You know that Dame Helen Mirren is always going to make a stellar appearance on the red carpet, and the 2014 BAFTAs were no different. She was there to receive an honourary award, presented by Prince William, and turned on the shine appropriately.

Wearing an almost black, spangle-tastic gown by Jacques Azagury, she looked sensational and gracious and beautiful, with that ever-present twinkle in her eye. Just lovely.

Also looking great in black with plenty of embellishment, was Maggie Gyllenhaal. She was wearing a winter look from Lanvin, which was frosted lace with embroidered grosgrain. I know not everyone loved this look, but I think that it works on Maggie. Her pixie crop and unusual looks need something overly feminine and hard-hitting to work. And work it does. Love it.

Laura Carmichael from Downton Abbey was also gorgeous in embellished black. Her cute cocktail dress is from Erdem, his signature floral done in beading instead of prints on this occasion. I think that her hair may have rendered this look a tad underdressed. All she needed was a better hairdo and it would have been a winner.