Awards season has officially kicked off, but before Hollywood truly takes the spotlight with its glamorous film awards shows, Manhattan hosted one of the most highly anticipated fashion events of the year—the annual CFDA Fashion Awards. Live from New York City, the CFDA Awards are widely regarded as the second-biggest fashion event on the East Coast, following only the iconic Met Gala. This prestigious evening celebrates the talents of American designers and honors the luminaries of the fashion world, all while showcasing the country’s next generation of creative visionaries.
Hosted at the majestic American Museum of Natural History on Manhattan's Upper West Side, the 2024 CFDA Awards brought together a glittering array of celebrities, models, designers, and influencers. The guests were treated to an unforgettable night that blended style, artistry, and elegance. It was a dazzling display of fashion at its finest, and all eyes were on the red carpet as attendees arrived in breathtaking ensembles, prepared to celebrate an industry that is both glamorous and transformative.
The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) is known for nurturing American fashion talent, and this year’s event was no different. It was a celebration of the creative minds pushing the boundaries of style and the designers whose influence on the fashion industry continues to grow, both in the U.S. and internationally. The night belonged not only to established names but also to emerging talents who are paving the way for the future of fashion, proving that innovation and creativity are alive and well in the world of design.
The red carpet, as expected, was a feast for the eyes. Some of the biggest names in entertainment and fashion graced the event, dressed to the nines in outfits that ranged from bold and avant-garde to elegant and timeless. The event kicked off with the arrival of style icon Katie Holmes, who embodied chic sophistication in a custom-made gown that perfectly captured her effortless elegance. Joining her was model Paloma Elsesser, whose boundary-pushing style never fails to impress. Paloma arrived in a striking ensemble that fused high fashion with her signature body-positive message, reminding everyone that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
As the guests made their way down the step-and-repeat, they were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the museum's world-renowned exhibits, including the tallest freestanding dinosaur mount in the world. This unique venue added an extra layer of intrigue to the event, blending the timelessness of nature with the ever-evolving world of fashion. Attendees were treated to a lavish dinner set against the backdrop of these iconic displays, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that felt as grand as it was intimate.
Among the stars making a statement that evening was none other than Ella Emhoff, who took a brief hiatus from the campaign trail to attend the CFDA Awards. Emhoff, known for her unconventional style and rising presence in the fashion world, arrived in a stunning marble knit set from Coach. The stepdaughter of U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has made a name for herself with her unique, laid-back approach to fashion, and her appearance at the CFDA Awards only solidified her status as a style star to watch.
On the other end of the fashion spectrum, Addison Rae made a splash with a mermaid-inspired look that paid homage to her latest single, "Aquamarine." The social media sensation and singer turned heads in a Thom Browne-designed outfit—a plaid sequin skirt paired with a peplum bustier. The look was bold, whimsical, and perfectly on-brand for the young star, whose fearless approach to fashion has earned her a place among the industry’s most exciting new faces. Addison Rae’s appearance was a reminder that the CFDA Awards are not only about celebrating fashion but also about spotlighting how pop culture and style intersect.
Another highlight of the evening came when Kylie Jenner walked the red carpet, cementing her place as one of fashion’s favorite muses. Jenner arrived in a showstopping look designed by Haider Ackermann for Jean Paul Gaultier’s Spring 2023 Haute Couture collection. The sleek, futuristic design was a clear nod to her evolving fashion sense, and her relationship with the fashion world’s top designers has never been more evident. Notably, Ackermann is a favorite of Jenner’s boyfriend, actor Timothée Chalamet, adding an extra layer of intrigue to her choice of attire for the night.
The CFDA Awards aren’t just about celebrating personal style, though—they are a testament to the power of American fashion and the designers who continue to shape its future. The night saw honors bestowed on some of the most talented names in the industry, including those who have contributed to the global fashion landscape with their vision and creativity. From emerging designers whose work is pushing the boundaries of modern style to established icons who continue to redefine what fashion can be, the CFDA Awards are a night of celebration and recognition for all who contribute to the magic of the runway.
In addition to honoring individual designers, the CFDA Awards also shine a spotlight on broader trends and movements within the fashion industry. Sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical fashion were all themes that were front and center throughout the night. Many of the evening’s honorees were celebrated not just for their design skills but for their commitment to making fashion a more responsible and inclusive industry. It’s a reminder that fashion is not just about aesthetics—it’s about using one’s platform to create positive change in the world.
As the evening progressed, guests were treated to heartfelt speeches from award recipients, many of whom expressed their gratitude not just for the recognition but for the opportunity to be a part of an industry that continues to evolve and inspire. The 2024 CFDA Awards were a testament to the resilience of fashion and its ability to bring people together, even in times of challenge and uncertainty. For many in attendance, the night was a welcome return to the glamour and excitement of pre-pandemic awards seasons, a reminder of the joy that fashion can bring.
Of course, no awards show would be complete without a nod to the history and legacy of those who have shaped the industry. This year’s CFDA Awards paid tribute to several iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on fashion. These tributes were both a celebration of their contributions and a reminder of the enduring impact that fashion icons can have on future generations of designers and creatives. The awards not only honored the past but also looked forward to the future, spotlighting the next wave of talent that will continue to push fashion into new, exciting territories.
As the night drew to a close, the 2024 CFDA Awards left an indelible mark on all who attended. The event was a perfect blend of high fashion, artistic expression, and industry recognition, celebrating not just the designers who create the clothes but also the models, celebrities, and influencers who bring them to life. The CFDA Awards are more than just a red carpet event—they are a celebration of the creativity, innovation, and passion that fuel the fashion industry.
While Hollywood’s awards season is right around the corner, with the Golden Globes, Critics' Choice, BAFTAs, and Oscars set to dominate the headlines in the coming months, the CFDA Awards remind us that fashion is its own form of artistry, deserving of the spotlight. The night may have ended, but its impact will be felt long after, as designers, models, and fashion lovers alike continue to draw inspiration from the creativity and vision showcased on this magical evening. New York may be known for its iconic skyline, but for one night, it was fashion that truly lit up the city.
The 2024 CFDA Awards have set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant and exciting awards season, one that celebrates not just the stars of film and television, but also the designers, models, and creatives who make the world of fashion a thrilling and ever-evolving landscape. The magic of fashion was on full display in New York, and as the awards season continues, we’ll all be watching to see what comes next.
