© Greg Williams for ArmaniWe get ready with the BAFTA nominee
Maria Bakalova's first taste of awards season has been an unusual one. The Bulgarian actress has garnered endless critical acclaim for her performance in the much talked-about Borat sequel, earning her nominations at every major awards ceremony - but it's been far from your typical nominee experience of constant red carpets, press conferences, premieres and parties.
"All I know about an award season red-carpet is virtual!" she laughs when we ask her. But, she explains, this actually affords her a little more freedom and creativity when it comes to dressing for the events. Practicality doesn't even come into it.
"I can be a little more adventurous in the choices that I make about the dress that I'll wear because the show won't last all night," she tells us. "So it's all about fun and beauty for me and not comfort."
© Greg Williams for ArmaniMaria Bakolova in Armani at the 2021 BAFTAs
Bakalova's breakthrough role as Borat's daughter in the mockumentary has been life-changing; she's the first Bulgarian actress to be nominated for a Supporting Actress Oscar, Golden Globe and BAFTA and she's won 20 awards throughout the season so far. Subsequently, the last 12 months has seen the 24-year-old getting dressed up for Zoom calls and virtual photo shoots, while also adjusting to being in the global spotlight.
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"I'm still trying to figure out my style," she tells us. "I'm experimenting and looking at many different designers and seeing what trends and looks they have to offer, and it's been very exciting because I've been able to wear so many different things - so I do hope that my style always evolves and I do get to show everyone different sides of me."
For the 2021 BAFTAs, for which she was nominated in the Supporting Actress category, Bakalova chose a stunning Armani Privé princess gown covered in delicate embellishment. The couture dress had a fitted bodice with spaghetti straps, and a full cascading organza and tulle skirt adorned with crystals and sequins.
© Greg Williams for ArmaniMaria Bakolova in Armani at the 2021 BAFTAs
So, with many of us now preparing to re-enter the world of socialising, what are the best style tips and tricks she's picked up over the last year to make her feel empowered and confident?
"That's a great question and I have to hand that over to my stylist Jessica Paster," she responds. "She always says that a look will makes you feel really empowered and glamorous if it's tailored beautifully."
She adds: "Another thing that makes me feel pretty is the right accessory, as well as hair and make-up - the brilliant James Molloy and Patrick Wilson that have been with me since my first (virtual) red carpet."
For more inspiration on embracing glamour as lockdown restrictions ease, read below: