The 2025 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Awards took over New York City on Monday night, drawing the industry’s biggest names to the American Museum of Natural History. From red carpet legends to rising stars, the event was a celebration of creativity, style, and individuality.
Amber Valletta’s Iconic Fashion Moment
One of the most talked-about moments came from Amber Valletta, who stepped out in a recreation of the legendary Versace “jungle” dress—the same green gown that made fashion history after Jennifer Lopez wore it in 2000.
“When we were discussing what to wear, she asked me,” Valletta said, entering the cocktail hour alongside Donatella Versace.
Versace added, “Let’s have the jungle dress. Everyone in the world knows this look—and her face.”
The look instantly became the night’s standout moment, blending nostalgia and timeless glamour.
Star-Studded Red Carpet
The guest list was a who’s who of Hollywood and fashion. Among those in attendance were Julianne Moore, Naomi Watts, Addison Rae, Naomi Campbell, Laura Harrier, Michelle Williams, Lily Allen, Mark Ronson, Renee Rapp, Grace Gummer, and more.
Cameras followed Teyana Taylor, the evening’s host, whose magnetic energy lit up the room. “This is my first time ever hosting something like this,” she said. “I’m so excited to celebrate others and also be celebrated myself. It feels really good to be acknowledged.”
Behind the Scenes: Heartfelt Encounters
Backstage and between cocktails, stars greeted each other warmly. Naomi Watts was seen chatting with Jonathan Simkhai and Teyana Taylor, the two actresses sharing laughter and encouragement before the ceremony began.
Chloe Fineman took a moment to tell Taylor how much she admired her work, calling her recent performance “Oscar-worthy.”
Meanwhile, model Gabbriette shared that her outfit—a striking black gown—was originally a wedding dress she had dyed at the last minute. “All my plans changed, so I thought, why not wear it tonight?” she said.
A$AP Rocky Named Fashion Icon of the Year
The final arrival of the night belonged to A$AP Rocky, who received the Fashion Icon Award. His appearance alongside Rihanna drew massive applause and capped off an already star-studded evening.
Model Precious Lee praised the rapper’s fearless approach to style: “It’s inspiring to see someone from Harlem, a black man, be honored for defining his own rhythm in fashion.”
Designer Willy Chavarria, nominated for Menswear Designer of the Year, summed up the mood of the evening:
“Winning isn’t the most important part. Just being here means I’ve already won.”
The CFDA’s Lasting Legacy
As the night drew to a close, one thing was clear: the CFDA Awards continue to celebrate not only fashion excellence but also individual expression. From Valletta’s nostalgic Versace moment to A$AP Rocky’s trailblazing recognition, the 2025 CFDAs reminded the world why New York remains the beating heart of global style.
