Fashion class is in session and we know exactly who’s paying attention.
For as long as we can remember now, the red carpets at some of the most credible events have been dominated by the bigger names in the industry, with little spotlight left to shine down on those who showed up earlier on the carpet.
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It’s hard to measure up to the Beyonces, Rihannas and Justin Timberlakes of the red trail, but the cliche winds of change are blowing in, and the crop of names we’re checking for on the red carpet seems to be following suit.
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Whether they are newcomers to the game, seasoned vets who got their look upgraded, or acts applauded for their ability to not give a damn, check out our picks for the new school of the red carpet below.
Frank Ocean
It all started with that Dior suit at the Grammy’s. Then Frank shut down Paris during Fashion Week with effortless looks worthy of the front row, and put the icing on the damn cake when he showed up to the TIME 100 Most Influential People Gala decked to the gawds in a Lanvin suit and bow-tie. Welcome to the big leagues, Mr. Ocean.
Zendaya Coleman
We get it, we totally should be this obsessed with someone who is not even old enough to get into a rated R movie, but this Disney starlet has managed to maintain her age appropriate innocence while steering clear of getting too cutesy with her red carpet looks. And that is a fine line to walk.
Lena Dunham
Here is what we love about Lena: She doesn’t give a f*ck about being perfect. When things get too serious or too calculated on the red carpet, we can always count on her to show up in the unconventional look, or without pants on, and get people talking. Cheers to keeping it interesting, Lena.
Kerry Washington
Our girl Kerry is far from new on the red carpet scene, but gosh darnit, did she switch things up lately! Ever since Kerry hit those press rounds for Django Unchained we have oohed over every single one of her red carpet looks. Never boring, the seasoned actress knows how to get into multiple characters on the screen and multiple fashion personalities on the red carpet.
Naya Rivera
We will admit, the Glee star has been getting some new shine for her romantic inkling with rapper Big Sean, but long before he was her Boiii, she was stunning on red carpets. Her secret weapon: using her olive undertone as a right of passage for rocking whatever color dress she wants. It works every time.
Miguel & Nazanin
We love Miguel, but we will admit that we’re glad he left the full-face sunglasses in his past. The artist has not only cleaned up and tailor fitted his wardrobe to perfection, but his arm candy girlfriend Nazanin Mandi is the perfect compliment to his cleaner look.
