Emily Blunt at National Board of Review Awards Gala in New York City 2026 • CelebMafia

Emily Blunt wore a black Magda Butrym swimsuit with a sheer skirt and embellished blazer at the 2026 National Board of Review Awards Gala.

At the National Board of Review Awards Gala in New York City on January 13, 2026, Emily Blunt presented a look that mixed daring with a touch of restraint. She wore a black Magda Butrym bustier swimsuit as the base, crafted from technical stretch jersey that hugged her form with molded cups and a low back. Over this, an oversized black blazer edged with subtle embellishments added structure and a hint of sparkle. The sheer black skirt beneath teased glimpses of the swimsuit, creating a layered effect that balanced cheekiness with sophistication. Her open-toe heels and diamond jewelry completed the ensemble, while her hair fell in soft waves, lending a polished finish. This outfit fits neatly into the current wave of bold event appearances that blur the line between swimwear and eveningwear. For those tracking celebrity event looks, this moment is a clear example of fashion’s playful boundary-pushing. For more on front row fashion, see the celebrity style archive.

Emily’s choice reflects a broader trend of reimagining traditionally casual or utilitarian garments for formal occasions–a nod to the fluidity of modern style codes. The swimsuit-as-eveningwear concept challenges expectations, signaling confidence and a willingness to disrupt the usual red carpet formulas. In the context of a gala honoring cinematic achievements, this look feels like a statement about transformation and reinvention, themes that resonate with the awards season’s celebration of artistry and risk-taking. The reunion with Benicio del Toro adds a layer of nostalgic warmth to the evening, contrasting with the outfit’s forward-looking edge.

The ensemble’s strength lies in its tension between structure and transparency. The blazer’s embellishments provide just enough flash without overwhelming the sleek swimsuit beneath. However, the proportions feel slightly off–the oversized jacket swallows some of the swimsuit’s sculptural impact, and the sheer skirt’s length and volume create a somewhat awkward silhouette. The styling choices, while bold, could have benefited from a sharper tailoring or a more defined waist to avoid a boxy impression. Still, Emily’s fearless approach to mixing swimwear with formalwear marks a refreshing departure from safer gala looks. It’s a gamble that mostly pays off, a quiet rebellion wrapped in black.

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