Stars dazzled at the 2025 WWD Style Awards, held on January 3rd at the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, celebrating the creative forces behind iconic red carpet moments.
Among the honorees was Tracee Ellis Ross, who received the coveted Fashion Trailblazer award. With her characteristic humor and charm, Ross reflected on the essence of style during her acceptance speech. “Public Tracee was in the closet,” she joked about returning to social events after the holidays. “I shook her out. I put her in the shower, and I was like, ‘We’ve got to get dressed.’” Ross shared her philosophy on fashion: “Do not wait for events to wear your pretty clothes. You are the special occasion.” She emphasized the personal connection to clothing, stating, “It is the way you dress and it is the way you live.”
Ross's message of self-expression stood out as she urged others to embrace their individuality. She remarked, “If there’s any trail I’ve blazed, I hope it’s paved with the footprints of my humanity, my service, my wholeness, my accountability, my gratitude, my joy and my delight.” Celebrated stylist Anna Sawai, who earned the Fashion Newcomer award, also contributed to the night. She acknowledged her stylist Karla Welch for her pivotal role, saying, “She is the mastermind behind every look.”
Hairstylist Chris Appleton, recognized as Best Hairstylist, shared his joy about the impact of red carpet appearances, particularly when styling celebrities like Jennifer Lopez. “Most of the time, it’s JLo’s hair, big, sexy hair,” he commented, recalling her iconic Super Bowl look. Appleton also hinted at upcoming hair trends with excitement: “I feel like for the longest time, people got labeled. I don’t think it’s great when people get put in boxes.” He signaled a shift toward more flexible and expressive styles.
Makeup artist Pati Dubroff, who captured the Best Makeup Artist award, reminisced about the joys of her craft. “When I was younger, I was focused on the joy of the person whose makeup I was doing,” she said. “But I started to realize the beauty they’re putting out is inspiring the entire world.” Spray-tanning expert Iván Pol, receiving the Skin Savior award, echoed similar sentiments about passion within the industry, sharing his connection to WWD.
Elizabeth Olsen arrived at the event showcasing her chic style. Wearing a stunning Chanel tweed minidress adorned with crystal-embellished buttons, she turned heads on the red carpet. Styled by her longtime collaborator Elizabeth Stewart, Olsen was celebrated for her already-remarkably successful 2024, which saw her dazzling at high-profile premieres.
Rounding out the evening’s high-fashion looks was participant Lisa Rinna, who shone brightly in her cream lace gown, flaunting the fitted design's cold shoulder accents. Meanwhile, socialite Nicky Hilton sported her elegant black mini dress, emphasizing her fashionable presence alongside her mother, Kathy Hilton, who looked stunning in black velvet.
The event, filled with laughter and recognition, also highlighted other notable figures such as Jamie Taylor and Wes Gordon. Gordon, awarded as Red Carpet Visionary, conveyed heartfelt appreciation for his team’s role and emphasized empowerment through fashion.
With guests like Justine Lupe, Chriselle Lim, and others participating, the awards ceremony turned out to be not just about recognition but also shared experiences among the fashion elite. The collective celebration of creativity and artistry wove through every speech and acknowledgment, affirming the importance of style as both personal and communal.
“The red carpet is now an industry,” Ross said, hinting at how significant these appearances have become. The 2025 WWD Style Awards aligned fashion’s past with its future, illustrating the ever-changing dynamics of the industry.
With laughter, good cheer, and significant individuality present, the night stood as a vibrant testimony to the wonderful world of fashion and beauty.