Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA)
is a not-for-profit trade association of over 300 of America's foremost fashion and accessory designers. Founded in 1962, the CFDA continues to advance the status of fashion design as a branch of American art and culture:
(1) to raise its artistic and professional standards;
(2) to define a code of ethical practices of mutual benefit in public and trade relations; and
(3) to promote appreciation of the fashion arts through leadership in quality and aesthetic discernment.
In addition to hosting the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, the organization is committed to nurturing the development of the American fashion industry's future designers. The CFDA's Educational Initiatives provide support and resources for students at the high school, collegiate and post-graduate levels. In addition, CFDA supports working designers in the early stages and throughout their careers. The CFDA, through the CFDA Foundation, Inc., mobilizes its membership to raise funds for important charitable causes like Fashion Targets Breast Cancer and The CFDA-Vogue Initiative for HIV and AIDS (7th on Sale).