Fashion Group International recently hosted the 2022 Rising Star Awards, signaling a welcome return to in-person events after a period of remote gatherings. Established in 1928 by 17 trailblazing female fashion professionals in New York City, Fashion Group International was initially created to combat the prevailing issues of sexism within the industry. Since then, the organization has evolved to include members from diverse backgrounds, genders, and ethnicities. The Rising Star Awards, a highly anticipated event, aimed to honor and uplift up-and-coming brands and designers whose businesses have been in operation for less than six years.
Maryanne Grisz, the esteemed President and CEO of Fashion Group International, orchestrated an extraordinary lineup of industry leaders and legends to present the coveted awards. Notable presenters included acclaimed designer Jason Wu, who had the privilege of awarding Cole Wassner with the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and esteemed designer Tracy Reese and talented actress Lisa Arrindell, who jointly presented the President’s Award for Excellence to the deserving Byron Lars. The event also featured prominent figures such as Andrea Rosso of Diesel, Kelly Cutrone, Keita Moore, Marc Hruschka of Graff, Kerby-Jean Raymond of Pyer Moss, and Nina Garcia of Elle, who all lent their support to this memorable evening.
An especially remarkable aspect of the ceremony was the unprecedented tie for the New Retail Award, presented by revered retail expert Ken Downing. Nancy Volpe Beringer of The Vault and Nyakio Grieco of Thirteen June were both acknowledged for their commendable contributions to the fashion industry. Another poignant moment occurred when Byron Lars, renowned for his exceptional draping techniques and innovative designs, was honored for his brand, In Earnest. During his acceptance speech, Lars passionately discussed the profound significance of the word “earnest” in his life and work, emphasizing the concept of existing to a greater extent or more intensely than before.
Rebecca Moses, a highly accomplished designer, captivated the audience with her powerful keynote address, in which she shared her personal journey and encouraged the rising stars to embrace creativity, passion, and discipline. Moses also fearlessly confronted the prevalence of various ‘isms’ within the industry, calling for a collective effort to eradicate racism, ageism, sexism, and classism.
Kerby Jean-Raymond, a previous recipient of the Rising Star Award, highlighted the importance of recognition for young talents. Jean-Raymond expressed his gratitude towards Fashion Group International for the support he received early in his career and passionately urged the audience to persevere and never give up on their dreams.
The ceremony concluded with Nina Garcia, a distinguished figure in the fashion world, emphasizing the tremendous potential of all the brand nominees and underscoring their crucial role as the future of the industry. Frederick Anderson, the recipient of the esteemed Womenswear Designer Award, shared his courageous decision to take a leap after two decades in the industry and conveyed his excitement for the growth and development of his label.
In summary, the 2022 Rising Star Awards organized by Fashion Group International provided a magnificent showcase of the industry’s diversity and talent while celebrating the remarkable achievements of emerging brands and designers. The event served as a powerful reminder of Fashion Group International’s unwavering commitment to promoting inclusivity and recognizing the profound impact of emerging voices in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
Useful links:
1. Fashion Group International Official Website
2. Vogue Magazine
