The 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards, held February 22nd at the Royal Festival Hall in London, weren’t just about celebrating cinematic achievement. they were a showcase for high fashion. Hosted by Alan Cumming, the event drew a constellation of stars, each bringing their A-game to the red carpet. From classic elegance to bold statements, the night delivered a wealth of memorable style moments, potentially influencing trends leading up to the Oscars on March 15th as reported by CNN.
This year’s BAFTA red carpet saw a blend of established designers and emerging talent, with many nominees and winners opting for sophisticated silhouettes and striking colors. The event marked Kate Middleton’s return after a three-year absence, alongside Prince William, adding a touch of royal glamour to the proceedings according to E! Online. The fashion choices reflected a mood of confident artistry, mirroring the celebrated films and performances of the evening.
Among the most talked-about looks was Jessie Buckley, who won the leading role award for *Hamnet*. Buckley channeled classic Hollywood glamour, referencing Judi Dench in her acceptance speech, and her red carpet ensemble certainly echoed a classic aesthetic. Other notable attendees included Timothée Chalamet, Teyana Taylor, Michael B. Jordan, and Emma Stone, all of whom brought their signature style to the event.
Celebrating the Winners: Style and Substance
The night’s biggest winner, *One Battle After Another*, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, likewise had a strong presence in the fashion stakes. Leonardo DiCaprio, star of the film, was seen embracing Anderson after the director accepted the award, and both men showcased understated elegance on the red carpet. The film itself took home six awards, including Best Film, solidifying its position as a frontrunner for the upcoming Academy Awards as confirmed by BAFTA.
Wunmi Mosaku, who won Best Supporting Actress for *Sinners*, also made a statement with her choice of attire. While details of her specific outfit haven’t been widely reported, her win was considered a surprise, as Teyana Taylor had been favored for the same award for her work in *One Battle After Another* CNN reported. Robert Aramayo’s win for Best Actor was another unexpected highlight of the evening.
Beyond the Gowns: Performances and Atmosphere
The awards ceremony itself wasn’t just a fashion parade. Performances by EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami – the voices behind KPop Demon Hunters’ HUNTR/X – added a contemporary edge to the event. Jessie Ware also delivered a moving performance during the In Memoriam tribute, honoring those lost from the film and television industries. The atmosphere was further enhanced by the presence of Alan Cumming as host, who guided the evening with his characteristic wit and charm.
The 2026 BAFTAs also experienced a brief disruption during the ceremony when a man with Tourette Syndrome uttered a racist slur, highlighting the challenges of managing live events and ensuring inclusivity CNN detailed the incident. Despite this interruption, the focus remained on celebrating the achievements of the film industry.
As the dust settles on the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, the attention now turns to the Oscars. The wins for *One Battle After Another* and *Sinners* at the BAFTAs undoubtedly position them as strong contenders for Academy Awards success. The red carpet style, too, will likely inspire trends and influence fashion choices in the weeks to reach.
What are your favorite looks from the 2026 BAFTA Awards? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with your fellow film and fashion enthusiasts!
