In Loving Memory of Jane Larkworthy — Beauty Industry Icon and Visionary Storyteller
New York, NY — With heartfelt sorrow, the beauty and fashion worlds bid farewell to Jane Larkworthy, a pioneering journalist, creative force, and beloved friend to many, who passed away on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the age of 62 after a courageous battle with cancer. Her passing, confirmed by her family to Women’s Wear Daily, marks the end of a transformative era in beauty journalism. Yet, her vibrant spirit and groundbreaking legacy will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
Jane Larkworthy’s voice was singular. At once sharp and empathetic, witty and deeply wise, she had the rare ability to speak both to insiders and everyday readers with equal authenticity. Over the course of a career that spanned decades, Jane did more than cover beauty—she redefined how we think, write, and feel about it.
A Trailblazer at W Magazine
Jane’s most widely recognized role came during her 16-year tenure as Beauty Director at W magazine, which began in 2000. There, she transformed the beauty section into a sophisticated, avant-garde canvas for bold editorial experimentation. Under her leadership, W’s beauty coverage became as daring and intelligent as its fashion spreads, elevating product reviews into cultural commentary and making space for niche brands and breakthrough voices.
In an era when beauty was often treated as an accessory to fashion, Jane gave it its own seat at the table—curated with elegance, elevated with intellect, and always laced with her signature humor. Her voice became a trusted guide in an industry that can sometimes feel impenetrable.
Building a Legacy Across Media
Before W, Jane brought her talents to a variety of publications, including Glamour, Mademoiselle, and Jane, where she honed the editorial skills and keen instincts that would later distinguish her as a true tastemaker. Following her departure from W in 2016, she continued to evolve as a writer and thought leader, joining The Cut, New York Magazine’s style vertical, as a columnist. Her essays—often blending memoir, product testing, and cultural analysis—were widely read and cherished for their insight, candor, and unmistakable charm.
Later, she contributed regularly to Air Mail Look, the beauty extension of Air Mail, where her friendship with fellow industry legend Linda Wells further highlighted the strength and solidarity among pioneering women in beauty media.
C Word Media and Consulting Excellence
In addition to editorial success, Jane stepped behind the scenes with C Word Media, the consulting firm she co-founded with longtime friend and fellow Condé Nast veteran Danielle Pergament. Together, they offered storytelling and branding strategies for beauty and lifestyle brands, fusing editorial brilliance with business acumen. Jane’s ability to help brands find their authentic voice made her an invaluable asset in an industry that often prizes trend over truth.
A Visionary with Heart
Jane Larkworthy’s contributions weren’t limited to copy or columns—she changed the course of beauty history. A prime example is her pivotal role in popularizing Le Labo’s Santal 33, now one of the most iconic fragrances in the world. What began as a candle scent became a global phenomenon, thanks in part to Jane’s encouragement to its creators to turn it into a personal fragrance. Her instinct proved not only right—it was revolutionary.
But for all her professional accomplishments, what truly set Jane apart was her humanity. She was deeply beloved by those who knew her—not just for her brilliance, but for her humility, warmth, and infectious laughter. She mentored countless young writers, never gatekeeping knowledge or opportunity, and always celebrating others’ successes as if they were her own.
A Community in Mourning, and Celebration
As the news of Jane’s passing spreads, tributes from industry insiders, celebrities, longtime colleagues, and devoted readers have flooded social media and editorial spaces. Many remember her not just as a beauty editor, but as a soulful storyteller, someone who infused personal vulnerability into her work without sacrificing editorial authority. Others recall the way she lit up a room, made people feel seen, and brought joy wherever she went.
Jane Larkworthy’s impact is both vast and deeply personal. She helped shape an entire generation of beauty writing—infusing it with intelligence, playfulness, and care. She taught us that beauty is not about perfection, but about expression, identity, and connection.
She is survived by her loving family and an immeasurable community of friends, collaborators, mentees, and readers who will carry forward her legacy. Plans for a public celebration of her life are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
A Legacy That Shines On
In a world that often celebrates surface over substance, Jane Larkworthy gave us both—and showed us they could coexist beautifully. She leaves behind more than bylines and accolades; she leaves behind a movement. A movement toward honesty, inclusivity, and storytelling that dares to be both beautiful and real.
Rest in peace, Jane. Your work changed us. Your heart inspired us. And your legacy will continue to shine, boldly and brilliantly, just like you.