The British Royal Family’s presence at the British Academy Film Awards (BAFTAs) has become a consistent blend of high fashion, sustainable choices, and enduring tradition. From Princess Anne’s debut in 1971 to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s modern appearances, the royals have shaped the event’s cultural significance.
Early Royal Involvement: Princess Anne and Prince Philip
The royal connection to the BAFTAs dates back to its early years. Prince Philip served as the very first president of the Society of Film and Television Arts Awards (the BAFTAs’ original name) from 1959 to 1965. In 1963, he presented an award to Richard Attenborough, marking the beginning of a long-standing association. Over a decade later, in 1971, Princess Anne made her first appearance at the age of 21, sporting a green frock and a choker necklace that foreshadowed future fashion trends.
Prince William Takes the Lead: A Modern Era Begins
Prince William’s involvement began in 2010 when he became president of the BAFTAs. His early appearances showcased classic black-tie attire, though he would later become known for his consistent re-wearing of the same tuxedo and velvet slippers — an early embrace of sustainable fashion practices. In 2011, he attended with Kate Middleton for the first time, where she wore a lilac Alexander McQueen gown that she would revisit a decade later at the Earthshot Prize, also signaling a commitment to eco-conscious choices.
The Rise of Sustainable Fashion
In 2020, the BAFTAs implemented a sustainability initiative encouraging guests to re-wear, rent, or purchase vintage attire. Kate Middleton led by example, re-wearing a gilded Alexander McQueen gown first seen at a 2012 state dinner in Malaysia. This demonstrated a growing awareness within the royal family of fashion’s environmental impact and a willingness to promote responsible consumption.
Kate Middleton’s Signature Style
Kate Middleton has consistently turned heads at the BAFTAs. In 2018, while pregnant with Prince Louis, she wore a forest green Jenny Packham gown, accessorized with re-worn diamond and emerald jewelry from a 2014 event in New York. Her 2023 appearance featured a flowing white Alexander McQueen gown paired with dramatic black gloves, a testament to her ability to blend classic elegance with modern flair. She often keeps her makeup and hair simple, letting her jewelry take center stage.
Other Royal Appearances
Princess Beatrice made a more subdued entrance at the 2018 event, attending a post-ceremony party at Vogue and Tiffany & Co. Prince William has remained a steady presence, often sticking to his signature tuxedo look, while Kate continues to refine her red-carpet style.
The Royal Family’s participation in the BAFTAs has evolved from early ceremonial appearances to a modern focus on sustainability and fashion. Their choices set trends, promote responsible practices, and reinforce the event’s cultural importance.
