The 29th annual FGI Rising Star Awards ceremony will be hosted by Tiffany Haddish in New York City, celebrating emerging talents in fashion while supporting industry growth.
Fashion Group International (FGI) is set to host its 29th annual FGI Rising Star Awards ceremony on April 16, 2025, from 11 am to 2 pm in New York City. While the specific location will be announced later, the event is characterized by its red-carpet atmosphere and aims to bring together leading designers, executives, and industry tastemakers to celebrate emerging talent in fashion, beauty, and related sectors.
The high-profile event will be hosted by Tiffany Haddish, an Emmy, Grammy, and NAACP Image Award-winning actress, performer, producer, and author known for her roles in productions like Girls Trip and her bestselling book, The Last Black Unicorn. Haddish will be joined by a lineup of presenters including Fern Mallis, Gary Wassner, Ken Downing, Reem Acra, and Jonathan Cohen, among others to be announced.
Alyce Panico, Chairperson of the FGI Board of Directors and CEO of Luxe Collective Group, remarked, “The Rising Star Awards and program serve as a premier platform for celebrating the next generation of industry leaders.” She expressed pride in the initiative, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and leadership within the fashion industry at a time when these values are greatly needed. Maryanne Grisz, President & CEO of Fashion Group International, also highlighted the energy and creativity of the nominees, stating, “They are the future of fashion – and it is our honor to recognize their work and support their vision as these nominees and honorees step into the spotlight and the next chapter of their careers at the FGI Rising Star Awards.”
The Rising Star Awards serve not only as a celebration but also as a significant fundraising event for FGI, which has become a prominent platform for nurturing and supporting fashion professionals across various career stages. Applications for the awards opened in September 2024, inviting eligible businesses in operation for two to six years to participate. Finalists and award recipients are ultimately selected by FGI member votes and a juried panel.
Historically, the FGI Rising Star Awards have highlighted and propelled many renowned designers and brands into the spotlight, including Tory Burch, Jason Wu, and Brandon Maxwell, contributing to their successful careers.
Macy’s has returned as a sponsor for a second consecutive year, supporting the Future Fashion Award in Fashion Merchandising that recognizes a standout student in the field. The Hilldun Business Innovation Award will also be presented to Carly Bigi, the founder of Laws of Motion, by Gary Wassner of Hilldun Corporation.
In a novel addition to this year’s proceedings, FGI has opted for an informal fireside chat format for the annual pre-event, aimed at fostering connections and programming development. This pre-party will be hosted by APL at their luxury performance athletic and lifestyle footwear store in New York City’s SoHo district. During this event, FGI Chairperson Alyce Panico will moderate a discussion with guests including NJ Falk, Robert Chavez, and Gary Wassner, focusing on mentorship within the fashion industry.
Under Panico’s leadership, the organization is set to continue its strategic direction into 2025, emphasizing opportunities for connection and the further development of impactful programming within the fashion sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services
