Robert Chavez To Receive Lifetime Achievement Award at FGI Rising Star Event

Fashion Group International (FGI) has announced that Robert Chavez, the former Executive Chairman of Hermès Americas, will be honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the 29th Annual FGI Rising Star Awards. The red-carpet luncheon event, hosted by actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish, will take place on April 16, 2025, in New York City.

The FGI Rising Star Awards is a distinguished annual event recognizing emerging talents in fashion, beauty, accessories, and related industries. In addition to celebrating up-and-coming designers, the event spotlights industry veterans whose leadership and impact have shaped the fashion world. This year, the focus is on Robert Chavez, whose illustrious career at Hermès Americas spanned nearly four decades.

A Legacy of Leadership in Luxury

Robert Chavez played a transformative role in the expansion of Hermès in the Americas, helping to establish the French luxury house as a dominant force in the region. Under his leadership, Hermès expanded its retail presence, strengthened brand loyalty, and maintained an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and exclusivity. His strategic vision and dedication to heritage set a benchmark in the luxury industry, influencing how high-end brands approach global growth.

“Robert Chavez embodies the essence of what this award represents—leadership, innovation, and an enduring impact on the fashion and luxury industry,” said Maryanne Grisz, President & CEO of FGI. “His career is a testament to the power of mentorship, vision, and unwavering dedication to excellence.”

Chavez will also participate in a fireside chat during the pre-event, discussing mentorship and career development alongside other industry leaders.

FGI’s Mission and Event Significance

Founded in 1928, Fashion Group International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting professionals at every stage of their careers. The Rising Star Awards are a key part of this mission, celebrating emerging designers and brands while also recognizing those who have paved the way for the next generation. Past honorees and alumni of the Rising Star Awards include fashion luminaries such as Tory Burch, Jason Wu, Phillip Lim, and Brandon Maxwell.

The categories for awards this year include Beauty, Fine Jewelry, Accessories, Fashion Apparel: Bridal; evening wear; and ready-to-wear. The complete list of nominees follows.

2025 FGI Rising Star Finalists

Beauty

Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks, Ashunta Sheriff Beauty

Delphine Breyne, Delphine Eyebrow Couture

Irina Sergeeva, French Perfumery House

Pritika Swarup, Prakti

Rosie Mangiarotti, Perkies

Mair Emenogu, MAIR

Fine Jewelry

Julie Kim, Bijules

Paola Sasplugas, PDPAOLA

Hiba Husayni, ZAHN-Z Jewelry

Isabel Calvert, SETTE Jewelry

Accessories

Sangmin Park, 4CCCCEES

Montserrat Messeguer, Montserrat Messeguer

Nanette Adair, Rex Shoes

Sydnie Peebles, Sydnie Banks

Rob Bacon, The 3rd Jewelry

Alicia Stemper, Wondermint Goods

Fashion Apparel: Bridal

Guillermo Pharis, Guillermo Pharis Bridal

Francesca Guzzo-Whyte & Jaclyn Whyte, Jaclyn WHYTE

Priscilla Carvalho, Priscilla Couture

Fashion Apparel: Eveningwear

Natasha Das, Danarys New York

Evan Hirsch, Evan Hirsh

Jeanette Limas, Jeanette Limas

Peter Williams, Mr. Macramé

Natalia Fedner, Natalia Fedner

Fashion Apparel: Ready-to-Wear

Bonnie Young, BY.BONNIEYOUNG

Joe Millman, Chamberlin

Diego Binetti, Love Binetti

Lee Evans Lee, Mrs Momma Bear

Tania Mackey, NICZKA

Papa Oppong, Papa Oppong

Najla Burt & Cynthia Burt, DUR DOUX

Alice Kim, PerfectDD

Jack Sivan, Sivan

Shwetambari Mody, SHWETAMBARI

2025 Rising Star Awards Jurors

Nicole Fischelis, Constance White, Ken Downing, Gary Wassner, Fern Mallis, Sharon Graubard, Ty Hunter, Caroline Fabrigas, Karen Young, Laura Gellar, Claudia Poccia, Bryna Pomp, Roberta Naas, Karen Giberson, Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger, Carlos Campos, Reem Acra, Christina Plumlee, Cheryl Onodera, Jodi Kahn, Grace Chang, Vivian Rivetti, Francois Damide.