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Hollywood awards season rolls on, and the most recent stop was in London on Sunday night for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) ceremony. Did the hop across the pond make a big difference in the sartorial splendor of the red carpet? And did #MeToo and Time’s Up make the trip? No, and yes, dear reader. Have a look at what was the same and what was different as noir came ashore in England.

The royals joined the event, with a pregnant Princess Kate wearing a dark green gown — but with a black velvet ribbon that has been interpreted by the press as a nod toward the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements. Here are some other noteworthy looks that we loved:

Black evening gowns are definitely still a Thing. The sophisticated and sleek black gown remained de rigueur for many at the BAFTAs. No pins or white roses, just a unified display of all-black attire. We love these three examples of how to style a black ensemble in a way that feels dynamic, or regal, or coolly assured.

Pantsuits rock. More women opted for pants or jumpsuits on the BAFTA runway, a trend we love and plan to try at our next black-tie event. Ruth Wilson rocked Valentino Rock Studs, Julie Walters looked fresh and modern, and Naomie Harris’s look was just fierce. Brava!

A little illumination is always welcome. Dark floral and botanical print gowns emerged again as a way to brighten the black color palette. The sparkle and swirl made everyone look even more radiant.

 

Handsome couples were everywhere. These pairs were striking and totally chic.

Girl power was on full display. Angelina Jolie brought producer Loung Ung as her guest, and many other women locked arms with friends, spouses and partners on the red carpet in a moving display of sisterhood and solidarity.

That’s it for now. It’s almost Oscar time! Start popping the popcorn. It’s gonna be good.

Pamela Thomas-Graham

Pamela Thomas-Graham is the Founder & CEO of Dandelion Chandelier. She serves on the boards of several tech companies, and was previously a senior executive in finance, media and fashion, and a partner at McKinsey & Co.