‘Monster’ Star Sarah Paulson (51) Dazzles in Shimmering Sequins at the Academy Museum Gala
Sarah Paulson has long been one of Hollywood’s most reliable red carpet presences, and the Academy Museum Gala has become a familiar stop on her calendar. She attended the 2024 edition and has walked the event alongside her partner, Holland Taylor, with whom she has been since 2015.
Her style this year has leaned into texture and shine. At the 2026 Actor Awards in March, she wore a black long-sleeved A-line gown with puffy gathered shoulders and circular reflective sequins covering the bodice and half the skirt, while trading her signature slicked-back hair for a softer, French girl-inspired look.
The fashion moments have come alongside a packed professional schedule. Paulson spent a decade starring in Ryan Murphy’s ‘American Horror Story’ across ten seasons from 2011 to 2026, earning 5 Primetime Emmy nominations along the way.
She also stars in the legal drama ‘All’s Fair’ with Glenn Close and Kim Kardashian, which secured a second season renewal. On top of that, she has been tapped to lead a new season of Murphy’s ‘Monster’ anthology centered on a female serial killer.
Paulson’s latest standout moment came on October 17 at the sixth annual Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles. Variety shared a video of her arrival, and the clip quickly drew a lot of attention.
Sarah Paulson arrives at the #AcademyMuseumGala https://t.co/U5uxvr4ztJ
— Variety (@Variety) October 18, 2026
For the occasion, she wore Ferragamo. The long-sleeved gown featured a high neckline and was covered head to toe in shimmering gold and black paillette-style sequins that caught the light with every movement.
The look extended into a dramatic, sequined train that pooled behind her on the carpet. Paulson paired it with her signature sleek, slicked-back hair, simple black heels and statement earrings, letting the glittering texture take center stage.
The look felt like a natural continuation of the sparkling sequin theme she embraced earlier this year. Rather than repeating the same idea, though, the gala gown traded volume for a sleek column silhouette with a dramatic trailing finish.
Taylor Swift and Sarah Paulson at the Academy Museum Gala tonight! https://t.co/rruKLcy6AH
— Taylor Swift Updates+ (@chartstswifty) October 18, 2026
The gala raises funds for the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, supporting its exhibitions, screenings and educational initiatives. This year’s edition honored Charlize Theron with the Icon Award, Colman Domingo with the Vantage Award and John Carpenter with the Luminary Award, with Taylor Swift set to perform.
Presented by Rolex, the event was co-chaired by Robert Rodriguez, Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw. Paulson joined a star-studded crowd that included Laura Linney, Pamela Anderson, Jessica Biel, Justin Timberlake and A$AP Rocky. The October timing, just after Fashion Month, makes the gala a showcase for fresh runway looks. W Magazine noted that the night often offers a first taste of awards-season trends.
Paulson’s career stretches back decades, from early television roles to acclaimed films like ’12 Years a Slave’, ‘Carol’ and ‘The Post’. Born in Tampa, Florida, she trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts before building one of the most versatile résumés in the business.
Her fashion choices reflect that same willingness to experiment. Whether embracing a new hairstyle or a high-shine gown, Paulson continues to find fresh ways to make an impression after years in the spotlight.
Sarah Paulson stuns at the Academy Museum Gala tonight ✨ https://t.co/8oFKSW4txw
— sarah paulson’s pr | ahs spoilers! (@sarahpaulsbean) October 18, 2026
She also made an appearance at the 2026 Met Gala in May, which celebrated “Costume Art.” Her Academy Museum Gala look added another glamorous entry to a standout year on the red carpet.
With her shimmering Ferragamo gown and polished styling, Paulson delivered one of the night’s most eye-catching arrivals. The look proved that a classic silhouette can still steal the show when it comes covered in sparkle.
What do you think of Sarah Paulson’s shimmering Ferragamo gown at the 2026 Academy Museum Gala?
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