Christopher John Rogers and Emily Bode Aujla were the standout winners at this year’s Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards, held at the esteemed Seagram Building in New York City. Known for its star-studded guest list, the CFDA Awards honored the top talents in American fashion, including designers, influencers, and industry leaders.
In a well-deserved accolade, Brooklyn-based designer Christopher John Rogers was named the American Womenswear Designer of the Year. Celebrated for his fearless use of color, Rogers has captured the attention of influential figures like Michelle Obama and Rihanna. This is not his first recognition from the CFDA, as he previously received the American Emerging Designer of the Year award in 2020.
Emily Bode Aujla, the founder of the brand Bode, was named the American Menswear Designer of the Year. Aujla made history in 2017 as the first female designer to showcase her collection at New York Fashion Week: Men’s. Her brand has gained recognition for its use of vintage materials and its innovative approach to American fashion.
Telfar Clemans, the mastermind behind Telfar, received the American Accessories Designer of the Year award for the second year in a row. The brand’s signature shopping bag, known as the “Bushwick Birkin,” has become a highly coveted accessory and was even included on Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2020.
Edvin Thompson, the founder of Theophilio, was named the American Emerging Designer of the Year. Drawing inspiration from his Jamaican heritage, Thompson’s vibrant designs have garnered attention for their unique aesthetic.
On an international level, Demna Gvasalia, the creative director of Balenciaga and co-founder of Vetements, was honored as the CFDA’s International Women’s Designer of the Year. In the menswear category, Grace Wales Bonner from the UK received the equivalent title.
Aside from the designer awards, the ceremony also recognized other remarkable individuals. Actress Zendaya, who was previously named the CFDA’s 2021 Fashion Icon, attended the event to receive her award. Rising star Anya Taylor-Joy was named the inaugural Face of the Year by the CFDA.
The Model Alliance, an organization promoting fair treatment and representation in the modeling industry, was presented with the Positive Social Influence Award. Aurora James, founder of the 15 Percent Pledge, earned the Founder’s Award for her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in retail. Outdoor brand Patagonia was honored with the Environmental Sustainability Award for their dedication to eco-friendly practices.
Nina Garcia, the editor-in-chief of ELLE magazine, was awarded the Media Award, recognizing her significant contributions to the fashion industry. Additionally, legendary Harlem tailor Dapper Dan received the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award for his iconic contributions to menswear. The Board of Directors’ Tribute was presented to Malaysian-American designer Yeohlee Teng.
The CFDA Awards continue to hold a prestigious place in the fashion industry, showcasing and celebrating the best talent and innovation in American and international fashion. Despite the ceremony being postponed due to the pandemic, this year’s awards highlighted the resilience, creativity, and diversity that define the fashion industry.
For more on the winners and highlights of the CFDA Awards, you can visit the CFDA’s official website here: CFDA Fashion Awards website. You can also check out the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s official Instagram page for behind-the-scenes photos and updates: CFDA Instagram.
