Nordstrom, Vogue, and the Council of Fashion Designers in America have come together to celebrate the 2021 CVFF finalists in a special installation at Nordstrom’s NYC flagship store to connect all 10 of the emerging designers directly with customers.
The visual display spotlights all of finalists of the fashion fund: Abrima Erwiah of Studio 189, Batsheva Hay of Batsheva; Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta of Eckhaus Latta; Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa; LaQuan Smith; Rebecca Henry and Akua Shabaka of House of Aama; Kenneth Nicholson; Jameel Mohammed of Khiry; Edvin Thompson of Theophilio; and Willy Chavarria. Visitors to the installation will see special pieces on display and scan a unique QR code to learn more about each designer. For many of these designers, this installation marks the first time their wares are showcased on such a platform.
“I grew up in midtown Manhattan. I was born and raised just two blocks from Nordstrom, where this installation will be held. I have seen this block change over time and I remember when Nordstrom first opened,” says designer Abrima Erwiah of Studio 189. “Imagine the feeling for myself, my community, my family to be in our neighborhood and to see Studio189 at Nordstrom! It’s a huge accomplishment!” LaQuan Smith echoes this excitement, and for him, it’s a new avenue to reach a new audience. “I think this exhibition will help to educate the consumer on the brand and who our customer is and what she stands for.”
The Nordstrom installation marks the culmination of year-long programming for the 17th edition of the annual CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund. Historically, the fund was a competition with three label-winners, but in 2021, things were switched up, and grants and mentorships were awarded to all of the 10 finalists. “It is going to change a lot about my business—especially getting to work with my amazing mentor Jenna Lyons. I am learning so much!” says Batsheva.
The best way to continue supporting these young American designers? By shopping their collections and visiting the Manhattan installation, on view now through November 15.
Below, some of our favorite pieces to shop from all ten CVFF finalists.
Batsheva
Eckhaus Latta
LaQuan Smith
Studio 189
Khiry
House of Aama
Willy Chavarria
Hanifa
Theophilio
Kenneth Nicholson
Explore the designer’s collection here.