The significance behind the Duchess of Cambridge’s stunning Bafta Awards 2020 dress

Sustainability is this year’s focus at the Bafta Awards 2020, which are taking place tonight at the Royal London Hall in London.

It was always predicted that the Duchess of Cambridge would wear an old dress for the occasion, setting an example with an eco-conscious fashion choice. Those walking the red carpet have been asked by the London College of Fashion’s Centre for Sustainability to think about the environmental footprint of their wardrobe choices and wear something they already own.

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, opted for a stunning gold embellished Alexandra McQueen gown for the big night. She first wore the dress on a royal tour of Southeast Asia back in 2012.

Livia Firth, who founded Eco-Age, a sustainability and communications consultancy, with her husband Colin Firth, told The Sunday Telegraph: “I have always admired her commitment to re-wearing and setting an example to all.

“The Duchess of Cambridge's voice is so powerful and it’s refreshing to see how she uses it for a variety of things including making a purposeful fashion choice.”

Bethan Holt, a fashion and culture writer, echoed the sentiment. She told The Sunday Telegraph, “Wearing a dress three times might seem normal for the rest of us, but it’s seen as a statement when Kate does it.”

"Sustainability is very important to Bafta, and we’re doing more than ever before," a Bafta spokesperson told Grazia.

"The goal is that the EE British Academy Film Awards 2020 will be carbon neutral, working towards having a net positive impact on the environment. From travel and food, to branding and materials, BAFTA is ensuring the awards are as sustainable as possible."

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It’s a big night for Prince William, who will present the award for the Fellowship, Bafta’s most prestigious accolade, to film producer Kathleen Kennedy.

“We are so pleased the duke and duchess will join us to celebrate another outstanding year in film,” said Amanda Berry OBE, chief executive of Bafta.

This year marks the duke’s 10^thyear as Bafta’s President and his involvement has been invaluable to the work we do, from launching our global new talent activity in 2011, to supporting the Bafta Scholarships programme and assisting with the most far-reaching fundraising campaign Bafta has ever undertaken.

"We are immensely grateful to their royal highnesses for their continued support.”