Fashion

The 21 Most Memorable CFDA Awards Outfits From Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, And Other Fashion Elite

Compared to the Oscars or the MET Gala, the Council of Fashion Designers of America's annual CFDA Awards presentation has received less media coverage in the past, but it has slowly found its way into the mainstream because of memorable red carpet outfits from the biggest names in fashion and entertainment. With nominees like Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, and stylish presenters Kim Kardashian and Taraji P. Henson on deck, the 2015 CFDAs is shaping up to be another night of truly daring — and sometimes even divisive — fashion moments.

Much like its red carpet big sisters, the CFDA Awards is a night when celebrities and trendsetters make a statement with their ensembles, while also honoring the fashion designers' hard work, creativity, and influence. Rihanna's see-through crystal dress from last year is a stunning example of how the right outfit on the right person makes a powerful impact, which the CFDAs has shown time and time again. In honor of the stylish soiree, here are 21 of of the most memorable CFDA Awards outfits of all time.

by Marc Cuenco

Rihanna

In 2014, Rihanna’s sheer ensemble adorned with Swarovski crystals set the bar high for its bold and elegant take on the “naked” dress look.

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Christina Ricci

The actress looked radiant and lovely in a black and white crochet dress. Her red lips and bangs also added some edge to her dainty ensemble.

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Marc Jacobs and Victoria Beckham

Beckham’s heart-inspired frock was from her dapper date’s 2009 resort collection.

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Solange

Solange channeled Diana Ross in a sparkly Calvin Klein gown.

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Coco Rocha

The supermodel went for a French haute couture look in an ensemble from American designer Christian Siriano.

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Kerry Washington

Washington looked regal in Jason Wu’s bright yellow duchess satin gown.

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Marion Cotillard

Cotillard was flawlessly chic in a white lace dress with rhinestone collar from Dior.

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Kirsten Dunst

This fashion forward, body-con dress from Rodarte was made for someone like Dunst.

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Lady Gaga

Mother Monster in Mugler. Enough said.

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Kim Kardashian

Before Kanye’s avant garde influence, the reality star opted for elegant draping and statement necklines, like this Zac Posen number.

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Lupita Nyong'o

She’s definitely done better on the red carpet, but even culottes and block prints can look charming on the beautiful and confident Oscar winner.

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Olivia Palermo

The gilded top and fringe skirt makes an unconventional yet glamorous combo for Palermo.

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Ashley Olsen

Back in 2009, orange was the new black for the celebrated designer. Olsen’s gown was also a vintage 1930s find, which makes it so much better.

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Anne V

It’s less memorable than the outfit worn by Lupita Nyong’o that same year, but the model still gets points for going against the grain on the red carpet.

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Sarah Jessica Parker

A list of CFDA Awards outfits wouldn’t be valid without SJP and McQueen, so here they are.

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Kerri Russell

Russell strutted like a boss in this black and white Rosie Assoulin.

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Jenna Lyons

Who doesn’t love a blue blazer and printed pants moment?

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Jessica Alba

The mother-to-be looked like a trillion bucks in neon Diane von Furstenberg.

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Diane Kruger

The belted mini, the intricate shoulder details, the shoes. Kruger knows proportion and it’s perfect.

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Emmy Rossum

Not everyone can pull off such an unexpected color, but Rossum worked it in her J Mendel gown.

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Chris Kattan

A list of CFDA Awards outfits wouldn’t be valid without Kattan and Mango (his SNL character), so here they are.

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