Kirsten Dunst graced the red carpet at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, held at The Royal Festival Hall in London, alongside her husband, Jesse Plemons, who was nominated for his stellar performance. Their appearance was not just about celebrating achievements in film; it was a showcase of fashion, style, and the art of dressing for high-profile events.
Dunst chose a stunning ensemble from the esteemed fashion house Valentino, solidifying her reputation as a red carpet fashion icon. Over the past couple of years, she has frequently donned Valentino, raising the question of whether a formal partnership with the brand might be on the horizon. The dress she wore at the BAFTAs was part of the Valentino Fall 2026 Haute Couture collection, showcasing the designer’s signature flair for dramatic silhouettes.
However, while many aspects of her look were commendable, not all critics were impressed. The standout feature of her outfit was undoubtedly the jacket, characterized by its striking moiré fabric and exaggerated mutton sleeves that provided a sculptural quality. This feature offered a dynamic presence and certainly drew attention on the red carpet.
Yet, the choice of blouse underneath the jacket has drawn mixed reviews. Some observers noted that the blouse’s lightweight fabric seemed to undermine the strength of the overall look, feeling somewhat incongruous against the bold statement made by the jacket. This disruption in silhouette may have diluted the intended powerful statement of the outfit.
In fact, many fashion enthusiasts suggested a reimagining of the outfit—perhaps with the jacket closed to create a more cohesive two-piece appearance, allowing for an unbroken line and full emphasis on the sculpted sleeves. Such an adjustment could have made the overall appearance cleaner and even more polished, enhancing Dunst’s striking presence.
Accessories also played a significant role in completing her look, with Garatti jewellery adding a touch of sophistication without overshadowing the main features of her outfit. The balancing act of accessories is crucial, especially at events like the BAFTAs, where every detail matters.
Stylist Samantha McMillen was behind this elegant ensemble, ensuring that Dunst’s look not only adhered to current fashion trends but also showcased her unique personality and style. The collaboration between a stylist and their client is often a behind-the-scenes effort, but in high-stakes settings like this, it shines brightly on the red carpet.
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