Inde Navarrette's appearance at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala has sparked a fierce debate over her red carpet look. Although the Obsession star turned heads in a dramatic Schiaparelli creation, the reaction online was far from flattering.
While the event celebrated Hollywood's biggest names, Navarrette's outfit became a talking point for a different reason. Several commenters insisted that the actress deserved better styling, with some questioning why such a striking star had been dressed in an ensemble they found unappealing.
The Dramatic Schiaparelli Couture Gown
Inde Navarrette wore a polka-dot Schiaparelli couture dress from the French fashion house's Fall/Winter 2026 Couture collection to the Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday, 17 October. The strapless, midi-length design featured a fitted bodice with a sweetheart neckline, a defined drop waist and an exaggerated, tiered bubble skirt that gave the outfit an unusual sculptural shape.
The dress came in a neutral-toned fabric covered with prominent black polka dots, creating a bold contrast across its rounded silhouette. Navarrette completed the look with pointed-toe shoes, a diamond necklace and statement drop earrings, adding sparkle to an outfit that leaned more towards experimental couture than conventional red-carpet glamour.
Designed under creative director Daniel Roseberry, the look reflected Schiaparelli's taste for exaggerated proportions and unconventional shapes. However, the dramatic skirt and distinctive construction proved divisive among fans.
Inde Navarrette at the 6th Annual Academy Museum Gala. pic.twitter.com/ySZ0j2yALr
— 21 (@21metgala) October 18, 2026
Social Media Roasts Her Outfit
Social media users did not hold back when discussing Navarrette's outfit, with some directing their frustration towards her styling team. One commenter wrote: 'Give her a different designer,' suggesting that the actress needed a different approach to red carpet dressing.
Others were far more cutting about the gown's appearance, with one critic comparing its texture to a 'body covered in giant blackheads'. Another questioned whether the stylist understood the importance of tailoring, complaining that this was another look that did not fit the actress properly.
Despite the harsh comments, several users made it clear that they had no problem with Navarrette herself. 'She's absolutely stunning, but what the f*ck is that dress,' one commenter wrote.
Gurl, fire your stylist. They hate you
— zerogravity (@nogravity69) October 18, 2026
She’s beautiful but who is dressing her like this and why does she approve it?
— Hereforit444 (@Hereforit4444) October 18, 2026
How Inde Navarrette Made Her Mark
Navarrette is no stranger to television audiences, having played Sarah Cushing in Superman & Lois from 2021 to 2024. Her role in the superhero drama helped establish her as a familiar face among fans of the DC series.
She has also expanded her screen career with roles in film, including the psychological horror movie Obsession, in which she plays Nikki. As her profile grows, appearances at major industry events give the actress more opportunities to make an impression beyond her performances.
Her Academy Museum Gala look may not have received the reaction she hoped for, but the discussion has certainly drawn attention to her red carpet presence. With fans already debating her styling choices, future appearances could bring fresh interest in what she wears next.
Inside Hollywood's Star-Studded Gala
The Academy Museum Gala is an annual fundraising event held in Los Angeles to support the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The museum uses the funds to support exhibitions, screenings, educational programmes and initiatives celebrating the art and history of cinema.
The 2026 event took place on 17 October, bringing together actors, musicians, filmmakers and fashion figures for an evening celebrating achievements in entertainment. Its high-profile guest list and red carpet arrivals have made it an important date on Hollywood's social calendar.
Among the evening's fashion highlights were Taylor Swift in a custom Dior gown, Teyana Taylor in sculptural Schiaparelli couture and Kendall Jenner in a polka-dot Valentino dress. Jessica Biel opted for a dramatic black velvet gown by Tamara Ralph, while Kim Kardashian channelled vintage glamour in a 1951 Balenciaga design.
The gala also recognises influential figures through awards celebrating their contributions to film and culture. For attendees such as Navarrette, it offers an opportunity to connect with the industry while making a statement through fashion.
