New York’s Museum of Natural History turned into a runway of modern elegance.
Bold statements, timeless glamour, and unforgettable red-carpet moments defined the night.
The 2025 CFDA Fashion Awards brought together the most celebrated names in American fashion for an evening that blended creativity, artistry, and pure star power. Hosted by the Council of Fashion Designers of America at New York City’s iconic Museum of Natural History, the event honored the industry’s finest talents and highlighted the artistry that continues to shape the global fashion landscape. Under the leadership of CFDA chairman Thom Browne and CEO Steven Kolb, the night unfolded as a stylish tribute to innovation and individuality, with the ever-charismatic Teyana Taylor leading the show as host. Greeting guests on the arrivals carpet, designer and Real Housewives of New York City star Jenna Lyons embodied understated sophistication, setting the mood for an evening steeped in effortless chic.
As the ceremony began, anticipation filled the air. Among the top nominees for Menswear Designer of the Year were Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Thom Browne, Mike Amiri, and Willy Chavarria, each representing a distinct vision of modern style. In the Womenswear category, Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, and Wes Gordon for Carolina Herrera led the pack, showcasing the range and vitality of American design. This year’s special awards added a deeper layer of meaning to the evening: A$AP Rocky was named Fashion Icon of the Year for his fearless approach to style and cultural influence, while Donatella Versace received the Positive Change Award, honoring her ongoing dedication to inclusivity, sustainability, and creative excellence.
The guest list was as dazzling as the awards themselves, with stars from fashion, film, and music gathering under the museum’s grand dome. Naomi Campbell, Julianne Moore, and other luminaries graced the red carpet, but the real story of the night was told through the looks — each ensemble a declaration of personality and artistry.
Rihanna made one of the most talked-about entrances of the evening, arriving alongside her partner A$AP Rocky, who was the picture of polished cool in Chanel. The multi-hyphenate mogul stunned in an Alaïa ensemble that perfectly balanced structure and sensuality. Her sharply tailored trench coat, cinched at the waist and daringly slit at the thigh, was paired with pleated white trousers that flowed seamlessly into glossy black heels. A high-neck sweater added a sculptural contrast, creating a look that was equal parts commanding and elegant. With sleek hair and barely-there makeup, Rihanna once again redefined red-carpet fashion, proving that true style lies in bold reinvention.
Amber Valletta channeled timeless allure in a gleaming Versace gown that seemed to capture the golden light of the evening. The supermodel’s floor-length creation, rendered in liquid gold tones, featured a daring thigh-high slit and an asymmetric neckline — hallmarks of Versace’s signature glamour. A metallic belt emphasized her waist, while bronzed skin and wet-look hair lent the ensemble a modern sensuality. Valletta’s confident presence and effortless poise reminded everyone why she remains one of fashion’s enduring icons.
Alex Consani brought a touch of sharp sophistication to the night in a tailored Michael Kors Collection look that reimagined classic American minimalism. Her tuxedo-inspired gown, featuring a plunging neckline and fluid silk trousers, struck a perfect balance between strength and softness. Slicked-back hair, bold eyeliner, and diamond earrings completed the ensemble, adding edge and elegance in equal measure. Consani’s appearance was a masterclass in contemporary style, proving that minimalism — when executed with confidence — can be just as impactful as opulence.
Dove Cameron embraced romantic modernity in a breathtaking Carolina Herrera gown designed by Wes Gordon. The piece featured a sculpted ivory satin bodice that flowed into layers of cascading pink tulle, blending architectural precision with delicate femininity. With her hair styled in a sleek bun and dewy, rose-toned makeup, Cameron embodied a fresh take on classic glamour, channeling the brand’s signature elegance through a youthful lens. Her look captured the essence of the evening: a celebration of artistry, beauty, and reinvention.
Elsa Hosk radiated ethereal sophistication in a custom Elie Saab couture gown. The Swedish model’s pale-blue beaded creation featured sheer panels and intricate embroidery that shimmered with every step. Styled with diamond chandelier earrings and a polished updo, Hosk exuded cinematic grace and European refinement. Her statuesque silhouette and luminous confidence transformed the red carpet into her own runway, earning her a place among the night’s best-dressed.
As the night drew to a close, one thing was clear — the 2025 CFDA Fashion Awards were not only a celebration of design but also of self-expression and creative courage. From Rihanna’s sculptural Alaïa statement to Amber Valletta’s golden Versace masterpiece, every look told a story of individuality and innovation. Against the backdrop of New York’s most iconic museum, the event reminded the world that fashion, at its core, remains a living art form — one that evolves, inspires, and continually redefines what beauty means on the modern stage.