Introduction
In the famous words of the legendary fashion designer Coco Chanel:
“Fashion changes, style remains.”
These 4 powerful words have resonated with generations of fashion enthusiasts. Whether the common man or fashion gods and goddesses, everyone one wants t to have their own signature style. Which only highlights the supremacy of styling over fashion itself.
Style is not just a matter of putting things together, it is indeed a universal language, that transcends borders, regions, markets to communicate a sense of individuality, creativity, and cultural expression. From avant-garde runway looks to timeless red-carpet ensembles, style influences how we view the world and ourselves.
While fashion design is a more concentrated effort that celebrates creativity in construction and designing, style focusses on story telling bridging the gaps between the designer and the consumer. The best stylists in the world are master at telling these stories of brands and individuality by creating looks that resonate with the global audience and help usher in new style codes and sensibilities.
Thus, to recognise this talent of styling, style awards honor those who wear it best, transforming outfits into statements and moments into memories. These awards not only celebrate the icons who redefine fashion but also inspire future generations to express themselves boldly and authentically. In this blog we will look at the 10 of the most well known, iconic style awards in the world. We will dwell into their history, past winners, awards and prizes and many other aspects associated with these style awards.
“Fashions fade, style is eternal.”
– Yves Saint Laurent
What Makes Style Awards different from Fashion Awards
As we saw in my previous blog on fashion awards, they are focused on celebrating and promoting design and craftsmanship often honouring fashion designers with prizes and opportunities. On the other hand, style awards acknowledge and celebrate the art of wearing clothes. They honor highly influential individuals who have the ability to set trends and bring changes in the fashion consumption through their own personal style choices. Red-carpet moments often create history, with iconic looks shaping the fashion narrative for years. And not only celebrities these awards also recognize the influence of gifted stylists, tastemakers and other individuals who help champion diversity and innovation in global fashion.
1. International Best-Dressed List
Brief History and Overview
The International Best-Dressed List, established in 1940 by Eleanor Lambert, highlights individuals renowned for their exceptional style. Originating as a way to promote American fashion, it soon gained global acclaim, recognizing not only celebrities but also royalty, politicians, and socialites. Published annually, it celebrates timeless elegance, innovative trends, and sartorial excellence across diverse cultures. Over the years, it has evolved to feature modern icons while retaining its prestige. Now overseen by Vanity Fair, the list continues to set the bar for global style standards.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 1940
Application Categories: Women’s Fashion, Men’s Fashion, Professionals (e.g., stylists, designers), Emerging Style Icons, Couples
Notable Past Winners: Audrey Hepburn, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Diana, Princess of Wales, Rihanna, Amal Clooney
Most Iconic Moments:
- Diana, Princess of Wales, debuting her “revenge dress” in 1994.
- Audrey Hepburn being celebrated for her timeless collaboration with Givenchy.
- Rihanna redefining red carpet fashion with bold, avant-garde looks.
Notable Judges: Eleanor Lambert (Founder), Graydon Carter (Former Vanity Fair Editor), Anna Wintour (Vogue Editor-in-Chief)
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Enhanced global recognition and influence in the fashion world. Invitations to exclusive events and collaborations with top designers. And opportunities to become style ambassadors or launch fashion ventures.
Website: Vanity Fair
2. CFDA Fashion Icon Award
Brief History and Overview: The CFDA Fashion Icon Award, presented annually by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), honors individuals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the fashion world through their personal style and influence. Launched as part of the CFDA Fashion Awards, it celebrates style trailblazers, from celebrities and models to public figures, who inspire the industry with their unique sartorial choices. Over the years, the award has gained prestige as a marker of exceptional taste and cultural impact, with winners often recognized for redefining and elevating global fashion norms.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 1981 (CFDA Awards; Fashion Icon category formalized later)
Application Categories: Fashion Icon of the Year
Notable Past Winners: Rihanna (2014), Beyoncé (2016), Zendaya (2021), Pharrell Williams (2015), Naomi Campbell (2018)
Most Iconic Moments:
- Rihanna’s 2014 sheer Swarovski crystal dress by Adam Selman.
- Beyoncé’s 2016 acceptance speech emphasizing diversity in fashion.
- Zendaya’s nod to vintage glamour at the 2021 awards.
Notable Judges: CFDA Members, Industry Experts, Chaired by prominent designers and executives within the CFDA
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Elevated global recognition as a style icon. Increased opportunities for collaborations with major brands and designers. Enhanced influence in the fashion industry and media exposure.
Website: CFDA
3. British Fashion Council’s Style Awards
Brief History and Overview: The British Fashion Council’s Style Awards, part of the annual Fashion Awards hosted by the BFC, celebrate outstanding achievements in global fashion. Originally launched in 1989, the awards aim to recognize creativity, innovation, and influence in the fashion industry. The Style Awards spotlight individuals and brands shaping contemporary style, including designers, models, and rising stars. Known for its glamorous ceremony at London’s Royal Albert Hall, it also serves as a fundraiser for the BFC Foundation, which supports fashion education and emerging talent. The event is a highlight of the global fashion calendar, blending artistry, commerce, and philanthropy.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Year Established: 1989
Application Categories: Model of the Year, Style Icon, Emerging Talent, Designer of the Year, Brand of the Year
Notable Past Winners: Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Alexa Chung, Kim Jones, Daniel Lee
Most Iconic Moments:
- Kate Moss receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.
- Naomi Campbell’s emotional acceptance speech in 2019.
- Daniel Lee’s dominance at the 2019 awards for his work at Bottega Veneta.
Notable Judges: Industry leaders selected by the British Fashion Council, including designers, journalists, and executives.
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Global recognition as a leader in fashion and style. Networking opportunities with top-tier designers and brands. Increased visibility for personal and brand growth.
Website: British Fashion Council
4. Elle Style Awards
Brief History and Overview: The Elle Style Awards, launched by Elle magazine in 1997, celebrate excellence in fashion, entertainment, and culture. Known as one of the most glamorous events in the fashion calendar, the awards recognize designers, models, actors, and cultural icons who inspire and influence global style. The ceremony blends fashion with entertainment, honoring established talent and emerging innovators. Over the years, it has become synonymous with recognizing creative brilliance and red-carpet elegance, while maintaining its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Winners are celebrated for their contributions to fashion, cinema, music, and beyond, making the awards a key industry benchmark.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Year Established: 1997
Application Categories: Best Dressed, Designer of the Year, Model of the Year, Emerging Talent, Actress/Actor of the Year, Lifetime Achievement
Notable Past Winners: Emma Watson, Cara Delevingne, Christopher Bailey, Naomi Campbell, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
Most Iconic Moments:
- Emma Watson’s acceptance speech advocating for gender equality.
- Naomi Campbell’s tribute to the late Alexander McQueen.
- Cara Delevingne’s rise as a global fashion icon.
Notable Judges: Elle Magazine Editors, Fashion Industry Experts, Cultural Influencers
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Increased media exposure and global recognition. Opportunities for collaborations with major brands. Networking within fashion, entertainment, and cultural spheres.
Website: Elle UK
5. GQ Men of the Year Awards (Style Icon)
Brief History and Overview: The GQ Men of the Year Awards, established by GQ magazine in 1998, celebrate excellence across various fields, including fashion, entertainment, sports, and culture. The “Style Icon” category honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of fashion through their distinctive and influential personal style. Known for its star-studded events, the awards are a major highlight in the global fashion and entertainment calendar, showcasing trailblazers and trendsetters. The ceremony attracts global attention and cements winners’ status as fashion and cultural leaders, blending elegance, innovation, and influence.
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Year Established: 1998
Application Categories: Style Icon, Designer of the Year, Breakthrough Talent, Cultural Icon, Innovator
Notable Past Winners: David Beckham, Harry Styles, Tom Ford, Timothée Chalamet, Pharrell Williams
Most Iconic Moments:
- Harry Styles embracing gender-fluid fashion during his acceptance.
- David Beckham’s ongoing influence as a global style ambassador.
- Timothée Chalamet redefining red-carpet menswear with bold choices.
Notable Judges: GQ Magazine Editors, Industry Experts in Fashion and Culture
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Increased global visibility and influence in fashion. Endorsement opportunities with luxury brands. Recognition as a style leader in media and pop culture.
Website: GQ UK
6. MTV Movie & TV Awards: Best Dressed
Brief History and Overview: The MTV Movie & TV Awards, established in 1992, honor achievements in film, television, and pop culture, with a strong emphasis on youth appeal and creativity. The “Best Dressed” category highlights standout fashion moments from the red carpet, celebrating celebrities who push boundaries and set trends in personal style. Known for its casual and unconventional atmosphere, the awards focus on bold, fun, and memorable looks that resonate with the MTV audience. Over the years, the “Best Dressed” accolade has become a sought-after recognition, cementing its winners as icons of contemporary style and pop culture.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 1992
Application Categories: Best Dressed, Pop Culture Icons, Most Memorable Red-Carpet Moment
Notable Past Winners: Zendaya, Blake Lively, Timothée Chalamet, Lady Gaga
Most Iconic Moments:
- Zendaya’s vibrant neon gown in 2021.
- Lady Gaga’s eccentric red-carpet look.
- Timothée Chalamet’s bold menswear ensembles.
Notable Judges: MTV Producers, Fashion Experts, Fan Votes
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Appeal to a young, global audience. Increased media coverage and social media buzz. Boost to personal and professional branding in entertainment and fashion.
Website: MTV Awards
7. InStyle Awards
Brief History and Overview: The InStyle Awards, launched by InStyle magazine in 2015, celebrate outstanding contributions to the worlds of fashion, beauty, and entertainment. The annual event honors designers, actors, stylists, and other industry leaders who have significantly influenced style trends and culture. Known for its elegant yet approachable atmosphere, the awards showcase the intersection of Hollywood glamour and high fashion. The ceremony brings together top-tier celebrities, creators, and fashion insiders, making it a key event in the industry calendar. It also highlights trailblazers who redefine modern style, offering a platform for emerging talent and established icons alike.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 2015
Application Categories: Style Icon, Designer of the Year, Hairstylist of the Year, Makeup Artist of the Year, Breakthrough Style Star
Notable Past Winners: Zendaya (Style Star), Anya Taylor-Joy (Breakthrough Style Star), Michael Kors (Designer of the Year), Cate Blanchett (Style Icon)
Most Iconic Moments:
- Zendaya’s powerful acceptance speech on individuality and fashion.
- Anya Taylor-Joy’s standout vintage-inspired red-carpet look.
- Cate Blanchett’s timeless fashion statements celebrated on stage.
Notable Judges: InStyle Magazine Editors, Fashion Industry Experts, Stylists and Creative Professionals
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Enhanced visibility in the fashion and entertainment industries. Opportunities for brand collaborations and endorsements. Recognition as a leader in style and influence.
Website: InStyle
8. People’s Choice Awards: Style Star of the Year
Brief History and Overview: The People’s Choice Awards, established in 1975, celebrate achievements in pop culture, with categories spanning movies, TV, music, and fashion. The “Style Star of the Year” category honors celebrities with standout personal style and significant influence in fashion. What sets these awards apart is that winners are chosen entirely by public vote, making them a reflection of fan preferences and trends. The award highlights individuals who use their fashion choices to inspire, innovate, and set new trends. Over the years, it has become a coveted accolade for style-conscious celebrities in Hollywood and beyond.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 1975 (Style Star of the Year added in later years)
Application Categories: Style Star of the Year, Movie Star of the Year, TV Star of the Year, Music Star of the Year
Notable Past Winners: Zendaya, Blake Lively, Harry Styles, Rihanna
Most Iconic Moments:
- Zendaya’s acceptance speech celebrating diverse beauty in fashion.
- Rihanna’s bold and trendsetting red-carpet look.
- Harry Styles breaking menswear norms with gender-fluid outfits.
Notable Judges: Entirely determined by public vote via the People’s Choice Awards platform.
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Increased fan engagement and media coverage. Strengthened personal brand as a fashion icon. Enhanced opportunities for partnerships with fashion and beauty brands.
Website: People’s Choice Awards
9. Fashion Media Awards
Brief History and Overview: The Fashion Media Awards (FMA), organized by Daily Front Row, celebrate excellence in fashion journalism, photography, and media. Established in 2013, the awards recognize influential figures and publications that shape how fashion is perceived and consumed. From editors and photographers to influencers and content creators, the FMAs spotlight innovators in traditional and digital media. Known for its star-studded gala during New York Fashion Week, the event has become a key platform for honoring the evolving relationship between media and the fashion industry. It bridges the gap between creative expression and mass communication in the modern fashion era.
Country of Origin: United States
Year Established: 2013
Application Categories: Magazine of the Year, Fashion Photographer of the Year, Fashion Influencer of the Year, Best Digital Cover, Editor of the Year, Breakthrough Media Star
Notable Past Winners: Bella Hadid (Fashion Influencer of the Year), Edward Enninful (British Vogue Editor of the Year), Katie Grand (LOVE Magazine), Emily Ratajkowski (Breakthrough Media Star)
Most Iconic Moments:
- Bella Hadid’s heartfelt speech on using her influence for positive change.
- Edward Enninful’s recognition for transforming British Vogue.
- Tributes to iconic fashion photographers like Steven Meisel.
Notable Judges: Daily Front Row Editors, Prominent figures in the fashion and media industries
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Recognition as a leading figure in fashion media. Increased credibility and visibility within the fashion industry. Opportunities for collaborations with top brands and publications.
Website: Daily Front Row
10. Marie Claire Prix d’Excellence de la Mode
Brief History and Overview: The Marie Claire Prix d’Excellence de la Mode is one of the most prestigious fashion awards in France. Established in 1987 by Marie Claire magazine, the awards celebrate exceptional talent in the fashion industry, recognizing outstanding designers, stylists, models, and other creative contributors. With a focus on excellence, innovation, and sustainability, it has become a key event in the global fashion calendar, often highlighting emerging and established talent across various sectors of the fashion world.
Country of Origin: France
Year Established: 1987
Application Categories: Designer of the Year, Fashion Icon, Accessories Designer of the Year, Best Female Model, Best Male Model, Best Fashion Campaign, Emerging Designer, Best Fashion House
Notable Past Winners: Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Dior, Karl Lagerfeld, Stella McCartney, Olivier Rousteing
Most Iconic Moments:
The awards have seen memorable moments such as the recognition of groundbreaking designers like Karl Lagerfeld and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as the celebration of rising stars such as Olivier Rousteing and Marine Serre. The event’s glamorous atmosphere often attracts fashion icons, making it a prime occasion for high-profile collaborations.
Notable Judges: Carine Roitfeld, Emmanuelle Alt, Inès de la Fressange, Olivier Rousteing, Jean-Paul Gaultier
Benefits Beyond Prizes: Winners of the Marie Claire Prix d’Excellence de la Mode gain significant visibility and credibility within the fashion industry. The event often serves as a stepping stone to broader international recognition, offering valuable exposure to the global market, media attention, and opportunities for collaborations with other high-profile industry figures.
Website: www.marieclaire.fr
Conclusion
In conclusion, fashion awards are more than just celebrations of design; they serve as landmarks in the history of fashion, showcasing the evolution of style and the creative genius behind it. From the prestigious CFDA Awards in the United States to the glamorous British Fashion Awards, these events honor not only the designers who shape the industry but also the models, stylists, and innovators who bring their visions to life. Over the years, fashion awards have become platforms for recognizing diverse talents, pushing boundaries, and inspiring future generations. As fashion continues to evolve, these iconic awards will remain a testament to the artistry and influence that fashion has on culture, self-expression, and the world at large.
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.”
– Rachel Zoe
Please share your thoughts on these awards and how they shape the world of fashion and style. Also, if there is any other award that you would like to know about.
