Baftas 2019: Olivia Colman’s stylist explains making the actor feel ‘empowered’ with regal gown

‘I felt that Olivia should look stately and regal,’ celebrity stylist Mary Fellowes said

Sabrina Barr
Monday 11 February 2019 06:18 EST
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BAFTAs 2019: Best Leading Actress award goes to Olivia Coleman for The Favourite

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Olivia Colman's portrayal of the eccentric Queen Anne in Yorgos Lanthimos' The Favourite has seen the actor pick up a number of coveted accolades, including a Bafta, a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination.

As such, when deciding what Colman would wear to the 2019 Bafta Awards, celebrity stylist Mary Fellowes wanted to ensure the actor's ensemble would reflect her queenly performance in the critically acclaimed film.

"I felt that Olivia should look stately and regal," Fellowes told Vogue.

"Whether she wins or not, all eyes should be on her. There's a real element of joy to this dress."

Colman arrived at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday evening wearing a bespoke monochrome gown by New Zealand-born fashion designer Emilia Wickstead, whose previous clients have included the likes of Samantha Cameron and the Duchess of Cambridge.

The actor accessorised with Swarovski jewellery and Jimmy Choo heels, looking every inch a member of Hollywood royalty.

Fellowes has collaborated with Colman throughout awards season, always opting for dresses that mirror her outgoing personality and strong work ethic.

“Olivia is a strong woman, a working mother and an independent thinker," the stylist said.

“All I’ve ever sought to do with her clothing is to make her feel empowered and like herself.”

Olivia Colman won the Bafta for 'Best Actress' for her portrayal of Queen Anne in 'The Favourite'
Olivia Colman won the Bafta for 'Best Actress' for her portrayal of Queen Anne in 'The Favourite' (Getty Images)

Wickstead also described the "incredible journey" of working with Colman and Fellowes on the geometric gown.

“The play on tone of shadow and light is something that Mary loved about the design of the dress, and there's a beautiful element of 'old world' in its cut, design lines and colour palette," the fashion designer said.

"I have loved fitting Olivia and being in her presence – she is an incredible person with superb energy.”

Screenwriter Deborah Davis reveals The Favourite was difficult to fund due to female lead cast

For all the winners from the 2019 Bafta Awards, click here.

For all the biggest talking points from the event, click here.

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