The 2026 Bafta evening in London became a true test of taste and boldness for celebrities. After a two-year hiatus caused by the princess’s illness, the royal family’s return to the red carpet sparked unprecedented excitement. Their appearance not only outshone many international guests but also reminded everyone of the monarchy’s influence on British high society, despite recent scandals surrounding Prince Andrew. This time, the public’s focus was drawn less to the winners and more to those who dared to defy the usual dress code.
Among those who received praise from fashion critics was Kate Middleton. Her layered pink muslin gown from Gucci, paired with a velvet belt, perfectly complemented Prince William’s classic tuxedo. Monica Bellucci, in an elegant ensemble by Saint Laurent, once again proved that simplicity and grace are always in style. Emma Stone opted for a sleek black Louis Vuitton, while Kate Hudson appeared in a striking red off-the-shoulder Prada dress. Other notable looks included Kerry Washington in a pleated skirt and floral Prada top, the duo of Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal, and Patrick Dempsey in a stylish Brunello Cucinelli suit.
Fashion triumphs
A special place among the successful choices went to outfits that harmoniously combined classic and modern elements. Leonardo DiCaprio once again opted for an impeccable look, while Timothée Chalamet surprised the public with a strict black Givenchy tuxedo, forgoing extravagance in favor of elegance. Glenn Close, despite a controversial choice, managed to highlight her individuality, and Jessie Buckley looked fresh and distinctive in a blue Chanel dress. Even those who usually play it safe with fashion allowed themselves more freedom that night, which only added to the event’s intrigue.
There were experiments as well: Alicia Vikander chose an embellished Vuitton top, and Tilda Swinton, known for her enigmatic style, appeared in a Chanel bolero. Her look sparked debate, but no one questioned her ability to surprise. Such choices show that even at the most conservative events, there is room for individuality and bold ideas.
Mistakes and disappointments
However, not all guests managed to avoid fashion missteps. Teyana Taylor, opting for a voluminous Burberry dress, seemed almost lost in the fabric, while Little Simz wore a grey wool coat that looked more suited for a stroll than a formal ceremony. Emma Lou Wood’s pink Emilia Wickstead outfit appeared awkward due to its odd cut, and Jessie Ware in her yellow dress reminded many of old sofas from the ’70s. These looks raised eyebrows and became a topic of discussion on social media.
Other missteps included overly complicated designs, like Jenna Coleman’s, and unsuccessful attempts to stand out, such as Maya Rudolph. Sometimes, the desire to surprise leads to outfits that lose any connection to the event. Still, such moments only fuel interest in the red carpet and make the fashion debate even more dynamic.
Comparison with other awards
Interestingly, such fashion battles are not uncommon at major ceremonies. For example, at the recent Iris 2026 Awards, the discussion around guests’ outfits was just as heated as the awards themselves. As noted in the review of the most striking red carpet looks at Iris, unexpected choices and bold experiments often become the highlight of the evening, sometimes even outshining the winners.
Overall, Bafta 2026 once again proved that the red carpet is not just about displaying status, but also a platform for creative self-expression. Each appearance is a challenge, and sometimes a risk, that can bring fame or stir up criticism. But it is precisely these moments that make award ceremonies truly memorable.
Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, has long been regarded as one of the most influential figures in the fashion world. Her appearances at social events always attract attention and spark discussion, while her choice of outfits often sets trends for millions of admirers. By blending classic style with modern touches, Kate manages to remain a fashion icon without losing her individuality. Her influence extends far beyond the United Kingdom, shaping new standards of elegance and femininity.
