Vera Wang is named top women’s wear designer

Vera Wang was honored with American fashion’s highest award on Monday night, receiving the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s Womenswear Designer of the Year award. The awards, held at the New York Public Library, also singled out John Varvatos as Menswear Designer of the Year.

Wang, a former Vogue editor, revolutionized the bridal wear market in the 1990s, offering simple, modern alternatives to the prevailing frou-frou styles. She gained worldwide attention for designing Nancy Kerrigan’s skating costumes at the 1994 Olympics. Wang also has ready-to-wear, accessories, beauty and tabletop collections. Fall 2000 marked the first collection for Varvatos, who has a store in L.A. on Robertson Boulevard and is known for his sleek, understated menswear. He is also a brand powerhouse, with leather goods, shoes and a fragrance.

Kate Moss, the British model known for her waifish style, accepted an award for fashion influence from David Bowie at the gala, attended by industry insiders and celebrities. CFDA Executive Director Peter Arnold noted the individuality she expresses in choosing her own looks and not relying on stylists.

Diane von Furstenberg was honored for her three decades in the fashion business. Norma Kamali also received a special tribute, during which she jokingly took the blame for starting the shoulder-pad craze of the late 1970s.

Emerging designers honored included Derek Lam for women’s wear and Alexandre Plokhov for his Cloak menswear label.

Marc Jacobs was named accessory designer of the year for the third time, while Lanvin’s Alber Elbaz received the International Award for his creative contribution to fashion.

Winners were selected by more than 450 editors, stylists, designers and retailers.