Glamour, culture and creative awards
The annual Gala hosted by Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) returned on November 3, 2025, held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The event — presented by Amazon Fashion, celebrated the very best of American design, innovation, and cultural impact in fashion.
Big winners and honorees
Among the major honours:
Ralph Lauren was awarded American Womenswear Designer of the Year, marking a return to the top after three decades.
Thom Browne took home American Menswear Designer of the Year.
The twins Ashley Olsen & Mary‑Kate Olsen (of brand The Row) won American Accessory Designer of the Year.
Rising designer Ashlynn Park of brand “Ashlyn” was named Google Shopping American Emerging Designer of the Year.
A$AP Rocky received the prestigious Fashion Icon Award, cementing his influence at the intersection of fashion and culture.
Significant lifetime and special‑awards included:
Donatella Versace, Positive Change Award (for philanthropy, advocacy & youth mentorship)
Cynthia Rowley, Founder’s Award in honour of Eleanor Lambert
Jerry Lorenzo (of brand Fear of God), Innovation Award
Sara Moonves, Media Award in honour of Eugenia Sheppard
Pieter Mulier (of brand Alaïa), International Designer of the Year
Red carpet buzz & cultural markers
The white‑carpet arrivals had as much story as the awards themselves. Some standout moments:
Rihanna made her first public outing post‑baby and supported A$AP Rocky in his award moment, wearing a modern reinterpretation of a zoot suit by Alaïa.
Teyana Taylor served as host and turned heads in a sculptural, rhinestone‑accented ensemble by Thom Browne, perfectly reflecting the evening’s high‑fashion energy.
Long‑time fashion icon Vera Wang, at 76, reaffirmed her status by stepping out in a bold two‑piece with bralette and flowing skirt, illustrating the night’s theme of ageless expression.
Why it matters
The 2025 CFDA Fashion Awards showcased more than just glamour — they signalled real shifts in fashion:
Sustainability & heritage: With wardrobe recalls like Amber Valletta in her 2000 Versace gown, the focus on archival dressing and longevity became front‑and‑centre.
Culture meets couture: A$AP Rocky’s recognition affirmed that fashion is no longer just runway & luxury, it’s also street culture, global influence and meaningful identity.
Diversity & age inclusion: From emerging designers to icons in their 70s, the evening highlighted that creative relevance spans generations.
American fashion’s global moment: Located in NYC’s Museums, backed by Amazon Fashion and other major partners, the event underlined the U.S. as a hub not just for commerce but for storytelling in style.
In brief
Location: American Museum of Natural History, New York City
Date: November 3, 2025
Presenting Partner: Amazon Fashion
Key Winners: Ralph Lauren, Thom Browne, Ashley & Mary‑Kate Olsen, Ashlynn Park, A$AP Rocky
Notable Themes: Heritage fashion revived, culture meets luxury, creative innovation rewarded