One of the most hotly-anticipated events in the fashion world is the annual CFDA gala. The Council of Fashion Designers of America presents prizes that are much coveted by the industry’s movers and shakers. The event has wide appeal – as shown by the choice of British comedian James Cordon as master of ceremonies this year- and naturally, the red carpet is massively reported and a must see for all fashionistas. So who were the 2015 CFDA winners?
1 Womenswear Designer of the Year – the Row
They may be some of the most famous child stars of all time, but twin superstars Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have proved their fashion worth by bagging Womenswear Designer of The Year for The Row for the second time. The label is full is minimalistic masterpieces with simple shapes and luxurious fabrics. Scooping the big award of the night for second time has really cemented the sister’s place in the fashion world.
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2 Menswear Designer of the Year – Tom Ford
The name of Tom Ford has become synonymous in the world of fashion with the very best in design, quality and class. 2015 proved to be no different for Ford as he picked up the coveted Menswear Designer of The Year award. Ford has been and continues to be one of the favorite choices for celebrities and fashionistas alike, and he also thanked his head of menswear, Peter Hawkings, for keeping the collection at the top.
3 Accessories Designer of the Year – Tabitha Simmons
Shoe designer Tabitha Simmons picked up the award for Accessories Designer, continuing to be at the cutting edge and forefront of the latest in fashion footwear. Her innovative shoe creations are some of the most beautiful in recent years and her constant success had been previously recognized by CFDA, having received award recognition back in 2012.
4 Swarovski Award for Accessory Design – Mansur Gavriel
The Swarovski Award for Accessory Design went to Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel for their creative design partnership Mansur Gavriel. Mansur Gavriel is a project that creates stunning accessories made from high quality Italian leather. The duo takes inspiration from natural, warm textures and intense pop colors, resulting in award winningly popular accessories.
5 Swarovski Award for Menswear – Shayne Oliver for Hood by Air
Shayne Oliver’s Hood By Air label is a modern marvel that incorporates blocky 90’s oversized garments with luxurious materials, strong graphics and striking logos. The label has developed something of a cult following but is finally breaking through with official award recognition. Full of energy and tackling traditional gender conceptions, Hood By Air is a powerful and high fashion collection.
6 Swarovski Award for Womenswear – Rosie Assoulin
Womenswear designer Rosie Assoulin was fully deserving of her recognition of 2015, having presented a collection of quirky yet high fashion sportswear along with divinely structured gowns and separates. Assoulin utilizes the qualities of textured wools, velvet and silk to produce stunning creations from simple cotton tops to intricate back to front 1970’s inspired vests.
7 International Award – Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino
The evening’s international award went to Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli for the years of service as Creative Directors for Valentino. The duo first took on the joint role in 2008 and have steered Maison Valentino through seven years of continued success in which they have continued to be one of the leading figures in the fashion world.
8 Fashion Icon Award – Pharrell Williams
Pharrell Williams was honored with the Fashion Icon Award and is a figure in the music business that understands the relationship between fashion and the rest of celebrity culture. In the media as much for his fashion choices as for his musical achievement, Williams truly is an artist who has the ability to cross between industries, and does so with true impact and style.
Do you admire any of these designers and their creations?
