At the Actor Awards 2026, formerly known as the SAG Awards, star Jenna Ortega showcased a striking interpretation of the evening’s theme, “Reimagining Hollywood Glamour From the ’20s and ’30s.” The event, curated by ELLE, featured numerous attendees embracing traditional Old Hollywood aesthetics. In contrast, Ortega opted for a bold, contemporary look that resonated with her youthful and edgy persona.
Stepping onto the red carpet, Ortega chose a lacy cream-colored slip dress by Christian Cowan. This garment skillfully combined elements of 1930s boudoir elegance with a modern twist, creating a fragile yet romantic appearance. While many guests donned predictable beaded flapper gowns or structured satin dresses, Ortega’s choice felt refreshingly subversive. The dress’s delicate lace detailing and plunging neckline channeled the intimate allure of pre-war Hollywood, yet the intentionally distressed hem added a layer of texture and tension, distinguishing it from conventional evening wear.
The cream tone of the gown stood out against the usual parade of black attire typically seen at major award shows. It subtly evoked the soft ivory palettes popular in the early 1930s, an era that witnessed the rise of the bias-cut slip dress as a revolutionary shift in women’s eveningwear. Ortega’s styling choices further enhanced the overall effect. She paired the dress with sheer stockings, grounding her look in authenticity while adding a touch of edge.
On her feet, she opted for Jimmy Choo platform heels, which skillfully combined vintage inspiration with a modern flair. This choice deviated from the typical T-strap or satin pump, infusing the ensemble with contemporary height and attitude. Ortega completed her look with layered jewelry, including a delicate choker and a long pendant necklace that echoed Art Deco influences without overwhelming the dress.
Ortega’s beauty choices echoed the evening’s theme while maintaining her signature style. Her dark, softly waved hair framed her face, referencing 1930s screen icons without adhering to rigid finger waves. Her makeup featured smoky eyes and a muted brown lip, creating a striking contrast against the romantic cream dress. The overall effect was a fusion of Old Hollywood allure and a modern gothic aesthetic, encapsulating Ortega’s evolving red carpet identity.
Significant Recognition for Ortega
The Actor Awards also marked a significant milestone for Ortega, as she was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her role in the acclaimed series “Wednesday.” This Netflix production has elevated her career, blending dark comedy with impressive physical performance. The nomination highlights Ortega’s rapid ascent in the entertainment industry and reflects how streaming platforms are reshaping award categories.
This appearance was particularly noteworthy for Ortega as it was her first awards show outing since the Golden Globes in January 2026. At that event, she opted for a bold black cut-out dress by Dilara Findikoglu, embracing a dramatic and sculptural silhouette. The contrast between her two recent looks illustrates her versatility and willingness to explore diverse fashion narratives.
While the Golden Globes ensemble was striking and architectural, her choice for the Actor Awards was fluid, intimate, and steeped in nostalgia. Both outfits, however, share a common thread: Ortega’s refusal to play it safe in her fashion choices.
As the evening unfolded, Jenna Ortega’s distinctive style and her impressive nomination underscored her status as a rising star in Hollywood, blending the past with a fresh, contemporary vision. Her ability to reinterpret classic glamour while maintaining a modern edge positions her as a significant figure in the evolving landscape of entertainment fashion.
