Red carpet elegance: The evolution of black-and-white fashion at BAFTA 2025

Red carpet elegance: The evolution of black-and-white fashion at BAFTA 2025
The BAFTA 2025 red carpet was a stunning showcase of fashion that redefined the classic black-and-white aesthetic. This year, the event celebrated not only the best in film and television but also the art of sartorial expression. With a focus on monotone elegance, stars embraced the timeless appeal of black and white, yet infused their looks with modern twists that captivated audiences.

Monochrome mastery: A fresh take on tradition

Monochrome outfits have long been a staple of formal wear, but the BAFTA 2025 attendees took this tradition to new heights. The red carpet featured a plethora of black and white ensembles that showcased innovative designs and daring combinations. For instance, Selena Gomez’s stunning black velvet gown adorned with sparkling silver sequins exemplified how a classic color palette can be elevated through thoughtful embellishments. According to Niti Gupta, founder and creative director of The AFRA World, this approach not only tones down extravagance but also infuses a sense of refined elegance.

Bejewelled accents: The rise of DIY glamour

The bejewelled trend emerged as a significant highlight of the evening, with many stars opting for outfits that incorporated rhinestones and sequins. This trend has gained traction on social media, inspiring fashion enthusiasts to adorn their own attire with sparkling details. Image consultant Greeshma Thampi noted that layering existing black or white garments with striking jewellery can create a stunning effect without overwhelming the overall look. Hannah Dodd’s pairing of a classic black gown with a bejewelled overskirt is a prime example of how to achieve this effortlessly.

Breaking the mold: Bold choices for modern elegance

While classic tuxedos graced the red carpet, some stars dared to break the mold. Colman Domingo’s choice to swap a traditional jacket for a leather coat layered over a flamboyant silk shirt showcased a refreshing take on evening wear. This bold choice, while perhaps too daring for everyday outings, illustrates the potential for color and texture to invigorate a monochromatic look. Similarly, Ariana Grande and Wunmi Mosaku embraced color-blocking techniques, pairing classic black with soft pastels, while Vera Wang maintained the black-and-white theme with an ivory twist.

The 2025 BAFTAs highlighted that elegance does not equate to playing it safe. Instead, it encourages individuals to take sartorial risks, whether through the addition of Gothic elements, sculptural details, or unexpected silhouettes. Gwendoline Christie’s Goth-inspired black gown, complete with shredded sleeves and a dramatic silhouette, exemplifies how to add personality to a traditional look without sacrificing sophistication.

As the evening unfolded, it became clear that the red carpet was not merely a display of fashion but a celebration of creativity and individuality. The innovative approaches to black-and-white attire at the BAFTA 2025 event set a new standard for elegance, proving that even the most classic styles can be reimagined for a modern audience.