The ELLE Style Awards always promise a good time, but this year felt extra significant as it marked 40 years of ELLE UK. And what better way to celebrate than with a red carpet that blended fresh faces, and established stars, each bringing their own style moment.
ELLE’s Performer of the Year Award
Naomi Ackie has had a breakout year, from Mickey 17 to Sorry, Baby, so this award felt inevitable. Her red-and-black Di Pesta Fall 2025 halterneck gown made her look like molten lava spilling out of a volcano—fiery, powerful, and impossible to ignore. I love when an outfit reflects where someone style confidence.
ELLE’s Inspirational Icon Award
Malala Yousafzai remains a force of inspiration, and her Huishan Zhang Luanne gown proved that she approaches fashion with the same thoughtfulness she brings to everything else. The sparkling embellishment and bold hue might have surprised some, but the layered sleeves and headscarf grounded it in her cultural authenticity. This was a lesson in how personal style doesn’t need to be compromised on the red carpet.
Modern Pioneer Award
Riz Ahmed was a risk-taker in technicolour Prada. But did it land? A pink turtleneck with red trousers, a tan leather jacket, and black Prada shoes? Somehow it was eclectic without being try-hard to me. Some might not love the jacket, but I think it pulled it all together. Only the shoes aren’t working for me.
British Designer of the Year Award: Simone Rocha
Bel Powley wore a ribboned Simone Rocha Fall 2025 dress instantly recognisable from the runway—especially since Chloe Sevigny debuted the pink two-piece version at the Venice Film Festival. I know many of you weren’t convinced by Chloe’s take, so the question is whether Bel’s red-and-black version fared better. Personally, I think the colour palette gave it a touch more bite.
Best New Sound Award
Fresh from the VMAs, Lola Young kept her momentum going in a Simone Rocha Fall 2025 look that felt unapologetically Gen Z. By layering the oversized denim jacket, she made the outfit her own, grounding it in her signature cool, offbeat energy.
Collective of the Year Award
Leah Williamson footballer represented Arsenal and England with pride while supporting Daniel W. Fletcher. The designer is known for his unisex pieces, and this Spring 2025 look was a natural fit for her tomboy-leaning style. This didn’t feel forced—it just looked like Leah being Leah.
Topshop Timeless Muse Award
Alexa Chung was inevitable at this event. Her vintage-inspired Prada floral embroidered dress leaned heavily into nostalgia. Some might say it’s veering a little too far, but for Alexa, it works. Considering her Venice look, I feel she’s embracing a softer, retro mood these days.
Double-breasted, double sharp
Will Poulter, presenting on the night, looked razor-sharp in a Celine double-breasted suit. If the Style Awards aren’t the place to bring your A-game, then where is?
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