HLW HLWeen 2025

Every year, the HLW team takes on a themed costume challenge, and for 2025, we went full Bugs Met Gala – a high-fashion twist on the insect world. From dramatic dragonflies to glittering beetles and creepy preying mantis, the event swarmed with couture-level creepy crawlies. Special shoutout to Pendick Brown, whose preying mantis look earned him a well-deserved special mention!

Our guests came dressed to impress, and the variety of creative Halloween looks made judging the Best Dressed awards a serious challenge. But after much deliberation, here’s how the winners stacked up:

Winner: The Mask – Lucy Conlon | Maharam

2nd place: King & Queen of Hearts – Salli-Ann and James Charles Edwards | Walter Knoll

3rd place: Kings & Queens | Overbury

HLW’s Development Director Kirsty Angerer commented “I’d heard about the legendary HLW Halloween party for years, and finally made it to my first one last year, just days before I officially joined the team. Getting ready together was an experience in itself; the energy, creativity, and teamwork was unreal. Watching everyone’s costumes come to life was brilliant, and seeing our clients and partners take things to an even higher level was inspiring. I’m pretty sure my face gave everything away and I was equal parts shocked, delighted, and excited every time I turned a corner and spotted someone new.”

The party vibes were set by our fantastic guest DJ, Lisa Carpenter from Nine United, who got the crowd moving with a killer set. Later in the night, The Jays took over with a live performance that kept the dance floor packed and the party going strong.

More than just a costume contest, HLWeen is a celebration of creativity, connection, and the amazing community that surrounds HLW. We’re so grateful to all our industry friends and partners who joined us to make this night unforgettable.

Huge thanks to everyone who dressed up, showed up, and brought their energy to the evening. We already can’t wait to see what next year has in store!

Photography by Dom Martin. Check out the FULL ALBUM for more exciting moments.