Love Island Stars Dazzle at 2026 BRIT Awards in Manchester
The 2026 BRIT Awards marked a historic shift as the ceremony moved to Manchester's Co-op Live arena, drawing a glamorous crowd including Love Island alumni Ella Thomas, Amber Gill, and Montana Brown. These reality TV stars turned heads on the red carpet, showcasing bold fashion choices that captured the evening's celebratory spirit.
Star-Studded Fashion Moments
Ella Thomas, aged 25, made a striking appearance in a backless gown worn without a bra, featuring a diamond-encrusted embellishment on the back. Her dress boasted a high neckline and a subtle fishtail train, adding an elegant touch to her ensemble. Amber Gill, 28, opted for a daring PVC minidress with a plunging neckline and a structured peplum waist, while Montana Brown, 30, shimmered in a sequin chainmail gown with an off-the-shoulder design and an elegant updo hairstyle.
They were joined by Kaz Crossley, 31, who looked stunning in a purple metallic dress with a corset-style bodice that accentuated her waist. These fashion statements highlighted the glitz and glamour of the event, setting the tone for a night dedicated to celebrating musical excellence.
Historic Changes and Nominations
The 46th BRIT Awards introduced significant changes, most notably relocating from London's O2 Arena to Manchester for the first time since 1977. This move signals a broader effort to decentralise the UK music scene, with plans to rotate venues across the country in future years. Additionally, the ceremony has addressed past criticisms regarding gender representation by ensuring that 70% of this year's nominations are female or non-binary artists, a stark contrast to previous years where male-dominated shortlists sparked backlash.
Leading the nominations are Lola Young and Olivia Dean, each with five nods, including Artist of the Year. They are closely followed by Lily Allen, who received three nominations for her album West End Girl, which chronicles her personal struggles. Other notable nominees include British rapper Dave, recognised in three categories, and Raye, who holds the record for most BRIT Awards won at a single ceremony and is set to perform as the final act.
International and Legacy Honours
The awards also feature strong international representation, with artists like Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, and Lady Gaga vying for honours. In a touching tribute, the late Ozzy Osbourne will be posthumously awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrated for his monumental impact on rock music. A special performance led by Robbie Williams will honour Osbourne, featuring musicians from his band over the years.
Comedian Jack Whitehall returns to host the ceremony for the sixth time, expressing excitement about presenting in Manchester, where he began his comedy career. The event underscores Manchester's rich musical heritage, with local officials like Mayor Andy Burnham praising the move as a boost to the city's cultural landscape.
Looking Ahead
With Sony Music UK at the helm for the next three years, the BRIT Awards are poised for a new era of innovation and inclusivity. The shift to Manchester reflects a growing trend in the UK music industry to embrace diverse locations and audiences, ensuring the ceremony remains a dynamic and relevant celebration of British talent.
