It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for, the time in which all other celebrities magically melt away to make room for just one woman, declared queen by the most powerful fashion people in America—at least, until next year. It’s the CFDA’s Fashion Icon award, and the latest honoree is none other than Jennifer Lopez.
Lopez certainly deserves the recognition. The multi-hyphenate launched Google Images when she stepped out in the navel-baring Versace dress at the 2000 Grammys (worn previously by Geri Halliwell, which Lopez completely eclipsed—earning the dress its own Wikipedia page). Since then, she’s become a red carpet-regular, wearing some truly game-changing looks.
“Jennifer Lopez uses clothes as a way to express confidence and power,” current CFDA chairwoman Diane von Furstenberg said in a press release (she will soon be replaced by Tom Ford). “Both designers and fans look forward to her fashion statements.”
President and CEO of the CFDA, Steven Kolb, echoed DVF’s sentiments: “Jennifer Lopez’s style is bold, uninhibited, and always memorable. Designers, including many of our CFDA members, love to dress her for both stage and private moments.”
The award’s previous honorees have certainly had some star power. You might remember Rihanna’s barely-there Adam Selman Swarovski crystal look when she accepted the accolade, or the fact Johnny Depp refused to appear at all when recognized. Other recipients include the likes of Lady Gaga (famous for walking the CFDA red carpet in 24-inch heel-less heels), Pharrell Williams, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kate Moss.
Congratulations to the queen!