BAFTA night is one of the biggest dates on the British events calendar, and a highlight of ‘Awards Season’ across the globe. The 2013 ceremony took place last night when the film industry’s finest descended on London’s Royal Opera House, braving the snow and slush, to celebrate the very best the movie business has to offer.

But while the awards themselves are, of course, the most important part, the red carpet fashion is a fabulous little bonus. So, we’ve picked out some of our favourite looks and key trends which might just inspire you for your next special occasion.

Two actresses who chose to follow the brights theme on the red carpet were the beautiful Marion Cotillard in a canary yellow gown by Christian Dior and Jessica Chastain in a statement blue dress by Roland Mouret. Brights are such a key look this season and choosing one block colour that suits you perfectly is a striking way to do occasionwear.

-Read our ’10 ways to wear colour’ post or see the Colour Pop trend on M&S Style Edit.

In stark contrast, Amy Adams and Anne Hathaway wore dramatic black dresses which had everyone talking too. Amy’s sheer lace panelling gave her Elie Saab dress the wow-factor while Anne’s simple Burberry gown meant she won style points as well as the Best Supporting Actress Award on the night. Plus, we love a dress with sleeves!

- See our little black dresses feature.

Get the look at M&S: Lace Skater Dress, Blue Strapless Maxi Dress, Swirl Lace Dress.

But there were some other clever ways that leading ladies were adding a splash of colour to their outfits. Dame Judi Dench wore a black floor-length dress but with a subtle flash of red hosiery while Dame Helen Mirren sported a new pastel pink hair style. The look may have been made popular by the likes of pop stars Katy Perry and Ellie Goulding but we reckon Helen’s version is even cooler.

Across the pond the Grammys were also taking place and there was a similar story there with bright block colours and daring black dresses creating contrast on the red carpet. Jennifer Lopez wore a slit-to-the-thigh black dress and Faith Hill opted for a little black dress with sheer lace sleeves. While Rihanna matched her dress to the red carpet in a bright floor-sweeping gown and ‘Best Pop Solo Performance’ winner Adele went for a statement red print.

- Shop all dresses

Which do you prefer? Classic black or brave brights? Who do you think was ‘best dressed’ at the BAFTAs? Let us know by leaving a comment below.