British Fashion Awards 2020 Winners
“Who is leading change in fashion?” asked the British Fashion Council ahead of the 2020 Fashion Awards, which premiered on Thursday Dec. 3 in a short film on the BFC’s Youtube channel — where 20 individuals and brands were recognized for leading positive change in the fashion industry during a very unpredictable year.
Instead of the usual focus on best designer, the BFC started fresh with four new categories of awardees: environment, people, community, and creativity. “From those who bravely faced this challenging year with pro-active responses to the global pandemic, showed leadership and creative resilience over the past year, to the ones who stood up against prejudice within the fashion industry and fight for change,” said the BFC in a press statement. Ahead, are the winners . . .
Community
Emergency Design Network
Launched by Phoebe English, Bethany Williams, Holly Fulton, and Cozette McCreery, “harnessed the power of London’s fashion community. Galvanizing industry experts to produce 50,000 surgical gowns and 10,000 sets of scrubs for British health workers.”
Michael Halpern
“During the Covid-19 lockdown, rather than stage a show for London Fashion Week, Michael paid tribute to the frontline workers. He captured eight women from across the public service sectors in film and portraits, reflecting on their work, sparking joy and hope.”
Chanel
“Chanel uses its influence to create positive change. Through the work of foundation Chanel, it is committed to improving the economic and social conditions of women worldwide. It has developed a racial justice fund to support grassroots organizations led by people of color.”
Kenneth Ize
“Dedicated to preserving African craft and heritage through a community of weavers, artisans, and design groups placing Nigerian cultural heritage on a global stage.”
A Sai
“Actively standing against injustice to make fashion inclusive and kind. A Sai Ta uses his voice to offer an end to discrimination against marginalized communities and committing profits to organizations that support the end of systemic discriminations and racism.”
People
Edward Enninful
“As editor of British Vogue, he is an agent of change, holding a mirror up to the industry.”
Lindsay Peoples Wagner and Sandrine Charles of Black In Fashion Council
“In June 2020, Lindsay, editor of Teen Vogue, and Sandrine, PR executive, launched the Black In Fashion Council whose aim is to set a new foundation for diversity, inclusion, and accountability to the fashion industry.”
Samuel Ross
“A part of a new generation of menswear designers. His brand, A-Cold-Wall* has a big impact on the communities that he works with. His Black Lives Matter financial aid scheme pledges money to organizations and people on the front line. He gave thousands of dollars to businesses with Black owners across a diverse range of areas.”
Aurora James
“This year, Aurora James spearheaded a pioneering campaign calling on retailers to dedicate 15 percent of their shelf space to Black-owned brands. This, along with her community of communities and artisans through her brand Brother Vellies, makes her a trailblazer.”
Priya Ahluwalia
“A progressive-thinking leader and agent