In a monumental achievement for Black women in fashion, Jamaican-born designer Rachel Scott has been named the American Womenswear Designer of the Year at the 2024 Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards.
The prestigious honor, presented on Monday, Oct. 28, 2024 night at the American Museum of Natural History, is an acknowledgement of Scott’s unique vision and impact on the fashion industry.
Scott, the creative force behind the New York-based label Diotima, triumphed over industry heavyweights such as Marc Jacobs, Thom Browne, and the duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler.
The evening’s awards ceremony, which included a cocktail reception and dinner, was hosted by Academy Award-nominated actress and songwriter Cynthia Erivo.
Since founding Diotima, Scott has gained recognition for her bold, authentic portrayal of Caribbean-inspired style.
With a keen focus on tailored garments, knit dresses, and sportswear infused with artisanal, handcrafted elements, Scott’s designs resonate with a growing global audience.
Her creations have been worn by high-profile figures, including Angel Reese, Ayesha Curry, and Aurora James.
This win marks another milestone for Scott, who just a year earlier claimed the CFDA’s Shop With Google American Emerging Designer of the Year award after launching Diotima only three years ago.
Scott’s win serves as a powerful reminder of the creative genius Black women bring to the global fashion scene. Her success not only showcases the beauty and vibrancy of Caribbean culture but also exemplifies the importance of inclusivity and authenticity in fashion.
As a trailblazer in the industry, Scott continues to push boundaries, redefine trends, and inspire future generations of Black women designers to claim their space on the world stage.
