The Chicest Dresses at the Emmys Were Actually the Sparkliest

Updated on Sep 19, 2016 at 10:35 AM

When we picture a "sparkly" dress, we think sequins, perhaps in a girlie colorway like rainbow or pink. Not so fast. The brightest gowns to hit the red carpet at the Emmys came from high-end fashion houses like Prada and Schiaparelli. These looks were fierce, featuring unexpected strips of material, structured sleeves, and plunging necklines. And the stars who wore them only played up the shine — just look at Sarah Paulson's custom drop Wilfredo Rosado earrings for proof. Read on to see why upgrading to a sparkly number was the right move at the evening's ceremony.

Claire Danes

Wearing a Schiaparelli dress, Christian Louboutin shoes, and Forevermark jewels.

Kirsten Dunst

Wearing a custom Givenchy Haute Couture beaded black column gown with a deep v-neck, Roger Vivier shoes, and Fred Leighton jewels.

Padma Lakshmi

Wearing a glittering Naeem Khan dress, Stuart Weitzman shoes, and Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

Robin Wright

Wearing a custom Reem Acra dress with a thigh-high slit, Chopard jewels, a Tyler Ellis clutch, and Stuart Weitzman shoes.

Sarah Paulson

Wearing a Prada dress, custom Wilfredo Rosado earrings, and Brian Atwood shoes.

America Ferrera

Wearing a shimmering black Jenny Packham gown with Neil Lane jewels, Kurt Geiger shoes, and a Jimmy Choo clutch.