New York, N.Y. — Jane Larkworthy, a trailblazing beauty editor whose wit, curiosity, and discerning eye shaped decades of beauty journalism, has died at age 62 following a long battle with cancer, her sister Kate Larkworthy and husband Bertrand Garbassi confirmed.
Larkworthy was a fixture in the world of fashion and beauty media, best known for her work at W Magazine, where she led beauty coverage from 2000 to 2016. Her voice — smart, stylish, and never cynical — also resonated widely through contributions to New York Magazine’s The Cut and Air Mail Look, among others.
“She was one-of-a-kind,” said William Li, special projects editor at Town & Country and a longtime friend. “She was a great journalist, and I think of her contributions to the beauty industry and how she championed so many talents in it — makeup artists, hairstylists, even little indie brands. She was always excited about discoveries and never jaded.”
Larkworthy’s influence extended far beyond product reviews and trend pieces. She was revered for elevating beauty journalism with depth and humor, offering readers both sharp insights and a refreshing point of view.
In 2005, Larkworthy’s name entered headlines for reasons unrelated to her professional accomplishments. Her former partner, ex-WWD reporter Peter Braunstein, was at the center of a chilling nationwide manhunt after committing a violent crime while disguised as a firefighter. Though she had no involvement, Larkworthy endured intense public scrutiny. Friends and colleagues noted that she faced the ordeal with dignity and resilience.
Throughout her career, Larkworthy was a beloved presence at industry events — instantly recognizable for her sharp fashion sense, quick wit, and genuine enthusiasm for the creatives she covered.
“I got to know Jane over the decades at various beauty events and immediately loved her energy and quirky, funny point of view on our world,” said Linda Wells, founding editor of Allure and now editor of Air Mail Look. “She was such a pro and so beloved.”
Jane Larkworthy is remembered not only for her editorial legacy but also for her generosity of spirit, sharp humor, and the mentorship she offered to countless emerging voices in beauty media.
Details of a memorial service will be announced in the coming days.