Kristen Stewart just redefined red carpet fashion, and it’s sparking conversations everywhere. She boldly wore underwear as outerwear at the IndieWire Honors in Los Angeles, turning heads in a custom Calvin Klein Collection ensemble that blurred the lines between intimate and public attire. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a daring fashion statement or a step too far? Let’s dive in.
The Oscar-nominated actress, styled by Tara Swennen, paired a sleek black wool blazer with a cotton-silk bodysuit, leggings, and briefs—all from Calvin Klein’s spring 2026 ready-to-wear collection. The leggings and briefs, which debuted on the New York Fashion Week runway in September, marked the first red carpet appearance for Veronica Leoni’s Calvin Klein Collection underwear. Stewart completed the look with black pointed-toe heels, Effy Jewelry, Fiametta accessories, and a pair of vintage-inspired brown sunglasses. Her choppy hair and minimal makeup added to her signature effortless coolness.
This isn’t Stewart’s first rodeo with the underwear-as-outerwear trend. She’s been playfully teasing this style for years, whether rocking boxer shorts in public or experimenting with the peekaboo bra layering trend. But this time, it feels different—more intentional, more statement-making. And this is the part most people miss: Stewart’s bold choice aligns perfectly with Calvin Klein’s recent shift under creative director Veronica Leoni, who’s been integrating underwear into the label’s universe in a holistic way. “Bringing the underwear into our universe… really owning that business,” Leoni explained, emphasizing how this move elevates the brand’s aspirational lifestyle.
Calvin Klein’s underwear campaigns have already grabbed the spotlight, featuring stars like Jeremy Allen White, Bad Bunny, and most recently, Spanish singer Rosalía. Stewart’s red carpet moment feels like the next chapter in this narrative, pushing boundaries and challenging traditional fashion norms.
But here’s the question: Is this trend a celebration of freedom and self-expression, or does it risk normalizing the overexposure of intimate wear? Stewart’s Maverick Award at the IndieWire Honors—celebrating her acting career and directorial debut, The Chronology of Water—adds another layer to this conversation. Is she just a fashion icon, or is she making a statement about breaking societal norms?
The IndieWire Honors, an annual event spotlighting emerging talent, provided the perfect stage for Stewart’s bold look. Yet, it’s not just about the outfit—it’s about what it represents. Stewart’s willingness to experiment with fashion mirrors her fearless approach to her career, from acting to directing. But does this outfit go too far, or is it exactly what the fashion world needs right now?
What do you think? Is Kristen Stewart’s underwear-as-outerwear look a game-changer or a misstep? Let’s debate it in the comments—this is one fashion moment that’s begging for your take.
