Harper’s Bazaar — the world’s longest-running fashion, art, and literary magazine — hosted its annual Women of the Year Awards last night at Claridge’s in London, presented in partnership with The Platinum Card® by American Express. It’s an evening that recognises cultural influence, craft, artistry and activism — and, naturally, delivers a red carpet that leans into personality rather than pageant as the mood was assured and decidedly individual.
Blue-Bloom Classicism
Reese Witherspoon was honoured as a Cultural Icon — a title that reflects her decades-long contributions to film, producing, and her ongoing work championing women in storytelling. Her Givenchy by Sarah Burton Spring 2026 draped bustier dress — in swirling blue and green cloqué jacquard — felt like a return to a slightly romantic Reese silhouette as she has been favouring black tailoring a lot recently.
Gothic Softness
Aimee Lou Wood, awarded Television Actress of the Year, wore a Chloé gown with sheer sleeves and lace bodice bringing a gothic tenderness that suits her beautifully. It feels emotional, and entirely connected to the kind of characters she gravitates towards.
A New Tone
It has been a while since Cheryl has appeared on a carpet, and this black lace and satin gown marks a noticeable shift. Gone are the high-impact silhouettes and high-saturation hues — replaced with something quieter, more pared-back. Some may call it too mature; I’d call it assured. The restraint works. Repossi jewels completed her look.
Net Gains
Football star Chloe Kelly — honoured with the Sportswoman Award — arrived in Azzi & Osta. For those who primarily associate her with sprinting down the wing in an Arsenal kit, this embellished net hooded gown may feel like a twist, but if you know Chloe’s very playful, cheeky personality, it tracks perfectly. What impressed me most was how well the look was executed. Sheer gowns are a minefield — we’ve all seen what happens when the underpinnings aren’t considered — but here, everything was handled perfectly.
Tilted Tailoring
Receiving the Performance Award for her role in Adolescence, Erin Doherty wore a Louis Vuitton double-breasted suit in grey wool — but this wasn’t Ghesquière going “corporate”. The asymmetric hem and subtle angular play gave it that familiar LV architectural sharpness. Louis Vuitton Fine Jewelry added the finishing touch.
Soft Citrus Glow
Gillian Anderson wore Stella McCartney, opting for a soft yellow fluidly draped gown. The colour choice was unexpected for an early November event — in the best way — light, understated, and quietly luminous against the carpet. Jimmy Choo Metz sandals completed the look.
Theatrical Sweep
Jade Thirlwall collected her Musician Award in an asymmetrical red Vivienne Westwood gown that she wore with a sense of performance. I love a classic Westwood corset silhouette, but this was refreshing shift — dramatic, confident, and perfectly in tune with her solo era moment.
Sporty Tailoring
Melanie C arrived in a Kent & Curwen Fall 2025 strapless draped top and trousers, punctuated with a red stripe and matching sandals. Mel C has never been a “glamour” dresser, and that’s exactly why this worked — clean, unfussy, and true to her style identity.
Understated Breakthrough
Mia Threapleton, honoured as Breakthrough Actress of the Year, kept things low-key in an off-the-shoulder black dress paired with De Beers diamonds. Throughout The Phoenician Scheme press run she has prioritised simplicity, and this continued that narrative — sincere, unfussy, and confident in its restraint.
Red Elegance
Nathalie Emmanuel wore a red Emilia Wickstead Zarit jacquard off-shoulder bouclé gown. The cut and structure gave the dress a sculpted clarity that suits her beautifully, and I can’t express how happy I am about the hemline. No breaks, no notes.
Velvet Crush
Olivia Wilde’s plush black velvet suit felt like a return to her Bella Freud era. It also suggests she knows better than to attempt a sheer dress in London in November. Sensible and chic — both can coexist.
Spring Green Spotlight
Rosamund Pike, honoured for her role in Inter Alia, wore Erdem Spring 2026 gown with Roger Vivier Efflorescence pumps. I wish the shoes were tonal green, but the De Beers jewels helped anchor the moment.
Cool Turquoise
Saffron Hocking continues to fascinate me stylistically. This Zimmermann Spring 2026 turquoise asymmetrical gown is no exception — especially with the stacked gold bangles inspired by the runway.
Cut-Out Craft
Sheila Atim wore Erdem Spring 2026 — a cut-out knit and sequined gown — styled with Chaumet jewellery. The dress has texture, shape, and presence, and Sheila carries it with ease. Dark romance oozing with intrigue and integrity.
This was a good red carpet with no chaotic looks. My favourites are Mel C, Sheila Atim, Saffron Hocking, Nathalie Emmanuel and Olivia Wilde.
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Content shared from www.redcarpet-fashionawards.com.
