By Ayanda Ntuli
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky on the red carpet at the 2024 Fashion Awards, credit: BFC by Jack Chipper
On Monday night, the Royal Albert Hall in London played host to one of the fashion industry’s most highly anticipated events, the Fashion Awards, presented by Pandora. The evening celebrated the unparalleled talent of designers, models, and visionaries shaping the global fashion landscape. A star-studded guest list, including Rihanna, ASAP Rocky, and other A-list celebrities, brought an extra layer of glamour to the occasion. Organised annually as a fundraiser for the British Fashion Council, the event celebrates the industry’s most brilliant creatives and highlights the connection between fashion, culture, and entertainment.
The evening honoured a remarkable lineup of winners, spotlighting creativity and innovation within the industry. Among the notable honourees were Tom Ford, who received the Outstanding Achievement Award, and Jonathan Anderson, who secured his second consecutive Designer of the Year title. Simone Rocha and Grace Wales Bonner were recognised for their original work, winning the British Womenswear Designer and British Menswear Designer awards, respectively.
(Left) Rihanna & A$AP Rocky at the 2024 Fashion Awards, credit: Dave Benett/Getty Images. (Right) Jonathan Anderson at the 2024 Fashion Awards, credit: Getty Images.
Alex Consani made history as the first transgender model to win Model of the Year, while A$AP Rocky was honoured with the Cultural Innovator Award. Marco Capaldo of 16Arlington claimed the New Establishment Womenswear Award, and Remo Ruffini earned the Trailblazer Award for his leadership at Moncler. Issa Rae rounded out the evening with the Pandora Leader of Change Award, celebrating her influence and advocacy.
While the winners took centre stage, the red carpet stole the spotlight with bold silhouettes and stunning couture, making just as much of an impact. With every glance a masterpiece and every outfit a statement, here is a closer look at the best-dressed celebrities and the designers who made it all possible.
Rita Ora
Rita Ora in Primark at the 2024 Fashion Awards, credit: Getty Images
Rita Ora made a bold statement in a two-toned oversized grey pantsuit, embracing an edgy and androgynous aesthetic effortlessly. The look was elevated with large chunky silver earrings andmatching bangles, her blonde gelled mullet paired with bleached eyebrows creating an eye-catching finish. Designed by Rita herself in collaboration with Primark, her ensemble proved that red carpet-worthy style doesn't have to come from high-end labels to exude sophistication.
Nara Smith
Nara Smith in H&M Studio at the 2024 Fashion Awards. Credit: H&M & Getty Images
Nara Smith exuded elegance in a beige dress featuring a shimmering corseted waistline that beautifully complemented her skin tone, creating a radiant golden nude effect. Her minimalist yet glamorous ensemble was both striking and refined, showcasing understated sophistication. The custom, limited-edition H&M Studio dress she wore proved once again that red carpet-worthy style does not have to come exclusively from luxury designers, it is about the artistry and impact of the look itself.
Ellie Goulding
Ellie Goulding in Moncler at the 2024 Fashion Awards. Credit: Reuters
Ellie Goulding turned heads in a long, flared white puffer dress by Moncler, which trailed on the floor and was cinched at the waist to create a more defined silhouette. The design seemed to draw inspiration from Gigi Hadid’s dramatic Versace look at the 2022 Met Gala, with a slightly more subdued take on the long-flared puffer. The monochromatic, winter-ready ensemble was accessorised with pointed white heels, bold black eyeliner, and large hoop earrings. Classy yet attention-grabbing, Goulding not only nailed the fashion but was likely the warmest attendee of the evening too.
Maya Jama
Maya Jama in Connor Ives at the 2024 Fashion Awards, credit: Getty Images.
Maya Jama, one of the hosts of the evening, stunned in a long sage green satin bodycon dress with beautiful floral embroidery. The dress trailed the floor, featuring a tassel crochet hem, and a halterneck design added to its elegance. Made by British designer Connor Ives, the dress was incredibly flattering, and Jama paired it with pointed heels and delicate jewellery to complete her classy, tasteful look.
Leomie Anderson
Leomie Anderson in Iris van Herpen at the 2024 Fashion Awards. Credit: Gareth Cattermole/ Matt Crossick
Leomie Anderson glowed in a dreamy white gown with a sculptured silhouette, crafted from delicate, sheer fabric. The exaggerated design gave off ethereal charm. Her minimalistic glam, featuring silver earrings, white heels, and golden eyeliner, perfectly complemented the look giving it a refined touch. Wearing this dress by Dutch designer Iris van Herpen, made Anderson one of the evening’s standout style icons.
The British Fashion Awards showcased a fearless display of self-expression, with celebrities embracing daring, unique looks that captured fashion’s essence as both art and individuality. From dramatic silhouettes to outside-the-box designs, the night was a celebration of creativity and the beauty of uniqueness. These moments remind us that fashion is about more than just style, it is about being brave, making a statement and celebrating who we are.
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