At The Walt Disney Company Emmy Season Toast in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026, Lily James chose Max Mara separates – a black crop top and silk maxi skirt – and the midriff balance is the real conversation.
Bare midriff on a red carpet? Yes – and it works.
At The Walt Disney Company Emmy Season Toast to TV in Los Angeles on April 27, 2026, Lily James at the Disney Emmy Toast stepped out in sleek black Max Mara separates instead of a traditional gown, and the decision immediately felt modern. It is technically a two-piece, but visually it reads as one long, controlled line.
Up top, the Max Mara Fumetto Silk Fil Coupe Crop Top sits high at the neckline with clean arm openings and a close fit through the torso. The surface has a textured, feathered finish that catches light in soft patches rather than shine. That detail keeps the black from falling flat under flash.
Below, the Max Mara Adepto Silk Maxi Skirt drops straight to the floor with the same textured treatment, creating a column effect from ribcage to hem. The waistband forms a strong horizontal band across the midsection, framing a narrow strip of skin that feels intentional, not accidental.
On her feet, Jimmy Choo Black Satin Minny Sandal keeps the line minimal – slim straps, open toe, nothing bulky to interrupt the length. It is a smart restraint play. Add heavier shoes and the whole look tips into something busier.
Hair is worn smooth and center-parted, tucked back to emphasize the neckline. Makeup stays neutral, which lets the cut and texture do the talking.
There is a risk with exposed midriff at an industry toast – it can skew casual fast. Here, the long skirt and high neckline balance it out. For more examples of this evolving approach to celebrity red carpet dressing, the shift toward tailored separates over classic dresses is clearly in motion.
Would you try a cropped top for an evening event, or does a full-length dress still feel safer?
The proportion is what makes it feel grown up.
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