The American Apparel & Footwear Association announced the prestigious 2018 American Image Awards Fashion Maverick honor will go to Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel, founders of Mansur Gavriel. Recognized for its unique approach to retail, Mansur Gavriel launched its first products mainly via Instagram. Founded in 2012 with just a bucket bag and a tote, the label’s Italian-made accessories have since become iconic and the brand expanded into ready-to-wear last year.
The design duo will join honorees including: Person of the Year, Emanuel (Manny) Chirico, Chairman and CEO of PVH Corp.; Company of the Year, Camuto Group; Designer of the Year, Joseph Altuzarra; and Retailer of the Year, Fred Segal. Journalist and author Katie Couric will emcee the annual gala, taking place on Apr. 16, 2018 in New York.
“We are pleased to honor these individuals and organizations for their creativity, innovation, and business leadership,” states Rick Helfenbein, president and CEO of AAFA. “Each honoree is disrupting the industry with keen imagination and the ability to inspire today’s consumers.”
The AAFA American Image Awards honors those who have exemplified leadership, excellence, and outstanding achievement in all sectors of the apparel and footwear industry, including education, design, manufacturing, and retail. Through this event, AAFA brings together a unique cross-section of influencers to celebrate creativity while drawing attention to public policy impacts on fashion and design. For the second year, AAFA is proud to partner with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Foundation as its beneficiary.
