In the midst of award season, the red carpet has continued to reinvigorate itself with stylish ensembles. The 79th British Academy Film Awards not only added to this rebirth but took a picturesque, subdued approach.
Held at the Royal Festival Hall in London’s Southbank Centre on Sunday, the BAFTAs recognize both national and international films that premiered in 2025. Blockbusters “One Battle After Another,” “Sinners,” “Hamnet” and “Marty Supreme” led the pack with nominations at this year’s ceremony.
After a two-year medical hiatus from the event, Catherine, Princess of Wales, kicked off the evening wearing a pink Gucci gown next to William, Prince of Wales. The dress featured dull rose pink and raspberry shades, juxtaposing light and dark throughout the garment.
Silver bejeweled earrings and a chunky bracelet brought a shine of excellence to an otherwise laid-back look. A red velvet belt and matching clutch not only match her husband’s suit jacket, but also top off this dreamy dress.
Once again, actress and singer Teyana Taylor did not come to play on the red carpet. Nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “One Battle After Another,” she contrasted the film’s title through her smart fashion choices.
Dressed in custom Burberry, Taylor stunned in a plum-colored silk gown that resembled a trench coat. Notably, an exaggerated collar glamorously framed her face and iconic pixie cut.
The accentuated waist, orange-speckled jewelry and deep pockets to hide whatever she desires complement the award-winning actress’ energy. To have the baseline audacity to wear such a showstopping creation easily makes Taylor a fashion icon. I said what I said.
Known for his roles in “Saltburn” and “Midsommar,” actor and producer Archie Madekwe has gone through many phases of red carpet style. From a boring all-black outfit at the Los Angeles premiere of “Saltburn” to becoming an avid Loewe wearer, he has played around with different silhouettes and colors that suit him best.
Yet, when he stepped onto the BAFTA red carpet in Dior, a beam of optimism was bestowed upon me. Rather than continuing the never-ending cycle of boring menswear, Madekwe sported a cropped blazer, fitted dress pants and polished lace-up loafers — all in black.
To give the look some life, a pastel yellow dress shirt and ruffled collar add a cheekiness that only a Brit can exude. The striped black cummerbund and jeweled brooch on the suit’s lapel make this a fresh, fun look.
Other outstanding looks include Timothée Chalamet in Givenchy, Odessa A’zion in Dior, Audrey Nuna in Thom Browne, David Jonsson in Hermès, Erin Doherty in Louis Vuitton, Glenn Close in Erdem and Ethan Hawke in Giorgio Armani.
Now, we can’t avoid the unavoidable: worst looks.
Paddington Bear. Really? I know that the fictional character is a fixture in both British and mainstream culture, but the fact that he is wearing the exact same outfit as always is quite horrifying.
Was he there to present the award for Children’s & Family film? Yes. Can he hire a stylist so he doesn’t have to repeat looks on and off the carpet? Absolutely.
Additional looks that failed to impress include Chloé Zhao in Gabriela Hearst, Aimee Lou Wood in Emilia Wickstead, Jenna Coleman in Giorgio Armani Privé, Robert Aramayo in Dior, Jessie Ware in Etro and every single man who wore a black tuxedo with a white button-up shirt.
Although British culture has vile things like jellied eels and haggis, this year’s BAFTAs were one to remember. With a handful of award shows left for the season, I can only hope that this streak continues to grow stronger.
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