The legendary supermodel steals the spotlight at Harlem's Fashion Row event, receiving the Fashion Icon Award and throwing some shade at Vogue editor Anna Wintour.
- Sep 4, 2024
AceShowbiz - During the "Night of Legends" at Harlem's Fashion Row's Fashion Show and Style Awards, Naomi Campbell was the epitome of fashion, arriving late in true supermodel fashion for her highly anticipated award presentation. Acknowledging her tardiness with playful sarcasm, she took a playful jab at Anna Wintour, Vogue's influential editor.
In her introduction, Wintour praised Campbell's boldness, brightness, and unwavering authenticity, despite her frequent tardiness. However, when Campbell took the stage, she addressed the elephant in the room with a wry smile. "Yes, Naomi's always late," she said with a laugh, "but I believe in my power, and I want to thank my higher power for bringing me here."
Campbell continued her speech, expressing her honor at being recognized in Harlem and crediting Wintour for her support throughout her career. However, her most memorable moment came when she referred to Wintour as "the other lady." She remarked, "Everything's going to work out the way it's supposed to. It wasn't my choice to have the other lady. I'd much rather have this," gesturing to Harper's Bazaar editor Samira Nasr, who had introduced her earlier.
Campbell's shade-throwing was met with a mixture of shock and laughter, reflecting her reputation for speaking her mind. Throughout her career, Campbell has not shied away from expressing her opinions, even criticizing industry icons like Kendall Jenner, Cardi B and Rihanna.
In addition to her shade-throwing, Campbell also used her platform to acknowledge the contributions of trailblazing black models such as Iman, Bethann Hardison, Naomi Sims and others, as well as her mother and grandmother. She emphasized that the award was not just for her but for her community and called for continued progress in the industry.
The event also celebrated Harlem native and fashion innovator Teyana Taylor, who received the Virgil Abloh Award. Taylor expressed gratitude for the honor, particularly on the birthday of her late brother, who she deeply admired. She attributed her unconventional style to her childhood in Harlem and recognized the influence of Pharrell Williams and Kanye West.
Notable attendees included Lena Waithe, Tracee Ellis Ross and fashion professionals like Jay Manuel, Sergio Hudson, BruceGlen and Megan Renee. Together, they celebrated the accomplishments of the fashion community and the legacy of Harlem's Fashion Row.