Helen Mirren in Dolce & Gabbana | 2011 British Comedy Awards

When I first saw photos of Helen Mirren wearing this Dolce&Gabbana dress on the blue carpet this past Friday for the annual British Comedy Awards in London, I figured ‘oh ok, this is different — but, it might work’. Boy, was I wrong.

I thought she’d take off her warm winter cover-ups — you know? As in loose the coat and gloves… and she ended up doing so… kind of. The fabulous English actress, who’s usually glamorous, was not at her best for this appearance. When she removed her lush ivory wool coat.. she actually left. on. her. leather. gloves. with the star-print and lace cocktail long-sleeve dress. Umm…

Not to be age-discriminating, but I would definitely expect, and want, to see this look on someone much younger. In fact, I’m pretty sure Dame Helen Mirren is the last person I would have thought would wear this dress — despite how well she ages. She’s so stylish that I’m shocked at the way she wore this. The dark tights, peep toe pumps, black leather gloves, and diamond star bib necklace were the tackiest ways to accessorize.

I kind of want to forget this happened and hold out hope that I might see this dress again under better circumstances.