2024 CFDA Awards Spotlight Fashion’s Finest

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) brought the fashion industry together for the highly anticipated 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards, presented by Amazon Fashion. Held at the American Museum of Natural History, the evening celebrated the most influential designers, innovators, and icons shaping the industry today. CFDA Chairman Thom Browne opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks, setting the tone for a night that highlighted creativity and achievement across multiple fashion categories.

Tony, Emmy, and Grammy award-winner Cynthia Erivo, who was also nominated for an Academy Award, hosted the ceremony, guiding the evening with elegance and energy. Her charismatic presence amplified the celebration as fashion’s brightest stars gathered to recognize this year’s honorees. Erivo’s vibrant connection with the audience kept the night engaging, elevating the prestige of the event.

Among the key moments was Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s presentation of the American Womenswear Designer of the Year award to Rachel Scott of Diotima, followed by Troye Sivan awarding the American Menswear Designer of the Year title to Willy Chavarria. These accolades emphasized the impact of fresh perspectives in shaping the future of American fashion, spotlighting designers making waves with both artistic expression and cultural relevance.

Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie took to the stage to announce Raul Lopez of Luar as the American Accessory Designer of the Year, further solidifying his innovative work in accessories. Meanwhile, Molly Gordon and Brandon Maxwell presented the Google Shopping American Emerging Designer of the Year award to Henry Zankov of Zankov, celebrating rising talent and the importance of nurturing emerging voices in the industry.

The night also honored legends and pioneers, with Erykah Badu receiving the Fashion Icon award from André 3000, cementing her influence on style and self-expression. Coach’s Coachtopia initiative earned the Innovation Award presented by Amazon Fashion, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Creative Director Stuart Vevers accepted the award, recognizing the growing importance of circular fashion in the industry.

Other notable honors included the Founder’s Award in honor of Eleanor Lambert, presented to Hamish Bowles by Marc Jacobs, and the Positive Change Award, which Blake Lively gave to Michael Kors. Anna Wintour’s presentation of the Media Award to Annie Leibovitz, along with the lifetime achievement recognition for Stephen Burrows, rounded out the evening’s tribute to fashion’s legacy and future. The newly renamed Isabel Toledo Board of Directors’ Tribute, accepted by Ruben Toledo, added an emotional touch, highlighting the enduring impact of Isabel Toledo’s creative spirit.