“I have had the privilege of being a member of the American Fashion community for many years and have experienced what the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) does for its members and the industry as a whole”, commented Tom Ford adding: “Having lived and worked in each of the global fashion capitals of the world, I look forward to working with the Board of Directors to further the voice of American Fashion and its designers.”

Ford is one of the most successful and respected designers in the world. He changed the face of American style with a heady combination of glamour and desire. Fashion, music, sports and Hollywood collide in the Tom Ford universe. In April 2005, Ford created his eponymous luxury brand, beginning with menswear. Today, the Tom Ford brand offers a complete collection of Menswear, as well as Womenswear, Accessories, Eyewear, Beauty and most recently underwear and timepieces. Ford was previously the Creative Director of Gucci Group, where he designed for luxury houses Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent until 2004.

American born Ford began his career as a design assistant for CFDA Member Cathy Hardwick, and joined the CFDA in 2000. He has won a total of seven CFDA Fashion Awards: Menswear Designer of the Year (2015, 2008), Womenswear Designer of the Year (2001), Accessory Designer of the Year (2002), Board of Director’s Tribute (2004), International Designer of the Year (1995), and the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award (2014). Ford has shown his collections in London, Los Angeles and New York.

“As the Chairman, I look forward to continuing the incredible work Diane has done over the last 13 years”, Ford continuing commenting. “Diane is a true force and her contribution to the CFDA and to American fashion immeasurable. We all owe her a great deal”.

“I am so excited that Tom Ford has agreed to come and lead the CFDA”, said Diane von Furstenberg adding: “American Fashion could not wish for a better visionary to further grow its impact in the global landscape. Tom is a role model for all of us, and we are very lucky to have him as the next Chairman of the CFDA.”

Von Furstenberg became President of the CFDA in 2006. In 2015, she was named Chairwoman of the organization. Previous CFDA Presidents were Perry Ellis, Oscar de la Renta, Bill Blass, Norman Norell, Stan Herman, Mary McFadden, Carolyne Roehm, Herbert Kasper, and Sydney Wragge.