British actress Lily James has captivated audiences not only with her performances in films like Cinderella, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, and Pam & Tommy, but also with her ever-evolving and effortlessly chic sense of style. From the red carpet to candid street style moments, Lily consistently turns heads with her fashion choices. Recently, the actress opened up about some of the secrets behind her impeccable style — and fans are loving her honesty and down-to-earth approach.
The Stylist Behind the Scenes
One of the biggest secrets to Lily James’ fashion success is her collaboration with renowned stylist Rebecca Corbin-Murray. The duo has crafted countless standout looks for events like the Met Gala, the BAFTAs, and major movie premieres. Lily credits Corbin-Murray’s vision and understanding of her personal style as being key to developing her fashion identity.
“She knows what works for me, what I’m comfortable in, and she always finds a way to make me feel like myself — just a more glamorous version,” Lily said in an interview with Hello! Fashion Monthly. This partnership has become one of the most celebrated in celebrity styling, with many of Lily’s looks earning praise from top fashion critics.
The Beauty Hack That Changed Everything
Surprisingly, one of Lily’s most influential beauty decisions came from an acting suggestion — and it completely changed her look. During her early acting days, director Rufus Norris suggested she grow out her eyebrows to look more youthful for a role. Lily took the advice to heart, and it turned out to be a game-changer.
“I used to over-pluck my eyebrows, but growing them out gave my face so much more expression and softness,” she shared in an interview with Vogue UK. Since then, her bold brows have become a signature part of her look — inspiring fans to embrace more natural beauty styles.
Scent as a Style Statement
In a unique twist on fashion identity, Lily also revealed that fragrance plays a key role in her style expression. For each character she portrays, she chooses a specific scent to wear during the filming process. This habit helps her embody the character on a deeper level and also becomes part of the overall aesthetic.
“It’s like putting on a costume — but invisible. A fragrance can totally transport you and affect your mood,” she told The Telegraph. This personal ritual not only helps her as an actress but also reflects her view that style goes beyond clothing; it’s about presence and emotion too.
Comfort Over Conformity
Despite her glamorous public appearances, Lily is quick to remind people that she’s all about comfort in her everyday wardrobe. In a candid conversation with Who What Wear, she shared her preference for wide-legged jeans, tracksuits, and oversized layers.
“I don’t think I’ve worn skinny jeans in years,” she laughed. “I love clothes that move with you, that don’t restrict you. Style should feel like freedom.”
This laid-back philosophy extends into her red carpet looks too. Even when dressed in couture gowns, Lily leans toward silhouettes that are both elegant and wearable. She’s known to favor designers like Burberry, Erdem, and Versace — brands that align with her timeless yet contemporary aesthetic.
Lily’s Fashion Evolution: From Princess to Powerhouse
Since her breakout role in Downton Abbey and her dazzling transformation in Cinderella, Lily James has grown into a fashion icon in her own right. She seamlessly shifts from romantic vintage-inspired looks to bold, edgy designs with the ease of a true style chameleon.
Her campaign with Burberry Beauty, which highlighted her natural English rose look, further solidified her status as a modern muse in the fashion world. More recently, she’s embraced a more confident, sleek, and experimental style — as seen in her daring Versace looks during the Pam & Tommy press tour.
The Takeaway: Authenticity Wins
What sets Lily James apart in the fashion world is her authenticity. She isn’t afraid to admit that stylists help shape her looks, that she values comfort over trends, or that growing out her eyebrows was a pivotal moment in her beauty journey.
Her fashion secrets — from scents to self-expression — paint a picture of a woman who knows herself and isn’t afraid to evolve. It’s no wonder she continues to inspire fans around the globe.
As Lily continues to take on powerful roles and make bold style statements, one thing’s for sure: her approach to fashion will always be rooted in individuality, elegance, and a little bit of magic.