Coco Jones, Dove Cameron lead minimalist looks at Fashion Trust U.S. Awards

Minimalism took the lead at the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards, where Coco Jones arrived in a pale pink halter gown that let the silhouette do the work. Paired with pared-back accessories, it was the kind of look that feels polished without trying too hard, exactly the mood that translates best from red carpet to wedding guest season.

That restraint ran through a carpet full of polished names and sharp fashion references. Dove Cameron, Lili Reinhart, Alison Brie and Kelsea Ballerini were among the women drawing attention, alongside Julia Fox, Natasha Lyonne, Pamela Anderson, Olivia Wilde, Jodie Turner-Smith, Melissa McCarthy, Becky G and Mindy Kaling. The labels in the mix, including Cult Gaia, Ferrari, Blumarine, Monse and David Koma, pointed to an eveningwear lane that favored sleek lines, cleaner surfaces and a quieter kind of impact. When the styling stayed controlled, the clothes looked fresher, especially compared with the overly worked glamour that can make formal dressing feel dated fast.

The event, held at Nya Studios West in Los Angeles on April 7, marked the fourth annual Fashion Trust U.S. Awards. The nonprofit backs U.S.-based design talent through financial grants and mentorship, and this year’s program reflected that mission in a tangible way. Out of 16 finalists announced in February, five winners were selected, with all finalists considered for the Sustainability Award. The 2026 winners received financial grants and a one-year Google mentorship program, while Fashion Trust U.S. said its total support reached $600,000. A special innovation prize, created with Type One Ventures, widened the night’s focus beyond the usual best-dressed spectacle.

Tory Burch was honored as Designer of the Year, and Michèle Lamy received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Design & Culture. Ego Nwodim hosted and Lykke Li performed, giving the ceremony a sharp mix of polish and personality. But the style takeaway was even clearer than the honors: eveningwear is moving toward cleaner lines, softer color stories and strategic restraint. Coco Jones made the case in pale pink, and the rest of the night followed her lead.