Apparel industry leaders honoured at 2024 AAFA American Image Awards

The prestigious evening saw several industry leaders being honoured for their contributions. Lizanne Kindler, executive chair and CEO of KnitWell Group, was awarded the Person of the Year for her influential leadership and emotional connection to her team and clients. Carhartt, Inc, represented by senior vice president of global product supply and operations, Danilo Amoretty, received the Company of the Year award, celebrating its 135th anniversary and its commitment to blending tradition with forward-thinking sustainability, AAFA said in a press release.

Designer of the Year was awarded to Wes Gordon, creative director at Carolina Herrera, who spoke about the transformative power of creating beautiful garments. The Eco-Steward of the Year accolade was presented to Federica Marchionni, CEO of Global Fashion Agenda, who inspired the audience with her vision of the American dream and sustainable fashion. Allan Ellinger, senior managing partner at MMG Advisors, was recognised as the Trailblazer of the Year, sharing a message of hope and the importance of positive impact in the industry.

The gala also featured impactful moments from AAFA and CFDA leadership, with Stephen Lamar and Steven Kolb delivering remarks that praised the eight-year partnership’s wide-reaching effects. Additionally, Katie Ioanilli of Ralph Lauren introduced Gabrielle Ferrara, COO of Ferrara Manufacturing, who shared insights into the success of their operations in local manufacturing, including the production of US Olympic uniforms and Ralph Lauren’s premium products.

“Tonight is a powerful reminder of the positive change that individuals can steer. We are reminded that we can and should draw collective strength from our individual diversity and that we are making incredible strides as an industry as we support manufacturing, foster new talent, and train the next generation,” said?Steve Lamar, president and CEO, AAFA. “Over the years ahead, I look forward to even stronger partnerships as we fashion new extended producer responsibility mechanisms, negotiate smart trade programs, and scale circular solutions.”  

“It was an honour to celebrate our eighth year of partnership, to spotlight five such unique award recipients, and to showcase the impact of our recent scholarships. The American Image Awards are an outstanding event and always a great night to reflect on the opportunities we’ve created together in partnership with the AAFA leadership,” said?Steven Kolb, CEO, CFDA.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)