BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 09: (L-R) Micah McDonald, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, and Wayman Bannerman speak onstage during the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards 2024 on April 09, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for Fashion Trust U.S.)

The Fashion Trust U.S. Hosts Second Annual Awards Gala in Los Angeles

A Showcase of Creativity, Craftsmanship, and Vision, Illuminating the Brightest Talents in Today’s Fashion Landscape

The Fashion Trust U.S. (FTUS) recently held its second annual awards ceremony in Los Angeles, marking a significant celebration of excellence in the fashion industry. Hosted by acclaimed American actress Zooey Deschanel, the event recognized outstanding achievements across six award categories, including Ready-to-Wear, Jewelry, Accessories, and Graduate Awards. Additionally, special accolades were presented for Inclusivity and Sustainability, underscoring the industry’s evolving focus on diversity and eco-conscious practices.

The finalists for the Fashion Trust U.S. awards were carefully selected by a distinguished panel of industry experts, including Board Members Tania Fares, Laura Brown, Karla Welch, Tan France, Maha Dakhil, Anne Crawford, and FTUS presenting sponsor, Shop with Google. The finalists’ showcase took place at the West Hollywood EDITION, where their innovative designs captivated audiences with their creativity and craftsmanship.

The winners of the 2024 Fashion Trust U.S. Awards represent a diverse range of talent and vision within the fashion landscape. Ashley Harris of Don’t Let Disco was honored with the Inclusivity Award, sponsored by Shop with Google, recognizing her efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in American design. Don’t Let Disco’s achievement includes a financial grant and access to a Google mentorship program, aimed at fostering talent and culture within the industry.

MoAnA Luu of ManLuu received the prestigious Jewelry Award, while Esha Soni was honored with the Accessories Award sponsored by Builder Ai. Both designers will benefit from grants and professional mentorship provided by FTUS, supporting their creative endeavors and helping them further establish their presence in the fashion world.

Yamil Arbaje was recognized with the Graduate Award, sponsored by St. John, highlighting emerging talent in fashion education. This acknowledgment underscores FTUS’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of designers and providing them with opportunities to thrive in the competitive industry.

Batsheva Hay of Batsheva was presented with the Sustainability Award, reflecting the growing importance of eco-conscious practices in fashion. This award includes a financial grant and professional mentoring from FTUS, supporting Batsheva’s commitment to sustainable design and ethical production methods.

The Ready-to-Wear Award, sponsored by Shop with Google, was bestowed upon Charles Harbison of Harbison Studio. Harbison Studio will receive a grant and access to a mentorship program aimed at advancing diversity, talent, and culture in American design, aligning with FTUS’s mission to empower emerging designers.

The gala evening featured a special performance by the talented Macy Gray, adding to the celebration of creativity and innovation in fashion. Each award winner was presented with a trophy designed by globally recognized jewelry designer Nigora Tokhtabayeva of Tabayer, symbolizing their remarkable achievements in the industry.

In addition to recognizing excellence in fashion design, FTUS extends its commitment to mentorship by offering winners access to a group of industry leaders who will provide guidance and support. Notable mentors include Paula Sutter, Kim Vernon, and Alexis Bittar, among others.

The Fashion Trust U.S. extends its gratitude to Shop with Google for their generous support and commitment to nurturing emerging fashion talent. Through collaboration and mentorship, FTUS continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the fashion industry and empowering designers to realize their creative visions.