Fashion, feminism and philanthropy proved a formidable mix last night at Bags, Bangles & Brooches: the inaugural fundraising event for Cancer Research UK’s Women of Influence initiative, which raised over £150,000 towards supporting exceptional female cancer researchers.

Money-can’t-(usually)-buy items up for grabs at the Sotheby’s live auction included actual breakfast at Tiffany’s (with the label’s Atlas bracelet thrown in), tickets to The X Factor final and a Dolce & Gabbana handbag donated by Kylie Minogue.

But the big hitter on the night was a spectacular Hirsh London diamond and sapphire bangle, which raised £6,500 alone.

Said Tamara Box, Chair of Cancer Research UK’s Women of Influence Board: ‘We are thrilled to be hosting this fantastic event for the Women of Influence initiative and are so thankful to our contributors for the array of items donated to us.

‘It is a privilege to be part of such a tremendous campaign, raising money and providing mentorship to support CRUK’s exceptional female scientists as they move up the career ladder to ever more senior positions.

‘With the money raised at our event, we hope to see more female scientists reach the top of their careers in research and leading the way in beating cancer sooner.’

Held at the British Museum, the event boasted attendees including host Donna Air, Lady Celia Dunstone and Sky News presenter Kay Burley, as well as Women of Influence board members Box, Meribeth Parker – ELLE’s group publishing director – and Sophie Cornish MBE.

Find out more about the incredible Women of Influence Cancer Research initiative at cruk.org/woi.