Tems Stuns in Bridal-Inspired Look at 2026 Brit Awards

The Nigerian singer talks through her getting-ready process and fashion inspirations for the big night.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Ahead of the 2026 Brit Awards, ELLE UK met up with Nigerian singer Tems in her Manchester hotel room as she was getting ready for the ceremony. Tems, who was presenting the International Artist of the Year award, wore a beautiful white corseted gown by Luis De Javier that she described as a "bridal" look. The singer discussed her fashion evolution, her close relationship with her stylist, and her getting-ready rituals, which include sipping a special homemade tea blend. Tems also shared some of her biggest red-carpet inspirations, like 1970s Hollywood glamour, and teased some upcoming music projects.

Why it matters

Tems' appearance at the 2026 Brit Awards marks a significant milestone in her rising global stardom. As a first-time Brits performer and presenter, the singer's bridal-inspired look and insights into her fashion and beauty prep offer a glimpse into the glamorous world of major awards show dressing. Her comments on evolving personal style and upcoming music also underscore her status as an artist to watch.

The details

For the Brits, Tems wanted to wear something with "a bit of old-school glamour" and was immediately drawn to the statement sleeves of the Luis De Javier gown she ultimately chose. She describes the look as "a bit regal" and says the white color "marks a new beginning." Tems' glam team kept her makeup simple with a smoky eye and dark lip, prioritizing a flawless complexion. The singer's stylist of five years, Dunsin Wright, is a close collaborator, with the two sharing fashion ideas and inspirations. Tems cites 1970s Hollywood and designers like Roberto Cavalli and Elie Saab as major style influences.

  • Tems met her stylist Dunsin Wright on a shoot in 2021.
  • The 2026 Brit Awards ceremony took place on March 1, 2026.

The players

Tems

A Nigerian singer, also known as Temilade Openiyi, who was presenting the International Artist of the Year award at the 2026 Brit Awards.

Dunsin Wright

Tems' stylist of five years, with whom she has a close working relationship.

Jade Thirlwall

Tems' co-presenter for the International Artist of the Year award at the 2026 Brit Awards.

Rosalía

The winner of the International Artist of the Year award at the 2026 Brit Awards.

Luis De Javier

The designer of the white corseted gown Tems wore to the 2026 Brit Awards.

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What they’re saying

“I am a bride tonight. A really cool bride.”

— Tems (ELLE UK)

“I was really leaning into corsets and wanted something a bit regal. I feel that white also marks a new beginning and that's what I wanted to portray.”

— Tems (ELLE UK)

“I'm bolder now and less hesitant to try new things. I also know what I like and don't like.”

— Tems (ELLE UK)

“We met on a shoot in 2021 and just vibed. I was like, 'I like you, let's be friends.' I'm sure she thought I was a weirdo! She's like my sister.”

— Tems (ELLE UK)

What’s next

Tems is expected to continue her rise to global stardom, with the singer teasing "a lot of interesting music projects going on" and "more collabs" in the works.

The takeaway

Tems' bridal-inspired look and insights into her fashion evolution and close-knit creative team at the 2026 Brit Awards showcase the Nigerian singer's growing confidence and status as an emerging style icon in the music industry.