A$AP Rocky is set to receive the NAACP Image Award’s Vanguard Award for Fashion, cementing the multihyphenate artist’s status as the ultimate “fashion killer.”
The award honors the Grammy-nominated rapper, actor and entrepreneur’s contributions to fashion and culture, from redefining streetwear to pushing the boundaries of high fashion. Previous Vanguard Award winners include Essence, designer June Ambrose, fashion model Bethan Hardison, and Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter.
“A$AP Rocky, this year’s Vanguard Award recipient, embodies the power and evolution of Black artistry. As a creative force constantly moving culture forward, he has redefined the intersection of music and fashion, shaped global trends, and inspired new generations,” said Karen Boykin-Towns, vice chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors. “Honoring A$AP Rocky with the Vanguard Awards is a celebration of his lasting impact and the legacy he continues to build.”
In the world of fashion, Rocky is currently the creative director of Ray-Ban and Puma, and was also the first black male face of Dior Homme. His creative agency AWGE has partnered with Marine Serre, Amina Muaddi, Selfridges, JW Anderson and MTV, as well as launching the careers of notable artists such as Playboi Carti, slowthai and Smooky MarGielaa. Last year, Rocky co-chaired the Met Gala, which had the theme “Superfine: Tailoring in Black Style,” and also won the CFDA Fashion Icon Award.
Rocky has also been nominated for three NAACP Image Awards for his performance in Spike Lee’s latest film, “Highest 2 Lowest.” The film, which was nominated for nine Image Awards, features Rocky giving a breakthrough performance opposite Denzel Washington and Jeffrey Wright. He was also nominated for a Gothams Award and a Black Reel Award for his performance. Additionally, earlier this month, she released her long-awaited fourth studio album, “Don’t Be Damn,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
“A$AP Rocky represents the fearless evolution of Black creativity,” added Connie Orlando, BET’s executive vice president of specials, music programming and music strategy. “His influence extends far beyond fashion. He reshaped how culture, music, art and personal expression intersect on the global stage. The NAACP’s awarding of him with the Vanguard Award celebrates not only his style, but his vision, leadership and lasting impact on the next generation of creators.”
The Vanguard Awards will be presented at the Image Awards Fashion Show on Friday, February 27th, in advance of the 57th NAACP Image Awards, which will be televised on Saturday, February 28th. The annual awards ceremony will be broadcast live on BET and CBS.
