Cat Deeley's striking NTAs dress proves red and purple is having a major moment this autumn
Her elegant look has cemented this as the must-have colour pairing to try out
Cat Deeley offered a standout look at last night’s National Television Awards, walking the red carpet in a stunning maxi gown from the Giambattista Valli Resort 2012 collection.
While it might have debuted on the runway back in 2011, Cat’s gown couldn’t be more on-trend for 2026, thanks to its striking colours. Boasting a botanical-inspired watercolour print in shades of eye-catching geranium red and deep, rich grape, the colour pairing created a striking look that feels both luxurious and playful. If you were wondering why the pairing has quickly become one to rival any of the colour combinations loved by stylists, Cat’s look offers up the answer.
To stop the bold clash of colours from feeling overwhelming, Cat’s dress boasted a simple silhouette. She accessorised the strapless cut perfectly by opting for an ornate gold-toned necklace, adding a pair of tassel earrings for good measure.
Recreate Cat Deeley's Red and Purple Look
Offering a more wearable take on Cat's floral gown, this Whistles dress is a style that makes pairing red and purple easy. With a sleeveless cut and flattering A-line shape, the colours pop on this understated midi that can be dressed up or down.
Regal purple tones pop against the hot red of this pleated midi dress by Phase Eight, with a botanical leaf print that gives classic florals a modern update. The cut is stunning, with a modest V-neck, halter straps, and a defined waistline that flatters the figure before falling into a floaty skirt.
When it comes to styling up strapless necklines, a statement necklace is your best friend. This John Lewis piece, like Cat's necklace, looks much more expensive than under £100.
Long, flared sleeves and an elegant knotted belt at the waist create a striking silhouette and make this Phase Eight dress a standout. Pops of rich purple work brilliantly alongside its red tone, while a jersey fabric adds a comfortable touch.
Shoppers say this dress 'hugs your curves beautifully,' as well as boasting 'such a vibrant colourway' that elevates its look. We particularly enjoy the twisted design details at the hips, which emphasise the sculpted shape of the bodice before the dress falls into a more relaxed skirt
Currently on sale at 75% off, these earrings are well worth snapping up. With their chunky stud base and chain tassel drops, they offer a striking look, making them ideal for wearing with bolder dresses and statement necklaces.
While pink and red dominated summer dressing, red and purple bring a deeper, more seasonal twist on the clashing look for autumn. Year after year, deep purples remain a mainstay when it comes to autumnal evening wear, with the rich jewel tone playing into the heavy, moody colour palette that autumn capsule wardrobes lean into over the darker season – and pairing that rich colour with a bolder, brighter red is a failsafe route to looking chic.
Red and purple might seem like an unexpected colour clash, but the combination is an instant winner, and not just because red has taken over autumn/winter colour trends for 2026. The pairing has been endorsed by celebrities including Katie Holmes and now Cat Deeley, plus Balenciaga, Carolina Herrera, Celine, Prada, and Stella McCartney all presented looks that mixed reds with royal purples on their 2026 runways.
It’s no surprise that the pairing is a favourite for fashion experts. The two colours work perfectly together because they are neighbours on the colour wheel, so they share a similar warm undertone and thus blend smoothly while also offering a rich and striking look. Accessorising such bold colours might feel a bit daunting, but Cat proves a statement necklace can create a balanced focal point that doesn’t feel too fussy. Just opt for a jewellery piece that’s made out of one metallic tone for a sleek finishing touch.
