Lupita Nyong'o has been named the World's Most Beautiful Woman by People magazine.

The Mexican-born Kenyan, who won a best supporting actress Oscar for her role in 12 Years A Slave, beat a host of stars to top the US magazine's list for 2014.

Lupita, 31 - who was Hollywood's 'It girl' throughout the film awards season thanks to her looks and style on the red carpet - now appears on the cover of the mag.

She said it was " exciting and just a major, major compliment".

"I was happy for all the girls who would see me on it and feel a little more seen," she added.

People's 2013 list was topped by Gwyneth Paltrow.