Katy Perry has been named woman of the year by Elle magazine.

The singer was honoured at the Elle Style Awards ceremony yesterday.

Editors of the magazine explained the decision to honour Perry with the award, saying that it “tops off a spectacular 12 months for the singer' following her chart-topping album, Prism, and hit single Roar, which has so far sold more than eight million copies worldwide.

“Katy proves that smart women can make it: earlier this month, she was named the 5th Top Global Recording Artist of 2013 by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, making her the highest-ranking woman on the list.”

The editor also applauded Katy for her work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador as well as her ability to laugh at herself.

“She also shows that you don't have to conform, that a sense of humour is sexy (as her Roar video proves), and that you can support, rather than compete, with your contemporaries ' she loves, and supports, women,” editors continued.

“Last year also saw Katy. become the most-followed artist on Twitter. The reason? Her down-to-earth attitude, determination and talent: she is the everywoman, hear her roar.”