Fashion Group International Night of Stars Gala and Awards Ceremony 2023. Story by RUNWAY MAGAZINE. Photo Courtesy: FGI / Sean Zanni and Patrick McMullan via GettyImages.
New York, October 17, 2023 – The heart of Manhattan, The Plaza, was bathed in the radiance of glamour and prestige as Fashion Group International (FGI) hosted its 39th annual Night of Stars Gala and Awards Ceremony. It was a night that convened leaders and legends from the worlds of fashion, beauty, arts, culture, and entertainment. With an iconic new venue, The Plaza, it was a historic event that epitomized the splendor and significance of FGI.
The evening commenced with the crème de la crème of the fashion world and the entertainment industry gracing the red carpet, creating a spectacle that set the tone for an unforgettable night. The who’s who of the industry gathered for a cocktail hour, followed by an exquisite seated dinner and the eagerly anticipated awards presentation. This year’s Night of Stars held special significance as it not only celebrated the luminaries of these industries but also highlighted the importance of FGI’s mission and its critical role in nurturing talent and innovation.
The Night of Stars event was initiated with opening remarks from distinguished individuals: FGI President and CEO Maryanne Grisz, FGI Chairman of the Board James D’Adamo, and Fashion Group Foundation President Matthew Trent. Their words resonated with the spirit of the evening – a spirit that champions creativity, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in the worlds of fashion and beauty.
One of the most remarkable moments of the night was the awards presentation, where luminaries in their respective fields were honored and celebrated. The illustrious list of honorees and presenters underscored the sheer magnitude of the occasion:
- Andrew Bolton, The SUPERSTAR Award: Renowned as the Wendy Yu Curator in Charge at The Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Andrew Bolton was honored with the prestigious SUPERSTAR Award, presented by Eva Chen, the Director of Fashion Partnerships at Instagram.
- Proenza Schouler Co-Founders, Jack McCollough, and Lazaro Hernandez, FASHION STAR Award: The dynamic duo behind Proenza Schouler, Jack McCollough, and Lazaro Hernandez, received the FASHION STAR Award, presented by Cathy Horyn, Fashion Critic-at-Large of The Cut.
- Marc Anthony, HUMANITARIAN Award: Global music sensation and Co-Founder of the Maestro Cares Foundation, Marc Anthony, was awarded the HUMANITARIAN Award, presented by the distinguished fashion designer Narciso Rodriguez.
- Gail Boyé, BEAUTY INNOVATION Award: Gail Boyé, Executive Vice President, Innovation and Commercialization at Shiseido Americas, received the BEAUTY INNOVATION Award, presented by Ron Gee, President, and CEO of Shiseido Americas.
- Antoine Phillips, AGENT OF CHANGE Award: Fashion and culture thought leader Antoine Phillips was honored with the AGENT OF CHANGE Award, presented by the iconic model and activist Bethann Hardison.
- Dennis Basso, LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Award: The renowned fashion designer Dennis Basso received the LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Award, presented by the multifaceted businesswoman, writer, and television personality Martha Stewart.
- Whoopi Goldberg, AMERICAN ICON Award: The internationally acclaimed EGOT-winning actress, producer, and writer, Whoopi Goldberg, was celebrated with the AMERICAN ICON Award, presented by Gary Wassner, CEO of Hilldun Corporation.
The gala was graced by a glittering crowd, with well-known honorees, celebrities, tastemakers, thought leaders, and leading industry executives. The presence of luminaries like Candace Bushnell, Fern Mallis, Pamela Dennis, and many more added to the evening’s allure and significance.
Maryanne Grisz, FGI President and CEO, summed up the essence of the Night of Stars Gala perfectly, saying, “FGI Night of Stars is a celebration of extraordinary individuals in entertainment, fashion, beauty, and culture. We are grateful to all who, by attending our most important fundraiser of the year, support Fashion Group International’s mission to connect, provide resources, mentor emerging talent, and celebrate the fashion industry at every level.”
Indeed, the Night of Stars Gala is not just an evening of glitz and glamour; it serves as FGI’s most important annual fundraiser. These funds are vital for FGI’s essential programming, which includes mentorship, education, and professional development. The Gala also helps fund business grants, scholarships, and critical industry resources, reinforcing FGI’s global network of emerging and established professionals in fashion, beauty, retail, and related industries.
The 39th annual FGI Night of Stars Gala and Awards Ceremony was an embodiment of elegance, excellence, and the commitment to nurturing the future of fashion and beauty. It was a night that will be remembered in the annals of fashion history, celebrating the shining stars and promising talents of the industry while reiterating the importance of FGI’s mission in fostering innovation and creativity.
ABOUT FASHION GROUP INTERNATIONAL
Fashion Group International (FGI), a venerable institution in the world of fashion, has been a steadfast force in fostering creativity, innovation, and connections within the industry. Founded in 1930 by a group of seventeen visionary women leaders, including iconic figures like Helena Rubenstein, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Edith Head, FGI was born as a dedicated platform for career advancement. Today, it continues to uphold its mission of supporting and connecting fashion professionals across the spectrum, from startups to seasoned experts.
At its core, FGI is committed to providing access, education, and connections that empower and advance the business of fashion. With its headquarters in the fashion epicenter of New York City and chapters spanning various regions worldwide, FGI has created a global network of over 5,000 active members. These members represent a diverse array of sectors within the fashion and related design industries, including apparel, accessories, beauty, retail, and lifestyle.
FGI offers a treasure trove of benefits to its members, designed to help them thrive in the competitive world of fashion. These benefits encompass ongoing professional development opportunities, forums for discussions and networking, valuable market insights, mentorship programs led by industry leaders, comprehensive business directories, and essential resources. FGI further provides a high-profile event platform that allows its members to gain professional recognition, cementing their status as leaders and innovators in the industry.
One pivotal aspect of FGI’s philanthropic efforts is the Fashion Group Foundation, its charitable arm. The Foundation is devoted to nurturing the fashion talent of tomorrow through a range of initiatives. These include education programs, scholarships, internships, and career counseling services. By supporting emerging talent, the FGI Foundation contributes to the continuous evolution and sustainability of the fashion industry.
Furthermore, the FGI Foundation actively promotes charitable partnerships and public service initiatives that make a tangible impact. It’s a testament to FGI’s commitment not only to the growth of fashion as a business but also to its potential to inspire positive change and social responsibility.
In summary, Fashion Group International stands as a pillar of support and inspiration within the world of fashion. With a rich history that dates back to its founding by remarkable women who shaped the industry, FGI continues to be an influential force that empowers professionals, encourages innovation, and fosters connections. Whether you’re a budding designer, an established fashion business owner, or a fashion enthusiast, FGI offers a gateway to a world of opportunities, knowledge, and meaningful relationships within the industry. To learn more about FGI and its myriad offerings, visit fgi.org and discover the wealth of resources and connections waiting to help you navigate the intricate and ever-evolving world of fashion.
See Special Guests selection gallery FGI Night of Stars Gala and Awards Ceremony 2023
