After a three-year stint as the president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), renowned American designer Tom Ford will be stepping down from his position at the end of the month. Ford’s tenure was marked by the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially appointed in June 2019 as Diane Von Furstenberg’s successor, Ford’s term was extended by an additional year due to the impact of the global health crisis.
In a note released by the CFDA, Ford expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the president, stating, “When I took on this role, my goal was to help raise the profile of the American fashion industry on the international stage (…). I could never have imagined the extraordinary circumstances in which the industry and the world would have to navigate, that a pandemic would put the world on pause and forever change the course of our lives and businesses.” He further acknowledged the profound impact of the pandemic on the fashion industry and emphasized the need for innovative approaches in areas such as design, production, and consumer engagement.
Throughout his presidency, Ford placed great emphasis on promoting diversity and inclusivity in the American fashion industry. He played a pivotal role in spearheading various initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and representative industry. Additionally, Ford, in collaboration with Vogue, co-founded the A Common Thread initiative, which provided vital financial support totaling $5 million to numerous fashion companies during the crisis. Furthermore, he played a crucial role in accelerating the digital transformation of New York Fashion Week through the introduction of the revolutionary Runway 360 platform.
While fashion is often associated with glamorous clothing, accessories, and high-profile events, it is important to recognize the immense amount of work and effort that goes into the industry. The fashion sector is a significant contributor to the global economy, with an estimated worth of three billion dollars, and provides employment opportunities for millions of individuals.
Following Ford’s departure, Steven Kolb, the CEO of the CFDA, will assume the position of interim president until the end of the year. This transitional period will allow the CFDA to regroup and continue its mission of supporting and nurturing the American fashion industry.
Useful Links:
1. CFDA Official Website
2. Vogue
