Last night, the Accessories Council (Ac) hosted its annual Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Awards, and the industry gathered to celebrate the designers, brands, retailers and pioneers who have shaped the accessories industry and fashion at large.

Bethann Hardison, who sits on CFDA’s board of directors, received the 2025 Hall of Fame award; CFDA member Betsey Johnson was bestowed the inaugural Iconoclast ACE Award, and Reed Krakoff was awarded Designer of the Year.

“There is a great alignment for me [between] being brave and having fear,” Hardison said as she accepted the award, which was presented to her by CFDA CEO Steven Kolb. “Sometimes the things I do are very fearful. But I’m brave enough to do it.”

Meanwhile, eight Legacy Honors paid tribute to businesses that have reached significant milestones, marking years of success through determination, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Among the recipients were CFDA members Jennifer Fisher and Rebecca Minkoff, both celebrating a 20-year milestone in their careers, cementing their leadership in the accessory design business.

“For over 30 years, the Ac has been committed to recognizing the advancements and innovators of the accessories industry,” Ac President and CEO Karen Giberson said. “We are thrilled to celebrate the brilliant 2025 ACE Award winners and toast the legacies of the trailblazers, designers and brands celebrating significant anniversaries amidst a challenging retail climate.”

It was a chic evening at New York City’s The Pierre hotel, where accessories were woven into the décor of the evening. Guests were hand-delivered Betsey Johnson mini baguette bags in bread baskets at their tables.

You just had to be there.