Florence Pugh Stuns in Gothic Romance by Elie Saab at London Thunderbolts Premiere
In a red carpet moment that merged cinematic anticipation with couture artistry, Florence Pugh emerged as a vision of gothic romanticism at the London premiere of Marvel’s Thunderbolts. The Oscar-nominated actress chose a hauntingly beautiful creation from Elie Saab’s Fall 2024 Haute Couture collection, channeling elegance and intensity with every embroidered detail.
Elie Saab, long revered for his poetic craftsmanship, drew inspiration this season from Khokhloma, the traditional Russian art of painting florals and nature motifs on lacquered wood. That influence was seamlessly woven into Pugh’s look: a sheer black gown with a low waist, delicate floral embroidery, and translucent lace panels that danced between baroque and ethereal.
The dress featured a sharply defined bodice, its structure enhanced by fine straps and a plunging neckline, while horizontal sheer insets provided a striking contrast against the darker underlay. Saab’s floral appliqués crawled across the gown like vines, evoking nature’s quiet sensuality in motion.
Styled by Rebecca Corbin-Murray, Pugh’s look was balanced and refined, with minimal accessories — two slender bracelets and simple earrings — allowing the gown to command full attention. Makeup artist Alex Babsky added a surprising pop of orange eyeshadow that energized the palette, while hairstylist Hyungsun Ju crafted a soft, face-framing updo that echoed the dress’s romantic undercurrent.
First unveiled during Paris Haute Couture Week in June 2024, the gown stood among Saab’s more theatrical creations this season — including dramatic fringe dresses, sculpted shoulders, and fantastical wing-like back detailing. The gothic-inspired color story and intricate techniques brought the designer’s signature femininity into a darker, dreamier register.
With her fearless embrace of couture storytelling, Florence Pugh proves once again that red carpet fashion can be more than a show of glamour — it can be a form of character-driven expression. Here, she doesn’t just wear Elie Saab; she embodies his vision, turning the premiere into a gothic fairytale.
