Key Takeaways
- The second annual WWD Style Awards took place on January 9, 2026, with a 90-minute ceremony that celebrated those behind the curtain in Hollywood.
- George Clooney accepted the red carpet visionary award on behalf of the late Giorgio Armani and made a humorous remark about Richard Gere.
- The award recipients, including Demi Moore, Pamela Anderson, and Hailey Bieber, gave brief speeches, with the longest lasting only a few minutes.
- The event honored stylists, makeup artists, and hairstylists who create magic for A-list stars, with Cameron Diaz, Emily Blunt, and Mindy Kaling in attendance.
- Demi Moore spoke about the importance of self-acceptance and embracing individuality, while hairstylist Adir Abergel praised Kristen Stewart as a "fearless artist" who is unafraid to take risks with her style.
Introduction to the WWD Style Awards
The second annual WWD Style Awards took place on January 9, 2026, at a ceremony in Santa Monica, California. The event was marked by brevity, with a 90-minute ceremony that celebrated those behind the curtain in Hollywood who create magic for A-list stars. George Clooney, who arrived straight from an earlier appearance at the AFI Awards, kicked off the event by accepting the red carpet visionary award on behalf of the late Giorgio Armani. Clooney has often worn Armani’s creations, including on his wedding day, and spoke about the Italian fashion house founder’s legacy.
George Clooney’s Acceptance Speech
Clooney’s acceptance speech was notable for its humor and humility. He joked about Richard Gere, saying "I think the two put each other on the map," before adding "But since he couldn’t show up, and you know? F— him." The audience erupted in laughter, and Clooney quickly backtracked, saying "And that’s the only thing that will come out of this whole evening. I actually love him." Clooney also spoke about Armani’s impact on the fashion industry, saying "He was 91 years old, and he left us far too soon. He just celebrated 50 years in the industry." Despite the brevity of the ceremony, Clooney’s speech was a highlight of the evening, and his humor and humility were well-received by the audience.
The Award Recipients
The award recipients at the WWD Style Awards included Demi Moore, Pamela Anderson, and Hailey Bieber, among others. The recipients gave brief speeches, with the longest lasting only a few minutes. Hailey Bieber, who accepted the style trailblazer award, said "I was told there was no speeches tonight… so I’ll keep it very short and simple." Kourtney Kardashian Barker, who was honored as wellness entrepreneur of the year, gave the shortest speech of the night. Despite the brevity of their speeches, the award recipients were clearly grateful for the recognition, and their acceptance speeches added to the overall sense of celebration and camaraderie at the event.
Celebrating the Unsung Heroes of Hollywood
The WWD Style Awards primarily celebrated those behind the curtain in Hollywood who create magic for A-list stars. The event honored stylists Erin Walsh and Jason Bolden, makeup artist Gucci Westman, hairstylist Adir Abergel, and facialist Lord Gavin McLeod-Valentine, among others. Cameron Diaz, Emily Blunt, and Mindy Kaling were in attendance, and they praised the stylists and makeup artists who help them look their best on the red carpet. The event was a reminder that the glamour of Hollywood is not just about the stars, but also about the talented individuals who work behind the scenes to create the magic that we see on screen.
Demi Moore’s Speech
Demi Moore, who was honored as a fashion icon, gave a heartfelt speech about the importance of self-acceptance and embracing individuality. She said "My 2026 [wish] is to continue with the acceptance of ourselves as we are. We don’t need to be different." Moore also poked fun at her less glamorous moments, saying "As [stylist] Brad [Goreski] can tell you, if left to my own devices, I dress like a 12-year-old boy." She also gave a shoutout to her tiny chihuahua, Pilaf, saying "I’m sorry I didn’t bring Pilaf tonight. I was informed that I was missing my chance to get a picture with her and George." Moore’s speech was a highlight of the evening, and her message of self-acceptance and individuality resonated with the audience.
Adir Abergel’s Tribute to Kristen Stewart
Hairstylist Adir Abergel gave a heartfelt tribute to Kristen Stewart, calling her a "fearless artist" who is unafraid to take risks with her style. Abergel said "Thank you so much for knowing me so deeply as a human, whether we’re shaving your head one day, bleaching your roots before a premiere or notching into your hair with kitchen scissors to the point where people yell at me asking me, ‘Listen! Why are you leaving her bald? What is the problem here?’ " Abergel’s speech was a testament to the close relationship between a hairstylist and their client, and the trust and creativity that can result from such a partnership. Stewart, who was seated in the audience, was clearly touched by Abergel’s words, and the two shared a warm moment on stage.