Council of Fashion Designers of America, Fashion industry association in New York City, United States
The Council of Fashion Designers of America is a trade association based in Manhattan that supports American fashion designers in developing their business strategies and accessing global markets. The association includes several hundred members from different segments of the industry, including designers, fashion journalists, and executives from fashion companies.
Eleanor Lambert founded the organization in 1962 to give American designers a stronger position against the European fashion capitals. In the following decades the association expanded its program to include educational offerings and sustainability initiatives that connect designers with more environmentally friendly production methods.
The name honors Eleanor Lambert's vision of creating a collective voice for American designers on the international stage. Today the organization serves as a meeting point where members exchange ideas and collaborate on new approaches to the fashion industry.
The association serves established designers and emerging talents who seek access to business consulting and industry contacts. Those interested in learning about the organization's work can visit the website or attend public events that take place regularly in New York.
The organization awards prizes in more than a dozen categories each year, from womenswear to accessories, honoring contributions to the American fashion landscape. The awards ceremony takes place every spring and draws designers, journalists, and industry representatives from across the country.
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