A$AP Rocky received the Fashion Icon AwardGetty Images
Ralph Lauren was awarded American Womenswear Designer of the Year, presented by Naomi Watts. Accepting the accolade from his table, he thanked his design teams and spoke of fashion as a shared “dreaming” process.
Thom Browne secured American Menswear Designer of the Year, his fourth win in the category, thanking his team and partner Andrew Bolton.
A$AP Rocky received the Fashion Icon Award, telling the audience he had long believed in his own style but credited early supporters in the industry. He dedicated the win to “risk-takers and rule-breakers” and paid tribute to Rihanna, the 2014 recipient.
Donatella Versace accepted the Positive Change Award for her longstanding support of LGBTQ+ rights, inclusivity and philanthropy. She encouraged designers to stay committed to bold ideas and avoid watering down their vision.
Donatella Versace accepted the Positive Change AwardGetty Images
Cynthia Rowley received the Founder’s Award in honour of Eleanor Lambert, with Julianne Moore presenting. Andre Walker was given the Isabel Toledo Board of Directors Award. Sara Moonves, editor-in-chief of W, accepted the Media Award, introduced by Jennifer Lawrence.
The Innovation Award went to Jerry Lorenzo of Fear of God, while Ashlynn Park won American Emerging Designer of the Year for her label Ashlyn. Naomi Campbell presented the International Designer of the Year Award to Pieter Mulier of Maison Alaïa, praised for balancing heritage with modern direction.
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan and Bach Mai attend the 2025 CFDA AwardsGetty Images
The ceremony doubled as a statement of assuredness from an American fashion industry keen to celebrate its heritage while backing new talent. From Ralph Lauren’s enduring vision to Park’s rising profile, the evening suggested a sector confident in both its legacy and its future.
