NEW YORK, NY – May 16, 2023 – On Monday, May 8, women’s footwear designer Chris Donovan won Fashion Group International’s (FGI) Rising Star Award in the accessories category. Designed in Massachusetts and handcrafted in Italy, Donovan turns to Italian furs to create a collection of luxury women’s shoes. The collection was presented smoothly in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic with 6 styles and developed an online presence through the brand’s e-commerce site, resulting in a collection comprising 12 designs.
Prior to launching the brand, Donovan worked as a phone repairman for more than 25 years. At the age of 55, he sought to stick to a career path that would bring joy to his life. After leaving her previous job, Donovan enrolled in a master’s program in footwear at the Polimoda Fashion Institute in Florence, Italy. The show was able to help her retain her unique voice and take her to a much higher point of sophistication. He opened the last graduation exhibition with his collection and then presented some of his creations at Dutch Design Week. Back in Massachusetts, Donovan won a contest organized through Project Runway to meet with Judge Tim Gunn and get him to critique his work. collection, is inspired by art, architecture, nature, discovered items and his many life experiences.
“To be in a room full of admirable members of the fashion industry is so impressive,” Chris Donovan said after winning his Rising Star award. In fact I loved to have been identified in this way with this award. Global fashion is really far from my 25 years in the phone repair box, however, it is much more exciting and even more satisfying!
“We are honored to welcome the fashion industry to the FGI Rising Star Awards each year and celebrate such a promising new skill in fashion and similar sectors,” said Maryanne Grisz, President and CEO of Fashion Group International. “The FGI project is for the industry and our members, whether they have established or emerging skills. Over the years, beyond the FGI Rising Star winners, they have become one of the leading voices in the industry, and I look forward to cheering on our FGI Rising Stars on their upcoming successes.
Posted: May 2023
Source: Fashion Group International (FGI)
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