Milan‘s La Scala Hosts CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards Amid Protests
Milan – The CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2025 took place on Saturday evening at the iconic La Scala, but the glamour of the event was overshadowed by a significant protest outside the venue. Pro-Palestine demonstrators gathered, their chants echoing through the streets, reminding attendees of the pressing global issues that extend beyond the world of fashion. Guests, dressed in elegant cocktail attire, hurried inside, acutely aware of the stark contrast between their celebration and the serious context unfolding just outside.
A Tribute to Giorgio Armani
This year’s awards were notably held a day earlier than usual to accommodate the Giorgio Armani show, which was set to close Milan Fashion Week on Sunday. The event took on a poignant tone following the death of the legendary designer on September 4. In a heartfelt tribute, the Camera della Moda, in collaboration with the UN Alliance for Sustainable Fashion and the city of Milan, presented the Legacy Award to Armani, replacing the traditional Visionary Award he received in 2022.
Leo Dell’Orco, Armani’s long-time collaborator and one of his main heirs, accepted the award alongside his niece Silvana Armani and nephew Andrea Camerana. The trio received a standing ovation from the audience, although they chose not to speak on stage, allowing the moment to resonate without words.
Anna Wintour‘s Reflections
In her introductory remarks, Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue, praised Armani’s enduring influence on the fashion industry. She highlighted how his legacy continues to shape contemporary collections, a testament to his innovative spirit. Wintour also shared personal anecdotes about her relationship with Armani, noting the occasional tensions that arose, particularly when he felt overshadowed by emerging designers like Tom Ford. “Who is this Tom Ford?” she recalled, quoting Armani’s incredulity at the attention Ford received from Vogue.
Celebrating Sustainable Fashion
The evening featured a performance by Roberto Bolle and the La Scala ballet company, who presented Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro,” adding an artistic flair to the proceedings. Actress Shailene Woodley, known for her environmental advocacy, hosted the event, which recognizes individuals and companies committed to sustainability, craftsmanship, and social justice.
Among the awards presented was the SFA Education of Excellence Award, given to Kiton. CEO Antonio De Matteis emphasized the importance of the company’s Tailoring School, urging industry peers to invest in the next generation of artisans.
Recognizing Innovation and Impact
The SFA Groundbreaker Award was presented to the Aura Blockchain Consortium, a group that has rapidly expanded from five founding members to over 50, including major luxury brands like LVMH and Prada. This consortium aims to enhance transparency in the luxury sector, with over 70 million products now registered using their technology.
The SFA Biodiversity and Water Award was awarded to the Ermenegildo Zegna Group, with Anna Zegna, a third-generation member of the founding family, accepting the honor. She paid tribute to her grandfather, who transformed barren land into the Oasi Zegna, a testament to the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Honoring Craftsmanship and Diversity
Iman, the renowned model and activist, presented the SFA Craft and Artisanship Award to the Tod’s Group, highlighting the brand’s dedication to artisanal craftsmanship and product traceability. Meanwhile, Willy Chavarria received the SFA Diversity and Inclusion Award from actor Jesse Williams, who emphasized the importance of representation in fashion. Chavarria remarked, “Fashion is a language and it is more than a commodity. It can inspire and affirm dignity.”
The Bicester Collection Award for Emerging Designers was awarded to The Sake Project, founded by Ana Tafur, while other accolades included the SFA Circular Economy Award and the SFA Climate Action Award, recognizing various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability within the industry.
Conclusion
The CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2025 served as a powerful reminder of the intersection between fashion and pressing global issues. While the event celebrated the legacy of Giorgio Armani and the strides made in sustainable fashion, it also highlighted the ongoing challenges that demand attention. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, the commitment to sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility remains crucial in shaping its future.
