The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) feted its 41st annual American Image Awards on Monday evening by honoring seven leaders, influencers and innovators across the fashion industry.
The sold-out event was hosted by award-winning actress Brooke Shields, who presented honors to Eileen Fisher (Designer of the Year), Ruthie Davis x Disney (Collaboration of the Year), American Eagle (Retailer of the Year), Birkenstock (Company of the Year), WWD (Media Brand of the Year) and Isaac E. Ash of United Legwear & Apparel Co. (Person of the Year) for their accomplishments.
“It is no secret that our industry has been navigating profound change in the way we sell and bring product to market. Our honorees have not only welcomed these changes, but have thrived,” AAFA President and CEO Rick Helfenbein said.
Many American designers came out to support the AAFA and this year’s honorees, including Brandon Maxwell, Stacey Bendet-Eisner, Christopher John Rogers, Naeem Khan, Tracy Reese, Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece of Ashya, Peter Som, and more. The CFDA Foundation was once again the sole beneficiary of the gala event for the third year in a row.
“We thank the AAFA and all those who attended the American Image Awards for the support to the CFDA Foundation.” said Steven Kolb, President and CEO of the CFDA. “Through the Foundation, we are able to devote funds towards important causes and initiatives, such as HIV/AIDS, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, disaster relief, domestic manufacturing, and education and professional development.”
