Margaret Qualley Stuns in Backless Chanel Gown at Premiere

The actress's bold fashion choice signals a shift in red carpet trends towards romantic glamour.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Margaret Qualley's appearance at the Los Angeles premiere of "How to Make a Killing" on February 14, 2026, was a standout fashion moment. The actress wore a striking, ombré red-to-blush Chanel gown from the Pre-Fall 2026 collection, a departure from her typically darker palettes. The delicate crystal embellishments, open back, and fluid design of the dress embodied a softer, more feminine aesthetic, signaling a resurgence of romanticism in high fashion.

Why it matters

Qualley's look, alongside similar choices by other stars, suggests a shift away from minimalist aesthetics and neutral tones that have dominated red carpet style in recent years. This trend aligns with broader movements within the fashion industry, as evidenced by Chanel's new Creative Director, Matthieu Blazy, and the brand's Métiers d'Art 2026 collection.

The details

The ombré effect, transitioning from a saturated red to a soft pink, is a key detail in Qualley's gown, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to color. Qualley's consistent partnership with Chanel, formalized as an ambassador in 2020, underscores the brand's continued power in shaping celebrity style. The actress's recent looks, including a sequined little black dress and a custom Chanel LBD, showcase the brand's versatility and elegance.

  • Margaret Qualley wore the Chanel gown at the Los Angeles premiere of "How to Make a Killing" on February 14, 2026.

The players

Margaret Qualley

An American actress known for her roles in films such as "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" and "Maid".

Matthieu Blazy

The current Creative Director of Chanel, who is influencing the brand's direction towards a more romantic and glamorous aesthetic.

Chanel

A French luxury fashion house that has a long-standing partnership with Margaret Qualley, who has been an ambassador for the brand since 2020.

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The takeaway

Margaret Qualley's bold fashion choice at the "How to Make a Killing" premiere signals a shift in red carpet trends towards a more romantic and glamorous aesthetic, as evidenced by Chanel's new creative direction under Matthieu Blazy. This trend aligns with a broader industry movement away from minimalist styles and towards a confident, sensual, and unapologetic celebration of femininity.