The 2025 CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards, an integral part of Milan Fashion Week, recently brought together the global fashion community to honor those driving positive change within the industry. Held at the majestic Teatro alla Scala, the event championed designers, artisans, brands, and industry leaders dedicated to fostering a more circular and sustainable fashion economy.
Celebration of Sustainable Fashion and Lasting Legacies
On September 28, 2025, the historic Teatro alla Scala in Milan became the focal point for the fourth annual CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards. Organized by the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana in collaboration with the UN Alliance for Sustainable Fashion, this star-studded evening recognized excellence across various categories, including craftsmanship, innovative design, environmental advocacy, and commitments to human rights and biodiversity. Giuseppe Sala, the Mayor of Milan, inaugurated the ceremony. A poignant moment of the evening was a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Giorgio Armani, led by Anna Wintour. She praised Armani's profound understanding of 'power, attitude, and elegance,' likening his enduring influence to a cherished family bond and commending his visionary approach that redefined formal wear and revolutionized fashion. Wintour presented the esteemed Legacy Award to Armani's long-standing associate Leo Dell\u2019Orco, Silvana Armani, and Andrea Camerana.
The event continued with a captivating performance of Ravel\u2019s Bolero by La Scala\u2019s principal dancer, Roberto Bolle. Shailene Woodley expertly hosted the awards segment, which saw prominent attendees such as Kelly Rutherford, members of the Missoni family, Burberry's Daniel Lee, and Iman. Awards were bestowed upon those making significant strides in social impact, sustainable methodologies, and supply chain innovation. Zegna Group received the SFA Biodiversity and Water Award for their environmental dedication, particularly for their Oasi Zegna project. Matteo Tamburini, creative director of Tod\u2019s, was honored with the SFA Craft and Artisanship Award. Kiton was recognized with the SFA Education of Excellence Award for its initiative to nurture new generations of tailors. The Bicester Collection Award for Emerging Designers went to The Sake Project, a regenerative fashion endeavor by Colombian designer Ana Tafur. Willy Chavarria earned The SFA Diversity and Inclusion Award, where he passionately emphasized the critical importance of diversity and inclusion in safeguarding cultural identities through fashion.
This event serves as a powerful reminder of the fashion industry's evolving commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. It highlights how collective effort, from visionary designers to influential figures, can drive meaningful change. The awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also foster a broader conversation about environmental responsibility, social equity, and cultural preservation within the global fashion landscape, inspiring continued innovation and dedication towards a more conscientious future.