‘Animals’ Star Kerry Washington Dazzles in Silver Gown at Academy Museum Gala

Avatar photoRobert Milaković
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While many stars may view a gala as just another red carpet event, Kerry Washington transforms the Academy Museum Gala into a fashion showcase. Each year, her appearances at this event have captivated audiences with their elegance and meticulous detail. This year, Washington continued her trend of stunning looks with a metallic gown that featured unexpected elements.

The gala has also been significant in her fashion journey off the carpet. It was at an Academy Museum Gala where she first connected with designer Jonathan Simkhai, which led to her iconic Met Gala look. Her history with this fundraiser runs deep.

The sixth annual gala took place on October 17 in Los Angeles, honoring Charlize Theron, Colman Domingo, and John Carpenter, with a performance by Taylor Swift. Washington arrived in a shimmering silver gown adorned with embellishments from neckline to hem, featuring a halter neckline completed with a delicate bow and a matching bow cinching her waist.

Beneath the waist bow, a structured peplum adds shape to the gown, flowing into a fitted, floor-length skirt. The intricate embroidery features dense sequins that catch the light in swirling patterns, while the bows at the neckline and waist lend a playful, gift-wrapped feel to the overall look.

Washington opted for minimal accessories, carrying a sparkling silver clutch and wearing drop earrings. Her sleek, polished hair allowed the gown to take center stage. In the carpet photos, she poses against soft, draped curtains, exuding a relaxed smile, with the cool metallic palette appearing crisp and modern.

Comparing her previous gala looks is quite enjoyable. In 2024, she wore a striking black-and-white high-low gown featuring oversized florals from Carolina Herrera’s spring 2025 collection, paired with Aquazzura ankle-strap pumps. Last year, she opted for a black silk column gown with a fully beaded bodice from Armani’s spring 2013 collection.

The consistent theme of black, white, and now silver highlights her evolving style. Each year, she chooses a different texture while maintaining an elegant silhouette, which contributes to her reputation for polished red carpet appearances.

Washington’s 2026 has been filled with standout moments. At her BAFTAs debut in February, she wore a custom midnight-blue Prada gown embellished with sequin and bead floral appliqué and a pleated, trailing skirt. For the Apple TV+ premiere of ‘Imperfect Women,’ she donned a lace Zuhair Murad set that resembled a gown but revealed itself as a separate top and pants.

In September, she showcased a Wiederhoeft sequin corset at the opening night gala for the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, and in July, she wore a gilded strapless Oscar de la Renta dress featuring scalloped fringe embroidery at the opening night of ‘The Whoopi Monologues.’ Her range, from sheer lace to corsetry to metallics, demonstrates her comfort with experimentation.

Behind these stunning looks is considerable effort. Washington led ‘Scandal’ for seven seasons, becoming the first African American woman to star in a network drama since 1974. She also appeared in ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ and currently stars in Hulu’s ‘Unprisoned’ alongside Delroy Lindo, which she also produces.

This year, she stars in the Apple TV+ psychological thriller series ‘Imperfect Women’ alongside Elisabeth Moss and Kate Mara. Additionally, she returns to the stage in a 2026 production of ‘The Whoopi Monologues,’ collaborating with Kara Young, Dominique Fishback, Danielle Pinnock, and Kecia Lewis.

Washington was not the only star gracing the carpet. The guest list included Taylor Swift, Kate Hudson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Rami Malek, Adrien Brody, and Chase Infiniti, along with Maya Hawke, Amandla Stenberg, Alexa Demie, and Emmy Rossum.

The 2026 gala was described as relatively low-key compared to last year’s more daring fashion statements, making Washington’s silver gown, adorned with sequins and bows, stand out for its understated confidence. It sparkles without being overly flashy.

The allure of her look lies in how it harmonizes multiple ideas without feeling cluttered. The halter and waist bow complement each other, the peplum adds structure, and the long skirt maintains elegant proportions.

Furthermore, the color story aligns beautifully with the event’s theme. Silver, on a night dedicated to celebrating cinema, evokes a nod to the silver screen, and Washington wears it with an effortless grace.

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