Ten rising labels. Three coveted prizes. One transformative night. Discover the designers vying to define the future of American fashion.
The CFDA and Vogue have revealed the talented roster of finalists competing for the 2025 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. Each designer brings their own distinct voice, highlighting the evolving tapestry of American fashion. The ten hopefuls include Ashlynn Park of Ashlyn; Julian Louie for Aubero; Bach Mai; Bernard James; Ashley Moubayed, founder of Don’t Let Disco; Gabe Gordon and Timothy Gibbons of Gabe Gordon; Stephanie Suberville of Heirlome; Jamie Okuma; Meruert Planul-Tolegen of Meruert Tolegen; and Peter Do.
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Mark your calendars: the winner will be announced at the annual gala dinner on November 18 in New York City. It’s a crucial moment for these emerging brands, with $300,000 awarded to the winner and $100,000 each to two runners-up, along with essential business mentorship to guide their growth.
“For over 20 years, the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund has amplified America’s emerging design voices,” Vogue’s global network lead and fashion features director, Mark Holgate, notes. “In today’s challenging market, independent designers continue to inspire with their resilience and innovation.” Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA, emphasized the Fund’s ongoing role in shaping a more inclusive and dynamic industry. “Entering our third decade, it’s clear how dramatically the Fashion Fund has transformed the American style landscape, reflecting diversity, innovation, and forward momentum.”
This year’s panel boasts influential names such as Anna Wintour, Aurora James, Eva Chen, Paloma Elsesser, Thom Browne, Zac Posen, and others who will guide the selection process. Additionally, Nordstrom continues its third annual Secure the Space Challenge on June 12, offering one designer the chance to showcase their collection in Nordstrom stores next season. The Design Challenge, sponsored again by Tommy Hilfiger, sees the iconic designer mentoring finalists through the intricacies of competitive creativity.
Since its post-9/11 inception, the Fund has supported 189 designers, collectively awarding over $7.7 million, nurturing brands that range from Proenza Schouler and Alexander Wang to recent winners Dynasty and Soull Ogun of L’Enchanteur.
Stay tuned — November 18 promises to be a defining night in fashion, setting the stage for America’s next style story.
