Despite her growing command of fashion as storytelling, Atwell is candid about the challenges that women still face in the entertainment industry
Hayley Atwell, known for her striking presence on screen and the red carpet, has developed a sharp understanding of fashion’s power—and its pitfalls. The 43-year-old actress shared her evolving perspective on style, self-awareness, and the influence of fellow Hollywood stars in a recent interview.
“For me, I know that I suit structure, and I suit boldness of colour, and asymmetry,” Atwell told WWD, noting that she has a clear sense of what flatters her—and what doesn’t. “I’m always kind of aware what doesn’t work on me, and I can often feel it when I look back at images.”
Her experience in acting has sharpened her sensitivity to how clothing can affect identity and presence. “As an actor, you’re very aware every day of the impact of what costumes do for your sense of identity, confidence in the world,” she said. “Everything has an impact. It’s just a really interesting part of the art form.”
Atwell also admitted that she draws inspiration from other actresses who use fashion to express something deeper than appearance. “I’m obsessed with Cynthia Erivo, her whole defined look, or Saoirse Ronan, demure, powerful. Tilda Swinton, amazing,” she told Grazia. “That, to me, is the art side of fashion rather than, ‘Do I look hot?’”
Despite her growing command of fashion as storytelling, Atwell is candid about the challenges that women still face in the entertainment industry. Speaking about the systemic realities of Hollywood, she said, “You can’t be outside of the system and have any sort of real platform… Trying to get anything made is so hard. Having star power means you can get things made. I don’t feel like I have that yet.”
Her reflections highlight the complex dance between art, appearance, and influence in Hollywood—where style choices can be a form of power, identity, and, sometimes, quiet rebellion.
