Highlighting 10 Stunning Outfits from the 2026 BAFTAs Red Carpet
London —
This weekend’s London Fashion Week was further highlighted by the 79th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs), held Sunday at the Royal Festival Hall. The ceremonial event saw an array of Hollywood stars, including Timothée Chalamet, Teyana Taylor, Chase Infiniti, Ethan Hawke, and Kirsten Dunst, flaunting striking outfits as they celebrated the best in British cinema.
The BAFTAs provide a platform for stars not only to celebrate artistic achievements but also to enhance their visibility in an industry where fashion plays a pivotal role. As has been observed, the red carpet is increasingly seen as an extension of a film’s marketing strategy. Recent examples include films like “Wuthering Heights” and “Marty Supreme,” which aligned closely with notable fashion trends. Celebrities are increasingly signing lucrative ambassadorship deals, allowing them to choose niche projects while prominently showcasing their sponsors on high-profile occasions.
This year’s attendees displayed a mix of quirky and elegant outfits, often opting for muted tones such as crimson, plum, and black. Some chose to wear pieces from established British designers like Roksanda, Erdem, and Burberry, with the latter set to showcase its runway show this evening, marking the conclusion of London Fashion Week. Among the standout choices was BAFTAs Rising Star nominee Archie Madekwe, who sported a silk neck ruff by Dior, playing with British historical dress conventions.
In keeping with the whimsical reputation of British fashion, many traditional gowns featured unexpected elements. For instance, Chase Infiniti’s Louis Vuitton dress showcased a sculptural hem, while Renate Reinsve turned heads with a striking side cut-out. Additionally, Matthieu Blazy’s designs for Chanel made a notable appearance, being worn by stars including Maya Rudolph, Gracie Abrams, Jessie Buckley, and Tilda Swinton.
Kirsten Dunst, attending her first BAFTAs, arrived in a striking dusty rose Valentino outfit, complete with a dramatic puff-sleeved jacket layered over a pastel pink and black midi dress. The ensemble reflected apparent influences from the acclaimed film “Poor Things,” known for its fashion-forward storytelling.
Ethan Hawke kept things classic in a one-button suit by Giorgio Armani, paired with a champagne-colored shirt. Infusing personal flair into his look, he added a jeweled gold bolo tie, combining sophistication with a hint of bohemian edge.
Teyana Taylor, nominated for her role in “One Battle After Another,” showcased her distinctive style in a deep maroon Burberry gown with a striking tall collar, presenting a powerful aesthetic synonymous with a cinematic villain.
Meanwhile, Tilda Swinton opted for a sharp look with a cropped tuxedo jacket and high-waisted pants from Chanel’s Métiers d’art 2026 collection, accessorized with elegant diamond jewelry.
Archie Madekwe stood out in a custom Dior suit, featuring a silver-trimmed neck ruff that harkened back to historical British fashion—a playful nod to the styles of William Shakespeare.
Glenn Close, also presenting at the BAFTAs, donned a chic black ensemble composed of a boxy jacket and matching skirt, effortlessly demonstrating that elegance does not always require a gown.
Timothée Chalamet embraced a more subdued look in an all-black Givenchy ensemble, consisting of a double-breasted tuxedo jacket paired with pleated trousers, maintaining his signature style with a silk shirt and bow tie.
Renate Reinsve dazzled in a black Louis Vuitton gown with midriff cutouts, achieving a sophisticated balance of tasteful and sensual attire that earned her acclaim on numerous best-dressed lists.
Chase Infiniti’s custom Louis Vuitton dress encapsulated both volume and elegance, striking the perfect chord between sculptural artistry and embracing her natural silhouette.
Gracie Abrams matched her attire to London’s weather with a sheer chocolate-colored Chanel dress, adorned with whimsical beadwork, as she accompanied her partner Paul Mescal, who was nominated for best supporting actor in “Hamet.”
The BAFTAs not only celebrated cinematic achievements but also underscored the vital connection between fashion and storytelling in the film industry.
