Traditionally, the BAFTAs, also known as the British Oscars, have been a significant event for the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, to grace the red carpet and showcase the allure of royalty with stunning family jewels. However, this year, Kate broke the tradition and opted to wear affordable Zara costume earrings. The headlines worldwide praised her for being thrifty and finding a bargain.
Initially, I mistook the earrings for Schiaparelli or even pieces from Elie Top’s Zara collection. Nevertheless, they were indeed from Zara, and Kate looked radiant wearing them.
While Kate Middleton took a more budget-friendly approach, the attending movie stars flaunted some remarkable statement jewelry pieces. Let’s explore below.
Cate Blanchett, who won the Best Actress award for her sensational performance in “Tár,” stole the show with her breathtaking pearl necklace. Designed by Louis Vuitton’s jewelry designer, Francesca Amfitheatrof, this collaboration with Cate incorporated materials from existing jewels, including Tahitian pearls, gold, diamonds, and a 23.87-carat Nigerian Tourmaline.
It remains unclear whether Cate intended to wear the pearl necklace slung over her shoulder or if it was a stylistic choice made afterwards. Regardless, this gesture elevated the jewel to another level.
Michelle Yeoh impressed with her blush pink caped Dior pantsuit, paying homage to English style, and adorned herself with Moussaieff shoulder dusters featuring Burma rubies and diamonds. As an ambassador for Richard Mille, Michelle usually showcases one of their iconic timepieces on the red carpet, adding a personal touch to her overall look. Notably, she wore a blue ribbon as a ring, symbolizing her support for refugees and displaced people worldwide.
Every red carpet appearance by Jodie Turner Smith is noteworthy, and the BAFTAs were no exception. With an enchanting makeup look, she effortlessly carried the same spirit into her sensational Chopard choker and Gucci gown.
Anya Taylor-Joy showcased the lasting impact of Tiffany Archives with a remarkable gold and diamond necklace from the 1970s. This unique piece, chosen from Tiffany’s historical department, added a whole new dimension to the jeweler’s collection.
Florence Pugh opted for a more subtle approach, donning Tiffany diamond and platinum jewelry that perfectly complemented the ruffles on her Nina Ricci gown. The coordinated hair style added further charm, and the symmetric arrangement of the diamonds conveyed a tongue-in-cheek statement.
Sophie Turner embraced the jewelry motif and matched her Louis Vuitton gown with High Jewelry pieces from the collection. She effortlessly exuded elegance.
Cynthia Erivo, known for her multiple piercings, usually makes a statement with earrings. However, at the BAFTAs, she decided to switch things up by wearing two striking Elsa Peretti for Tiffany gold Doughnut Bangles along with diamond jewels, perfectly complementing her copper Louis Vuitton gown.
Sheila Atim elevated her ensemble with an elegant Messika diamond bib necklace, adding sophistication and impact to her look.
The Bulgari diamond Serpenti necklace remains a popular choice on major red carpets worldwide. At the BAFTAs, Julianne Moore adorned herself with this timeless and essential piece of High Jewelry.
Ke Huy Quan, known for bringing joy to every awards show, adorned his dark suit with a carved mother-of-pearl flower brooch by Stephen Dweck, adding a touch of radiance.
