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The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTAs) has long been a dazzling showcase of cinematic talent and high fashion, with the red carpet serving as a runway for some of the most iconic looks in history. Showcasing classic Hollywood glamour as well as bold, contemporary statements, fashion at the BAFTAs has continuously evolved, reflecting the artistry and creativity of the film industry’s brightest stars.
Over the decades, legendary actresses have captivated audiences with their performances and their unforgettable style. Whether it’s Audrey Hepburn’s timeless Givenchy gowns or Florence Pugh’s modern, daring ensembles, each look tells a story of elegance, innovation, and star power.
As we look back at the most stunning BAFTA fashion moments, we celebrate the designers and stars who have turned the red carpet into an enduring symbol of sophistication and style.
History of the BAFTAs
The BAFTAs date back to 1947 when they were originally established by the British Film Academy as the British Academy Film Awards. Founded by industry legends such as David Lean, Alexander Korda, and Laurence Olivier, the awards were created to honor excellence and advance the art and technique of filmmaking.
The inaugural awards ceremony took place in 1949, honoring films from 1947 and 1948, with “The Best Years of Our Lives” winning Best Film and “Odd Man Out” receiving Best British Film. In 1958, the British Film Academy merged with the Guild of Television Producers and Directors to form the Society of Film and Television Arts, which was later renamed the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) in 1976.
Over the years, the BAFTAs have evolved to recognize excellence in film, television, and games, becoming a prestigious event in the entertainment industry. The awards ceremony has been held at various notable venues, including the Royal Opera House and the Royal Albert Hall, and since 2023, it has taken place at the Royal Festival Hall.
The iconic BAFTA trophy, a theatrical mask, was designed by American sculptor Mitzi Cunliffe in 1955 and has since become a symbol of artistic excellence.
Fashion at the BAFTAs since 1947
The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) have long been a stage for remarkable fashion statements by renowned actresses. Here is a curated list of some of the most memorable best-dressed actresses at the BAFTAs and the designers they wore:
Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy
A timeless fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn graced the BAFTAs in an elegant Givenchy gown, epitomizing classic Hollywood glamour, Audrey Hepburn’s collaboration with designer Hubert de Givenchy began in 1953 during the production of the film “Sabrina.”
This partnership marked the inception of their professional relationship, with Givenchy designing several costumes for Hepburn’s character. Their collaboration continued throughout Hepburn’s career, with Givenchy creating iconic outfits for her in films such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) and “Charade” (1963).
Notably, Hepburn wore a white floral Givenchy gown to the 1954 Academy Awards, where she won the Best Actress Oscar for “Roman Holiday.” This gown has become one of the most memorable pieces in both fashion and film history.
Audrey Hepburn in a White Tulle Dress (1955)
Audrey Hepburn attended the 1955 BAFTAs in a timeless white tulle dress featuring a strapless bodice and voluminous skirt, complemented by elegant white gloves.
Elizabeth Taylor in a Sequined Coat Dress (1967)
Elizabeth Taylor made a statement at the 1967 BAFTAs wearing a sequined coat dress adorned with feather trim, showcasing her signature glamorous style.
Jane Seymour in an Embroidered Gown (1985)
Jane Seymour graced the 1985 BAFTAs in a stunning embroidered gown, exemplifying the elegance of the era.
Joan Collins in a Dramatic Gown (1984)
Joan Collins attended the 1984 BAFTAs in a gown featuring bold sleeves and a striking silhouette, capturing the essence of 1980s fashion.
Gwyneth Paltrow in Black Embroidered Separates (1999)
Gwyneth Paltrow attended the 1999 BAFTAs in a black embroidered two-piece ensemble, combining a corset top with a matching maxi skirt adorned with beads and floral accents.
Nicole Kidman in Satin Ungaro (2003)
Nicole Kidman brought old Hollywood glamour to the 2003 BAFTAs in a chic satin Ungaro column dress, accessorized with a pair of glimmering rose jewel chandelier earrings and an elegant chignon.
Cate Blanchett in Armani (2005)
Cate Blanchett epitomized Hollywood elegance in a shimmering Armani column dress at the 2005 BAFTAs.
Penélope Cruz in Oscar de la Renta (2007)
Penélope Cruz exuded movie star glamour in a stunning Oscar de la Renta beaded floor-skimming gown at the 2007 BAFTAs.
Kate Hudson in Dior (2008)
Kate Hudson was the golden girl of the 2008 BAFTAs in her dazzling Dior gown, which shimmered and sparkled from every angle.
Angelina Jolie in Armani Privé (2009)
Angelina Jolie made a fashion-forward statement at the 2009 BAFTAs in an Armani Privé dress with neon yellow lining and clever fold details.
Cate Blanchett in Alexander McQueen (2016)
Cate Blanchett turned heads in an elaborate floral cut-out Alexander McQueen gown at the 2016 BAFTAs.
Saoirse Ronan in Chanel (2018)
Saoirse Ronan has graced the BAFTA red carpet in sophisticated ensembles, including a memorable appearance in 2018 in a classic Chanel gown that highlighted her timeless style.
Florence Pugh in Dries Van Noten (2020)
Florence Pugh made a memorable appearance at the 2020 BAFTAs in a hot pink Dries Van Noten dress with bow clasps and a billowing train.
Margot Robbie in Chanel (2020)
Margot Robbie wore a peplum lace Chanel dress at the 2020 BAFTAs, showcasing her elegant style.
Jodie Comer in Tuxedo-Inspired Gown (2022)
Jodie Comer scooped the Best Leading Actress award in a plunging tuxedo-inspired Boss gown at the 2022 BAFTAs.
Florence Pugh in Harris Reed
At the 2024 BAFTAs, Florence Pugh made a statement in a custom Harris Reed ensemble, combining a silver corset with a dramatic black skirt and cape.
Dua Lipa in Valentino
Dua Lipa captivated onlookers at the 2024 BAFTAs in a striking red Valentino gown, complete with a flowing cape that exuded elegance and confidence.
Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton
Emma Stone consistently impresses on the red carpet, notably wearing a custom peach-toned Louis Vuitton dress with a unique ruffle sleeve at the 2024 BAFTAs.
Naomi Campbell in Chanel Couture
Supermodel Naomi Campbell brought sophistication to the 2024 BAFTAs, donning a black Chanel Couture gown topped with a hooded cape, offering a modern twist on classic elegance.
Emily Blunt in Elie Saab
Emily Blunt dazzled at the 2024 BAFTAs in a sequined Elie Saab gown featuring cut-out details and flared sleeves, complemented by Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
Margot Robbie in Armani Privé
Margot Robbie turned heads at the 2024 BAFTAs wearing a form-fitting black and pink panel dress by Armani Privé, accentuated with operatic glove sleeves.
Phoebe Dynevor in Louis Vuitton
Phoebe Dynevor exuded elegance at the 2024 BAFTAs in a sleek white Louis Vuitton gown, characterized by a plunging neckline and a flowing train.
The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) has long been a stage where cinema and couture converge, creating moments that resonate far beyond the ceremony itself. From Audrey Hepburn’s timeless elegance in Givenchy to contemporary stars embracing bold, avant-garde designs, the BAFTA red carpet reflects the dynamic evolution of fashion.
Each ensemble tells a story, not only enhancing the allure of the wearer but also influencing global fashion trends and inspiring audiences worldwide. As we look to future ceremonies, the anticipation of groundbreaking style moments continues, underscoring the BAFTAs’ role as a beacon of artistic and sartorial excellence.
