Florence Pugh, the acclaimed actress known for her dynamic roles in various films including the blockbuster “Dune,” has recently expanded her artistic repertoire to include modeling. Her walk down the runway at Harris Reed’s fall 2025 show during London Fashion Week is a testament to the multifaceted nature of modern celebrity. At the illustrious Tate Britain, Pugh not only showcased an attention-grabbing black sheer dress but also embodied a living piece of art that blended high fashion with theatrical storytelling.
Her outfit was an avant-garde creation, featuring eye-catching horn-like details that framed her face while she wore a hood, accentuating the dark whimsy that Reed sought to capture in his collection. This theatrical design was flawlessly complemented by her styling choices, which included striking black peep-toe platform heels, elaborate gold jewelry, and dramatic long eyelashes. The entire ensemble contributed to the gothic aesthetic that permeated the show, drawing in the audience and keeping them entranced.
The designer, Harris Reed, shared his vision of creating an unsettling yet thought-provoking atmosphere through his fashion showcase. In a pre-show interview with British Vogue, he emphasized the importance of making the audience feel uncomfortable. He stated, “I want everyone to be very uncomfortable. I think through uncomfortability, you look deeper within and question a lot about yourself and your surroundings.” This provocative approach to fashion speaks to a broader trend in which designers and performers challenge societal norms and encourage introspection through their artistry.
Florence Pugh has been a long-time supporter of Reed’s work, frequently seen wearing his designs on red carpets. Their partnership highlights how the realms of fashion and film often intertwine, with both art forms sharing the capacity to evoke emotion and provoke thought. Previously, during Reed’s fall 2023 show, Pugh captivated the audience with a powerful monologue inspired by Shakespeare, reinforcing the idea that clothing can serve as a powerful medium for expression and identity.
The experience Pugh provided at this particular show went beyond mere modeling; she initiated a dialogue through fashion. Her embodiment of a folkloric figure—a character that demands exploration of discomfort—aligns with the broader narrative that clothing does not just cover our bodies but also tells stories of who we are. As she stated in her previous performance, “The art of dressing up allows us to express who we truly are, creating a safe space to inhabit in a sometimes judgmental world.”
In today’s society, where identity and expression are continually evolving, Pugh’s rendition during the show challenges traditional perceptions of femininity and power. Her willingness to take creative risks positions her as an influential figure not just on the screen, but on the runway, merging artistry with advocacy.
Florence Pugh’s runway debut serves as a reminder of the importance of art in all its forms, encouraging us to delve deeper into the complexities of self-identity and expression through the transformative power of fashion.