British beauty entrepreneur and celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury has been appointed a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in the King's Birthday Honours list, recognising her outstanding contributions to the beauty and cosmetics industry. The honour comes eight years after she received an MBE, highlighting her sustained impact on the UK sector.
Charlotte Tilbury's Journey and Achievements
As founder, president, chairwoman, and chief creative officer, Ms Tilbury drives her eponymous makeup brand, launched in 2013. The company has evolved into a global powerhouse, with products like foundation, powder, and setting spray dominating the premium market. Her popular “Unreal” range has become a favourite among consumers seeking a flawless, filter-like complexion.
The brand operates under Spanish premium beauty group Puig, which acquired it in 2020 for a reported $1 billion (£750 million). Ms Tilbury is considered one of Britain’s wealthiest beauty entrepreneurs, with an estimated fortune of £350 million, according to last year’s Sunday Times Beauty Rich List.
Now 53, Tilbury launched her brand after over 20 years as a celebrity makeup artist, collaborating with iconic supermodels such as Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Gisele Bündchen, and Kendall Jenner.
Other Honours in the Fashion Industry
Joining Tilbury on this year’s honours list is Neil Clifford, chief executive of luxury footwear and accessories label Kurt Geiger, who has been awarded an OBE. Clifford has often spoken about his journey from a shop floor employee with few qualifications to leading the British brand, having risen through the retail ranks. He has helmed Kurt Geiger—known for its distinctive bold loafers and heels—for over two decades, earning recognition for his services to fashion.
Sandra Choi, creative director and designer at Jimmy Choo, also receives an OBE for services to fashion. Choi, niece of Jimmy Choo, has dedicated over 30 years to the luxury brand celebrated for its glamorous footwear and iconic stilettos. Jimmy Choo was acquired by American fashion house Michael Kors for nearly £900 million in 2017, now part of the Capri Holdings group.
