Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz glam-up and try to shake off their bankruptcy drama at the Marie Claire Women of the Year Awards – as Pia Whitesell leads arrivals with a VERY leggy display

Celebrity arrivals have started to trickle in for the annual Marie Claire Women of the Year Awards at Bell Shakespeare in Dawes Point, New South Wales.

Australia’s most successful women walked the red carpet on Thursday night as they arrived at the venue wearing incredible ensembles. 

Brittany Higgins and husband David Sharaz put on brave faces as they shook off their recent bankruptcy proceedings to enjoy a night out together.

The former political staffer stepped out in a sizzling red gown by Rebecca Vallance, worth an eye-popping $1,049, as she pulled her locks back into a tight low-bun.

Her mostly conservative frock featured a touch of spice with a cut-out across the chest, as she paired it with a set of nude pumps.

Meanwhile, David went with a classic black suit for the occasion as he was spotted fetching his wife a drink at one point.

They were followed closely by Pia Whitesell, who stole the show as she flaunted her very toned and tanned legs in a racy black gown for the evening.

The Australian actress and model, 42, jetted in from her lavish LA home, which she shares with billionaire husband Patrick, to attend the glittering event.

She certainly turned heads in her form-fitting frock which featured a soaring thigh split and halter neck. 

Pia paired the LBD with a pair of classic pumps, opting for minimal accessories to complete her stunning ensemble.

The brunette beauty left her locks down, twisting them into loose waves, and topped off her appearance with a smoky eye and nude lip. 

Home and Away star Ada Nicodemou also chose red for her theme tonight. 

The actress, 48, stepped out in a cowlneck frock with an eye-catching pattern as she pulled her locks back into an artful up-do. 

Samantha Armytage rocked a monochrome ensemble, looking almost half her age with a very glamorous makeup look.

The Golden Bachelor host, 59, flashed her midriff in a structured white jacket, which she paired with black slacks and peep-toed heels. 

Natalie Bassingthwaighte appeared to be glowing following her recent engagement to now-fiancée Pip Loth at Niagara Falls in Canada last month.

The singer, 50, shimmered beneath the lights in a brown satin gown which featured a strapless sweetheart neckline for a busty display. 

Pip Edwards stepped out in an avant garde-inspired outfit, rocking some very exaggerated shoulder pads straight out of the ’80s. 

The fashion designer, 45, tucked the sheer red top into a pair of tight black slacks. 

Grace Tame flaunted her slim pins in a mini black dress, which featured silver embellishments.

The activist, 30, was all smiles as she stepped into a pair of strappy black heels and left her very long blonde tresses down. 

TV presenter Melissa Doyle looked a classic beauty in a simple black dress.

The journalist, 55, opted for a one-shouldered look which she paired with black toenail polish on display in strappy heels. 

Lisa Wilkinson had some eastern influencer to her ensemble, wearing a Cheongsam inspired gown with billowing leaves.

Her red frock featured large flower prints over the shoulder and torso, with the former Channel Ten star, 65, finishing her look with a pair of clear heels.  

Elyse Knowles also followed the red theme for the evening.

The model, 33, flaunted her figure in a strapless frock with a cinched in waist and a split skirt, pairing it with matching red heels and a clutch. 

Married At First Sight star Jules Robinson strutted her stuff in a very form-fitting red leather gown. 

The saucy frock moulded to her figure and featured a halter neck with a flower detail. 

Australian actress Krew Boylan poured her frame into an all-white look which featured several tassels hanging down her legs and off her arms.

She put her features on full display as she pulled her hair back into a very tight up-do, twirling her gown for the cameras. 

The Real Housewives of Sydney star Sally Obermeder opted for simplicity with a white mini dress featuring black polka dots.  

The annual Marie Claire Women of the Year Awards are intended to acknowledge and celebrate ‘game-changing’ women across Australia. 

The ceremony recognises Australians ‘who have led with bravery, fought with passion, and inspired with creativity. 

‘For more than three decades, Marie Claire has championed women who are making a meaningful difference across every field,’ said editor Georgie McCourt.

‘Now in its sixth year, the prestigious Women of the Year Awards continue to honour the game-changing and trailblazing women who are driving real change in Australia and shaping the future for generations to come.’  

The glittering ceremony will see women recognised for their achievements across multiple categories such as ‘the Powerhouse,’ ‘the Creative’ and ‘the Changemaker’.

More to come.