Hailey Bieber, the renowned model and founder of Rhode, recently celebrated the achievements of all innovators in the beauty industry. The occasion for her empowering statement was her acceptance of the prestigious Beauty Innovator Award at the Wall Street Journal Innovator Awards 2025, held on Oct. 29. Bieber, 28, took the stage at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, emphasizing her support for every owner and innovator in the beauty sector.
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During her acceptance speech, Bieber highlighted the courage and determination required to launch a brand, stating, “Making the decision to believe wholeheartedly in your ideas and dreams and launch a brand takes an immense amount of guts.” She expressed profound gratitude for being recognised as a beauty innovator, an honour previously bestowed upon only one other individual, the iconic Pat McGrath. Bieber’s remarks underscored her belief in the limitless potential for impact, influence, and innovation within the beauty world.
In a significant business development earlier this year, e.l.f. Beauty acquired Bieber’s company, Rhode, in a groundbreaking $1 billion deal. Despite this acquisition, Bieber’s role as founder remains intact as she assumes the additional positions of chief creative officer and head of innovation. Her continued involvement in creative, product innovation, and marketing ensures her ongoing presence in the brand she has built with passion and dedication.
The narrative involving Bieber and Selena Gomez resurfaced when comparisons were drawn between Rhode and Gomez’s beauty brand, Rare Beauty. In response to the scrutiny, Bieber expressed her discomfort with being pitted against others and stressed the importance of individual narratives. Gomez, in a subtle reaction via her Instagram Stories on Oct. 17, advocated for kindness and unity among all brands in the industry, dispelling any notion of discord between herself and Bieber.
Rumours of a feud between Gomez and Bieber have lingered for years, stemming from Gomez’s prior relationship with Bieber’s husband, Justin Bieber. Despite posing together at an event in 2022, fans continue to perpetuate a narrative of rivalry between the two women. Gomez has since found happiness in her marriage to music producer Benny Blanco, underscoring the importance of moving forward from past associations and embracing new beginnings.
Bieber’s stance on celebrating beauty industry founders echoes a broader sentiment of inclusivity and support within the sector. By championing the achievements of fellow innovators and entrepreneurs, she exemplifies a spirit of collaboration and empowerment that transcends individual brands. As the beauty landscape evolves, Bieber’s words serve as a reminder of the collective strength and creativity that define the industry’s vibrant community.
In conclusion, Hailey Bieber’s recognition at the WSJ. Magazine 2025 Innovator Awards symbolises more than just a personal accolade; it reflects a commitment to honouring diversity, creativity, and resilience in the beauty industry. Through her words and actions, Bieber continues to inspire and uplift those around her, embodying a vision of empowerment that resonates far beyond the confines of a single award ceremony.