Stars Shine and Stumble in Surprising Looks at 2026 ACM Awards

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The 2026 Academy of Country Music Awards lit up the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday evening, drawing a star-studded crowd eager to celebrate country music’s finest. Alongside memorable performances and award presentations, the red carpet became a showcase of diverse fashion statements-some hitting the mark, others missing by a mile.

Lainey Wilson surprised fans by stepping away from her trademark bell-bottoms and cowgirl hat, opting instead for an elegant orange strapless gown by Marmar Halim. The pleated dress, with its fitted bodice and flowing skirt, was beautifully complemented by delicate dangling earrings, marking a refined evolution in her style.

Shania Twain made a striking entrance in a silver and black sequined strapless gown designed by Falguni Shane Peacock. The dress featured a bold panther motif and flowing satin accents, but the addition of above-the-elbow leather gloves clashed with the gown’s otherwise sophisticated vibe.

Kacey Musgraves embraced old-Hollywood glamour in a black Tanner Fletcher gown adorned with white ruffled lace at the neckline and swirling lace details down the bodice. Paired with black pumps, diamond and pearl accessories, and a vintage-inspired hairstyle, her look stood out as one of the night’s most polished.

In contrast, Kelsea Ballerini’s metallic tan Roberto Cavalli dress, while pretty, lacked distinction. The sleeveless gown, covered in gold appliques, might have benefited from a shorter skirt or a more fitted silhouette, along with an updo to elevate the overall effect.

On the men’s side, Tucker Wetmore delivered a sharp and stylish statement in a powder-blue suit with black detailing. Tailored to perfection and accessorized with a silver cross necklace, black sunglasses, and a large cowboy hat, Wetmore proved that monochrome can be both bold and elegant.

Keith Urban’s outfit, however, felt too casual for the occasion. Wearing sneakers, baggy cargo pants, a blue T-shirt, and a gray blazer, his look was mismatched and underwhelming. A swap to black trousers and boots might have better suited the formal setting.

Rising star Ella Langley kept it simple yet chic in a white strapless gown by Andrew Kwon. The satin corset bodice paired with a flowing chiffon skirt was enhanced by vibrant Yellow Rose jewelry from Kendra Scott, allowing her accessories to take center stage.

Tyler Hubbard’s John Varvatos ensemble had potential with its tan blazer, white T-shirt, suede boots, and layered gold necklaces. Unfortunately, the light-wash jeans, designed to look worn and dirty, detracted from the red carpet polish. Dark trousers would have offered a more cohesive look.

Finally, Shaboozey embraced his distinctive style with a memorable and daring outfit. Metallic pants, scuffed boots, a white button-up, and a leather duster jacket formed the foundation, while a statement belt, diamond jewelry, sunglasses, and a large cowboy hat completed the standout ensemble.

The 2026 ACM Awards not only celebrated country music’s best talents but also highlighted the wide spectrum of fashion choices, from timeless elegance to bold individuality, on one of the biggest nights in the genre.


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