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The CFDA Awards are known to most as the Oscars of the fashion industry. And though they are in for a bit of competition with the impending revamp of the British Fashion Awards, for now, they are arguably the most important fashion awards on the calendar.
This year’s event, hosted by Joel McHale, had not only a dinner but Jennifer Hudson as a special performance.
Bey’s speech was heartening with the star tracing her connection to fashion back to her grandmother who became a seamstress to put Momma Tina through Catholic school. The most interesting thing? Beyonce did take the moment to check the industry saying, “When we were starting out in Destiny’s Child, high-end labels didn’t really want to dress four black, country, curvy girls.” She went on to encourage the industry to remember diversity. “I encourage you to not forget this power that we have or take it lightly. We have the opportunity to contribute to a society where any girl can look at a billboard or a magazine cover and see her own reflection.”
Here, here!
Keep reading for the CFDA Awards 2016 Winners:
Womenswear Designer of the Year: Marc Jacobs
Menswear Designer of the Year: Thom Browne
Accessory Designer of the Year: Mansur Gavriel
Swarovski Award for Womenswear: Brandon Maxwell
Swarovski Award for Menswear: Orley
Swarovski Award for Accessory Design: Paul Andrew
International Award: Gucci’s Alessandro Michele
Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award: Norma Kamali
Founders Award: Donna Karan
Media Award: Business of Fashion
Fashion Icon: Beyonce
What do you think of the night’s winners? Thoughts on Beyonce’s speech?