Nicola Coughlan Proves Winter White Is the Season’s Most Sophisticated Trend
After a six-month absence from the red carpet circuit, Nicola Coughlan has made her triumphant return, and darling, she hasn’t missed a single beat. The Bridgerton sensation, last glimpsed at the 2025 BAFTA Television Awards in May, reminded us all why she’s become one of fashion’s most captivating stars with her latest sartorial moment at Thursday night’s press night after-party for The Playboy of the Western World.
The occasion? A celebration for the three-act Irish theatrical masterpiece penned by John Millington Synge, in which Coughlan takes center stage as the lead. But before she even stepped onto the boards, the 38-year-old actress delivered a masterclass in winter occasionwear that has fashion editors frantically updating their mood boards.
Navigating London’s famously brisk evening temperatures, Nicola wrapped herself in what can only be described as knitwear perfection—a chunky cream-toned mini dress that walks the delicate line between cozy and couture. The piece itself is a study in thoughtful design: intricate stitch detailing elevates it beyond simple winter basics, while a shaped waist creates that enviable hourglass silhouette. The voluminous skirt adds a touch of whimsy and romance, balanced beautifully by fitted sleeves that bring structure to the otherwise relaxed aesthetic.
But here’s where Nicola’s styling prowess truly shines. Understanding that winter white demands careful consideration, she paired her angelic creation with sheer white tights and pointed-toe pumps in the softest cream—a monochromatic moment that proves color-blocking doesn’t always mean bold contrasts. Sometimes, the most elegant statements whisper rather than shout. This head-to-toe winter white ensemble demonstrates an understanding of texture, tone, and proportion that separates the style-conscious from the truly fashion-forward.
The former Derry Girls star didn’t stop at the outfit. Her beauty choices complemented the look with equal sophistication. Her blonde locks were swept into a middle-parted messy bun—that perfectly imperfect updo that looks effortlessly thrown together but requires considerable skill to execute properly. A few strategically placed tendrils framed her face, softening the look while showcasing her chunky gold teardrop earrings to perfection. Those earrings, by the way, provided just the right amount of metallic warmth against all that winter white.
As for makeup, Nicola embraced her naturally flawless porcelain complexion, enhancing rather than masking. A whisper of rosy blush kissed her cheeks, while a pink-hued satin gloss gave her lips that coveted dewy finish. Black mascara made her striking blue eyes absolutely pop—proof that sometimes the most impactful beauty looks require the lightest touch.
Coughlan joined fellow cast members Siobhán McSweeney and Éanna Hardwicke at the celebration for this National Theatre revival, directed by Caitríona McLaughlin. Playing Pegeen Mike in Synge’s darkly comic classic, which premiered at Dublin’s Abbey Theatre in 1907, Nicola commands the Lyttelton Theatre stage in a production that runs through 28 February 2026, with an NT Live cinema screening scheduled for 28 May 2026.
After six months away, this return engagement proves Nicola Coughlan remains fashion royalty, effortlessly perfecting occasionwear while conquering the theatrical stage.
