Hollywood’s most anticipated awards season officially roared to life with Vanity Fair Young Hollywood’s exclusive “Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood” event. Held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the iconic Bar Marmont in West Hollywood, this glamorous soirée set the stage for the 98th Academy Awards. More than just a party, the event served as a vibrant platform. It celebrated the industry’s brightest rising stars and offered a tantalizing glimpse into the future of film and fashion. This gathering underscored a prevailing theme: a new era defined by ambition, authenticity, and a powerful sense of community.
The Vanities Unveiled: A New Era for Hollywood’s Elite
The “Vanities” party is a testament to Vanity Fair’s influence. It spotlights the next generation shaping the entertainment landscape. The atmosphere vibrated with excitement. Young talent converged, eager to acknowledge each other’s achievements. This annual event has become a crucial kick-off to the bustling Oscars 2026 week. It fosters connections and generates buzz.
Charting the Course: Co-Hosts and the Vision
Leading the night’s festivities was a dynamic quartet of co-hosts. Each embodies the versatility essential for success in modern Hollywood. Actress Odessa A’zion, known for Marty Supreme and HBO’s I Love LA, expressed the collective sentiment. She noted the universal exhaustion but also the immense joy in celebrating peers. Model-turned-actress Kaia Gerber, praised for her role in Palm Royale, highlighted a significant industry shift. She observed the blending of diverse art forms, moving beyond traditional categories.
Singer-songwriter Role Model, soon to debut in Lena Dunham’s Good Sex, shared insights into his acting journey. Tyriq Withers, following his breakout in Him and upcoming Reminders of Him, spoke passionately about his generation. He emphasized their collective drive. They aim to “break generational curses” and challenge industry norms. These hosts epitomized a shared commitment. They encourage authenticity and genuine self-expression.
The Exclusive Guest List: Who Graced the Bar Marmont
Bar Marmont brimmed with an impressive roster of up-and-coming talent. These were the faces poised to define Hollywood’s future. Among the attendees were rising sensation Chase Infiniti and actors Dallas Liu and Jake Shane. Also present were Storm Reid, Paris Jackson, and Rowan Blanchard. Olympic diver Tom Daley added to the diverse mix.
The guest list also included celebrated actors like Jack Reynor and Auli’i Cravalho. Filipina actress Liza Soberano, Lana Condor, and Tonatiuh made appearances. Xochitl Gomez, Momona Tamada, and various cast members from popular series joined in. Stars from Tell Me Lies such as Branden Cook and Alicia Crowder reunited. The cast of XO, Kitty – Anna Cathcart, Gia Kim, and Sang Heon Lee – celebrated their season 3 trailer release. This gathering showcased a diverse and talented assembly. Each individual contributes to the industry’s evolving narrative.
Fashion Forward: Decoding “Hollywood-Chic” at Vanities
The official dress code for the Vanity Fair Young Hollywood event was “Hollywood-chic.” This theme offered ample room for personal interpretation. It yielded a captivating array of styles. From sophisticated black ensembles to vibrant splashes of color, attendees showcased their unique fashion sensibilities. The event solidified its status as a key indicator of emerging red carpet trends.
Kaia Gerber’s Reign: Best Dressed of the Night
Kaia Gerber ultimately claimed the title of best-dressed. She donned a stunning Givenchy creation by Sarah Burton. This elegant little black dress had debuted at Paris Fashion Week just days prior. Her choice perfectly encapsulated the immediate translation of high fashion to major awards season events. It set a high bar for the evening’s style. Following this elegant trend, “The Pitt” star Supriya Ganesh also opted for a sparkly Patou little black dress.
Beyond Black: Emerging Trends and Daring Choices
While black proved a dominant force, several stars introduced compelling pops of color. Chase Infiniti brightened the carpet in a lavender Carolina Herrera ensemble. It featured a playful lettuce hem and a chic peplum detail. Rowan Blanchard chose a charming pink Collina Strada frock. Lux Pascal presented a unique blend. Her sheer, shimmering Bode dress was adorned with black, red, and purple sequins. This showcased a creative fusion of trends.
Co-host Odessa A’zion was also implicitly recognized for her style. She defined her Hollywood-chic vision as a leather jacket paired with a shimmering jumpsuit. This diverse interpretation highlighted the event’s dynamic fashion landscape.
Gentlemen’s Style: Elevating the Red Carpet
The men of Young Hollywood also made strong fashion statements. Tyriq Withers was distinguished as the “best dressed guy” of the night. He showcased a sleek suit from Pharrell Williams’ collection for Louis Vuitton. His sophisticated choice resonated with attendees. Other notable contenders included Cameron Monaghan, dressed in Saint Laurent. Terrence O’Connor impressed with a distinctly ’90s gray double-breasted jacket and black trousers. Their sartorial selections added an extra layer of elegance to the high-profile gathering.
Oscars Buzz and Predictions: The Industry’s Pulse
Beyond the glamour, the Vanities Party buzzed with fervent discussions about the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. The Oscars 2026 became a central topic. Celebrities openly shared their predictions and hopes for the prestigious ceremony. This insider perspective offered valuable insights into the industry’s collective mood.
“Sinners” Dominates Pre-Award Conversations
The film “Sinners” garnered significant attention. It secured a record 16 nominations, fueling widespread speculation. Many attendees expressed strong support for the film. Actor Jack Reynor advocated for Michael B. Jordan to win Best Actor for his powerful role in “Sinners.” Actress Auli’i Cravalho enthusiastically backed Wunmi Mosaku for Best Supporting Actress. She lauded Mosaku’s “devastating and stunning” performance in the same film.
Diverse Voices: Celebrating Filmmaking Talent
The conversation extended to celebrating diverse talent behind the camera. Filipina actress Liza Soberano expressed immense pride. She highlighted the nomination of “Sinners” cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw. Soberano acknowledged Arkapaw’s Filipino and Creole heritage. This sentiment underscored a growing appreciation. The industry recognizes varied contributions to filmmaking. The 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, promised an evening of celebration. It was scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, broadcasting live on ABC and streaming on Hulu.
A Week of Glamour: Beyond the Vanities Party
The “Vanities” party was just the opening act. It kicked off an exhilarating week of Oscars 2026 events. These gatherings spanned various facets of the film industry. Each highlighted different contributions to the cinematic world.
Championing Black Women in Hollywood: The Essence Awards
The 19th annual Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards was held on Thursday. It paid tribute to outstanding Black women in film. Honorees included Chase Infiniti, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, and Kerry Washington. The women behind the film Sinners also received recognition. Zendaya, Michael B. Jordan, and Wunmi Mosaku were among the high-profile attendees. Chase Infiniti received a rising star acknowledgment. She expressed profound gratitude for the mentorship from Regina Hall and Teyana Taylor.
Empowering Female Nominees: DVF’s Luncheon
Fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg continued her 13-year tradition. She hosted an Oscars Luncheon at her Beverly Hills home. This event specifically celebrated this year’s female Oscar nominees. Von Furstenberg initiated the tradition to address the historical lack of recognition for women in film. Co-hosted by Demi Moore, Jane Fonda, and Tracee Ellis Ross, the luncheon drew stars like Gwyneth Paltrow. Guests signed a board listing female nominees. Von Furstenberg emphasized the importance of networking and urged attendees to “be a badass, and kind.”
The Unsung Heroes: Art of Glam and Stylist Celebrations
Other events shined a light on the crucial “Hands Behind the Beauty.” The inaugural Art of Glam Dinner, hosted by Camille Rose, honored hairstylists, makeup artists, and costume designers. Honorees included Ruth E. Carter and Camille Friend. Presenters like Da’Vine Joy Randolph celebrated their essential work. UTA and Who What Wear hosted “Carbs Before the Carpet.” This intimate dinner celebrated celebrity stylists and fashion executives. Lashify also hosted a dinner to honor the makeup artist community. These events acknowledged the hidden architects of red carpet magic.
Diverse Recognitions: South Asian & Inclusive Gatherings
The awards season also embraced diverse communities. The fifth annual South Asians at the Oscars Pre-Oscar Party honored South Asian storytellers. It recognized Academy Award nominees and shortlisted filmmakers. Guests included Jay Shetty and Lilly Singh. H&M and Bevy Smith’s “Cocktails with Bevy” celebrated diverse talent in fashion and entertainment. These gatherings showcased an industry committed to broader representation.
The Future is Bright: Community Over Competition
The Vanity Fair Young Hollywood event clearly demonstrated a shift in industry dynamics. Rather than intense competition, a powerful sense of community and collaboration permeated the atmosphere. This sentiment resonated deeply among the rising stars. It signals a promising future for Hollywood.
A New Generation’s Ethos: Ambition and Authenticity
The young talents at the Vanities party showcased a collective ambition. They are driven by a desire to innovate and express themselves authentically. Tyriq Withers articulated this ethos, speaking about his generation’s commitment to “move the needle” and defy categorization. This focus on self-expression and breaking molds reflects a mature understanding of their roles. They are not just actors or artists; they are cultural shapers.
Blurring Lines: Models, Musicians, and Multitalented Stars
Kaia Gerber’s journey from modeling to acting perfectly exemplifies another key trend. The traditional boundaries between different art forms are dissolving. The event’s guest list, including musicians like The Kid LAROI and social media personalities like Jake Shane, further underscored this. Hollywood is embracing a more fluid, multi-talented approach. This blend of skills and platforms creates richer, more diverse narratives. It allows artists to explore varied creative avenues. The future of Hollywood, as evidenced by the Vanities party, is exceptionally promising. It is driven by a generation of multifaceted artists fostering a spirit of community and authentic self-expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vanity Fair’s “Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood” event?
Vanity Fair’s “Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood” is an exclusive annual party held at Bar Marmont in West Hollywood. It serves as the official kick-off to the Oscars 2026 week, celebrating the industry’s most promising rising stars. The event’s purpose is to spotlight emerging talent, foster community, and generate buzz for the upcoming awards season. It’s a high-profile gathering that blends glamour, networking, and a forward-looking perspective on Hollywood’s next generation.
Who were some of the key attendees and fashion highlights at the 2026 Vanities Party?
The 2026 Vanities Party was co-hosted by Odessa A’zion, Kaia Gerber, Tyriq Withers, and Role Model, and attracted a diverse array of rising stars. Notable attendees included Chase Infiniti, Storm Reid, Paris Jackson, and Xochitl Gomez. In terms of fashion, Kaia Gerber was crowned best-dressed in a Givenchy little black dress. Other highlights included Chase Infiniti’s lavender Carolina Herrera ensemble, Rowan Blanchard’s pink Collina Strada frock, and Tyriq Withers’ sleek Louis Vuitton suit, earning him “best dressed guy” honors. The overall dress code was “Hollywood-chic.”
How does the Vanities Party fit into the broader Oscars 2026 awards season?
The Vanity Fair Young Hollywood “Vanities” event is strategically positioned as the vibrant starting point for the extensive Oscars 2026 awards season. It generates early buzz, fosters industry connections, and sets the fashion trends for the week. It precedes numerous other high-profile events, including the Essence Black Women in Hollywood Awards, Diane von Furstenberg’s Luncheon for female nominees, various industry dinners celebrating stylists and makeup artists, and culminates with the main 98th Academy Awards ceremony and Vanity Fair’s renowned post-Oscar party. The “Vanities” party effectively sets the tone for the entire week of celebrations and predictions.
In summary, the “Vanities: A Night for Young Hollywood” party was more than just an event; it was a powerful statement. It showcased a new generation of talent ready to redefine Hollywood. From the captivating fashion to the fervent Oscar predictions and the overarching spirit of community, the event underscored that the future of film and entertainment is not just bright—it’s electrifying. The Oscars 2026 season has truly begun, promising innovation, authenticity, and unforgettable moments from these rising stars.
