Manchester in the Spotlight: The Style and Sound of the 2026 BRIT Awards

From record-breaking achievements to daring red carpet statements, this year’s ceremony marked a bold new direction.

The BRIT Awards embraced change in 2026, relocating from London to Manchester for its 47th edition. The shift instantly transformed the atmosphere. Manchester’s rich musical legacy — spanning Britpop, indie rock and rave culture — gave the event a fresh, charged identity. The celebrations began even before the show, as guests traveled on Belmond trains alongside major players such as Warner Music Group, turning the journey into part of the spectacle.

Inside the arena, the evening unfolded with a series of historic moments. PinkPantheress became the first woman ever to win Producer of the Year, highlighting a significant step forward for female talent working behind the scenes. Rosé also made history, becoming the first K-pop artist to receive a BRIT Award, winning International Song of the Year for “APT.” Her victory underscored the global dominance of Korean pop music and its growing impact in the UK. Meanwhile, Olivia Dean stood out as the night’s biggest winner, taking home four awards, including Artist of the Year and Best Album.

The performances delivered just as much excitement as the awards themselves. Björk surprised the audience with an unexpected appearance during Rosalía’s performance, creating a memorable cross-genre moment. Later in the evening, Dua Lipa captivated the crowd by descending from the ceiling on a sparkling disco ball during Mark Ronson’s tribute. The dramatic entrance instantly energized the arena, turning the tribute into one of the most talked-about highlights of the night.

As always, the red carpet became a stage of its own. Fashion at this year’s ceremony felt expressive and self-assured, with each attendee leaning fully into their personal style.

Rosalía delivered one of the most striking looks of the evening. Known for her fearless aesthetic, she opted for a bold two-piece ensemble that combined sculptural tailoring with dramatic texture. The feather-covered top introduced movement and volume, while the ultra-low-rise skirt created a sharp, contemporary silhouette. The design felt carefully balanced, allowing the theatrical elements to shine without overwhelming the overall look. It was confident, artistic and unmistakably her.

Rosé, following her groundbreaking win, chose timeless sophistication. Her sleek black gown featured a one-shoulder neckline and a high slit, blending classic glamour with subtle drama. A softly draped waistline added dimension while maintaining clean lines. Under the stage lights, the gown moved effortlessly, complementing the elegance of the moment. It was a poised choice that reflected both her achievement and her refined style.

Harry Styles once again demonstrated his influence in redefining modern menswear. Wearing a sharply tailored Chanel pinstripe suit, he added an unexpected twist with ballet flats. The footwear softened the structure of the suit, challenging traditional fashion norms while maintaining a polished finish. The result felt natural and confident, reinforcing his reputation for blending classic tailoring with progressive styling.

Television presenter Maya Jama embraced romantic elegance in a pale pink sequinned gown. The delicate spaghetti straps and subtle faux fur trim lent a vintage-inspired touch, while the shimmer ensured the look remained red carpet-ready. She completed the ensemble with jewellery from Bucherer and sophisticated sandals by Jimmy Choo, achieving a seamless balance between classic charm and contemporary polish.

Bebe Rexha introduced a sharper edge in a structured design by Agro Studio. Defined by strong lines and deliberate construction, the look stood out through its bold silhouette and modern attitude. It was a confident fashion moment that reflected the creative spirit of the evening.

With its move to Manchester, the 2026 BRIT Awards embraced reinvention. The ceremony celebrated not only musical excellence but also individuality and innovation. Between record-setting wins, surprise performances and daring style choices, this year’s event proved that evolution remains at the core of the BRITs’ enduring appeal.