The prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has recently announced the appointment of the celebrated fashion designer and creative genius, Tom Ford, as its new chairman, effective January 1, 2020. Ford will be taking over from the iconic Diane von Furstenberg, who has been serving in this role for the past 13 years. The decision to appoint Ford was finalized during a meeting at the CFDA’s headquarters, marking a significant transition in the organization’s leadership.
During her tenure, von Furstenberg, alongside CFDA CEO Steven Kolb, played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the New York fashion scene and positioning it as a major player in the global fashion landscape. As she passes on the baton to Ford, von Furstenberg will remain an integral part of the CFDA board, ensuring that her wealth of experience and influence continues to shape the organization’s direction.
Ford’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the fashion industry, amidst growing concerns about sustainability and diversity. The CFDA has embarked on various initiatives to tackle these issues, and Ford’s leadership is expected to provide the necessary impetus to drive these efforts forward.
With New York Fashion Week on the horizon, Ford is likely to focus on orchestrating the event amidst talks of potential calendar changes and a venue relocation to The Shed at Hudson Yards. Joining a prestigious lineage of CFDA chairmen, Ford steps into a role previously held by industry legends such as Oscar de la Renta and Bill Blass.
Beyond his fashion endeavors, Ford has made significant contributions to the film industry as a director, screenwriter, and producer. His eponymous luxury brand, launched in 2005, offers a range of products including apparel, accessories, beauty, and timepieces. With seven CFDA Fashion Awards under his belt, Ford’s creative vision and expertise have cemented his status as an industry icon.
As the CFDA prepares for the upcoming 2019 CFDA Fashion Awards, scheduled to take place at the Brooklyn Museum on June 3, Ford’s appointment heralds a new era of innovation and leadership within the organization. Armed with a diverse skill set and unmatched creativity, Ford is expected to leave a lasting impact on the future trajectory of American fashion.
For more information on Tom Ford and the CFDA, visit their respective websites: Tom Ford and CFDA.
