Andre Walker, the recipient of the 2025 CFDA Isabel Toledo Board of Directors’ Tribute may not be the most recognizable name in fashion today, but the award-winning designer ‘s contributions to the industry are deserving of the honor.

Walker first garnered Women’s Wear Daily’s (WWD) attention in 1985, as one to watch in its “Fashion Watch” column, following his debut collection. The publication dubbed the 20-year-old the “East Village boy wonder,” comparing his innovative cutting techniques to the those of Charles James and likening his otherworldly shapes — reflective of the 1980s artistic approach to fashion — to the groundbreaking designs of Vivienne Westwood. Early supporters included Patricia Field of her namesake boutique who championed his work, as well as influential retaile

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