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Chanel's dazzling pre-BAFTA party steals the spotlight with bold fashion

From Lily Allen's vibrant Chanel co-ord to Marisa Abela's sleek black gown, the night was pure sartorial magic. Who wore it best before the BAFTAs?

The image shows the entrance to a Chanel boutique in Paris, France. The building is adorned with...
The image shows the entrance to a Chanel boutique in Paris, France. The building is adorned with lush green plants and lights, and a mannequin wearing a red dress stands in front of the entrance. The floor is visible at the bottom of the image.

Chanel's dazzling pre-BAFTA party steals the spotlight with bold fashion

London's 5 Hertford Street Club became the centre of pre-BAFTA glamour on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Chanel hosted the annual Charles Finch party, drawing a star-studded crowd ahead of the awards. Guests arrived in bold and elegant looks, with Lily Allen, Marisa Abela, and Claudia Winkleman leading the style stakes.

The event saw Lily Allen make a statement in a bright orange and yellow co-ord from Chanel's summer 2026 collection. Her outfit paired a tailored button-up jacket with a textured, semi-sheer midi skirt. Meanwhile, Marisa Abela opted for a sleek black off-the-shoulder gown that highlighted her figure.

Claudia Winkleman kept her look polished yet understated, wearing a black velvet blazer over a crisp white shirt and leggings. The guest list was packed with notable names, including Mark Strong, Laura Harrier, and Patrick Dempsey, who attended with his family. Kirsten Dunst, Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Peter Sarsgaard were also spotted, alongside Regé-Jean Page, Felicity Jones, and Joe Alwyn.

Other attendees included Gwendoline Christie, Caitriona Balfe, and Henry Golding, while Terry Gilliam and Minnie Driver added to the evening's mix of film and fashion. The party, sponsored by Chanel, set a stylish tone before the BAFTA ceremony.

The Charles Finch and Chanel pre-BAFTA party brought together actors, directors, and industry figures for an evening of celebration. With standout outfits and a high-profile crowd, the event reinforced its reputation as a key moment in the awards season calendar. The focus now shifts to the BAFTAs themselves, where many of the same guests will reunite.

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