Hayley Atwell Pairs Western-Inspired A.W.A.K.E. Mode Gabriel Boots With Emilia Wickstead Dress

Hayley Atwell wowed everyone at the 2026 Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards in London, where she received the Best Shakespearean Performance Award for her role in Much Ado About Nothing, seamlessly blending classic style with a modern, Western-inspired twist.

Hayley Atwell is honored with the Best Shakespearean Performance Award for her role in Much Ado About Nothing, wearing an Emilia Wickstead dress and striking boots by A.W.A.K.E. Mode at the Critics’ Circle Theatre Awards 2026 at The National Theatre on March 26, 2026, in London (Credit: Ian West / PA Images / INSTARimages)

Hayley Atwell Sharpens Her Awards Look With A.W.A.K.E. Mode’s Gabriel Boots

Atwell wore the A.W.A.K.E. Mode “Gabriel” Boots, which instantly added a Western flair to her look. Timeless in silhouette, these boots were crafted from high-quality leather and featured a pointed square toe.

What really made them stand out were the contrasting metal baubles at the toe of each shoe—a large silver one and a smaller gold-tone one—adding a whimsical yet sophisticated touch that enhanced the modern edge.

These metallic accents brought just the right amount of boldness and playfulness to the sleek design, making them a true statement piece.

The boots also featured side zippers for easy wear and were finished with slanted cowboy-style heels. The unique blend of classic Western influences and contemporary elements made these boots the perfect choice for adding a signature touch of edge to Atwell’s ensemble.

Hayley Atwell grounds her Emilia Wickstead look with A.W.A.K.E. Mode’s “Gabriel” boots—sleek black leather ankle boots featuring sharply squared pointed toes and mismatched metal baubles (silver on one, gold on the other), adding a subtle Western edge (Credit: Ian West / PA Images / INSTARimages)

Emilia Wickstead’s Houndstooth Dress Brings Polished British Drama

For the event, Atwell chose a stunning houndstooth dress by London-based designer Emilia Wickstead, who’s known for her chic, polished designs. She’s also the go-to for the Princess of Wales, which added an extra touch of elegance to Atwell’s look.

The dress, with its clean lines and structured silhouette, offered a modern twist on classic British tailoring. The rich red-and-black Shetland houndstooth pattern brought warmth and depth to the design. It featured a fitted bodice with a sharp collar and a softly flared skirt, creating a graceful and powerful look. You can get this dress for $2,420 at Mytheresa.

The unique mix of sophistication and edge in Atwell’s look is a reminder of how the right pair of shoes can totally transform an outfit. If Kate Middleton had worn this dress, she might have paired it with pumps for a more traditional, elegant vibe. But on Atwell, those boots effortlessly added a laid-back, cool Western twist, making the look fresh and unexpected.

Hayley Atwell pairs her striking Western boots with an Emilia Wickstead dress in rich red-and-black Shetland houndstooth pattern (Credit: Ian West / PA Images / INSTARimages)

Silver Jewelry and a YSL Clutch Finish Hayley Atwell’s Modern-Theatrical Look

To complement her ensemble, Atwell kept the accessories elegant yet bold. She chose a ribbon brooch with pearl detailing on the side of her hip, adding a subtle touch of classic glam.

Her jewelry, which included multiple chunky silver hoop earrings, a wide silver cuff, and several statement rings, added the right amount of sparkle. For extra flair, Atwell carried a chic black crocodile-textured YSL clutch with a chain tassel.

When it came to her beauty look, Atwell kept things simple and fresh. She wore her bob with a side part, opting for minimal makeup with a soft pink lip and a hint of blush.

Hayley Atwell adds sparkles to her look with multiple thick hoop earrings, rings, a wide cuff, and a YSL clutch with a chain tassel (Credit: Ian West / PA Images / INSTARimages)

A.W.A.K.E. Mode’s Wearable-Art Approach Makes Hayley Atwell’s Boots Feel Even More Striking

Hayley Atwell’s look lands so well because A.W.A.K.E. Mode rarely designs ordinary accessories. Founded in London by Natalia Alaverdian, the label has built its reputation on sculptural silhouettes, asymmetry, and conceptual details that transform familiar wardrobe pieces into something sharper and more unexpected.

That design language is exactly what makes the “Gabriel” boots such a smart finishing touch here: they bring a polished Western edge while still feeling intellectual, fashion-forward, and unmistakably modern.

For more on the brand’s standout footwear and fashion moments, explore these related A.W.A.K.E. Mode stories from Your Next Shoes.