Plunging Necklines Dominate the 2024 CFDA Awards Red Carpet: Tyla, Paloma Elsesser, Cynthia Erivo, and More

The 2024 CFDA Awards brought a new level of boldness to the red carpet, with plunging necklines emerging as the standout detail of the night. Held on Monday in New York at the American Museum of Natural History, the event showcased a variety of deep-neckline designs, each pushing the boundaries of traditional evening attire. Several celebrities brought their own spin to the trend, highlighting both established and emerging designers through their statement looks.

Tyla

The South African singer-songwriter, arrived in a vintage Gucci spring 1996 dress styled with a modern twist. Her black lace dress, originally from the ready-to-wear collection, featured a plunging neckline reaching down to her midriff, held together by a single strap across the chest. Styled with neon green shorts underneath, the look stayed true to the original runway styling, creating a unique contrast that added depth and texture to the outfit.

Paloma Elsesser

The model and actress, styled by Carlos Nazario, wore a custom look from Diotima’s spring 2025 collection. Her black gown showcased Diotima’s signature metal embellishments, paired with a fringe skirt that added movement to the ensemble. The plunging neckline extended to her abdomen, creating a structured yet daring silhouette. Elsesser complemented the gown with Nina Runsdorf jewelry, including 18k yellow gold diamond earrings and a cushion-cut diamond ring, enhancing the look’s refined elements.

Sabrina Elba

The model also opted for a Diotima gown from the brand’s spring 2025 collection. Her cream gown, featured a plunging neckline that flowed down to her waist, creating an elongated silhouette with sleek lines and intricate textural details. The dress was accented by fringe trims, arranged in diagonal patterns that added depth and movement. Elba paired the dress with white pointed-toe slingback heels, enhancing the gown’s airy feel. 

Cynthia Erivo

Cynthia Erivo made a dramatic statement in a custom black velvet dress designed by Gap Inc.’s executive vice president and creative director, Zac Posen, in collaboration with the Gap design team at GapStudio. Her outfit, inspired by her upcoming role as Elphaba in “Wicked,” featured a hooded cape and a rich velvet fabric in deep, dark hues. While the plunging neckline was subtle, the look added a theatrical touch, tying back to her highly anticipated movie debut.

Lala Anthony

Lala Anthony took a different approach to the plunging neckline trend, opting for a zebra-print gown from Jacquemus’s fall 2024 ready-to-wear collection. The gown featured an exaggerated pointed collar and a dramatic V-neckline, balanced by a thigh-high slit that gave the outfit an elongated effect. Anthony completed the ensemble with black and white polka dot heels, subtly adding another graphic element to her look.