BAFTA Red Carpet 2020: Sustainable Couture, Iconic Heels & the Night’s Most Unforgettable Fashion Moments

Award season has become as much about cultural conversation as it is about celebrating film—and in recent years, sustainability has taken center stage.

Long before eco-conscious dressing became a recurring red-carpet theme, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts was already rethinking its environmental footprint, from plant-forward menus to fashion guidelines encouraging guests to rewear, rent, or choose vintage.

As BAFTA explained to Harper’s Bazaar, the goal wasn’t just a symbolic nod to sustainability—it was a step toward hosting ceremonies with a genuinely positive environmental impact.

Yet even with eco-friendly options on the table, many attendees still gravitated toward runway-fresh couture, proving that the BAFTAs remain one of the most compelling style stages of the year. And the 2020 red carpet delivered: a mix of Old Hollywood glamour, bold modern silhouettes, and unexpected choices from stars like Renée Zellweger, Charlize Theron, and Florence Pugh.

Below, we revisit the standout looks that made the night unforgettable—a timeless showcase of craftsmanship, personality, and red-carpet drama that still feels inspiring today.

1. Scarlett Johansson Stuns in Crystal Versace Couture & Jimmy Choo Minny Sandals

Scarlett Johansson arrived at the BAFTAs as a double nominee—contending for Best Actress for Marriage Story and Best Supporting Actress for Jojo Rabbit—but long before the envelopes were opened, she had already secured one of the night’s most memorable fashion moments.

Stepping onto the red carpet in a ’20s-inspired Atelier Versace gown that reportedly took 550 hours to create, Johansson delivered full bombshell glamour. The crystal-beaded, blush-pink dress sculpted her hourglass figure with precision, featuring sensual cutouts, a plunging neckline, a dramatic feathered train, and a thigh-high slit that showcased her footwear to perfection.

For the finishing touch, she slipped into Jimmy Choo’s iconic Minny sandals—a minimalist, barely-there stiletto beloved by stylists for its clean lines and red-carpet reliability. With their delicate crossover toe strap, slender ankle buckle, and sleek stiletto heel (often crafted in satin, suede, patent, or metallic finishes), the Minnys added just the right amount of refinement without competing with the gown’s high-impact detailing.

Scarlett Johansson stuns in a custom Atelier Versace gown paired with Nikos Koulis Universe drop earrings, her Taffin light-brown diamond engagement ring, and blush-toned Jimmy Choo Minny sandals at the 2020 EE BAFTAs

Whether worn in the 110mm or 85mm heel height, the Minny is known for its elegant simplicity—and on Scarlett, the effect was seamless: a modern Hollywood siren moment grounded in timeless, meticulous design.

Styled by Molly Dickson, the blonde bombshell teamed her outfit with Nikos Koulis’ white diamonds and gray drop earrings.

To complement her dress, makeup artist Frankie Boyd applied shimmery pink eyeshadow, matching lip gloss, and pink blush. Hairstylist Danilo styled her blonde tresses up in a sleek chignon.

Scarlett Johansson pairs a sleek chignon with soft pink eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick for a radiant finish at the 2020 EE British Academy Film Awards at London’s Royal Albert Hall on February 2, 2020 (Credit: Mario Mitsis / WENN / Instar)

2. Margot Robbie Channels Vintage Chanel Elegance in Haute Couture & Rupert Sanderson Pumps

Margot Robbie—nominated for Best Supporting Actress for both Bombshell and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood—leaned into understated elegance for the BAFTAs, choosing a look that balanced timeless couture with her signature modern polish.

She stepped onto the red carpet in a black Chanel Spring 2020 Haute Couture gown, a piece that felt both vintage-inspired and unmistakably Chanel. The floor-length silhouette featured romantic lace cape shoulders, a softly cinched waist with peplum detailing, and a refined cutout back that added subtle allure.

To ground the ethereal gown, Margot finished her look with Rupert Sanderson’s “Malory” pumps in black suede—a sophisticated, sculptural style known for its clean lines and signature curved “Flare” heel.

Margot Robbie channels understated Chanel elegance in a Spring 2020 Haute Couture gown, styled with Camélia diamond drop earrings, matching Camélia rings, and black suede Rupert Sanderson “Malory” pumps at the 2020 EE BAFTAs

The Malory is one of Sanderson’s most beloved designs, favored for its quiet luxury and impeccable craftsmanship, making it a fitting companion for haute couture. Its velvety suede texture and sleek pointed toe added just enough structure to balance the gown’s softness, underscoring Margot’s talent for pairing classic pieces with contemporary edge.

The result? A red-carpet moment that felt effortless, enduring, and unmistakably Margot. She accessorized with a pair of Chanel Fine Jewelry diamond earrings and a black flower ring selected by her stylist, Kate Young.

Hairstylist Bryce Scarlett pulled Margot’s peroxide blonde locks back and let a few strands fall loose on one side. Makeup artist Pati Dubroff lined her eyes and added a hint of sparkle on her lids.

Margot Robbie pairs kohl-rimmed eyes with a swept-back peroxide-blonde updo for a sleek, modern beauty moment at the 2020 BAFTAs

3. Laura Dern Is a Winner in Red Velvet Valentino Gown & Minimalist Diamond Accents

Laura Dern was in the middle of a career-defining hot streak during the 2020 awards season—and her BAFTAs appearance was yet another reminder of why she dominated every red carpet that year. Arriving as the newly crowned Best Supporting Actress for Marriage Story, Dern stepped onstage in a red velvet Valentino Haute Couture gown that felt equal parts regal, romantic, and unmistakably her.

The halter-neck silhouette showcased one of Pierpaolo Piccioli’s most intricate bodices of the season, complete with jewel-studded embellishments, soft feathering, and couture-level texture that caught the light with every movement. A satin waistband added structure, while the floor-skimming skirt—finished with elegant side pockets—brought a relaxed confidence to the otherwise opulent design.

Laura Dern highlights her sculpted arms and shoulders in a jewel-embellished red Valentino Haute Couture gown at the 2020 BAFTAs

It was the kind of look that defined that era of red-carpet dressing: thoughtful, tactile, and tailored to an actress in full command of her moment.

Stylist Cristina Ehrlich kept Laura’s accessories to a minimum with just a pair of diamond earrings by Jessica McCormack. Her hair was styled into a center-parted ponytail with a slight bouffant and a few wisps framing her softly made-up face.

Laura Dern wears a softly tousled, center-parted updo that complements the intricate feathered embellishment of her Valentino gown at the 2020 BAFTAs

4. Saoirse Ronan Embraces Sustainable Gucci Couture & Sky-High Angel Platform Pumps

Saoirse Ronan embraced conscious couture at the BAFTAs in a custom Gucci gown crafted from discarded satin—a quietly powerful statement in an era when sustainability is shaping red-carpet fashion.

Her longtime stylist Elizabeth Saltzman told British Vogue, “We wanted to create a gown that didn’t waste any resources or people’s time… It’s the first time we’ve gone dead simple, but we’ve been geeking out about the intricate craftsmanship.”

The resulting look was striking: a sleek black ball gown that blended minimalist lines with classic Gucci drama. While the low-waist silhouette felt slightly overwhelming on her petite frame, Ronan still carried the moment with her signature poise—and a bold footwear choice that tied the ensemble together.

She completed the look with Gucci’s Angel Leather Platform Pumps, one of Alessandro Michele’s most recognizable, maximalist-era designs.

Introduced during Gucci’s Spring 2016 runway, the Angels became an instant icon for their towering proportions: a 6–6.5-inch stiletto heel balanced by a 2.25–2.5-inch platform, a rounded toe, and the chunky stacked profile that defined Michele’s revival of ’70s and ’90s platform glamour.

Saoirse Ronan wears a custom black Gucci gown made from discarded satin, styled with Hortus Deliciarum lion-head earrings, a diamond-and-emerald-eyed panther bracelet, and black Gucci Angel leather platform pumps at the 2020 BAFTAs

Typically crafted in smooth leather and released in shades ranging from classic black to metallic silver, the Angels were known for transforming even the simplest gown into a bold fashion statement—precisely the kind of unexpected edge that elevated Saoirse’s otherwise pared-back look.

Saoirse added subtle sparkle with Gucci’s sculptural drop earrings and a coordinating bracelet, a refined touch that played beautifully off the gown’s restrained silhouette. Her beauty look leaned vintage with a modern twist: an artfully sculpted updo, crisp winged liner, and a vibrant coral lip that brought a fresh pop of color to the red carpet.

Saoirse Ronan pairs a retro, side-swept updo with a vibrant coral-red lip for a fresh, vintage-inspired beauty moment

5. Naomie Harris Glistens in a Metallic Michael Kors Gown & Jimmy Choo Minny Heels

Bond girl Naomie Harris commanded the red carpet in a custom Michael Kors Collection gown that showed off her sculpted figure with effortless ease.

The metallic halter-neck dress—worn braless for a striking, modern finish—was fully embellished with silver and black sequins that caught the light from every angle.

Fringe accents, a low scoop neckline, and a thigh-high slit added texture and movement, giving the outfit a high-octane glamour that felt perfectly in step with Naomie’s confident style.

Naomie Harris dazzles in a custom sequined Michael Kors Collection gown, finishing the look with Jimmy Choo Minny sandals and effortless curls at the 2020 BAFTAs

In a subtle nod to another standout of the night, Naomie completed her ensemble with the same Jimmy Choo Minny sandals worn by Scarlett Johansson—a red-carpet staple beloved for its refined, barely-there silhouette.

Masterminded by stylist Nicky Yates, Naomie accessorized her look with Jessica McCormack jewelry and a silver clutch.

Naomie Harris shows off her black pedicure in Jimmy Choo’s minimalist Minny sandals, adding a sleek metallic accent to her shimmering BAFTA gown

Makeup artist Kenneth So applied a natural makeup look to the actress, while hairstylist Rio Sreedharan styled her hair in voluminous curls with a side parting.

Naomie Harris pairs her glittering gown with soft-glam makeup and voluminous curls for a radiant, modern BAFTA beauty moment

6. Ella Balinska Makes a Statement in Floral Giambattista Valli Couture & Classic Casadei Pumps

Charlie’s Angels star Ella Balinska opted for a sweet floral look, wearing a Giambattista Valli Spring 2019 Haute Couture gown. She braved the weather in the pink high-low number, which has ruffle details and a dramatic train.

Ella Balinska makes a dramatic entrance in a cascading floral Giambattista Valli haute couture gown, styled with sleek black pumps and a high, sculptural ponytail at the 2020 BAFTAs

While it’s a bit unflattering, the 23-year-old actress still managed to pull it off. Her black Casadei pumps, however, didn’t complement the outfit’s soft, feminine vibe. A pair of silver sandals would have looked better with her dress and with her Cartier jewelry.

Ella Balinska keeps the focus on her sweeping couture gown with classic black Casadei pumps that add a clean, understated finish to her bold red-carpet look

Her pink smoky eye makeup, crafted by Vincent Oquendo, and high ponytail by Rio Sreedharan, rounded out her look.

Ella Balinska pairs her floral Giambattista Valli gown with a sleek high ponytail and monochromatic pink eye makeup for a fresh, romantic BAFTA beauty moment

7. Greta Gerwig Surprises in a Figure-Flattering Gucci Velvet Gown & Metallic Heels

Loose-fitting, long-sleeved ankle-length dresses have been her signature style, so it was pretty surprising to see Greta Gerwig in a gown that flatters her figure at the BAFTAs.

Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay for her movie Little Women, the 36-year-old actress and filmmaker wore a custom Gucci gown. It has a flattering, fitted bodice that gently flares into a softly pleated, floor-sweeping skirt. It also has crystal-embellished straps and a sweetheart neckline that shows a glimpse of her cleavage.

Greta Gerwig stuns in a green velvet Gucci gown accented with crystal-embellished straps and metallic heels at the 2020 BAFTAs

She accessorized with a pair of diamond tassel earrings and silver heels. Her tousled short blonde locks, bold, brushed-up brows, and pink lipstick completed her stunning look.

Greta Gerwig pairs her velvet Gucci gown with a tousled blonde bob and soft pink makeup, letting the crystal-embellished straps steal the spotlight at the 2020 BAFTAs

8. Zoë Kravitz Is a Siren in Liquid-Gold Saint Laurent & Patent Platform Sandals

Zoë Kravitz opted for a sleek, gilded look in a metallic gold gown from Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello.

Channeling old Hollywood glamour, the embellished liquid gold gown highlighted her svelte figure with its nipped-in waist. It also has long sleeves and a floor-length skirt with a slit.

Zoë Kravitz turns heads in a custom Saint Laurent liquid-gold gown paired with Hall patent-leather platform sandals and Assael Hearts Desire drop earrings at the 2020 BAFTAs

Instead of wearing gold jewelry, Zoe chose a pair of Assael coral earrings, which added a pop of color to the look. She also wore a slick of red lipstick and had her nails painted red by Ama Quashie.

Zoë Kravitz pairs her liquid-gold Saint Laurent gown with a sleek, side-parted updo and bold red lips, punctuated by vibrant Assael Hearts Desire drop earrings

The look, which stylist Andrew Mukamal masterminded, was completed with a pair of black Saint Laurent Hall sandals.

Zoë Kravitz completes her molten Saint Laurent look with black Hall patent-leather platform sandals and a pop of red on her toes

9. Pixie Lott Stuns in White Sandra Mansour Ruffles & Crystal-Trimmed Black Sandals

Pixie Lott looked gorgeous in white on the red carpet. She opted for a Sandra Mansour creation featuring a form-fitting silhouette with a tiered ruffle skirt.

Pixie Lott lights up the BAFTA red carpet in a white tiered Sandra Mansour gown, styling the look with crystal-embellished black sandals and a sparkling clutch

She teamed her white midi dress with a pair of diamond drop earrings, a pearl-embellished clutch, and black sandals with crystal-embellished straps.

Pixie Lott adds a touch of glamour with crystal-trimmed black sandals that echo the shimmer of her accessories

Hairstylist Gabrielle Thomson styled her peroxide blonde hair into a swept-back updo with a few face-framing strands. She then highlighted her eyes with eyeliner, shimmering eyeshadow, and false eyelashes, courtesy of Goddess Beauty by Athena.

Pixie Lott pairs her white gown with fluttery lashes, glossy nude lips, and a tousled topknot for a fresh, radiant beauty moment

10. Vanessa Kirby Serves Edgy Valentino Color-Block Glamour & Silver Jimmy Choo Minny Sandals

British actress Vanessa Kirby ditched floor-sweeping gowns for an edgier look at the BAFTAs.

Highlighting her toned figure, she wore a Valentino Pre-Fall 2020 color-block belted dress featuring a heavily-embellished nude tank top and a burgundy skirt with crystal adornments and a feathered hem.

Vanessa Kirby serves modern glamour in a sequined Valentino tank and feather-embellished midi skirt, finished with a wide VLogo belt and Jimmy Choo Minny sandals at the 2020 BAFTAs

The 31-year-old actress finished off her look with Tiffany & Co. jewels and a pair of silver Jimmy Choo Minny sandals.

Vanessa Kirby teams her two-tone embellished dress with silver Jimmy Choo Minny heels

She kept her beauty look edgy with black eyeliner, mascara, and maroon lipstick. She then wore her tresses down, sleek and parted in the middle.

Vanessa Kirby contrasts her shimmering Valentino top with a sleek center-parted hairstyle and a bold wine-red lip for a striking BAFTA beauty moment

More BAFTA Red-Carpet Shoe Moments You’ll Love

As these standout ensembles prove, the BAFTAs remain one of fashion’s most expressive stages—where couture craftsmanship, directional styling, and unforgettable footwear come together in truly cinematic ways. For even more red-carpet inspiration, explore these additional BAFTA shoe and fashion breakdowns from recent years.