Hollywood Shines Bright at Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards 2025

London's Claridge's Hotel recently rolled out the red carpet for a dazzling array of stars at the Harper's Bazaar Women Of The Year Awards, celebrating powerful women who are absolutely crushing it in film, music, sport, and beyond. From inspiring speeches to show-stopping fashion, it was a night to remember!

TL;DR: The Lowdown on the Big Night

• Star Power Everywhere: Reese Witherspoon, Jade Thirlwall, and Aimee Lou Wood led a roster of incredible women honored for their cultural impact.
• Inspiring Messages: Honorees shared powerful insights on breaking barriers and championing authentic storytelling.
• Red Carpet Royalty: Attendees like Cheryl, Gillian Anderson, and Olivia Wilde brought their A-game to the fashion stakes.

Celebrating Women Who Redefine Success on Their Own Terms

The annual Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards, now in its eighteenth year, once again transformed London's Claridge's Hotel into a hub of inspiration on Thursday, November 6, 2025. This long-running event is all about spotlighting exceptional women who have truly left their mark across the cultural landscape, spanning film, art, fashion, and philanthropy. It's a testament to creativity, courage, and compassion, as Lydia Slater, Editor-in-Chief of Harper's Bazaar UK, put it. Source: [Harper's Bazaar UK, "Harper's Bazaar UK announces the return of its Women of the Year Awards," October 31, 2025].

This year's ceremony was presented in partnership with The Platinum Card® by American Express, continuing a collaboration focused on supporting arts and innovation. Major brands like De Beers (jewellery) and Range Rover (automotive) also joined as partners, adding to the prestige of the evening.

Reese Witherspoon: A Cultural Icon Championing New Stories

One of the night's biggest honors went to American actress and producer Reese Witherspoon, who was recognized as a "Cultural Icon." Presenting her with the award was none other than America Ferrera, her co-star from the Barbie movie. Reese stepped onto the red carpet in a stunning Givenchy by Sarah Burton Spring 2026 draped bustier dress, featuring a gorgeous swirling blue and green cloqué jacquard.

Witherspoon used her platform to discuss her journey creating her production company, Hello Sunshine. "The system I existed in wasn't right for me, and I realised Hollywood wasn't telling the right stories," she explained. This powerful sentiment highlights her commitment to fostering narratives that resonate more deeply. She proudly shared that producing acclaimed titles like Gone Girl and Big Little Lies stands out as some of her most fulfilling work.

Jade Thirlwall and Cheryl's Heartfelt Northern Reunion

Singer Jade Thirlwall, known for her time in Little Mix before launching a solo career, was crowned "Musician of the Year." The moment was made even more special as she received the award from her fellow North Easterner, Cheryl. Jade expressed how meaningful it was to accept the award from someone who had been such a significant figure in her life. "Both being from the north east, Cheryl was the first person I looked up to and thought if she can do it, so can I," Jade told the BBC. Source: [BBC, "Jade, Reese Witherspoon and Aimee Lou Wood honoured at Women of the Year awards," November 7, 2025]. She even admitted to taking pictures of Cheryl to her hair salon as a kid, asking to look like her!

Quote Box: Jade Thirlwall on Cheryl

"A major influence during my X Factor journey and throughout my time in Little Mix. Both being from the north east, Cheryl was the first person I looked up to and thought if she can do it, so can I."

— Jade Thirlwall, Musician of the Year honoree

This sweet exchange highlighted a genuine bond forged through shared experiences and mutual admiration. Jade wowed onlookers in a dramatic red asymmetric Vivienne Westwood gown, perfectly embodying her confident solo era.

Aimee Lou Wood and Erin Doherty: Television's Brightest Talents

Television was well-represented with two shining stars receiving accolades. Aimee Lou Wood, celebrated for her role in HBO's hit series The White Lotus, took home the "Television Actress of the Year" award. Her presenter, Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa, who also co-starred with her in Sex Education, lightened the mood by humorously reading her complete birth chart, proclaiming her brilliance "written in the stars." Aimee, sporting a Chloé gown with sheer sleeves and a lace bodice, recently opened up about battling body dysmorphia during White Lotus filming, finding inspiration in her character Chelsea's confidence.

Erin Doherty, best known for her portrayal of Princess Anne in The Crown, earned the "Performance of the Year" award for her role in Netflix's drama series Adolescence. Owen Cooper, her main character co-star from the show, presented her award, commending her "power and authenticity on the screen." Doherty opted for a sophisticated Louis Vuitton double-breasted suit in grey wool, adding a touch of modern chic to the event.

The Theatre Spotlight and Sports Achievement

The stage was also honored, with Rosamund Pike receiving the "Theatre Award" for her acclaimed performance in the National Theatre's Inter Alia. Theatre veteran Celia Imrie presented the award and playfully shocked guests with a joke about revealing the winner of Celebrity Traitors.

In the world of sports, football sensation Chloe Kelly was recognized with the "Sportswoman Award." She traded her usual kit for a striking Azzi & Osta embellished net hooded gown, showcasing her playful personality off the field.

A Rare Appearance by Cheryl and Other Red Carpet Highlights

Cheryl's attendance at the awards was noted as an "ultra rare appearance" by several outlets, her second public outing since the funeral of Liam Payne last month. The former Girls Aloud star looked elegant in a black long-sleeved dress with a lace panel by Alberta Ferretti, opting for a sleek low ponytail and a distinctly nineties lip. Liam Payne, the father of her son Bear, passed away on October 16, 2024, at the age of 31. Source: [Mirror, "Cheryl in ultra rare appearance at Women of the Year awards as she joins huge stars," November 7, 2025].

The red carpet was, as always, a parade of fashion statements. Gillian Anderson chose an unexpected soft yellow fluidly draped Stella McCartney gown. Olivia Wilde made a sensible and chic choice with a plush black velvet suit. Mel C sported a clean, unfussy Kent & Curwen strapless top and trousers, staying true to her sporty-chic identity. Mia Threapleton, honored as "Breakthrough Actress of the Year," kept it understated yet elegant in an off-the-shoulder black dress paired with De Beers diamonds, demonstrating confidence in simplicity.

Example: The Power of a Role Model

Imagine a young aspiring singer, practicing in her bedroom, looking up to her favorite pop star. She clips magazine pictures, imitates their style, and dreams of the day she might meet them. Years pass, she works tirelessly, and one evening, she finds herself on stage, accepting a prestigious award from that very idol. That's the tangible impact of role models like Cheryl on Jade Thirlwall, transforming childhood admiration into real-world inspiration and success.

Beyond the Glitz: The Real Impact of the Awards

While the fashion and celebrity sightings grab headlines, it’s important to remember the core purpose of these awards: to celebrate tangible achievements and inspire others. These women aren't just famous faces; they are innovators, storytellers, and barrier-breakers. The event aims to be a reflection of the brand's enduring cultural influence and a showcase of female achievement, reinforcing the idea that success can truly be defined on one's own terms.

A Note on Glamour and Substance

It’s easy to get swept up in the glamour of the red carpet, focusing solely on the designer gowns and dazzling jewelry. However, the Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards successfully balances this visual spectacle with genuine recognition of professional accomplishments. The fashion, while undeniably fabulous, serves as a backdrop to the more profound narratives of resilience, creativity, and leadership.

Collector's Edition Covers to Commemorate the Year

To accompany the event, Harper's Bazaar UK will release a set of collector's edition covers for its December/January issue, hitting newsstands on November 7. These special editions serve as a visual tribute to the honorees and promise to be sought-after items for readers and collectors, reinforcing the magazine's reputation for timeless print craft and cultural relevance.

Your Practical Takeaways from the Women of the Year Awards

• Seek Inspiration: The stories shared by honorees like Reese Witherspoon and Jade Thirlwall are powerful reminders of what can be achieved when women support each other and forge their own paths.
• Celebrate Diverse Talents: The awards span various fields, from film and music to sports and theatre, highlighting the incredible breadth of female excellence.
• Fashion as Expression: The red carpet showcased how personal style can be a powerful extension of an artist's identity and professional journey.
• Mark Your Calendar: Keep an eye out for Harper's Bazaar UK's December/January issue (out Nov 7, 2025) featuring collector's edition covers celebrating this year's honorees.

FAQ: All Your Burning Questions About the Awards When and where did the Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year Awards 2025 take place? The awards were held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Claridge's Hotel in London. Who were some of the key honorees? Major honorees included Reese Witherspoon (Cultural Icon), Jade Thirlwall (Musician of the Year), Aimee Lou Wood (Television Actress of the Year), Erin Doherty (Performance of the Year), and Rosamund Pike (Theatre Award). Will there be special content released related to the awards? Yes, Harper's Bazaar UK will release collector's edition covers for its December/January issue, available from November 7, 2025, as a visual tribute to the honorees. What is the main purpose of these awards? The awards celebrate exceptional women who have shaped the cultural landscape across various fields, recognizing their influence, craft, artistry, and activism, and aiming to inspire others. Sources

• BBC, "Jade, Reese Witherspoon and Aimee Lou Wood honoured at Women of the Year awards," November 7, 2025.
• Harper's Bazaar UK, "Harper's Bazaar UK announces the return of its Women of the Year Awards," October 31, 2025.
• Mirror, "Cheryl in ultra rare appearance at Women of the Year awards as she joins huge stars," November 7, 2025.