The Fashion Trust U.S. revealed winners of its fourth annual awards on Tuesday night at Nya Studios in Los Angeles, granting $600,000 to emerging talent across six categories. The ceremony drew celebrities, designers and industry figures for a night celebrating creativity and entrepreneurship. Host Ego Nwodim kept the crowd entertained during dinner.
Fashion Trust U.S., now in its fourth year, selected 16 up-and-coming finalists and announced the winners at the event. Founder Tania Fares opened the ceremony, praising Los Angeles for its creativity and diversity. She highlighted the organization's mission to provide financial support and mentorship to the next generation of designers. Board member Zac Posen commended the initiative for boosting exposure for early-stage creators turning into entrepreneurs. CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner Ashlynn Park, a finalist this year, valued insights from over 50 judges on her brand. Monse designer Fernando Garcia called the gathering a high school reunion, complimenting Joseph Altuzarra's work. Actress Brittany Snow, dressed by Garcia, described the invite as a huge deal, while co-star Malin Åkerman hyped her up on the red carpet. The first award went to Andrea Marron for her sculptural handbags, presented by Fernando Garcia and Skye Hankey. Marron thanked her collaborators and craftspeople in an emotional speech. Melissa McCarthy presented the graduate award to Marcelle Barbosa of sustainable label Amaramara from Parsons School of Design. Olivia Wilde honored Josefina Baillères with the jewelry award, noting how jewelry brings outfits to life. Maxwell Osborne and Kristy Chen received the sustainability accolade, crediting their immigrant families. Pamela Anderson presented Tory Burch with Designer of the Year, calling her creative and curious. Burch praised the emerging designers' strength and perspectives in her acceptance. Michèle Lamy earned the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Zane Li of LII won ready-to-wear, presented by Stephanie Horton and Ryan Destiny. Grammy-nominated Lykke Li performed songs including Lucky Again and I Follow Rivers. Guests like Mindy Kaling, Sharon Stone, Emma Chamberlain and Chrissy Teigen later headed to the after-party at Bar Lis.
