Taylor Swift, mostly known for her singing career, is also an actress. Photo: Tinseltown/shutterstock.com

Pop superstar Taylor Swift was named woman of the year at the Elle Style Awards in London.

The singer follows in the footsteps of fellow US star Katy Perry who won last year.

Swift was presented with her award at the glamorous event by another winner, Sam Smith, who was named musician of the year.

Guests at the event at the Sky Garden at London’s 20 Fenchurch Street, commonly known as the Walkie Talkie Tower because of its distinctive shape, included Pixie Geldof, M.I.A. and Naomi Campbell.

X Factor guru Simon Cowell was recognised for his outstanding contribution to entertainment.

Burberry boss Christopher Bailey won the editor’s choice award, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley was named model of the year and The Honourable Woman star Maggie Gyllenhaal won the TV actress award.

Luke Evans, one of the stars of The Hobbit, was named actor of the year and shoe designer Manolo Blahnik was given the lifetime achievement award.

The event, now in its 18th year, also saw Australian actress Rebel Wilson named rising star.

Model and actress Lily Cole, who set up her own social network which invites people to give their services and skills away to help others, won the H&M Conscious Award.