The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) celebrated the 40^th anniversary of its annual American Image Awards on April 16, where it honored leaders in the apparel and footwear industry.

The 2018 honorees included Joseph Altuzarra of Altuzarra (Designer of the Year), Fred Segal (Retailer of the Year), Manny Chirico of PVH (Person of the Year), Mansur Gavriel (Fashion Maverick) and Camuto Group (Company of the Year).

“The apparel and footwear industry includes some of the most creative minds in the business community, and it is a great privilege to bring everyone together for a night to celebrate remarkable achievements of our industry ,” said Rick Helfenbein, President and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association.” He called the celebrations “one of a kind. We were thrilled to honor such stand-out visionaries and leaders, and to partner for a second year with the CFDA Foundation to support its great work investing in the future of the fashion industry.”

The sold-out gala was hosted by award-winning journalist Katie Couric.

“Through the CFDA 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,” said Steven Kolb, President and CEO of the CFDA. “We thank the AAFA and all those who attended the American Image Awards for the support to the CFDA Foundation, which will help continue in our important efforts.”