Shogun Star Anna Sawai: The Rising Red Carpet Sensation
Since her breakout performance in Shōgun, Anna Sawai has been swiftly making her mark on the red carpet.
The actress and ex-singer, who garnered deserved accolades for her compelling portrayal in the FX series, a contemporary adaptation of the 1975 James Clavell novel that chronicles the journey of an English sailor in feudal Japan, achieved a historic Emmy as the first Asian woman awarded for Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She captivates audiences not just on-screen but also garners widespread attention from fashion aficionados with her increasingly sophisticated style.
Her journey on the red carpet resembles an expression of modern sophistication. Guided by the insightful eye of celebrity stylist Karla Welch, Sawai, 35, has developed a signature style articulated through an understated yet impactful approach to monochromatic ensembles, where she skillfully showcases a deep understanding of proportion and balance.
At the 2024 Emmy Awards, Sawai struck a stunning profile as she accepted her golden trophy, clad in a breathtaking vermillion gown by Vera Wang. This dress featured an architectural bustier and a double-tiered skirt, merging body-conscious design with vibrant color and impeccable tailoring. Her choice of red was both sentimental and stylish, representing her character and the character’s emotional journey during the season, as she shared with Vogue.
This delicate blend of structure and allure is a recurring theme in some of Sawai’s standout looks. Witness further proof in her bespoke cobalt blue Louis Vuitton outfit at the WWD Style Awards in January 2025, where she was honored with the inaugural Fashion Newcomer style award. That evening, she exuded elegance in a crop top highlighted by draped, strong-shoulder sleeves, which were complemented perfectly by a flowing silk skirt.
During the January 2025 Golden Globe Awards, Sawai further affirmed her fashion credentials by donning a custom Dior gown, earning her a revered spot on Vogue’s best-dressed list. The flawless white column gown was highlighted by a precisely tailored corset top combined with a peplum waist. This partnership with Dior blossomed into an ambassadorship, indicating many more style triumphs ahead alongside creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri.
Her choice of accessories was equally commendable, providing a chic lesson in haute joaillerie. She adorned herself with Cartier’s Honeymoon Necklace from the iconic 1996 La Création collection. This reversible masterpiece, crafted in 18-carat white-and-yellow gold with brilliant-cut diamonds, blended vintage charm with contemporary sophistication. She paired it with a ring from the Cartier collection, made in 18-carat white gold and diamonds, showcasing a seamless fusion of classic elegance with modern allure.
For the prestigious Academy Museum Gala held in October 2024, Sawai again opted for a custom Louis Vuitton creation, this time embracing a bolder, asymmetrical silhouette. Her dramatic ball skirt was a pivotal part of this eye-catching ensemble, which also showcased a subtly angled bodice.
While her unique take on glamour is distinctly her own, Sawai has demonstrated an adventurous spirit, playfully engaging with emerging trends directly from the runway, as exemplified by the sheer, daring hook-and-eye embellished Prada masterpiece she wore to the Shōgun premiere in February 2024.
Although Sawai’s fashion journey has reached unprecedented heights in 2024, the numerous equally stunning outfits she has displayed in 2025 suggest there’s no sign of pulling back. We are eagerly anticipating her future wardrobe choices.
