Mr Daniel Day aka Dapper Dan has been awarded with this years CFDA’s Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award. Perhaps first thought after hearing this, one might question “why or how”? I heard some rumblings of discomfort, a few apparel designers might not been happy with that decision to recognize DD with this award. But on second thought, why not? This gentleman, long ago, effected a culture and added some bling where there was none. Being a designer comes with training and education. Today most designers can’t drape nor cut a pattern. My exposed school of training was the need to know all the technical aspects of design. You needed to know more than just an idea and have an assistant who knew how to sketch. But apparel fashion life has changed. Our NYC garment center is barely memorable, many brands are doing “streetwear” which still has me perplexed. Manufacturing and retail, are finding its place, as its respect for so many emerging design brands. Luxury, better goods, moderate to sustainability, all are reaching to succeed. All to say it’s a different day then yesterday. Watching all of the young brands getting opportunities recently. It’s exciting for many that dared to dream and now finally seeing light. There has been a shift to the benefit of others. Those who were under served or under recognized are now having their day. You can’t be mad at that. And seeing what’s being viewed, recognition is being rewarded. This is good. The Designers Hub that I founded in 2018, many of them are having a great moment that was not happening prior to 2020. The Hub consists of apparel and accessory designers of color. The journey of Dapper Dan has effected culture and his story alone is worth rewarding. Many things these days are not what we knew before. We must allow others to do what they do best and accept that truth to have value. I am accepting that in others as well. Live and let live. Be happy for what another has achieved. As it’s no real skin off your nose, otherwise it’s pure jealousy. Whats meant shall be. I am excited that the CFDA decided to recognize Dapper Dan (and so is Stephen Burrows) Congratulations to all !!! @dapperdanharlem @cfda