Emma Watson Wears Caroline Zimbalist at LACMA Gala
Watson's gown, styled by Jared Ellner, layers a hand-poured biomaterial over red silk for the 2026 LACMA Art+Film Gala.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Fashion
Emma Watson wore a Caroline Zimbalist dress to the 2026 LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night. The fitted dark bodice and vibrant red skirt were styled by Jared Ellner.
Why it matters
The look showcases a designer whose work blends sculptural materials with wearable fashion, drawing attention to alternative textile methods on a high-profile red carpet. It also highlights the growing role of plant-derived materials in luxury design.
The gown's base is red silk with a hand-poured biomaterial layer that includes vegetable glycerin as a plant-derived plasticizer. The 15th annual gala debuted in 2011 with Gucci sponsorship, and the exact composition beyond these listed components was not disclosed.
The players
Emma Watson
Actress who wore the Zimbalist gown to the 2026 LACMA Art+Film Gala.
Caroline Zimbalist
Fashion designer and Parsons School of Design graduate who founded her eponymous label in 2023.
Jared Ellner
Stylist who styled Emma Watson for the gala appearance.
The details
The biomaterial was created by heating and mixing a biopolymer-based formulation, then poured directly onto the silk and bonded with natural fibers. The final design pairs a fitted dark bodice with a vibrant red skirt.
Timeline
2011: The LACMA Art+Film Gala debuted with Gucci sponsorship.
2023: Caroline Zimbalist founded her eponymous fashion label.
2024: Zimbalist's designs made their New York Fashion Week debut.
2025: Zimbalist was included in the Forbes 30 Under 30.
Saturday night, 2026: Emma Watson attended the LACMA Art+Film Gala.
Season Trajectory
The 15th annual LACMA Art+Film Gala, which began with Gucci sponsorship in 2011, continues to serve as a venue where emerging designers reach a major red-carpet audience. Zimbalist's appearance follows her 2024 New York Fashion Week debut and 2025 Forbes 30 Under 30 recognition.
Readers interested in the look can track Zimbalist's label as it expands after its NYFW debut and Forbes recognition. The biomaterial approach suggests a route for consumers seeking plant-derived alternatives in statement pieces.
The takeaway
Watson's red-carpet choice shows how emerging designers and plant-based materials are gaining visibility at major cultural events. Readers following fashion trends can watch how such experimental construction methods move from gala looks into wider collections.
Further reading
Explore more in Fashion coverage from across the United States.
