When it comes to red carpet events, few can match the allure of the BAFTA Awards. The 2025 edition was no exception, with celebrities embracing a classic and sophisticated aesthetic that harked back to cinema’s golden era. From Saoirse Ronan’s silk Louis Vuitton gown to Mikey Madison’s Prada dress adorned with crystal embellishments, the night was a dazzling showcase of timeless glamour. Even the setting in South London seemed to recede into the background as attendees channelled the elegance of Hollywood’s bygone days.
Rediscover the Magic of Cinema’s Golden Age
The Red Carpet Reimagined
The red carpet at the 2025 BAFTAs was transformed into a canvas of old-world charm. Celebrities opted for attire that evoked the glamour of the 1940s and 1950s, eschewing risky or unconventional choices. This year, actors and actresses chose to play it safe, favouring sophistication over daring fashion statements. One standout moment came when Coralie Fargeat, director of "The Substance," made an appearance in a floor-length puffer coat, adding a modern twist to the evening's vintage vibe. Yet, despite this deviation, the overall mood remained one of refined elegance.The choice to embrace Old Hollywood glamour was not merely a fleeting trend but a deliberate nod to a more romanticised era of film. With artificial intelligence poised to revolutionise the industry and blockbuster sequels dominating the box office, there is a palpable longing for the simpler, more glamorous times of yesteryear. This sentiment was reflected in every detail of the evening, from the flowing gowns to the sparkling jewels.A Celebration of Timeless Style
Ariana Grande turned heads in a voluminous custom Louis Vuitton ballgown, reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe’s iconic looks. Selena Gomez shimmered in a jewel-studded Schiaparelli ensemble, while Pamela Anderson graced the event in a cascading white Jacquemus gown paired with delicate white heels. These outfits were not just garments; they were tributes to the timeless beauty and elegance of Old Hollywood.The evening also saw a resurgence of opera gloves, off-the-shoulder gowns, and dramatic draping—elements that have long been associated with classic cinema. Attendees like Saoirse Ronan, who wore a silky off-the-shoulder Louis Vuitton dress, and Mikey Madison, whose cream bustier Prada dress featured an embellished crystal scarf, exemplified the night’s theme of glamour and sophistication. Each outfit told a story, connecting the present to the past in a seamless blend of style and nostalgia.Nostalgia Meets Modernity
The return to Old Hollywood glamour at the BAFTAs was not just about aesthetics; it was a reflection of deeper cultural shifts. As the film industry faces unprecedented changes, including the rise of AI and the dominance of franchise films, there is a growing desire to revisit the golden age of cinema. This era, characterised by its elegance and grace, offers a counterpoint to the fast-paced, technology-driven world we live in today.For many attendees, dressing in the style of Hollywood’s past was a way to reconnect with the magic of early cinema. It was a reminder that, despite the passage of time and the evolution of the industry, certain elements of glamour remain timeless. The 2025 BAFTAs served as a testament to this enduring appeal, proving that elegance never truly goes out of style. In an age where everything seems to be changing, it was refreshing to see stars embracing a look that has stood the test of time.