Last Week, Stars Played to Their Strengths

Last week, as 2019 began the dizzying wind up to a new decade, the world’s most stylish walked the red carpet in looks that were personal, definitive and dazzling. When you have a signature look, why would you ever bow to trend or whimsy? Consider Tilda Swinton: for her tenure as lead juror at the Marrakech International Film Festival, she packed plenty of Chanel, a house whose classic charms have always paired elegantly with the actor’s luminous unusual beauty. And so for the festival’s tribute to Bertrand Tavernier Swinton chose a flowing navy gown from Virginie Viard’s spring 2020 collectsion for the house: new leader, new look, timeless perfection.

The British Fashion Awards had a guest list of style stars who always—helplessly, relentlessly—live and dress by their own rules. Rihanna led the pack in Fenty as she picked up her first significant design award for the brand. Her monochromatic mint satin mini dress and matching tulle coat exemplified “urban luxe” with a hint of sexiness—precisely what we’ve come to expect from music’s bad gal. Likewise, Alexa Chung played to her strengths in a sequined gown from her eponymous label. Inspired by Sixties pieces worn by Jane Birkin and Francoise Hardy, Chung’s sparky maxi shirtdress had a gamine, retro sensibility and a sleek modern line. Meanwhile Adwoa Aboah continued to marvel onlookers with epic vintage. For the BFCs she wore the closing look of John Galliano’s fall 2001 collectsion. Corseted, buckled and adorned with 3-d floral embroidery, the dress was chic, sustainable, and unlike anything worn that night. Vive la difference!