GQ Men of the Year 2026 celebrated its biggest night in menswear with a star-studded party on the red carpet at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood. The event, which serves as a prelude to the main awards ceremony, brought together the industry's most influential figures for a showcase of high-end fashion and celebrity style. [1]

The evening was hosted by GQ Global Editorial Director Adam Baidawi, alongside the cover stars of the magazine's upcoming Men of the Year issue. The cover lineup featured Chris Rock as Auteur of the Year, Andrew Garfield as Performer of the Year, and Matt Damon as Leading Man of the Year. Benito Skinner, creator and comedian behind the series *Overcompensating*, served as the emcee for the red carpet arrivals. [1]

Guests were asked to adhere to a 'modern red carpet' dress code, a directive that allowed for a wide-ranging interpretation of contemporary elegance while maintaining a classic foundation. The result was a diverse array of tailored looks that pushed the boundaries of formal menswear conventions. [1]

The sartorial showcase included a variety of high-fashion labels, with attendees spotted in bespoke suits and designer ensembles. Brands represented on the carpet included Edward Sexton, known for his Savile Row tailoring, and Salvatore Ferragamo, offering a touch of Italian sophistication. The diversity of designers highlighted the eclectic nature of modern male fashion at this elite level. [1]

Avant-garde influences were also present, with some guests donning pieces from Mowalola, the London-based label known for its provocative and bold aesthetic. Others chose the stark, minimalist elegance of Jil Sander, while others embraced the rebellious spirit of Vivienne Westwood's tailoring. [1]

Luxury branding and partnerships were evident throughout the event, with several guests accessorizing with jewelry from Tiffany & Co. Valentino appeared prominently, both in clothing and as a jeweler, highlighting the brand's dual role in fashion and accessories. Saint Laurent and Dior offered their signature sleek aesthetics, while Celine provided a more subdued, intellectual chic. [1]

The red carpet also featured heavy hitters in contemporary menswear design, including Tom Ford, Burberry, and David Koma. The presence of such a wide spectrum of designers—from heritage British tailors to American luxury powerhouses—underscored the global nature of the fashion industry and the international appeal of the GQ Men of the Year celebration. [1]

The event's emphasis on jewelry, particularly Tiffany & Co., added another layer of luxury to the visual narrative. While the prepared draft focused heavily on timepieces, the broader sartorial context revealed that high-value accessories, including bracelets, rings, and cufflinks, were integral components of the 'modern red carpet' look. The combination of bespoke tailoring and branded jewelry created a cohesive image of contemporary masculine opulence. [1]

The choice of the Chateau Marmont as the venue reinforced the historic glamour associated with Hollywood parties. Located in West Hollywood, this iconic hotel has long been a backdrop for celebrity gatherings, providing a fitting stage for GQ's annual celebration of male influence. The venue's atmosphere complemented the 'modern red carpet' theme, allowing for a blend of casual glamour and structured elegance. [1]

Benito Skinner's role as the manning of the red carpet added a layer of comedic anticipation to the arrivals. As the creator of *Overcompensating*, a show known for its satirical take on fame and culture, his presence hinted at the humorous undercurrents that might accompany the serious business of awarding 'Year' titles. His engagement with the press and guests helped set a lively tone for the evening. [1]

The strategic placement of the party prior to the main event served to build momentum and media interest. By focusing on the 'fits' and the social dynamics among the attendees, GQ provided fans and followers with immediate access to the glamour and style elements of the night. This approach highlights the magazine's understanding of modern media consumption, where the journey to the awards is as important as the ceremony itself. [1]

The diversity of the guest list reflected GQ's broad definition of masculinity and influence. With hosts and cover stars spanning acting, comedy, and directing, the event celebrated a multifaceted view of the modern man. This inclusivity was mirrored in the fashion choices, which ranged from traditional tuxedos to experimental avant-garde pieces, suggesting that there is no single way to define 'style' in 2026. [1]

The 'modern red carpet' code allowed for personal expression within a framework of respectability. It challenged guests to innovate without crossing into inappropriate territory. This balance was struck by many attendees through the use of texture, cut, and color, rather than relying solely on brand logos or flashy accessories. The result was a sophisticated display of personal taste aligned with current trends. [1]

The integration of Tiffany & Co. jewelry across multiple looks indicated a strong partnership between the watch and jewelry makers. This collaboration extended beyond mere sponsorship, influencing the overall aesthetic of the event. The sparkle of diamonds and precious metals complemented the mechanical beauty of the watches, creating a holistic view of luxury that encompassed both time and adornment. [1]

As the night progressed, the Chateau Marmont transformed into a hub of fashion commentary and social networking. The red carpet acted as a stage for both established icons and rising stars, allowing them to make their mark in the public eye. The photographs taken during this segment became the primary media assets for the following days, dominating social media feeds and fashion blogs. [1]

As the story develops

Update

GQ Men of the Year 2026: Red Carpet Trends and Details

At GQ's 2026 Men of the Year celebration held at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, a distinct sartorial trend dominated the red carpet: exaggerated, oversized lapels. Andrew Garfield, performing alongside co-hosts Chris Rock and Matt Damon, showcased the trend in a bespoke suit by Savile Row tailor Edward Sexton, where 'beefy' lapels framed his chest and emphasized his status as a Hollywood powerhouse. [2]

The exaggerated lapel trend extended beyond the main hosts. Yura Borisov, co-star of Garfield in the series *Artificial*, wore a suit featuring similar large, wool lapels by Dior. Belmont Cameli, a breakout star from the series *Off Campus*, presented a bold take on the trend with a Vivienne Westwood suit characterized by 'bodacious' pinstripes and lapels that visibly projected outward. [2]

Owen Thiele, known for FX’s *Adults*, demonstrated how the trend could be styled in contemporary contexts. He wore a slick, hickory-brown Valentino double-breasted blazer with significant lapels, paired with a high-neck knotted top and straight-leg black trousers. This look underscored the influence of creative director Alessandro Michele, whose vision for the Italian brand since 2024 leans into '70s-inspired swank, further validating the larger-than-life lapel as a key component of high-end menswear. [2]

Update

Ayo Edebiri’s Bold Menswear Statement at GQ Men of the Year 2026

Ayo Edebiri arrived at the GQ Men of the Year 2026 celebration held at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, reinforcing her status as a leading force in Hollywood menswear. GQ had previously named her a rising star in the category in 2024, but her appearance at the 2026 event showcased a refined evolution of her style. She wore a sharp navy chalk-stripe ensemble paired with a vibrant emerald-turquoise dress shirt and a burgundy geometric tie. Her look was completed with her hair styled in a side part featuring a pronounced curl sweeping across her forehead—a styling choice that has become a distinctive hallmark for the event's most fashionable attendees. The prominent forehead curl worn by Edebiri and others at the party pays homage to the kiss curl, a playful hairstyle from the 1920s characterized by a deliberate lock of hair resting on the forehead amidst sculpted styles. The trend's modern resurgence was noted by Seth Rogen on Instagram, who clarified that the specific 2026 variation is technically known as a forelock. This grooming style also carries historical weight, having been popularized by the French-American entertainer Josephine Baker, whose iconic curls influenced a century of rogue forehead curls in both men's and women's fashion. The kiss curl experienced a significant cultural revival at the 2025 Met Gala, which carried the theme Superfine: Tailoring Black Style. The trend was prominently featured among a roster of high-profile attendees, including Simone Biles, Taraji P. Henson, Teyana Taylor, and Ayo Edebiri. Her participation in the GQ party following this major stylistic moment underscores the curl's integration into contemporary red carpet aesthetics, bridging historic elegance with modern celebrity culture. The enduring appeal of the forehead curl lies in its ability to project a calculated sense of ease. As general hairstyles have evolved to become longer, looser, and less rigidly structured, the inclusion of a deliberate curl offers an air of studied nonchalance. It suggests a look that is effortlessly just-got-out-of-bed in a way that remains sexily contrasted against a crisp, clean, and pristine overall appearance. This balance of relaxed styling and formal precision defines much of the modern approach to red carpet dressing seen at the GQ Men of the Year celebration. Ayo Edebiri's approach to red carpet attire reflects a broader philosophy of self-expression through fashion. As she previously told Vogue , one of the most enjoyable aspects of attending such events is the opportunity to transform and be these different permutations of yourself. At the GQ Men of the Year party, she clearly embraced this mandate, delivering a look that balanced historical reference, bold color choices, and modern tailoring, further cementing her reputation as a versatile and influential style icon in Hollywood. [4]

Update

GQ Men of the Year 2026: Red Carpet Fashion, Designers, and Hosts Revealed

At the GQ Men of the Year 2026 celebration held at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles, 43-year-old actor Andrew Garfield drew significant attention not only for his performance but for his hair. Garfield had grown his hair to a shoulder-length mane for his role as Roy Horn in the upcoming series *Wild Things*. Although production ultimately dressed him in a wig, Garfield chose to keep the length for the event. His hair was described as being in fine form, with the neck-grazing length styled in a way that kept stray strands neatly tucked behind his ears. The look was further accentuated by a forehead curl, a trend that has become prominent among the event's most fashionable attendees. Garfield attended the party wearing an Edward Sexton suit and accessorized with a Breguet watch. However, the focus of the media spotlight was largely on his hair. The specific styling feature that gained traction was the forehead curl, a detail that aligns with broader trends observed at the event, including those seen on other high-profile guests such as Ayo Edebiri. The origin of Garfield’s hair transformation can be traced back to earlier in the year. His longtime hairstylist, Lucy Halperin, revealed that the actress first glimpsed Garfield’s longer locks at Wimbledon in London during the summer. To achieve the voluminous, wavy look, Halperin utilized a combination of sea salt spray, styling cream, and a diffuser to enhance his natural curls and waves while controlling frizz. Beyond the styling products, Halperin attributed the success of the look partly to genetics. She noted that sometimes they simply wet down his hair, and it naturally worked with his texture. This effortless quality contributed to the overall impact of the hairstyle. Regardless of what future roles may require of him, the consensus was that the shoulder-length, curly hairstyle was a standout feature of the night. The reception suggested that Garfield was not eager to revert to his previous shorter cut, and the look remained a defining element of his appearance at the prestigious awards gathering. Garfield joined co-hosts Chris Rock and Matt Damon at the event, where he was recognized as the Performer of the Year. The evening served as a prelude to the main awards ceremony, celebrating influence in menswear and entertainment. The Chateau Marmont setting provided a historic and glamorous backdrop for these arrivals. [3]

Update

Verdant Vibes: The Green Trend Dominates GQ Men of the Year Red Carpet

Green dominated the red carpet at GQ’s 2026 Men of the Year celebration, challenging the traditional red hue with a bold, verdant trend. Stars arriving at the iconic Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood showcased a variety of emerald, lime, and chartreuse ensembles, marking a distinct shift in color theory for the evening's high-fashion showcase. [5]

The green trend kicked off with two of GQ's 2026 Breakout Stars: actor-comedian Stavros Halkias and director-star Jordan Firstman. Halkias wore a screaming lime green suit paired with a matching silk shirt and olive-hued Bottega Veneta loafers. Jordan Firstman, known for *Club Kid*, opted for a look from Anthony Vaccarello’s final menswear collection for Saint Laurent, featuring a boxy, greenish-khaki suit with bejeweled buttons over a liquid-silk chartreuse shirt. Experts note that wearing green on a red carpet ensures visibility, given the colors' position opposite each other on the color wheel. [5]

The chartreuse and green momentum continued with rapper Ice Spice, who donned a flowing green DSquared2 dress. She complemented the outfit with matching green eyeshadow and a curiously textured handbag. Her appearance highlighted the versatility of the trend, extending from tailored menswear-adjacent looks to high-fashion dresses. [5]

While green was prevalent, other notable styles emerged. Ayo Edebiri, already established as a menswear star, wore a sleek striped power suit by designer Connor Ives, popping with a kelly green shirt and a contrasting crimson tie. Other women on the carpet showcased their own interpretations of high fashion: model Cara Delevingne, starring in Firstman’s *Club Kid*, wore a slouchy-chic black Saint Laurent suit, while Luciana Damon, wife of cover star Matt Damon, layered a tuxedo-style bolero jacket over her gown. [5]

Fashion analysts suggest the prevalence of green on the GQ Men of the Year carpet signals a broader trend for the coming year, symbolizing abundance and confidence. As the event serves as a prelude to the main awards ceremony, the sartorial choices highlight GQ’s evolving definition of modern masculinity and style, blending bold color choices with classic tailoring. [5]

Update

Additional High-Profile Guests Attend GQ Men of the Year 2026

The guest list for the celebration included high-profile figures such as Travis Scott, Tinashe, Inde Navarette, Robby Hoffman, Future, and Angel Reese. [6]

The event marked the 31st edition of the Men of the Year party and was presented by Johnnie Walker Blue Label. [6]

Update

Top-Dressed Celebrities at GQ Men of the Year 2026

Former GQ fashion critic Rachel Tashjian praised Ayo Edebiri's appearance on Instagram, stating, 'She always looks cool, but this is the coolest she's ever looked.' [7]

Tinashe attended the event wearing sparkling attire from Mowalola and a hairstyle reminiscent of Donna Summer. [7]

Stavros Halkias enhanced a classic shawl lapel-jacket with a high-voltage shade of green, exemplifying the event's spirit of confident fashion risks. [7]

Writer-director duo Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo, known as Los Javis and the creators of the international film *La Bola Negra*, wore coordinating roses and a provocative version of the red-carpet suit. Their look featured leather mesh and exposed underwear from Haider Ackermann's Tom Ford, paired with naturally tousled curls. [7]

GQ's 2026 Designer of the Year, Michael Rider, wore his own Celine designs, featuring a sweater with a visible undershirt and a pair of khakis. [7]

Louisa Jacobson, starring in the return of HBO's *The Gilded Age*, wore a sultry leather moto jacket by McQueen. [7]

Tracee Ellis Ross wore an ensemble from Sarah Burton's Givenchy, which included a pom-pom heel and a fringed glove. [7]

NYC DJ duo Fcukers, consisting of GQ Breakouts Shanny Wise and Jackson Walker Lewis, both wore all-black designer clothing accented with leather patches and cut-outs. [7]

Update

James Bond Casting Rumors at GQ Men of the Year 2026 Pre-Party Dinner

During the traditional pre-party dinner for the 31st edition of the event, guests engaged in lighthearted discussions and toasts, which included off-the-cuff suggestions regarding the potential casting for the next James Bond. [8]

The pre-event gathering at the Chateau Marmont's lobby lounge saw key figures convening before the main festivities. Attendees included Designer of the Year Michael Rider of Celine and Director of the Year Denis Villeneuve. Cover stars Matt Damon and Chris Rock were also present, with Damon spotted chatting with Don Cheadle. Andrew Garfield arrived shortly before them, greeting director Luca Guadagnino and his After the Hunt co-star Ayo Edebiri. [8]

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  1. GQ GQ Men of the Year Party Red Carpet 2026: See All the Celebrity Outfits Here
  2. GQ Big, Fat Lapels Are All Over the GQ Men of the Year Party Carpet
  3. GQ Andrew Garfield’s Hair Is the Mane Attraction
  4. GQ Ayo Edebiri Got the Forehead Curl Memo
  5. GQ Seeing Green on the GQ Men of the Year Red Carpet
  6. GQ GQ’s 2026 Men of the Year Party Brought Everyone Out
  7. GQ The 12 Best-Dressed Stars at the GQ Men of the Year 2026 Party
  8. GQ GQ’s Men of the Year Dinner May Have Found the Next James Bond