
Image credit from left to right: WWD, AP
At the 2024 CFDA Fashion Awards, Rachel Scott and Erykah Badu emerged as two unforgettable honorees who are not only shaping fashion but also bringing their own stories and cultural roots into the industry spotlight.
Rachel Scott’s Vision for Diotima
Rachel Scott took home the American Womenswear Designer of the Year award for her brand, Diotima. Scott’s designs bring a fresh Caribbean spirit to American fashion—an influence she wields with both pride and authenticity. Her collections speak to a refined yet distinctly personal vision, blending sharp tailoring with Caribbean crochet details, all grounded in the artisan craftsmanship of her Jamaican heritage. From garments inspired by Kingston to the runways of New York, Diotima stands out by intertwining sportswear with exquisite knitwear that holds a narrative, a sense of belonging. Scott’s journey to this award has been remarkable, especially as her brand launched just three years ago and is now recognized alongside icons like Marc Jacobs and Thom Browne. (Newsx & CFDA)
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Reflecting on her inspirations, Scott has mentioned that her work goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to connect people with culture, and her collections show just that. Her clothes, seen on cultural trendsetters like Angel Reese and Ayesha Curry, are proof of her success in merging Caribbean roots with modern sophistication—a journey that is resonating deeply with diverse audiences.
Erykah Badu’s Unmistakable Fashion Influence
The one and only Erykah Badu received the Fashion Icon of the Year award, an accolade that couldn’t be more fitting for someone who has inspired generations with her fearless fashion. From oversized hats and flowing silhouettes to her iconic headwraps, Badu’s style is always unapologetically her own. Whether on stage or the red carpet, Badu mixes the avant-garde with Afrocentric elements, creating a look that feels like poetry in motion. Her eclectic style has also caught the attention of designers such as Rick Owens and Thom Browne, who celebrate her as a muse that challenges norms and defies easy categorization. Accepting the honor, Badu remarked that her style reflects her lifelong journey of self-expression—her approach to dressing as expressive as her music and deeply woven into her identity. (CFDA & Good Morning America)
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The CFDA’s recognition of Scott and Badu underscores a movement toward embracing cultural nuance, storytelling, and authenticity in fashion. Both women are redefining what it means to be icons in today’s landscape, not just through creativity but by being true to their roots, their communities, and their narratives. With these awards, the CFDA is not just celebrating style; it’s honoring the stories and the spirit that fuel it.
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