Mary Berry's gorgeous beaded NTAs dress is hard to forget - it's a masterclass in elegant party dressing
If you’ve ever wondered how to accessorise a statement dress, Mary Berry's timeless look provides the answer
As I wait to see what glamorous looks grace the red carpet at this year’s National Television Awards, I’ve been looking back through some of my favourite celebrity outfits from previous years – and Mary Berry’s elegant beaded maxi dress is a standout.
In 2017, she picked up the award for Best TV Judge, stunning as she did so in a floor-length silvery blue gown by US designer Adrianna Papell. Adorned in hundreds of delicate beaded details and packed with vintage charm, the gown still feels timeless. It’s certainly a party look that has me excited to see what Mary wears nearly ten years on; she always looks so glam.
While the floor-skimming length meant I couldn’t get a glimpse at Mary’s choice of shoe, there are plenty of other accessories to take note of. As well as a large, chunky faux pearl necklace, she added a pair of delicate, crystal-embellished bracelets, with the rows of sparkling stones complementing the beaded embellishments on her dress. If you’ve ever wondered how to accessorise eveningwear, Mary’s look provides the answer.
While the Adrianna Papell gown Mary wore at the 2017 NTAs is no longer available, a similar beaded dress from the same brand is, and it's on sale. Boasting shimmering hand-beaded motifs and rich textural contrast, it has both sheer and lined layers for added wow factor.
The pearl necklace is a timeless piece, and Mary updated the look by opting for a chunky faux iteration. This one from Hobbs creates a unique look thanks to a double-layered design. Shoppers are calling it 'gorgeous', and there's a matching Lalena Bracelet by Hobbs too.
With its statement, shining look, this bangle can easily bring a sophisticated touch to both everyday wear and occasion styling. Use it to complement statement dresses like Mary did, or add some elegant shine to even the most basic pairing of jeans and a t-shirt.
It's the flattering neckline and cap sleeves that make this dress a great alternative to Mary's gown, even though it's sequins rather than beading. The glistening finish of the fully sequinned bodice and the embellishment down the skirt are simply showstopping.
With a chain that allows for an adjustable length, this faux pearl necklace can complement any eveningwear gown, no matter its neckline. The bright finish on the faux pearls is stunning, while the chunky size creates a statement yet timeless look.
Mary stacked several crystal-adorned bangles on her wrist to accessorise her NTAs dress, and this one by Jon Richard is a great buy if you're planning to do the same for your next glam ensemble. The slim design, crystals and pavé stones don't feel too OTT, though they're guaranteed to add sparkle to your look.
It’s the beautiful combination of textures that makes Mary’s gown such a standout. An eye-catching beaded layer, a structured column underskirt, and tulle layers create elegance that would work for any black-tie event throughout the year.
With all this glitz and glamour going on with her dress, I love that Mary didn’t shy away when it came to her accessories. She’s always been a fan of a statement necklace, and the chunky faux pearl piece she layered over her beaded dress might just be one of my favourites. Not only can I see myself wearing it for more elevated dress codes, but it’s a piece that also feels perfectly placed to elevate everyday autumn outfit ideas, as well as smart casual outfits, too.
You might have missed how Mary incorporated one of the hottest colour combinations loved by stylists right now into her look, nearly ten years before the pairing took off. To contrast the silvery blue of her gown, she painted her nails in a striking hot pink. It might have been a subtle addition to the look, but it really packs a punch and brought a bold, modern element to her style.
