The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) unveiled the honorees for the 2017 AAFA American Image Awards this week.
This year, the gala, which is owned and operated by the AAFA, will take place on April 24 and benefit the CFDA Fashion Manufacturing Initiative (FMI).
Chosen for their exemplified leadership and excellence, they include Andrew Rosen of Theory for Person of the Year and Stuart Vevers of Coach for Designer of the Year, both fitting honorees whose companies lead the support for CFDA’s efforts with FMI. Also honored are Edward Nardoza, the longtime WWD Editor-in-Chief who recently retired (Lifetime Achievement), CFDA Member Nick Graham (Fashion Maverick) and Marc Fisher Footwear (Company of the Year). The celebratory night will be emceed by award-winning stage and screen actor Alan Cumming.
“As a leader in the fashion world, the American Image Awards honors our industry’s highest achievers. These are the mavericks, influencers, and rebels who continue to transform fashion and our business,” said Rick Helfenbein, President and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. “We are thrilled to highlight the accomplishments of the 2017 honorees.”
“We thank the AAFA for its support of the CFDA Fashion Manufacturing Initiative, an important program to preserve garment manufacturing in New York,” said Steven Kolb, President and CEO of the CFDA. “With the funds raised on this special evening, CFDA will be able to contribute to an important aspect of New York City’s economy.”
FMI was created in collaboration with the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) with the guidance and help of Andrew Rosen to nurture, elevate and preserve garment production in New York City through various programs. The FMI Grant Fund, Apparel Skills Training Courses and New York City Production Database on CFDA.com comprise the various programs under FMI, as well as collaborative partnerships, to which the American Apparel & Footwear Association is among the roster of.
More information on the American Image Awards and an opportunity to purchase tickets and gala packages can be found here.
