In a hilarious and heartfelt tribute, George Clooney honored the late fashion icon Giorgio Armani at the 2026 WWD Style Awards, but not without a cheeky twist. Clooney, known for his quick wit, took to the stage and immediately grabbed everyone's attention with a bold statement.
'I should be talking about Richard Gere!'
Clooney, 64, began by acknowledging the absence of his friend Richard Gere, whom he believes played a pivotal role in Armani's success. He humorously suggested that Gere should have been the one giving the speech, but with a playful expletive, he dismissed the idea, sparking laughter from the audience. Clooney, ever the charmer, quickly clarified his love for Gere, ensuring the moment wouldn't go viral for the wrong reasons.
The event, held in Santa Monica, California, celebrated the fashion industry's unsung heroes, the stylists, makeup artists, and hairstylists who transform celebrities into red-carpet royalty. Among the honorees were Erin Walsh, Jason Bolden, Gucci Westman, and Adir Abergel, whose clients include A-listers like Cameron Diaz, Emily Blunt, and Kristen Stewart.
Demi Moore, a fashion icon herself, received the fashion icon award and shared a relatable anecdote about her personal style. She credited her stylist, Brad Goreski, for helping her step up her fashion game, admitting that left to her own devices, she'd dress like a 12-year-old boy. Moore also expressed regret for not bringing her beloved chihuahua, Pilaf, to the event, as she missed the chance for a photo with Clooney.
But here's where it gets personal...
Moore's speech took a heartfelt turn as she shared her new year's wish for self-acceptance. She encouraged everyone to embrace their unique and imperfect selves, a powerful message in an industry often criticized for promoting unrealistic beauty standards.
Hairstylist Adir Abergel, who has worked with Stewart for years, shared a funny story about her willingness to experiment with her look. He joked about almost leaving her bald, showcasing her fearlessness as an artist. Abergel's journey, from a 16-year-old salon assistant to a renowned hairstylist, is a testament to the power of embracing one's uniqueness.
The WWD Style Awards not only celebrated fashion but also highlighted the importance of self-expression and the artists who bring out the best in their clients. It was a night of laughter, emotion, and a subtle reminder that sometimes, the most memorable moments come from those who dare to be different.
