Josh O’Connor delivered a striking fashion moment on April 3, 2023, at the BAFTA Rising Stars Reception in London, wearing a custom ensemble by JW Anderson that offered a bold reinterpretation of classic British tailoring. Known for his nuanced portrayals and growing presence as a menswear innovator, the British actor stepped out in a look that was equal parts tradition and transformation, reinforcing his status as one of the most daring dressers in modern red carpet menswear.
The ensemble featured a deconstructed navy blazer with asymmetrical lapels and a deliberately disjointed cut, subverting the symmetry traditionally associated with Savile Row tailoring. The jacket’s unconventional structure—at once sleek and experimental—pushed the boundaries of menswear formality while maintaining a connection to classic silhouettes. The wide-leg pleated trousers added a sense of flow and ease to the outfit, grounding the upper half’s angular construction with soft, voluminous lines that gave the overall look a poetic movement.
Underneath the blazer, O’Connor wore a sheer, high-collared shirt that added a touch of vulnerability and romanticism to the ensemble. The translucent fabric subtly revealed the contours beneath, playing with notions of masculinity and openness—consistent with O’Connor’s fashion narrative of quiet rebellion and emotional depth. The shirt’s high neckline added a Victorian-inspired flourish, emphasizing the fusion of eras and influences that JW Anderson has come to be known for.
O’Connor completed the look with glossy black patent leather monk-strap shoes, which offered a refined, classic contrast to the avant-garde tailoring above. A minimalist silver brooch pinned to the blazer’s lapel added an elegant touch without overpowering the look, proving that subtle accessories can still have maximum impact. His beauty look was equally thoughtful: tousled, naturally waved hair gave off an effortless cool, while soft, dewy makeup lent his skin a polished, clean glow.
Behind the scenes, JW Anderson’s team revealed that the custom look was inspired by the concept of “romantic British rebellion”—a thematic nod to O’Connor’s on-screen roles, many of which explore vulnerability, identity, and defiance within traditional structures. This aesthetic mirrored the way the ensemble approached tailoring: by honoring its heritage while purposefully reshaping its form. For O’Connor, the look wasn’t just about fashion—it was a visual extension of his artistic voice.
The fashion world took note. Critics and style watchers praised the outfit for its architectural innovation and quiet elegance, with many calling it one of the most distinctive menswear moments of the spring season. It stood in contrast to the more conventional looks at the event, signaling a shift in how male celebrities are choosing to express themselves on the red carpet.
Josh O’Connor’s appearance at the BAFTA Rising Stars Reception was more than just a showcase of cutting-edge design—it was a powerful statement about the evolving language of menswear. By teaming up with JW Anderson, a designer celebrated for his fearless experimentation, O’Connor leaned fully into fashion’s potential as a narrative tool. The result was a look that was intellectual, expressive, and distinctly his own.
As O’Connor continues to rise in both the film and fashion arenas, he’s redefining what it means to dress well—not by adhering to tradition, but by challenging it. His style is thoughtful and evolving, always a few steps ahead, much like his career. With each appearance, he further cements his place not only as a gifted actor but also as a modern menswear icon, capable of blending theatricality, elegance, and innovation with effortless charm.