It’s not uncommon for Americans to refer to the British Film and Television Academy’s annual awards ceremony as the “British Oscars,” but this isn’t exactly a fair comparison. Celebrating some of the Commonwealth’s best screen talent from the past year, this black tie event is completely unique and unique, with a red carpet to match. Britain’s biggest stars from all industries gathered for a huge and elegant gala, making it worth revisiting some of the best beauty looks in the history of the BAFTAs.
The film industry’s It Girls are renowned for their ability to balance time-honored classics and edgy moments in equal measure, but that’s never more evident than on the BAFTA red carpet. For example, make-up has ranged from bright, colorful and bold on pioneers like Scarlett Johansson and Jodie Turner-Smith to more understated leading ladies like Gwyneth Paltrow and Emma Watson. They range from the very last minute to the modest. Hair follows a similar pattern, but there is one line that connects everything. It’s a more relaxed approach to the whole thing, especially compared to American ceremonies. It has a loose, fun feel that creates great aesthetics every time.
Below, take a look back at some of the best beauty moments from BAFTAs in recent memory.
Elizabeth Hurley, 1997
Almost every beauty trend from the late ’90s was reflected in this Harley look, which is still trending today. There’s a side-swept fringe and thin eyebrows, but the most appealing part is the combination of matte eyeshadow and glossy lip.
Gwyneth Paltrow, 1998
Channeling her inner English rose, Paltrow pursued a warm, minimalist aesthetic for her 1998 ceremony. With her hair tied up in a half ponytail, she could easily go out for a Sunday walk.
Scarlett Johansson, 2003
Nothing says early 2000s like Johansson’s Marilyn Monroe-colored curls and neon pink lipstick. This year, his retro revival is in full swing, and it shows in the best possible way.
Thandiwe Newton, 2006
One look that would still be a big hit today is Newton’s perky ponytail, which is ideal for texturally complementing her tulle-front dress. It’s still one of the best award show updates of all time.
Keira Knightley, 2008
romantic We haven’t even begun to cover the 2008 BAFTAs and just the nightly situation in general. Warm-toned brunette curls blend into her muddy, sultry eyeliner. And it all perfectly matches her eye color.
Emma Watson, 2011
Did Watson realize she was going to make pixie history when she got her first haircut? It was unveiled at the 2011 closing ceremony. Harry potter This franchise is sharp, chic, and very unique.
Julianne Moore, 2015
Fact: There’s nothing better than a redhead leaning into a fiery color scheme and wearing matching makeup and clothes. Moore was literally in all her glory, decked out in crimson from head to toe.
Michelle Yeoh, 2019
Regal, elegant, and a little divine, Yeoh wowed fans with this radiant look in 2019. Her skin glowed with a truly heavenly glow, as if reflected by the crystals on her gown. The curls that frame her face and her delicate pink lipstick are the perfect finishing touches.
Jodie Turner-Smith, 2021
Turner-Smith is one of Britain’s brightest stars, and she packs that energy every time she appears on the red carpet. In 2021, she paired her shiniest, healthiest-looking curls with shimmering purple eyeshadow with a fringe that brushed her eyes.
Kate Middleton, 2023
Of course, a modern BAFTA ceremony wouldn’t be complete without the future queen. The Princess of Wales has always sported her signature bold but undramatic eye makeup in some form, and it’s especially stunning in this blowout.