Oscar de la Renta honoured at CFDA Awards

Oscar de la Renta was praised as an "American icon" at the CFDA Awards yesterday (06.03.13).

The fashion designer was honoured with the Eleanor Lambert Founder’s Award at the fashion awards ceremony in New York City last night and was hailed for his contributions to the industry by his long-time friend, former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

Introducing the famed fashion mogul, she praised him for contributing to the "American melting pot", adding: "Simply put, he is an American icon. His style and personality have permeated our culture and shaped the industry for decades.

"His name alone evokes elegance and timeless beauty, and his designs give each of us a chance like we’re special too."

Iconic designer Vera Wang was also honoured at the event with the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award, while Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci took home the International Award, which was presented by actress Jessica Chastain.

Meanwhile, fashion label Proenza Schouler – a favourite amongst A-list stars such as Rihanna and Kirsten Dunst – took the top prize for Womenswear Designer of the Year, beating strong competition from Alexander Wang and Marc Jacobs, and Thom Browne won the Menswear Designer of the Year prize.

Guests at the awards ceremony included actress Kerry Washington, Ethan Hawke, Dan Stevens, Hailee Steinfeld, Rose Byrne and Linda Evangelista.