The highly anticipated Fashion Awards 2021, now known as the Reborn Fashion Awards, took place on Monday evening, marking the first post-pandemic edition of the event. This year’s ceremony promised a fresh and distinctive experience, and it certainly delivered on that promise. While the red carpet and recognition of award winners remained prominent, there were several noteworthy elements that set this year’s event apart from previous years.
The evening began with a somber tone as the tragic news of Virgil Abloh’s passing broke the day before the awards. In a touching tribute, actor Idris Elba recited a poem by Maya Angelou, paying homage to Abloh’s contributions to the fashion industry. The CEO of the British Fashion Council, Caroline Rush, and the chair, Stephanie Phair, also acknowledged Abloh’s immense influence as a creative force of change and inclusivity.
One of the most significant changes in this year’s awards was the shift away from gendered categories. Instead of having separate awards for womenswear and menswear, there was a single Designer of the Year prize, which was rightfully won by the talented Kim Jones. Jones, known for his designs for Dior and Fendi, impressed with his diverse creations that represented both genders. Other notable winners included Simone Rocha, who received the independent British brand award, and Nensi Dojaka, winner of the prestigious LVMH prize, who took home the BFC Foundation award.
The Reborn Fashion Awards also celebrated leaders of change in various categories. Alessandro Michele and Kim Jones were honored for their outstanding creativity, joined by Demna Gvasalia for Balenciaga and Jonathan Anderson for JW Anderson and Loewe. The Environment category recognized visionaries such as Bethany Williams, Gabriela Hearst for Chloé, Phoebe English, Priya Ahluwalia, and Stella McCartney for their dedication to sustainable practices. The People category acknowledged individuals who have made significant contributions to fostering equal, diverse, and empowered workforces. Edward Enninful, Harris Reed, Kenya Hunt, Samuel Ross, and Telfar Clemens were among the deserving winners in this category.
In a bid to embrace the changing landscape of fashion, the Reborn Fashion Awards introduced a thrilling new category: the Fashion Award for Metaverse Design. In partnership with the popular online platform Roblox, this category recognized the ingenuity of digital fashion designers pushing boundaries within the metaverse. The inaugural winner of this award was cSapphire, whose groundbreaking designs captivated the judges. To further celebrate this category, a captivating immersive experience was created on Roblox, allowing users to engage with the world of fashion until December 7.
In addition to the awards themselves, the event showcased Special Celebrations that highlighted the intersection of fashion and culture. Chanel, renowned for its commitment to the arts, was honored for its ongoing support and presented a mesmerizing performance by dancer, actor, and model Lil Buck. Fashion East, an esteemed platform supporting emerging designers, was also recognized for its invaluable contributions to the industry over the past two decades. Furthermore, a heartfelt tribute was paid to iconic singer Kylie Minogue, who delivered an enchanting performance of her songs Slow and Love To Love You Baby.
Overall, the Reborn Fashion Awards unquestionably delivered on its promise of providing a unique and unforgettable experience. It celebrated the remarkable individuals and brands that have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, all while acknowledging the challenges faced in the wake of Virgil Abloh’s untimely passing. The event showcased fashion’s crucial role in cultural expression and emphasized the ever-evolving landscape of digital fashion design. With its blend of innovation, entertainment, and recognition of extraordinary talent, the Reborn Fashion Awards set a new standard for future fashion awards ceremonies.
Useful links:
– Reborn Fashion Awards official website
– Roblox official website
