
The "I Give it a Year" star made an elegant statement at the 65th Annual Emmy Awards in a barely-salmon pink two-piece gown revealing the midriff but covering up with a high-neck scoop.
It first appears that Rose Bryne chose a conservative dress, plain and straight-line, but a second look shows the sophistication of Calvin Klein.
Michelle Dockery in 2013
Nominated for outstanding lead actress in "Downtown Abbey," Michelle Dockery chose this dramatic two-toned, red and burgundy satin Prada gown.
Jewels by Fred Leighton completed the actress’s attire.
Tina Fey in 2013
Comedian Tina Fey donned a cobalt blue floor-length-flared fitted gown to accept an Emmy Award for Best Comedy Writing.
Dressed in a halter top custom-designed by Narciso Rodriguez, she was not prepared for the wardrobe malfunction that exposed her on top as she accepted her statuette!
Sofia Vergara in 2012
Sofia Vergara sparkled like a mermaid in a seafoam green halter top gown. Sequined up and down, the only problem arose when the zipper over her derriere burst, 20 minutes before it was time to join the cast on stage for "Modern Family"’s Outstanding Comedy award.
The wardrobe malfunction was fixed in time!
Julianne Moore in 2012
No one denies it takes a brave soul to wear this particular hue from head to toe. The Dior Haute Couture ensemble is actually a ball skirt, and cashmere sweater separates.
Julianne Moore showed it off at the 64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards.
Allison Williams in 2012
Allison Williams looked absolutely ravishing in this emerald Oscar de la Renta gown.
The "Girls" star played Marnie on the HBO comedy-drama.
Jessica Pare in 2012
Jessica Pare graced the red carpet draped in this Roman goddess gown by Jason Wu. The "Mad Men" actress said she attended the 2012 Emmy Awards ceremony thrilled that the show was nominated for 17 Emmy Awards.
She sure looked worthy of an Oscar.
Zooey Deschanel in 2012
Zooey Deschanel from "New Girl" stunned wearing this Cinderella strapless in sky blue tulle. Forevermark diamond stud earrings and a pink marquise ring accentuated the Reem Acra gown at the 64th Annual Emmy Awards in Los Angeles.
It's a small step away from her traditional "quirky girl" look, but it's still charming nonetheless.
Nina Dobrev in 2011
Nina Dobrev’s cherry red Donna Karan mermaid-style gown dazzled at the 63rd Annual Emmy Awards.
The "Vampire Diaries" star’s dress was a fan favorite at the 2011 event.
Kate Winslet in 2011
Red gowns ruled at the 2011 Emmy Awards Show in Los Angeles. Kate Winslet sets herself apart in this Elie Saab cap sleeve V-dip dress.
The dress was tailored to the perfect fit to collect her best actress statuette for her role in HBO’s "Mildred Pierce."
Gwyneth Paltrow in 2011
Gwyneth Paltrow’s black-and-see-through Pucci gown with open midriff demanded attention.
"Parks and Recreation" star Amy Poehler put it best. “I can’t stand next to her too long. She looks too good.”
Claire Danes in 2011
She would have to wait until 2012 to win best lead actress in Showtime’s "Homeland." This time, Claire Danes was invited to the 2011 Emmy Awards to present.
The actress was nothing short of captivating in this sparkling metallic Oscar de la Renta strapless gown.
Kim Kardashian in 2010
Kim Kardashian charms in a flowing white Marchesa gown with a wrapped bodice and an Egyptian-style neckline.
The reality television diva introduced the genre at the ceremony by performing a song.
Anna Paquin in 2010
The "True Blood" star arrived at the 2010 Emmys in a Roman warrior-esque, black and gold gown by Alexander McQueen.
Jewels from Lavande and shoes from YSL completed her adornment.
Chloë Sevigny in 2009
"Boys Don’t Cry" star Chloë Sevigny entranced red carpet spectators with a translucent polka dot gown by Issac Mizrahi.
The actress accented her sheer, one-shoulder dress with a shiny yellow gold bracelet and hip brooch.
Drew Barrymore in 2009
Drew Barrymore looked spectacular in a strapless dusty rose Monique Lhuillier gown.
She donned the elegant dress as a nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress in "Grey Gardens."
Mila Kunis in 2009
Mila Kunis also went with a Monique Lhuillier gown. The "Family Guy" actress sparkled in the dainty burgundy tulle cocktail-length dress trimmed with a black waist tie.
The beautiful actress finished it off with Fred Leighton jewelry.
Blake Lively in 2009
Blake Lively made an appearance at the 61st Annual Emmy Awards in a plunging Versace gown.
The "Gossip Girl" knockout was not putting out any fires in this scintillating high-slit fashion statement.
January Jones in 2009
Versace also provided January Jones this elegant 60s-throwback. A geometrical bodice of intricate metallic beading and leatherwork cinch at the waist and flow to the floor into a tousled train.
The "Mad Men" star is simply ravishing.
Leighton Meester in 2009
Leighton Meester brings the Grecian goddess to life in this double-knotted Bottega Veneta.
The "Gossip Girl" finished the theme with a pair of yellow gold cuff bracelets.
Olivia Wilde in 2008
Here’s Olivia Wilde at the 60th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.
The floor-length Reem Acra gown features a ruched bodice and capped sleeves in silver beads.
Mischa Barton in 2005
An elegant Mischa Barton presented with Adrian Grenier at the 57th Annual Emmy Awards held at the fabulous Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
The "OC" star donned a sophisticated Oscar de la Renta spaghetti strap gown.
Halle Berry in 2005
At the 2005 Emmy Awards, Halle Berry was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in the Oprah miniseries "Their Eyes Were Watching God."
She dazzled in a sleek sapphire sweetheart strapless by Emanual Ungaro.
Jennifer Aniston in 2004
Who could take their eyes off of Jennifer Aniston in a white Channel column embroidered with gold beading?
She looked just like a goddess at the 2004 Emmys with a bohemian mop of tousled hair topping the classic gown with a tousled train.
Jennifer Garner in 2003
Here we have "Alias" star Jennifer Garner at the 2003 Emmys, where she received her second of four nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series.
The actress, also known for the Dallas Buyers Club, graced the red carpet in a creamy halter gown with a chic sheen from bodice to the floor.
Sarah Jessica Parker in 2003
At the 55th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, Sarah Jessica Parker glided down the red carpet in this strapless princess gown by Chanel.
The tulle gown with sparkly embroidery was donned by the "Sex and the City" star in a flattering dainty pink.
Debra Messing in 2002
Here is Debra Messing at the 54th Primetime Emmy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium. The "Will & Grace" star was nominated for a total of five best actress awards for the role.
In 2003, she took home the Emmy. Messing looked stunning in this elegant black Michael Kors gown.
Keri Russell in 2000
Keri Russell looks like a silver statuette in this Giorgio Armani gown, highlighting a broad and deep V-neck.
"Glamour" magazine called it one of the “best Emmy red carpet looks of all time.”
Sarah Jessica Parker in 2000
Once again, Sarah Jessica Parker turned heads at the Emmys. This time she wore a playful pretty-in-pink Oscar de la Renta cocktail-length dress, including a flowery armband with a tulle train.
A fluffy feather-like skirt added to the look of sweetness.
Michelle Williams in 1999
The "Dawson’s Creek" star arrived at the 1999 Emmys in a soft pink ultrathin spaghetti strap full-length gown.
The sleek dress was adorned with a dainty beaded gossamer overlay. Sheer and chic!
Calista Flockhart in 1999
The "Ally McBeal" star received one of her three Emmy Award nominations at the 1999 Awards show. Calista Flockhart looked stunning in this stellar Ralph Lauren two-piece outfit.
The shimmering gold skirt resting on her hips matched with a bright-white casual-tie blouse makes “simple and savvy” sophisticated.
Lara Flynn Boyle in 1998
Nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in "The Practice," Lara Flynn Boyle arrived in a simple but sleek column gown.
A dramatic straight-slant neckline with capped sleeves met dangling gems. She is a silver beauty.
Angelina Jolie in 1998
Angelina Jolie never fails to dazzle and amaze. At the 50th Annual Emmy Awards, the actress was nominated for two Emmys.
She graced the red carpet in this bodacious gold gown, effortlessly addressing her curves up and down.
Helen Hunt in 1998
"Mad About You" star Helen Hunt picked up her third Emmy for her role in the popular comedy series at the 1998 Emmy Awards program.
She stepped up to retrieve her golden statuette in this spaghetti strap strapless floral print.
Katie Holmes in 1998
"Dawson's Creek" star Katie Holmes looked adorable at the 50th Emmy Awards. The dainty shoulder-cap embroidered gown with white lace trim set the starlet apart.
A rosebud ruffled petite purse finishes the stylish sweetness.
Demi Moore in 1997
Bruce Willis accompanied Demi Moore to the 1997 Emmy Awards. She looked ravishing, as always, in a form-fit royal blue sequence gown.
The actress was nominated for her part in the made-for-TV movie "If These Walls Could Talk."
Tori Spelling in 1995
"Riverdale" and "90210" starlet Tori Spelling shared the red carpet with BFF Jennie Garth at the 47th Annual Emmy Awards.
She looks lovely in a teal beaded tank-top bodice and long straight skirt.
Teri Hatcher in 1995
"Desperate Housewives" Teri Hatcher has been nominated for a Primetime Emmy as best lead actress at the 1995 Awards show. She didn’t take it home, but she won a SAG for the role three years running.
Here she is shimmering in an embossed silver column.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus in 1995
Comedian Julia Louis-Dreyfus of "Seinfeld" has picked up a total of 11 Emmy Awards for playing the unsurpassable Elaine, after being nominated a total of 26 times!
The 47th Awards show was not her night, but she won big donning this totally-90s black plunging corset-bodice gown held up by teeny-tiny spaghetti straps.
Jane Fonda in 1992
Jane Fonda strode the red carpet of the 44th Annual Emmy Awards in this slinky-sparkly black halter gown alongside hubby Ted Turner.
It took place on August 30 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
Cindy Crawford in 1992
At the Emmy Awards in 1992, Cindy Crawford presented rather than received a nomination, but she hit a fancy fashion high note in this get-up. With a touch of black-and-white ‘80s nostalgia, Crawford’s tuxedo-twist ensemble boasts of a satin bustier and a high slit.
A black beret tops the creation.
Cybill Shepherd in 1983
Cybil Shepherd attended the 35th Annual Emmy Awards show held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in 1983. Back then, television programs Cheers and Hill Street Blues were basking in acclaim.
Shepherd looked absolutely bewitching in a deep V-neck sequin and satin ball gown.
Florence Henderson in 1970
"The Brady Bunch" icon Florence Henderson epitomized the era in this lacey and flowery see-through dress at the 1970 Emmy Awards Show.
Isn’t it oh, so, Carol Brady?
Mary Tyler Moore in 1973
Mary Tyler Moore looked perfectly beautiful in a ruffled asymmetrical gown.
The off-the-shoulder masterpiece made her shine at the 22nd Emmy Awards show in 1973.
Sophie Turner in 2019
Clean and sleek, this champagne-colored Louis Vuitton dress fits "Game of Thrones" actress Sophie Turner to a tee.
The open front and sweetheart neckline are a refreshing nod to 40s glamour. Turner tops off the look with a bold necklace.
Tracee Ellis Ross in 2018
Tracy Ellis Ross goes bold with a standout, bright pink Valentino gown. The chosen fabric has a rigidity allowing for the striking off-the-shoulder sleeve and flare style bottom.
Ellis Ross often pushes the fashion boundaries and certainly doesn’t disappoint in this gown.
Jessica Biel in 2018
Following her chilling performance in "The Sinner," Jessica Biel absolutely stuns at the 2018 Emmys.
Biel, nominated for best actress in a limited series or movie, goes strapless with a modern A-line gown and half-moon applique. She completes the look with a light beach wave hairdo and a pink lip.
Millie Bobbie Brown in 2018
Wearing a classy Calvin Klein dress, "Stranger Things" star Millie Bobby Brown does cutesy just right.
With a pale pink off-the-shoulder fit and flare, Brown manages to perfectly dress her age, accenting the look with the light red lip.
Tessa Thompson in 2017
"Westworld" actress Tessa Thomspon sports a rainbow metallic frock with a pleated skirt and high neckline.
Because of its loud style, the Rosie Assoulin gown begs for a clean hairdo to go along with it and little to no accessories.
Sarah Paulson in 2017
Sarah Paulson went with a metallic silver gown by Carolina Herrera.
The ankle-length gown exudes a modern, almost futuristic style with side cutouts and shiny fabric combined with the retro puff sleeve most popular in the 80s.
Uzo Aduba in 2017
"Orange Is the New Black" star Uzo Aduba slays the red carpet in a white, sequined Sally Lapointe gown.
Aduba chose a thin spaghetti strap and clean-lined dress with no accessories, emphasizing the sheen of the gown.
Kerry Washington in 2016
Looking absolutely radiant in a Brandon Maxwell gown, Kerry Washington confidently shows off her baby bump with natural elegance.
The glowing mother-to-be was nominated for outstanding lead actress in a limited series or movie for her role in "Confirmation."
Lady Gaga in 2015
Dropping her wild runway looks, Lady Gaga chose to go with a clean black of the shoulder from Brandon Maxwell.
The gown though simple does stand out with an asymmetrical waistline.
Lucy Liu in 2012
Ever radiant Lucy Liu is absolutely eye-catching in an almost armor-inspired gown from Atelier Versace.
Liu dons a tight strapless look with small metallic platelets and a geometric bustline for a look reminiscent of a knight in shining armor.
Christina Hendricks in 2011
In gold and ornamented Johanna Johnson Couture, Christina Hendricks brings a classic Hollywood look to the red carpet.
The "Mad Men" actress and famous ginger exudes old Hollywood with a red lip and show hairdo. The gown surprises with a front slit rather than a side slit.
Sandra Oh in 2007
In a tight-on-top and beautifully draped on the bottom Bottega Veneta, Sandra Oh goes simple, choosing not to add any accent jewelry to accent the sleek and clean simplicity of the gown.
Oh was nominated for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series for "Grey’s Anatomy."
Oprah in 2002
The queen herself, Oprah Winfrey, looks stunning in a cream-colored fit and flair by Bradley Bayou, with tulle sleeve and bust accents.
The famed talk show host and entrepreneur flaunts her new bust as the winner of the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award.
Kendall Jenner in 2019
When it comes to striking a pose for the camera, Kendall Jenner is no amateur. The supermodel goes vibrant with a bold floral print and mermaid cut gown on a black background.
The shiny black sleeve design adds an unexpected edge to the look.
Gwyneth Paltrow in 2019
Veteran red-carpeter Gwyneth Paltrow dons a Valentino Haute Couture gown in classic black and white.
The neutral tones color block gown is simple yet glamorous up to the sleeve, which surprises with a raven black feather ornament.
Gwendoline Christie in 2019
Nominated that same year for outstanding supporting actress in a drama series for her role as Ser Brienne in "Game of Thrones," Gwendoline Christie turns heads in a unique Gucci frock.
The "Game of Thrones" actress seems to have been paying tribute to her character from the series with a middle ages style getup.
Penélope Cruz in 2018
Penélope Cruz makes a statement in this feather and tulle strapless from Chanel Haute Couture. She tops off the looks with an elegant necklace by Atelier Swarovski.
This Spanish actress was nominated twice in 2018 for leading actress in "Pablo" and supporting actress in a limited series or movie for "The Assassination of Gianni Versace."
Claire Danes in 2012
Dressed almost like an Emmy herself, Claire Danes looks ravishing in this simple yet elegant, golden Lanvin gown.
Danes won lead actress in a drama series for her role in "Homeland."
Heidi Klum in 2007
There’s no doubt Heidi Klum is always striking in whatever she wears but her 2007 red Emmys gown absolutely stuns.
The Dior Couture by John Galliano dress gives a modern twist to a classic Hollywood Style, which Klum completes with a 40s-esque hairdo and red lip.