The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) hosted its American Image Awards last evening during a digital gala celebrating the accomplishments of the fashion and retail industry. Recognizing the thread of unity and collaboration that the industry has rallied around over the past year, industry leaders were awarded for their achievements in sustainability, innovation, diversity, and global stewardship. The CFDA is proud to be a partner and beneficiary of the event.
Honorees included Company of the Year Hanes Brands; Retailer Innovator of the Year Walmart; Fashion Maverick Black In Fashion Council; Eco-Steward of the Year Sustainable Apparel Coalition; and Digital Entrepreneur of the Year hopShops. Award-winning host of the The List TV show, Segun Oduolowu emceed the gala which benefitted the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Foundation.
Among the highlights was the speech from Designer of the Year award recipient Gabriela Hearst, which she delivered from the Chloé headquarters in Paris. The CFDA member spoke eloquently about responsible practices in the world of design.
“When we receive an honor this way, it gives us fuel to continue our mission, which now is more focused on the subject of sustainability – as we have – as we know – very little time to make the changes we need,” Hearst said.
CFDA CEO Steven Kolb said, “We cherish AAFA’s support and efforts in strengthening American fashion’s global impact. In a year that has been filled with great challenges and uncertainty, leaning into our communities and these partnerships has made all the difference in our continued recovery.”
Steve Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, said the awards were about “celebrating the future of fashion and the path upon which our industry has embarked in the post-pandemic era. This year’s honorees are the very embodiment of where the industry is heading, and it was a privilege to showcase their success.”
Take a look back at this year’s celebration here. Hats off to all the winners!
