Jessie Buckley's BAFTA Prep: Snacks, Spanx, and Sisterhood

André Leon Talley

Former creative director and editor-at-large at Vogue, a towering and influential figure in fashion journalism.

Jessie Buckley offers a refreshingly honest glimpse into the glamorous yet demanding world of awards season, revealing her practical preparations and emotional journey. Balancing professional achievements with personal life, she navigates the red carpet circuit with a down-to-earth attitude, appreciating both the star-studded encounters and the simple comforts of motherhood. Her reflections highlight the blend of excitement and occasional struggle that defines her current career high.

Jessie Buckley's recent awards season run has been a whirlwind of red carpets and industry recognition, yet she maintains a remarkably grounded perspective on the experience. Ahead of the BAFTAs, the 'Hamnet' star candidly discussed her unconventional essentials, including the practical necessity of shapewear like Spanx, which she humorously admits can sometimes be a 'problem.' More significantly, she speaks openly about the emotional toll of long days away from her infant daughter and the practicalities of breastfeeding on the go, highlighting the often-unseen challenges faced by working mothers in the spotlight. Despite these hurdles, Buckley cherishes the 'pinch-me moments,' constantly reminding herself that such extraordinary experiences are far from everyday life. She finds immense joy in the unexpected connections forged with some of her long-time heroes, such as director Paul Thomas Anderson, actress Teyana Taylor, and the supportive Kate Winslet, who offered quiet encouragement when Buckley felt overwhelmed. Her heartfelt praise for 'Hamnet' co-star Emily Watson, whom she calls 'the greatest woman I get to call a friend,' underscores the deep bonds formed amidst the professional intensity. These genuine interactions and personal triumphs ultimately make the demanding awards season journey profoundly worthwhile for Buckley.

The Awards Season Journey: From Spanx to Sisterhood

Jessie Buckley's journey through awards season is a blend of practical preparation, emotional balancing acts, and cherished connections. She reveals the less glamorous aspects of red-carpet events, like relying on shapewear, while also sharing the deeply personal challenges of being a new mother, such as managing breastfeeding while on the go. Yet, these candid admissions are interwoven with her appreciation for the extraordinary moments and the supportive relationships she's formed with esteemed colleagues and mentors.

Jessie Buckley has been exceptionally transparent about the realities of navigating the prestigious awards season, offering a relatable perspective that goes beyond the glitz and glamour. Her pre-BAFTAs preparations include not just deciding on designer attire, but also ensuring she has practical items like snacks and, notably, Spanx, which she humorously describes as both an essential and an occasional hindrance. Beyond the physical aspects, Buckley candidly shares the emotional complexities of her busy schedule, particularly the heartache of being separated from her young daughter and the logistical challenges of maintaining her breastfeeding routine. She emphasizes that while the professional accolades are significant, the true 'peak' of this experience has been the opportunity to connect with and learn from her idols. She speaks with genuine admiration for figures like Paul Thomas Anderson, Teyana Taylor, and Kate Winslet, the latter of whom provided invaluable, unspoken support during moments of anxiety. Her bond with 'Hamnet' co-star Emily Watson is particularly strong, reflecting a profound personal connection within the professional sphere. These authentic relationships and her honest approach to balancing career and motherhood underscore Buckley's unique and endearing presence in Hollywood.

Red Carpet Style and Personal Touches

Buckley's red carpet choices reflect her individual style and appreciation for creative collaboration. Her ambassadorship with Chanel, guided by Matthieu Blazy's vision, allows her to express a unique blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair, often with a playful nod to her artistic inspirations. She seeks comfort and connection, whether through her choice of attire or her interactions with her support team, making each public appearance a reflection of her authentic self.

Jessie Buckley's fashion choices for the red carpet are a thoughtful reflection of her personality and artistic sensibilities, going beyond mere trends. Her recent collaboration with Chanel, a significant endorsement in the fashion world, has been particularly meaningful. She expresses profound admiration for Matthieu Blazy, Chanel's creative director, praising his ability to seamlessly blend historical elegance with a vibrant, modern aesthetic. For her BAFTA look, Buckley and her stylist, Danielle Goldberg, meticulously selected a blue velvet dress that subtly referenced David Lynch's iconic 1986 film. This choice speaks volumes about Buckley's desire for her outfits to tell a story and embody a sense of individuality, rather than simply adhering to conventional red-carpet glamour. She describes the dress as 'classic and unique and cool,' perfectly aligning with her personal style. Beyond the attire, Buckley prioritizes a positive and lighthearted atmosphere, fueled by her upbeat playlist and cheerful glam squad. Crucially, she looks forward to returning home to her daughter, finding immense comfort in the 'best snuggles' that await her after a long evening. Even during the event, she finds moments of genuine connection and relief, particularly during 'chin wags' with her female friends in the ladies' room, which she describes as an unexpected haven for camaraderie and reflection amidst the bustle.

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