This week the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) paid tribute to the winners and honorees of the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards in collaboration with Swarovski at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center. Film director and screenwriter John Waters was the host for the evening. For the thirteenth year in a row, the evening was generously underwritten by Swarovski.
The evening’s Womenswear Designer of the Year honors went to Joseph Altuzarra for Altuzarra, presented by Lupita Nyong‘o. The award for Menswear Designer of the Year was presented to Maxwell Osborne & Dao-Yi Chow for Public School byJames Marsden. Mary-Kate Olsen & Ashley Olsen for The Rowtook home the Accessories Designer of the Year Award, presented by Keri Russell.
Rihanna, who’s wardrobe for the evening has caused quite the controversy,was presented with the Fashion Icon award by Vogue editor in chief Anna Wintour who praised the musician for her ability to tell captivating stories through the boldness and beauty of clothes. Rihanna thanked members of the audience: “the designers, the models, and everyone else who has inspired me.”
“We celebrated creativity, experience, and conviction by honoring the diversity and vibrancy of individuals who define the influence of the fashion industry,” said CFDA President Diane von Furstenberg.
“It’s been an honor to partner with the CFDA in celebrating the very best in American fashion for thirteen incredible years, and the creativity of the award winners never fails to amaze. We are especially pleased to support the industry’s next generation through the Swarovski Awards. It’s a privilege to help these dazzling young talents evolve and realize their visions as they take the next steps in their careers,” said Nadja Swarovski, Member of the Swarovski Executive Board.
Greta Gerwig and Sebastian Stan presented the three Swarovski Awards, which honor and recognize emerging talent. The Swarovski Award for Womenswear was given to Shane Gabier & Christopher Peters for Creatures of the Wind. The Swarovski Award for Menswear was presented to Tim Coppens.The Swarovski Award for Accessory Design went toIrene Neuwirth.
Recipients in each category will receive generous financial support from the company as well as exposure to the company’s vast and innovative crystal products and applications for fashion.
The Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Tom Ford by Richard Buckley for his consistent, creative influence on fashion.
The Founder’s Award in honor of Eleanor Lambert was presented to Bethann Hardison by Naomi Campbell for Hardison’s efforts to promote racial diversity in the fashion industry.
The Media Award in honor of Eugenia Sheppard which is given for excellence in journalism, originally created in honor of Eugenia Sheppard, was presented to Paul Cavaco by Allure editor in chief Linda Wells.
Raf Simons of Christian Dior was recognized with this year’s International Award, presented by Marion Cotillard andDior chief executive officer Sidney Toledano.
Diane von Furstenberg presented the Board of Directors’ Tribute to Ruth Finley, in recognition of her 65 years as founder and publisher of Fashion Calendar.
Photo: PRNewsFoto/CFDA
