Olivier Awards: The Red Carpet in Pictures – A Glamorous Night of Theatre Excellence
Introduction: A Night to Remember
The Olivier Awards are one of the most prestigious events in the UK theatre calendar, celebrating the best of London’s West End and the broader theatrical community. Named after the legendary actor Laurence Olivier, the awards honor achievements in various categories, from acting to design, musical performances, and more. Each year, the red carpet event is a dazzling spectacle, attracting a host of theatre stars, celebrities, and industry professionals who come together to celebrate the magic of live performance.
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The 2025 Olivier Awards were no exception, with the red carpet serving as the stage for some of the most exciting fashion moments and stunning ensembles. From glamorous gowns to sharp suits, the night was filled with breathtaking looks, making it as much about the fashion as it was about celebrating the artistry of theatre.
This article takes a closer look at the standout moments from the red carpet, highlighting the stars who stole the show, the trends that emerged, and the magic of the evening.
The Glamour of the Red Carpet: Fashion Highlights
1. The Stars Shine Bright
As the red carpet unfurled outside the Royal Opera House, guests from across the theatre world made their grand entrances. From acclaimed actors to directors and designers, the event was a celebration of the talent and artistry that makes the London stage so extraordinary.
Among the most notable arrivals was Ruth Wilson, the celebrated actress known for her performances in A Streetcar Named Desire and The Affair. Wilson wore a show-stopping emerald green gown by Alexander McQueen, which featured intricate beadwork and a dramatic train. Her look was the epitome of elegance, and her presence on the red carpet made an unforgettable statement.
Another actress who turned heads was Imelda Staunton, a long-time Olivier Award-winning actress known for her roles in Gypsy and Sweeney Todd. Staunton wore a stunning black velvet dress with subtle lace detailing, paired with a sophisticated chignon hairstyle. She exuded classic Hollywood glamour, reminding everyone of the timeless beauty of live performance.
2. The Power of Bold Colors
The red carpet at the Olivier Awards showcased an array of bold and vibrant colors, with many stars opting for statement pieces that were impossible to ignore. Olivia Colman, the Academy Award-winning actress, graced the carpet in a bright orange gown by Valentino, with a voluminous silhouette that played perfectly to her radiant personality. The vibrant hue was a nod to the ongoing trend of powerful color statements seen in fashion over the past few years, symbolizing confidence and strength.
Lydia West, known for her breakout role in It’s a Sin, donned a dazzling red satin dress by Vivienne Westwood, with a high-low hemline and intricate ruching. The bold red was a stunning choice, accentuating West’s youthful exuberance and drawing attention to her elegance and grace.
For those who chose to go for more subtlety, neutral tones like champagne, ivory, and beige also made an appearance. Samantha Spiro, a much-loved theatre veteran, opted for a chic ivory dress with silver detailing that balanced sophistication with understated charm.
3. Gender-Neutral Fashion Takes Center Stage
An exciting trend emerging at the 2025 Olivier Awards was the rise of gender-neutral fashion. More and more stars were seen experimenting with non-binary looks, challenging traditional notions of red carpet glamour. David Oyelowo, known for his stunning performances in film and stage, arrived in a tailored black tuxedo paired with flared trousers and a statement chain. Oyelowo’s take on gender-neutral attire was polished yet daring, showcasing a perfect balance of both classic and modern influences.
Similarly, Alexandra Burke, the singer and actress, wore a chic suit-inspired outfit that broke away from traditional eveningwear norms. The bespoke black tuxedo dress, designed by Tom Ford, featured a bold open back and oversized lapels, representing a major shift in how women are approaching red carpet fashion.
4. The Rise of Sustainable Fashion
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important issue in the world of fashion, and the Olivier Awards 2025 were no exception. A number of stars took the opportunity to showcase sustainable fashion choices on the red carpet, making an important statement about the importance of ethical production.
Gemma Arterton, star of Made in Dagenham and The Duchess, wore a recycled satin gown from the Stella McCartney collection. The elegant gown, in a soft shade of lavender, was crafted from sustainably sourced fabrics, with minimal environmental impact. Arterton’s choice was part of a growing trend toward eco-conscious fashion, reflecting a wider shift toward sustainability in the entertainment industry.
Sir Ian McKellen, a regular at the Olivier Awards and a towering figure in British theatre, wore a suit crafted from upcycled materials, showing that even more mature stars are embracing sustainable fashion practices. McKellen, who has long been an advocate for environmental causes, made a strong statement about the future of red carpet fashion.
The Men’s Fashion: A Nod to Classic Tailoring with a Twist
While women’s fashion on the Olivier Awards red carpet often takes center stage, the men’s fashion was no less impressive. Traditional suits and tuxedos were the foundation of many of the evening’s most stylish looks, but a variety of bold twists ensured that the male attendees still stood out.
Andrew Scott, known for his acclaimed performances in Fleabag and Pride, wore a midnight blue velvet suit with a deep V-neck shirt underneath. The outfit was sleek and modern, adding a touch of playfulness to his traditionally classic look. Scott’s choice demonstrated that men’s eveningwear need not be stuffy or predictable, and that even the most formal occasions can allow for moments of creativity.
Tom Hiddleston, the star of The Night Manager, stepped onto the red carpet in a sharp black tuxedo, with a striking velvet bow tie that added a bit of flair to the ensemble. Hiddleston’s tailoring was immaculate, and his overall look exuded polished sophistication—perfect for the glamorous setting of the Olivier Awards.
Meanwhile, John Boyega, the Star Wars star known for his advocacy work and breakthrough acting roles, wore a sleek tailored suit with a vibrant floral print. The suit was a testament to Boyega’s individuality, making it clear that men’s red carpet fashion is about far more than just following the rules—it’s about personal expression.
Hair, Makeup, and Accessories: The Finishing Touches
No red carpet look is complete without the finishing touches of hair, makeup, and accessories, and at the Olivier Awards, these elements elevated many of the attendees’ outfits to new heights.
Lucy Fallon, the actress best known for her role on Coronation Street, paired her elegant metallic gown with a sleek bob haircut and bold red lipstick. The statement lip was a perfect contrast to her shimmering dress, adding a pop of color and drama to her overall look.
Kit Harington, famed for his role in Game of Thrones, was spotted wearing a sleek, modern hairstyle with a clean side part, while accessorizing his look with a bold wristwatch. Harington’s understated grooming choices allowed the focus to remain on his sharp suit, but the carefully chosen accessories added a touch of polish to his ensemble.
For Imelda Staunton, the use of classic pearl earrings and a soft updo enhanced her vintage-inspired gown. The simplicity of the hair and accessories complemented her sophisticated look without overpowering the elegance of her dress.
The Star Power: Celebrating Theatre Talent
The Olivier Awards red carpet was not just about fashion—it was a chance to celebrate the stars of the British theatre scene. Many of the evening’s winners and nominees were seen walking the red carpet in anticipation of their big night, adding an air of excitement and anticipation to the atmosphere.
Jodie Comer, the award-winning actress, was a notable attendee, wearing a sleek black dress with a dramatic train. Her striking look made her one of the standout stars on the carpet, perfectly matching her reputation as one of the leading lights in contemporary British theatre.
Andrew Scott, nominated for his role in Present Laughter, also made a grand entrance, capturing attention with his charming personality and impeccable style. The red carpet wasn’t just about the awards; it was about honoring the dedication and brilliance of the performers who bring the magic of theatre to life.
Conclusion: A Night of Magic, Style, and Theatre Excellence
The 2025 Olivier Awards red carpet was a memorable display of fashion, creativity, and star power, reflecting the incredible talent within the UK’s vibrant theatre community. From bold fashion choices to sophisticated tailoring, the event highlighted the versatility of red carpet style and the importance of theatre as a cultural force.
As the winners were announced and the night drew to a close, the Olivier Awards served as a reminder of the enduring power of the stage. And as the final photos were snapped, it was clear that the red carpet had been just as much a part of the celebration
as the performances themselves, creating moments that will be remembered for years to come.
