Designers Stole the Show on the British Fashion Awards’ Red Carpet

The British Fashion Awards did not lack for star power. Last night’s ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall was filled with special appearances from celebrities like Julia Roberts, Tom Cruise, and Rihanna, but Hollywood’s elite weren’t the only ones who made their presence felt on the red carpet. Designers relished their moment in the spotlight by wearing their collections as only they could. Sure, a starlet would look lovely in Donatella Versace’s skintight pink mesh corset or Simone Rocha’s pearlescent drop-waist gown, but the looks took on a special significance when worn by their creators.

The forces behind a brand can serve as its best ambassadors, and that was especially true at the fashion awards, where many opted to wear imaginative outfits. The designers represented their label—and personal tastes—via striking custom fashions or pieces culled from their latest shows. Roksanda Ilinčić played with shades of pale pink and crimson in the ruffled finale number from her Spring 2020 collection, while Molly Goddard made a case for volume in black crushed silk. The looks ran the gamut from sustainably chic (Bethany Williams in a handwoven striped jumpsuit created with recycled materials) to jaw-droopingly daring (who but Matty Bovan could pull off a transparent trench worn with a leather o-ring belt?). Seeing the talented designers strut their stuff was a highlight of a night dedicated to fashion creativity.