The CFDA, The Council of Fashion Designers of America, announced a new group of members today, WWD reports.
The new crop of inductees is headlined by Hood By Air designer Shayne Oliver. Oliver is part of the largest class of new additions—40 all together, bringing the organization's total membership to 508—which seeks to add diversity to the CFDA, the group's CEO Steven Kolb told WWD.
The 40 new members come from all different sects of the industry, including jewelry, swimwear, eyewear, and hat-making, and it would be hard to label Oliver as a traditional clothing designer. Other notable designers who made the cut are Siki Im, who was recently awarded the Woolmark Prize, Camuto Group's Louise Camuto, and Tiffany & Co. designer Francesca Amfitheatrof.
Being included in the CFDA opens plenty of doors for designers and helps them reach their full potential. The non-proft organization brings designers together with corporations that can "provide services, discounts, and work opportunities," Kolb previously told Fashionista.The CFDA is also known for hosting its annual awards show.
The CFDA also announced that it voted to make Diane von Furstenberg chairman. She previously served as president of the organization
