Florence Pugh, the talented 29-year-old actress known for her standout roles in films like Dune and Midsommar, has officially added another title to her résumé: runway model. On Thursday night, she made a striking debut at London Fashion Week, walking the runway for British-American designer Harris Reed’s fall 2025 collection. The event, held at the prestigious Tate Britain, marked the beginning of a week celebrating fashion, and Pugh’s presence undoubtedly set the tone for an unforgettable show. Dressed in a breathtaking black sheer sculptural gown, Pugh exuded confidence and elegance, proving once again that she is a force to be reckoned with, both on and off the screen.
The avant-garde dress Pugh wore was a true showstopper, featuring two horn-like protrusions that framed her head, giving her an almost otherworldly appearance. The sheer fabric of the gown allowed her silhouette to shine through, while the intricate details of the design made her look like a character straight out of a dark fairy tale. Her ensemble was completed with black peep-toe platform heels, shiny gold dangly earrings, and a delicate gold chain necklace. However, it was her super-long, spidery eyelashes that truly elevated the gothic vibe of the look, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. Every detail of her appearance seemed carefully curated to match the eerie yet mesmerizing theme of the collection.
Pugh’s involvement in the show went beyond just modeling the stunning gown. As a close friend of Harris Reed, she was entrusted with the honor of opening the show. She began the event with a haunting monologue, her voice echoing through the room as cellists performed a rendition of Metallica’s music in the background. The atmosphere was tense and immersive, setting the stage for a collection that aimed to make the audience feel uneasy and reflective. Harris Reed, known for his bold and unconventional designs, revealed in an interview with British Vogue that Pugh’s character in the show was meant to embody a folklorish figure with an unsettling presence. He explained, “I want everyone to be very uncomfortable. I think through uncomfortability, you look deeper within and question a lot about yourself and your surroundings.” This theme was woven into every aspect of the show, and Pugh’s performance perfectly captured the essence of the designer’s vision.
Pugh’s collaboration with Harris Reed is not new; the actress has been a long-time supporter of the designer, often wearing his creations on the red carpet. Her affinity for sheer, daring outfits is well-documented, and she has previously made appearances in his shows, including a memorable cameo in his fall 2023 collection. During that show, Pugh delivered a monologue inspired by Shakespeare’s All The World’s A Stage speech, dressed in a sculptural silver and black sequin harlequin look. Her words highlighted the transformative power of clothing, emphasizing how it allows people to express themselves and create a sense of identity. She recited, “The art of dressing up allows us to express who we truly are, creating a safe space to inhabit in a sometimes judgmental world. Our costumes can change who we want to be seen as, and who we are destined to be.” Her message resonated deeply with the audience, and it’s clear that her connection to Harris Reed’s work goes beyond mere aesthetics.
The fall 2025 show was a testament to the powerful partnership between Pugh and Reed. Both artists share a deep appreciation for storytelling through their work, whether it’s on the screen or the runway. Pugh’s ability to embody characters and bring them to life is unparalleled, and her willingness to step out of her comfort zone and embrace unconventional roles—both in film and fashion—demonstrates her fearless spirit and creative versatility. By opening the show with her monologue, she not only showcased her talent as a performer but also underscored the importance of fashion as a form of self-expression and storytelling. Her presence at the event was a reminder that fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about the emotions, ideas, and narratives that they convey.
In conclusion, Florence Pugh’s debut as a runway model for Harris Reed’s fall 2025 collection was nothing short of extraordinary. Her striking appearance, combined with her powerful monologue, set the tone for a show that challenged the audience to embrace discomfort and reflect on their surroundings. Pugh’s involvement in the event highlighted her versatility as an artist and her ability to excel in multiple creative fields. Whether she’s starring in a film or walking the runway, Florence Pugh continues to prove that she is a force to be reckoned with. Her collaboration with Harris Reed not only celebrated the transformative power of fashion but also reinforced the idea that clothing can be a powerful tool for self-expression and storytelling. As London Fashion Week continues, it’s clear that this show will be one of the most memorable moments of the event, thanks in large part to Pugh’s unforgettable performance.
