The 2024 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award, a prestigious accolade in the fashion world, has been bestowed upon Dynasty and Soull Ogun, the twin sisters behind the jewelry and lifestyle brand L’Enchanteur. Their journey to success began in 2017, when they established their brand in Brooklyn, and their intricate, thought-provoking jewelry pieces have captivated audiences and critics alike.
These miniature works of art, often imbued with cultural symbolism and social commentary, have even earned a place in the upcoming “Superfine: Shaping Black Style” exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, showcasing the power and influence of Black creative expression.
The coveted CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award signifies more than just recognition; it provides vital support for emerging designers. The $300,000 grant, coupled with mentorship from industry leaders, offers a crucial financial and strategic boost, helping L’Enchanteur to navigate the complexities of scaling a successful fashion business.
The award ceremony, held at the renowned Monkey Bar in Manhattan, was a star-studded affair. Designers, past CVFF winners and finalists, and fashion luminaries flocked to celebrate the occasion. Notably, David Beckham accompanied his wife Victoria Beckham, who earlier participated in the Fashion for Power Forum alongside Simon Porte Jacquemus and Jean Paul Gaultier.
The competition for this prestigious award was fierce, with a diverse range of talented finalists vying for the top prize. These included Sebastien Ami by Sebastien and Marianne Amisial, Kate Barton, Connor McKnight, Presley Oldham, Taylor Thompson’s 5000 Brand, and Jane Wade.
The judging panel, led by Steven Kolb and Anna Wintour, included a distinguished group of fashion icons. This year’s judges included Eva Chen of Instagram, Rickie de Sole, Nordstrom’s Fashion Director, Roopal Patel, Saks’ Fashion Director, Aurora James, Creative Director of Brother Vellies and founder of Fifteen Percent Pledge, model Paloma Elsesser, and Vogue’s Mark Holgate and Nicole Phelps.
The 20th anniversary of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund was marked by a special addition: the Gap Inc. Mentorship Award. This year, the award went to Grace Ling, a designer who, despite founding her brand just four years ago, has already created pieces for the likes of Jennifer Lopez. Ling will receive year-long mentorship from none other than Zac Posen, who will also be joining the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund judging panel next year.
The CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund continues to be a vital force in fostering the next generation of fashion talent, providing invaluable resources and a platform for designers to showcase their unique vision. With the support of the award, L’Enchanteur is poised to reach new heights, solidifying its place as a leading force in the world of contemporary jewelry and design.