After nine years as the CFDA president, and ten years since they honoured her with a Lifetime Achievement Award, the queen of the wrap dress, Diane von Furstenberg, has been assigned a new title: that of chairman. The news was reported in WWD. Replacing her as president will be incumbent CEO Steven Kolb, who will add the new role to his existing position. According to both parties’ reps, neither von Furstenberg’s nor Kolb’s roles will change significantly.
Since joining the CFDA board in 2006, von Furstenberg has brought about numerous changes thanks to her influence and status. Earlier this year she issued a health warning about good practice in the employment of models, stressing the importance of their physical health and mental wellbeing, as well as diversity within the industry. “As we approach New York Fashion Week,” she wrote on the organisation’s website, “let’s remember that beauty is health and health is beauty. It is also important to remember that beauty is diversity and as an industry, we stand by these two principles.” With Diane as the new chairman, we can expect more great things.