With the 2026 Golden Globes upon us, it’s wise to remember that the red carpet delivers a fantastic source of inspiration when it comes to occasionwear dressing. Even if you aren’t heading to an awards ceremony, there are always takeaways we can gather from our favourite celebrities, and as I await the imagery of this year’s event, I’m struck by what a brilliant dress alternative Kate Winslet’s tailored look is, from last year’s event.
Tailoring is set to remain high fashion currency in 2026, even making its mark as one of the biggest spring/summer fashion trends on the runway for the upcoming season, proving that while dress silhouettes come and go, tailoring is always a strong investment. A sophisticated take on occasionwear, Kate Winslet bucked the red carpet trend at last year’s awards by stepping out in a white suit with black floral detail. The Erdem two-piece offered elegance and femininity, but still allowed Kate to embrace a more tailored, androgynous silhouette.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Shop the Look
Karen Millen
Premium Summer Embellished Applique Tailored Jacket
This statement blazer has a very similar look and feel to Kate’s tailored piece and will guarantee to get you noticed for all the right reasons this spring.
Karen Millen
Premium Viscose Linen Woven Straight Leg Trouser
These wide-leg trousers will make a chic base for your statement blazer, and the loose, floaty shape will flatter curvy hips beautifully.
Veronica Beard
Lisbeth Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
You really can’t go wrong with a fuss-free black heel and this pair will make an equally timeless footnote to a printed dress or sharp suit.
Shop More Statement Blazers
Phase Eight
Sophin Ivory Corsage Jacket
The detachable corsage on this jacket adds a high-fashion spin without feeling too much. Wear the tie-waist design with simple black trousers or your best skinny jeans.
La Fuori
Summer Bloom Embellished Jacket
This springtime-inspired, embroidered, floral number will look particularly special over a powder pink or butter yellow-hued dress. It’s a little lighter and brighter than Kate’s monochrome iteration.
TWINSET
Embroidered blazer
Intricate detailing across the front of this jacket will elevate any outfit. Wear it with a similarly-toned skirt or trousers and add chunky gold jewellery.
If you don’t already own a blazer, it’s most definitely worth adding one to your winter capsule wardrobe, as a tailored jacket can work wonders to pull together an outfit or smarten up simpler basics. Whether you opt for tailored trousers and a blazer, or one of the best tuxedos for women, with intricate collar detailing, there is no denying that tailoring as a dress alternative has become hugely popular for women’s occasionwear.
The ideal choice if you prefer jeans and a blazer over a dress for everyday, finding an elevated two-piece that can take you to an event, instead of a little black dress, is a game-changer for many women who find dress-wearing daunting.
Whether you opt for a statement piece like Kate’s or for something a little simpler, a sharp shape and a nipped-in waist will bring a polished feel to a low-key t-shirt and jeans ensemble or up the glam-factor to tailored trousers for an event.
