An evening worthy of a Claridge's soirée, London's glitterati descended on the hotel's marble-floored foyer on Tuesday night for the annual celebration of iconic female trailblazers across film, TV, and fashion.
Hosted in partnership with The Platinum Card by American Express, the Harper’s Bazaar Women of the Year Awards offered a toast (or two) over bottles of Laurent-Perrier to the fierce, fabulous, and famous who’ve impressed us all year.
With the grand ballroom as the backdrop, couture-clad stars made the red carpet their runway. The mini dress reigned supreme, with Sophie Turner dazzling in a white fringe Louis Vuitton, Ambika Mod turning heads in cobalt JW Anderson, and Jodie Comer sleek in a metallic slip from 16Arlington.
The foyer became a scene of non-stop reunions, whispers, and hugs, as Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan caught up with co-star Golda Rosheuvel and Rivals stars Aidan Turner, Bella MacLean, and Alex Hassell recreated TV magic in the flesh.
Once seated, guests were treated to a three-course feast of cured salmon, an indulgent onion tart with truffle, and a blackberry meringue to satisfy any sweet tooth. Between courses, actress Laura Haddock made the rounds, catching up with old friends and fellow stars, much like Royal Ballet icon Francesca Hayward.
The night held several poignant moments, particularly from 13-year-old Harper Beckham, who, despite pre-show jitters, presented the Entrepreneur of the Year award to her mother with poise. Victoria, the ultimate mum, proudly declared that Harper still had to finish her homework—a reminder that even the celeb offspring can’t escape school night rules. After accepting her honour, the former Spice Girl slipped back to her table alongside her long-time pal and hairdresser, Ken Pavés, mum Jack, and sister Louise Adams.
On the awards front, legendary actor Harriet Walter picked up the Icon Award from co-star Brian Cox, dishing out an irreverent, “I'm not good with compliments, now f*** off Brian” much to the crowd's delight.
Author of the Year award winner Jilly Cooper quickly became the belle of the ball, referring to presenter Aidan Turner as "Pol-dark and handsome" in a speech that kept the room laughing. Seated with stars of the TV adaptation of her novel Rivals and daughter, Cooper stole the show with her humor and quips.
As Nicola Coughlan accepted her Television Actress nod, she poured praise over Victoria Beckham, who she branded “inherently cool” and her “favourite popstar”, before delivering the designer’s iconic line from Spice World The Movie, “I’m Victoria, Malcolm” which had guests laughing.
Raye continued her winning streak after her historic sweep at this year’s Brit Awards earlier this by picking up the night’s Musician nod and dedicated the honour to The Suffragettes. Also honoured during the evening’s proceedings was Olympic silver medalist Katarina Johnson-Thompson, who we learned is a “karaoke queen” from pal Jodie Comer as she presented the heptathlete the Sportswoman gong.
Ambika Mod, star of One Day, admitted she hadn’t prepared a speech but delivered a heartfelt reflection on what it truly means to be a Breakthrough, accepting the award from her friend and fellow actor, Paapa Essiedu.
The night’s cheat sheet of winners included Francesca Amfitheatrof, artistic director for watches and jewellery at Louis Vuitton, who took home Designer of the Year, and artist Rana Begum, who was celebrated as Artist of the Year. Both honourees were recognised by industry icons, including Givenchy’s Sarah Burton, Trino Verkade, and designer Roksanda Ilinčić. Closing the ceremony, Sophie Turner accepted the final honour, Performer of the Year, and shared a poignant quote from Eleanor Roosevelt: “ Do what you feel in your heart to be right - for you'll be criticised anyway.”
The afterparty in Claridge's famed French Salon proved just as eventful, with revellers sipping Laurent-Perrier and Sir Davis whiskey cocktails as the lights dimmed for a more intimate vibe. Jilly Cooper continued to hold court, while Maya Jama and Comer settled into plush velvet seats, gossiping well into the night. Not long after, Saltburn’s Archie Madekwe and Raye joined the pair.
As the clock approached 2 a.m., and cars awaited outside, the crowd finally trickled out—each off to savour a few hours’ rest before the London whirlwind begins anew - with perhaps slightly weary champagne-induced sore head.
Inside the Harper’s Bazaar Women of The Year Awards 2024:
