Kenneth Cole Is Honoured with The Swarovski Award for Positive Change

Date March 24, 2017

Diane Von Furstenberg took to the stage at Ramscale Studio in New York City yesterday to announce the 2017 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Award nominees and honourees. This year, a new award category, The Swarovski Award for Positive Change, was introduced to shine the spotlight on designers whose philanthropic efforts extend beyond the runway. This year’s recipient is Kenneth Cole who will climb those stage stairs on June 5th for his decades-long dedication to artistic activism, civil liberties and collective health for all.

“For over 30 years, we have sought to make a more meaningful connection with people by addressing not just what they look like on the outside, but who they are on the inside; not just what they stand in, but what they stand for. We aspire to help everyone, everywhere LOOK GOOD, FOR GOOD.” – Kenneth Cole

Here at home, we’re gearing up to celebrate Canada’s top talent at the CAFA Awards where David Dixon, Christopher Paunil, Far and Wide Collective and Wear Your Label have all been nominated in a similar category called The Fashion Impact Award. We’ll be looking forward to the gala on April 7 to toast the winner.

Learn more about the social and philanthropic impact our Canadian designers have made in their communities by clicking through the gallery below.

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Wear Your Label

Wear Your Label has long been known for social activism. Their ‘Role Models’ campaign is a great example. Models were chosen for their beliefs and beautiful personalities over their dress sizes.

The brand continues to make a positive impact by implementing the #StigmaFree campaign in partnership with the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

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David Dixon

After losing his sister to ovarian cancer, David Dixon partnered with Ovarian Cancer Canada to create the ‘Know Your Genes’ collection, which raises awareness and support for survivors.

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Far & Wide Collective

Far and Wide Collective connects with artisans in developing countries to promote and preserve the art of the handmade craft. Through charitable incentives and a curated retail store, they are able to give back to communities in need.

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Christopher Paunil

Christopher Paunil and business partner Chalo Hancock launched UforChange in 2009. The program provides mentorship and education (think pattern drafting and sewing) to the next generation of fashion creatives in Canada.