Sam Smith dazzles in red velour gown at BBC Proms amid controversy

Sam Smith delivered a standout performance in a red velour gown at the BBC Proms, held at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday. 

The singer known for their provocative stage outfits, chose a more restrained look for this event, opting for a custom-made Vivienne Westwood gown designed by Andreas Kronthaler.

The gown featured an asymmetrical neckline, a dramatic layered silk skirt with a train, and matching silk gloves. 

He had previously modeled for the brand at Paris Fashion Week in February, performed a selection of their popular hits, including Lay Me Down.

The BBC had addressed concerns about the performance being deemed "inappropriate" for the festival, affirming that the show would be "entirely appropriate" for the event.

He delivered an impressive performance at the BBC Proms on Friday, showcasing their versatility and musical range. 

The hitmaker initially took the stage in a striking red velour gown by Vivienne Westwood but later changed into a sleek black polka dot double-breasted suit for the remainder of the concert.

The event, which featured the BBC Concert Orchestra, was a retrospective of Smith’s debut album, In The Lonely Hour, celebrating its 10th anniversary. 

The performance included a mix of soulful original tracks and cover versions, supported by a 17-piece choir, the LJ Singers, and a full orchestra.

Throughout the evening, he introduced several guests, including their early singing teacher Joanna Eden and jazz singer Clare Teal. 

The concert concluded with a rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow, a tribute to Judy Garland’s iconic 1961 Carnegie Hall performance.

Smith, who publicly came out as non-binary in 2019, uses they/them pronouns and requested that audience members respect this preference.