Florence Pugh is not just an accomplished actress; she is now carving a niche for herself in the world of high fashion. Recently, she made waves at London Fashion Week, where she graced the runway for designer Harris Reed’s fall 2025 collection. Pugh donned a breathtaking black sheer sculptural dress that challenged conventional aesthetics and showcased her as a fashion icon in the making. The design featured striking horn-like accents that arched dramatically from the bodice, framing Pugh’s face beneath a striking hood.
Pugh’s appearance on the runway did more than just flaunt fashion; it served to provoke thought and evoke emotion. Her striking black peep-toe platform heels combined with shimmering gold accessories—dangly earrings and a bold chain necklace—culminated in a look that was eerily powerful. Complemented by long, spidery eyelashes, Pugh’s ensemble created a visually captivating gothic theme, embodying the avant-garde spirit that defines much of today’s fashion.
During the show, which took place at the prestigious Tate Britain, Pugh opened with an arresting monologue set against a haunting cello performance of Metallica, seamlessly merging performance art with fashion. This fusion is emblematic of Pugh’s ability to transcend boundaries; she is not merely a model or an actress but a performer who intricately weaves narrative into her visual presentation.
Harris Reed, the visionary designer responsible for the collection, articulated his desire to make audiences feel “uncomfortable.” By challenging viewers’ perceptions of beauty and the human form, Reed aims to prompt introspection about societal norms and personal beliefs. He envisaged Pugh’s character as a folklorish figure, evoking intrigue and an unsettling atmosphere. This ambitious intention resonates deeply with the concept of clothing as a medium for transformation and self-expression, something that Pugh embraces wholeheartedly.
Pugh’s history with Reed’s designs underscores a profound synergy between the actress and the designer. Her penchant for Reed’s striking styles has been evident on numerous red carpets, suggesting a deep-rooted connection to the themes of identity and self-exploration that Reed continually strives to convey.
In her own words, Pugh encapsulates the transformative power of clothing, arguing that it serves as a vehicle through which individuals can express their authentic selves. Her performances—whether in front of the camera or on the runway—illustrate a commitment to showcasing the layered complexities of human identity. As she stood adorned in her sculptural silver and black sequin ensemble during Reed’s previous fashion show, she echoed the idea that dressing up creates a sanctuary in an often critical world.
Florence Pugh’s emergence into the fashion scene is a testament to her multifaceted artistry. She not only elevates the fashion narrative but also enriches the conversation around identity, making each appearance a celebration of self-expression and emotional depth. Through her collaborations with bold designers like Harris Reed, Pugh continues to redefine what it means to be a modern artist straddling the lines of performance and high fashion.