CFDA Fashion Awards – The Night at the Museum. Story by RUNWAY MAGAZINE. Photo Courtesy: CFDA / BFA.
The CFDA Fashion Awards 2023 presented by Amazon Fashion made history this year by gracing the American Museum of Natural History in New York City for the very first time. The event was nothing short of a star-studded affair, brimming with elegance and high fashion.
Anne Hathaway, exuding grace and charisma, took center stage as the evening’s host, setting the tone for the night. The red carpet was aglow with glamorous attire, and some of the biggest names in the industry made striking entrances. Demi Moore dazzled in a shimmering Carolina Herrera gown, while Laura Linney exuded effortless chic in a creation by Zero + Maria Cornejo. The fashion spectrum was broad, from denim gowns to leather bodycon dresses, providing a delightful visual feast for all fashion enthusiasts.
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) celebrated the trailblazers and achievers of the fashion world at the 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards. This annual event is a platform for celebrating the power of self-expression and recognizing those who champion creativity, serving as ambassadors for American fashion.
The event’s Chairman, Thom Browne, set the stage with a warm welcome for the honorees, nominees, and distinguished guests. The evening was a culmination of anticipation and recognition, and the prestigious awards were presented by some of the industry’s biggest names.
The American Womenswear Designer of the Year award, presented by Anne Hathaway and Narciso Rodriguez, was bestowed upon Catherine Holstein of KHAITE. Willy Chavarria was honored as the American Menswear Designer of the Year by J Balvin and Greg Lauren. Ashley Olsen and Mary-Kate Olsen of The Row clinched the American Accessory Designer of the Year award, a moment highlighted by Ayo Edebiri and Prabal Gurung. Rachel Scott of Diotima won the Shop with Google American Emerging Designer of the Year award, presented by Charles Melton and Zac Posen.
The legendary Serena Williams was celebrated as the Fashion Icon, an award presented by Kim Kardashian. The Innovation Award, presented by Muge Erdirik Dogan, President of Amazon Fashion, went to goop, with Founder and CEO Gwyneth Paltrow graciously accepting the accolade.
Vera Wang was honored with the Board of Directors’ Tribute for her significant impact on bridal fashion, a touching moment presented by Vanessa Hudgens. Alina Cho received the Media Award in honor of Eugenia Sheppard, presented by Naomi Watts.
The evening continued to shine a spotlight on influential figures in the industry, with the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed upon Maria Cornejo by Laura Linney. The Founder’s Award in honor of Eleanor Lambert was presented to Domenico De Sole by Tom Ford, while Mara Hoffman received the Environmental Sustainability Award from Rosario Dawson. The International Award was given to Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson and LOEWE, a moment brought to life by Greta Lee.
The night was filled with memorable highlights, including a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Hip-hop, featuring a film by legendary music video director Hype Williams. Mary J. Blige introduced the film, which showcased iconic figures like Missy Elliott, LL Cool J, June Ambrose, Biz Markie, and Salt-N-Pepa, with a mesmerizing soundtrack by Pharrell.
The event also paid homage to the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Versailles, an event that forever changed the course of American fashion. Stephen Burrows, Bethann Hardison, and Pat Cleveland, integral figures in that historic moment, shared their memories, reminding everyone of the event’s enduring significance.
The 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards, presented by Amazon Fashion, unfolded on Monday, November 6th at the awe-inspiring American Museum of Natural History, making it a night to remember. Transportation for this grand affair was graciously provided by Genesis, while Armand de Brignac champagne added a touch of luxury to the evening. It was a celebration of fashion, creativity, and the timeless impact of the industry’s luminaries.
