Who Stole the Spotlight on the Red Carpet: Harry Styles, Olivia Dean, or Lola Young?

The Brit Awards red carpet dazzled this year, showcasing remarkable fashion alongside musical talent for the UK's biggest night in music. For the first time in its 50-year history, the Brit Awards took place at Manchester's Co-op Live Arena, where artists like Olivia Dean, Rosalía, and Harry Styles showcased their stunning looks. Coordinated outfits were a highlight, with performers and attendees alike embracing vibrant styles that made headlines.

Last updated: 22 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The Brit Awards 2023 has marked a significant shift as it relocated from London to Manchester, bringing a fresh perspective to the event. The Co-op Live Arena was filled with excitement as musical talent graced the red carpet, each artist not only representing their music but also making a statement through their fashion choices. This year's event has seen a blend of nostalgia and modernity, with iconic performances and tributes, particularly honouring the late Ozzy Osbourne.

Key takeaways

• The Brit Awards 2023 took place in Manchester for the first time.
• Key fashion highlights included Olivia Dean, Harry Styles, and Rosalía.
• Tributes were paid to Ozzy Osbourne, making the night both celebratory and memorial.

Timeline: how we got here

The Brit Awards have been a staple of the British music scene since their inception in 1977. This year’s location change to Manchester marks a new chapter in the awards' history. Here’s a brief timeline of notable events leading to the 2023 ceremony:

• 1977: First Brit Awards held.
• 2023: Brit Awards held at Co-op Live Arena in Manchester for the first time.
• 2023: Major performances and tributes, including a segment for Ozzy Osbourne.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

This year’s Brit Awards have introduced a fresh venue and a vibrant atmosphere, with artists showcasing their latest work and fashion statements. Olivia Dean’s nominations for album and song of the year, alongside her performance, highlight the event’s focus on emerging talent.

What was already established

The Brit Awards have long been a platform for recognising musical excellence in the UK, with established traditions such as the Critics' Choice award and the celebration of long-standing icons like Ozzy Osbourne.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The Brit Awards not only celebrate music but also influence trends in fashion and culture, impacting consumer choices in clothing and music consumption. As artists showcase their styles, fans follow suit, often leading to increased sales in fashion and music streams.

Businesses and jobs

The music industry in the UK benefits from events like the Brit Awards, as they provide exposure for artists, which can lead to increased sales, concert tours, and merchandise opportunities. The event also stimulates local economies through tourism and hospitality.

Policy and regulation

The relocation of the Brit Awards to Manchester opens discussions on the distribution of cultural events outside London, potentially influencing future policies regarding arts funding and support for regional venues.

Numbers that matter

• 50 years: The Brit Awards celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023.
• 1: This year marks the first time the awards were held in Manchester.
• 3: Olivia Dean is nominated in three categories, including album and song of the year.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Brit Awards: An annual awards show celebrating achievements in the British music industry.
• Critics' Choice award: An award given to up-and-coming UK artists based on critical acclaim.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Expect a surge in music sales and streaming as the Brit Awards highlight winning artists and performances. Fans may also see increased merchandise availability following the event.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Artists who performed or won awards may embark on tours or release new music, creating a buzz in the industry that could lead to new collaborations and growing fan bases.

Signals to watch

• Monitor album release dates for artists featured in the Brit Awards.
• Watch for announcements regarding tours and merchandise from high-profile winners.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on announcements from artists performed at the Brit Awards.
• Support local artists by attending their gigs and purchasing their music.

Don’t

• Don’t overlook the impact of smaller, emerging artists showcased at the Brit Awards.
• Don’t ignore the trend shifts in fashion that often follow major events like this.

Checklist

• Check the Brit Awards website for updates on performances and winners.
• Follow artists on social media for the latest news and releases.
• Explore local venues for upcoming shows from featured artists.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the Brit Awards often herald new trends and highlight musical talent, it’s essential to note that not all artists will achieve long-term success. The fast-paced nature of the music industry means that popularity can be fleeting, and economic factors can influence attendance and sales.

Bottom line

The Brit Awards 2023 showcased a vibrant mix of talent and fashion, marking a notable change with its new Manchester venue. This year’s event has not only highlighted emerging artists but also strengthened the cultural tapestry of the UK, encouraging fans to engage with music and fashion in new and exciting ways.

FAQs

What are the Brit Awards?

The Brit Awards are an annual awards show that recognises outstanding achievements in the British music industry, featuring performances and red carpet appearances.

Why were the Brit Awards held in Manchester this year?

This year, the Brit Awards relocated to Manchester for the first time, aiming to celebrate the city’s rich musical heritage and engage with a broader audience.

Who were the standout artists at the Brit Awards 2023?

Notable artists included Olivia Dean, Harry Styles, and Rosalía, each making a significant impact with their performances and fashion choices.